SIFF 2025: 'Chain Reactions' Capsule Review

Documentarian Alexandre O. Philippe has delved into Alien, the shower scene in Psycho, David Lynch, and more. In Chain Reactions, he focuses on The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, this time via extended interviews with Patton Oswalt, Takashi Miike, Alexandra Heller-Nicholas, Stephen King, and Karyn Kusama. Each shares their interpretations and experiences with the iconic film, honing in on legacy and influence.

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I’m not sure what it amounts to, or if there’s a central thesis or point of view beyond listening to these people discuss a movie they adore. But maybe that’s enough. And for fans of one of the greatest horror movies ever, watching genre luminaries share their insights is a pleasure. (Bonus, we learn a sold out City Lights screening forever changed Takashi Miike’s destiny—he saw TCM instead and has still never seen Chaplin’s film.) [Grade: B]

 

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