Latest news with #TheTexasChainsawMassacre
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
The retro model theme park that was like a ‘mini wonderland' – here's what it was like to visit as a child
A FORMER amusement park in Bournemouth used to be home to " Europe 's largest model landscape" with Big Ben and a mechanical Tower Bridge. The 6 Tucktonia opened back in 1976 and included an array of different landmarks such as Admiralty Arch, Hadrian's Wall and Stonehenge Credit: Alamy 6 Located in Bournemouth, Tucktonia used to be home to "Europe's largest model landscape" Credit: Alamy 6 Some of the models were even mechanical including Tower Bridge which opened and closed Credit: Alamy Some of the models even moved, including A model of an airport also was mechanical with planes actually travelling along the runway. But the model village didn't just feature big landmarks, it also had a Kellogg's factory and a motorway flyover. At the time, the attraction was dubbed "the best of Britain in Miniature", according to an advert for the destination. Read more on travel tips One woman, Emma Cansdale from Waltham Abbey used to visit regularly as a child. The 52-year-old told Sun Travel: "As an eight-year-old it was like a mini wonderland. "Back then I loved the quaintness of model villages and miniature railways. Emma added: "I remember it was a hot summer day spent following the map to find the different attractions and eating ice cream." Most read in News Travel Across the The attraction took two years in total to plan and build. Best of British: Bournemouth's beach and vibrant city life is the perfect getaway And for little ones, there was Railriders club - which Emma was part of. "One of the reasons we went to Tucktonia was to pick up a sticker for my Railriders sticker book as they were participating in that scheme," Emma added. Old maps of Tucktonia Leisure Park that Emma has, show what featured at the 21acre site. And it wasn't just the model village - it also had a number of other attractions including golf , a go-kart track and a mini cinema. One leaflet even claims the park was home to " Europe 's largest model landscape". Another poster claims it was "the greatest model Britain in the world". 6 There used to be a number of other attractions too including fairground rides Credit: Emma Cansdale According to Comedian and magician Keith Chegwin and Maggie Philbin also hosted the BBC's Multi-Coloured Swap Shop live from the park. Then in 1985, it was used as a film set for the alien movie Lifeforce - a sci-fi horror by Tobe Hooper, who also created The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Some believe that a number of the models were destroyed as part of the filming, whilst others claim that whilst the village was used as a set, the buildings destroyed in the film were actually different models created by the visual effects team. 6 Emma used to visit as a child and remembers it well Credit: Emma Cansdale In 1980, In the following years, the park changed ownership more than once and then in 1986, the park closed - just a decade after the model village had first opened. The site's buildings and fixtures were then all cleared to make the land available for a In 2003, the site then transformed again into a number of retirement flats and homes . One fan of the park commented on social media: "What a fab place it was... Big childhood memories, very sad when it closed." Another added: "Absolutely loved Tucktonia. As a child these places were so exciting." There is also an Plus, 6 In 1985, the attraction was even used as a film set for the alien movie Lifeforce Credit: Emma Cansdale
Daily Mirror
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Netflix remake of iconic film in backlash as fans slam 'disrespect to original'
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre was first released in 1974 and has since become one of the most iconic horror films of all time - but a recent remake has left Netflix viewers fuming Netflix viewers have been left reaching for the off button after watching a recent remake of one of the most notorious horror films ever made. