Review of Toolbox Murders (2004) by Alex R — 17 Oct 2012

As far as remakes are concerned, Toolbox Murders is a pretty good film that captures the essence of the original, and modernizing them. In this version directed by Tobe Hooper, he tends to give the film a much darker atmosphere which is strength of the film because the original was pretty sleazy in its conception.

Also a standout with this version is the fact that there is a slightly better plot this time around and the kills are much better done with more blood to appeal to gore fans everywhere. Toolbox Murders is a fine return to form for Horror master Tobe Hooper as his work tended to suffer quite a bit in the 1990's, which is a great shame because Hooper's earlier movies were terrific and are classics in the genre.

However despite this short return to form, Hooper's work would fall apart again with his follow up, Mortuary. Toolbox Murders on the other hand shows that Tobe Hooper still can a good horror yarn when he truly puts his mind to it, and I think that he still has the drive to make other good movies.

Hooper's direction with this film is top notch, and though it isn't perfect, this remake is pretty good and the cast do a fine job and are well cast in their parts. If you love Slasher films, then check this one out, it's definitely one of the better remakes in recent memory and it may not be the best film that Hooper has directed, but it definitely is the best film that he's directed in a long time.