Leatherface is back, older, and still chainsaw happy. Netflix’s reboot messily recreates the original’s social criticism and gore, but attempts diversity with brunette stars. Although slasher films’ killers regularly survive fatal wounds, TCM keeps these genre rules alongside modern commentary on school shootings, urbanism, and the confederate flag. The combination is sloppy and often cringeworthy. Occasionally, gorgeous shots and imaginative kills marginally improve TCM. The acting is good — Elsie Fisher is all grown up with short hair and a smartass attitude — but nothing can save bad writing. If you don’t expect a great film or lesson, TCM is manageable.