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre first hit screens in 1974 and instantly caused quite a stir. Directed by Tobe Hooper, the film followed the masked serial killer Leatherface - infamous for his use of chainsaws to dispatch his victims. Alongside his cannibalistic family, Leatherface terrorised and slaughtered a group of teenagers, causing widespread fear. Following the success of the original film, a franchise was born, spawning numerous sequels. The film was first remade in 2003, and in 2022, Leatherface made a comeback in an updated version of the film on Netflix. In the Netflix remake, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre served as a direct sequel to the original film, picking up several decades after the events of the first movie, reports Surrey Live. Featuring stars such as Elsie Fisher and Nell Hudson, the film introduced a new group of teenagers who come face-to-face with Leatherface. It also marked the return of original survivor Sally Hardesty. However, it seems the release of Texas Chainsaw Massacre has left Netflix viewers split. One disgruntled viewer vented: "Honestly one of the worst remakes I've ever seen. Nothing redeeming at all. And I usually love a lot of 'so bad they're good' movies but this was beyond chimed in: ". Another viewer chimed in: "No story, and over the top gore! Give me the original any day." A third also wrote: "I stopped watching after 10 minutes, it's a disrespect to the first movie." Some viewers were not too pleased with a particular "woke" scene, which depicted a group of social media influencers being slaughtered by Leatherface on a bus while live-streaming the event after one of them warned the killer "try anything and you're cancelled". "I guess this was the writer's attempt at attacking 'woke' culture, which itself is pretty stupid in a horror movie because there is no movement to cancel horror movies for being too violent," pondered one viewer. Another added: "Glad I'm not the only one who thought it was terrible, pure cringe and too woke." A third then said: "To me that part just seemed to be a situational set up. In the way of "hey let's have Leatherface saw a bus full of people into pieces" sure why not. The movie itself doesn't make much sense." However, not all viewers were disappointed as one person wrote: "I'm still kinda shocked people hated this movie because I loved it. I felt they purposely made the characters hateable and stupid for their satisfying deaths. Another added: "It was a hot mess, I liked it!
Time Out
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Universal Studios to open an immersive horror experience in Chicago, the Midwest's first
Chicagoans love new happenings, especially ones with full-sized quirky kicks. Finally filling in the vacant spot across from the future Bally's casino, Universal Studios is bringing a brand-new horror-themed entertainment venue to the city at 700 W. Chicago Avenue. Universal Horror Unleashed has a snappy ring to it, don't you think? Jam-packed with interesting mazes, jump scares, funky food-and-drink options and a retail space, the planned immersive attraction has been deemed 'a world-class horror attraction and entertainment destination' according to city officials. The Windy City will earn the special accolade of being the second Universal Horror Unleashed location (the first is set to open this August in Las Vegas, Nevada), as well as the first Universal attraction full-stop in the Midwest, and frankly we couldn't be prouder of the honor. The Las Vegas location will be home to haunted houses inspired by classic thrillers like The Exorcist and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and the Chicago location will follow suit. Perhaps you'll see Universal-owned horror characters like Frankenstein's monster, the Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, Count Dracula, or Phantom of the Opera? Not a horror fan? You can at least appreciate that the project is expected to generate more than $1 billion for the local economy and create 400 permanent jobs for Chicagoans. 'We're excited to bring this bold concept to life in Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture,' Page Thompson, president of new ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, said in a news release. 'We're grateful for the city's support as we convert this dormant site into a unique attraction that showcases our storytelling expertise and ability to deliver mind-blowing experiences that shatter guest expectations.' In a news release, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker chimed in as well: 'Universal's decision to make such a significant investment in Illinois is a testament to the state's unmatched entertainment sector, renowned workforce and strong infrastructure. Universal choosing Illinois didn't happen by accident—we were proud to support this project through our EDGE incentive program, which has helped fortify a positive business climate that draws world-class companies to the state.'
