Thescreescore – The cinematic landscape of horror is abuzz with the latest news from A24, as the esteemed independent studio has officially named Curry Barker as the director for its highly anticipated Texas Chainsaw Massacre feature film. This development marks a significant step forward for the iconic, decades-old franchise, which A24 acquired the rights to, planning both a new movie and a television series.
The legendary horror property, first unleashed upon audiences in 1974, is set for a fresh reimagining under Barker’s guidance. While specific plot details remain shrouded in mystery, the film is expected to offer a contemporary take on the chilling narrative that introduced the world to Leatherface. A formidable team of producers is assembling for this endeavor, including Stuart Manashil, Roy Lee and Steven Schneider of Spooky Pictures, Pat Cassidy from Exurbia Films, Ian Henkel, Kim Henkel, and Ben Ross representing Image Nation.
Barker arrives at this pivotal project following a wave of critical acclaim for his supernatural horror debut, Obsession. The film, which he not only directed but also penned and edited, premiered to considerable buzz at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. It garnered a remarkable "Certified Fresh" rating of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes from 47 reviews. Mae Abdulbaki, writing for thescreescore.com, lauded Barker’s creative prowess and execution, highlighting his "deliciously dark, absurd, and eerie" vision, coupled with masterful pacing, sharp writing, and a standout cast.
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This isn’t Barker’s only venture into the macabre. He is currently immersed in production for Blumhouse’s Anything but Ghosts, a project where he again takes on the triple role of director, co-writer, and star. The film promises a darkly comedic twist on the paranormal, following two con artist ghost hunters who inadvertently stumble upon genuine spectral encounters and their sinister machinations. Notably, Roy Lee and Steven Schneider, through their Spooky Pictures banner, are also collaborating with Barker on Anything but Ghosts, underscoring a growing creative partnership.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre saga has seen nine cinematic iterations since its inception, culminating most recently with the 2022 film. A24’s dual approach—a new film and a television series—signals a clear intent to initiate a comprehensive reboot. The TV series, distinct from the movie, is being shepherded by Glen Powell and Dan Cohen via their Barnstorm production company, with J.T. Mollner attached as writer and director. Powell is not slated to appear in the series.
With a history of multiple reboots and remakes, the franchise’s continuity has become notoriously convoluted. A24’s strategy to forge a "new beginning" is a welcome move, promising a clean slate for Leatherface’s horrifying legacy, though the specifics of how this will impact existing lore and characters are yet to be revealed. Barker, as an emerging and critically lauded voice in the horror genre, is an inspired choice to spearhead this fresh direction.
As Barker continues work on Anything but Ghosts and the A24 Texas Chainsaw Massacre film remains in its developmental stages, it will undoubtedly be some time before cameras roll or a release date is announced. Nevertheless, taking the reins of such an iconic franchise represents a monumental career milestone for Barker, poised to amplify his recognition significantly following the success of Obsession.
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