Tobe Hooper American screenwriter Date of Birth: 25.01.1943 Country: USA

1. Tob Hooper: Master of Horror
2. Early Influences and Documentaries
3. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: A Watershed Moment
4. Subsequent Films and Projects
5. Current Works and Legacy

Tob Hooper: Master of Horror

Tob Hooper, the acclaimed American screenwriter and director, was born on January 25, 1943, in Austin, Texas. His early fascination with filmmaking began at the tender age of nine when he first handled his father's 8mm camera.

Early Influences and Documentaries

In the 1960s, Hooper honed his skills as a documentary filmmaker, producing over 60 documentaries that aired on television. His 1969 film, "Eggshells," explored the paranormal and garnered critical recognition despite its limited success. As a skilled documentarian, Hooper yearned for the world of Hollywood and feature filmmaking.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: A Watershed Moment

In 1974, Hooper's horror masterpiece, "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre," revolutionized the genre. Shot on a shoestring budget of $60,000, the film became a critical and commercial success, grossing upwards of $120,000 according to some estimates. The film changed the face of horror cinema, solidifying Hooper's status in Hollywood. The public's fascination with the film led to sold-out screenings and a rabid fan following.

Subsequent Films and Projects

After "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," Hooper directed numerous other films, including "Salem's Lot" and "Poltergeist." While these films were successful, they failed to match the cultural impact of his seminal work. In 2004, Hooper established his own production company, T.H. Nightmares, which remained dormant.

Current Works and Legacy

Presently, Hooper continues to develop and produce films, including the upcoming thriller "Training Ground" and an adaptation of Stephen King's "From A Buick 8." His influence on horror filmmaking is undeniable, earning him admiration from fellow directors such as Robert Rodriguez, Kevin Smith, Guillermo del Toro, Sam Raimi, and Quentin Tarantino. Tob Hooper's legacy as a master of horror cinema remains unparalleled.