Daily Record
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
'Most disturbing horror movie of all time' based on true events now available to stream
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is often considered to be one of the most disturbing horror movies of all time - and it's now available to watch on Amazon Prime for those brave enough Decades after its initial release, the divisive horror film 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre' is now available for streaming, igniting fiery debates among viewers. While some label it a "nightmarish" masterpiece, others take serious issue with its content. Shockingly, since its 1974 debut on the big screen, 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre' – an indie flick masterminded by Tobe Hooper and Kim Henkel – continues to provoke sharp divisions within the horror community. Drawing inspiration from the chilling true-crime exploits of Ed Gein, the film has gained a notorious reputation for its ghastly murders and grizzly collection of human souvenirs. Its promotional hook claimed it was based on 'true events', enticing audiences into cinemas with the hope of delivering more than your average fright. The intention was to mirror the turbulent political atmosphere of the 70s, but the film largely became infamous for eliciting sheer terror among viewers. Following a troupe of friends embarking on a trip to an ancestral property, they soon encounter deranged psychopaths. Each friend becomes a grotesque target, meeting their ends through barbaric means, including – as the title unambiguously suggests – a chainsaw, reports the Mirror US. A viewer expressing their opinion on Rotten Tomatoes remarked: "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a gripping, visceral experience that captures the raw realism of arthouse cinema. It's terrifying in its authenticity, drawing unsettling parallels between the treatment of animals and the victims in the film." One movie buff reviewed it online: "An absolutely amazing slasher film, especially for the time it was made in. The way this movie is shot feels like a documentary; it feels very authentic and real, which adds to the horror a lot more. "However, some of the scare does get taken away from the movie because of how goofy the Sawyer family is, which adds a little bit of comedy, but there's nothing wrong with that for me. Really good movie. 10/10." Despite facing bans across numerous countries and being pulled from several cinemas following audience complaints over extreme violence, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre has carved its name into horror history, spawning a franchise that includes sequels, remakes, comics, and even video games featuring the iconic Leatherface. Another viewer said: "A nightmarish experience from start to end, this horror classic isn't airtight all the way through, but it truly has an impeccable atmosphere and terrific camerawork. That scene around the kitchen table is probably some of the most frightening sequences I have ever seen in my life." Today, critics look back on the flick as revolutionary, impacting not just the horror genre, but also paving the way for an entirely fresh subgenre of terror films. Its ingenuity is often honoured for contributing to the rise of the slasher film and introducing power tools as symbols of horror used by countless intimidating villains in cinema. For those eager to delve into a film often deemed "disturbing" and form their own opinion, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime.
Elle
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Elle
A Guide To the Cast of 'The Better Sister,' Your Next TV Binge
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Prime Video's latest TV offerings, The Better Sister, might just be the next dark thriller fix you've been looking for. As the title suggests, the series follows estranged sisters Chloe Taylor (Jessica Biel) and Nicky Macintosh (Elizabeth Banks) who are reunited after the murder of Chloe's husband—who was initially in a relationship with Nicky and had a child with her. With suspenseful family drama from beginning to end, juicy secrets, and dysfunctional relationships, The Better Sister deserves a spot on your watch list. And much of this is due to the series' stellar cast, which includes Corey Stoll, Kim Dickens, Matthew Modine and more. Below, get to know the ensemble and the mysterious roles they play. Watch The Better Sister on Prime Video Who is Chloe Taylor? She is the editor-in-chief- of The Real Thing magazine and is married to Adam following his split from Chloe's sister, Nicky. She is the also the adoptive mother of Ethan. Who is Jessica Biel? Biel has starred in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003), New Year's Eve (2011), The Sinner (2017), and more. Who is Nicky Macintosh? Chloe's sister Nicky is the ex-wife of the deceased Adam. She struggles with a substance problem, which has previously caused a number of issues in her life. Following Adam's murder, she moved back to New York. Who is Elizabeth Banks? You might know the actor from projects including The Hunger Games film series (2012–2015) and Pitch Perfect film series (2012–2017). Who is Adam Macintosh? Adam is Nicky's ex-husband, who began a relationship with her sister, Chloe, after the divorce. The series is centered around his murder, which takes places in episode 1. Who is Corey Stoll? The actor is best known for playing roles in TV shows and films including Ant Man (2011) and House of Cards (2013–16). Who is Detective Nancy 'Nan' Guidry? Guidry is one of the police detectives working on Adam Macintosh's murder, alongside Matt, whom she mentors. Who is Kim Dickens? Dickens is best known for titles like Hollow Man (2000), Deadwood (2004-06), Thank You For Smoking (2005), and Gone Girl (2014) Who is Ethan Macintosh? He is Nicky and Adam's biological son. Who is Maxwell Acee Donovan? The actor first rose to prominence when he starred in Gabby Duran & The Unsittables (2019-2021) and That '90s Show (2023-24). Who is Detective Matt Bowen? He is Nancy's police partner and has a more unpolished outlook when it comes to murder investigations. Who is Bobby Naderi? He is an Iranian actor who has previously starred in Under The Shadow (2016), Bright (2017), and The Beekeeper (2024).
