Horror fans, brace yourselves because August 18, 2026, is officially marked on the calendar as Texas Chain Saw Day. This year’s nationwide theatrical return of Tobe Hooper’s 1974 masterpiece is shaping up to be an absolute dream for genre diehards. Presented by Dark Sky Films and Fathom Entertainment, this newly minted national holiday brings the legendary horror classic back to the big screen in stunning 4K. But for one night only. However, that is just the tip of the leather-faced iceberg!
An Animated Nightmare Takes Shape
Dark Sky Films and Exurbia Films have dropped a jaw-dropping first look at the highly anticipated, hand-animated rotoscoped reimagining of the horror milestone. Slated for a 2027 debut, this ambitious project transforms the original film frame-by-frame entirely by hand—strictly zero AI involved. Led by veteran animation director Paul Beck, this new vision preserves the original’s terrifying energy while giving it a striking, fluid visual style.
Theatergoers on August 18 will get the ultimate exclusive: a behind-the-scenes featurette showcasing raw footage and revealing the painstaking craft of rotoscoping, available strictly in cinemas!
Terrifying Exclusives You Can Only Hear in Theaters
The theatrical magic doesn’t stop with a visual sneak peek. Dread Central, Be Afraid Media, and the hit podcast Creepy have joined forces to create an original, four-minute theatrical audio experience. It will run right before the main feature. Narrated by Creepy creator Jon Grilz alongside a chilling voice cast, this audio prologue immerses audiences in the horrifying real-time events of August 18, 1974. This sets an unforgettable tone before the very first chainsaw roar echoes through the auditorium.
VIP Horror Royalty Hits Los Angeles and Austin
Lucky fans attending select screenings in L.A. and Austin are in for a massive real-life treat! The Regal LA Live screening in Los Angeles will host a live, post-movie Q&A with legendary Texas Chain Saw cinematographer Daniel Pearl. Meanwhile, over at AMC Barton Creek in Austin, original cast members Teri McMinn and Allen Danziger will take the stage to share timeless stories from the set.
Tickets are live right now on Fathom Entertainment, so grab yours fast and prepare for the ultimate celebration of cinematic terror!
