The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 was released into theaters on August 22nd, 1986. Filming locations include Austin, Bastrop and Prairie Dell, Tx. Filming ran from May 4th, 1986 to July 4th, 1986. It was directed by Tobe Hooper, just as the original was. Sadly, Hooper passed away on August 26th, 2017. The screenplay was written by L.M. Kit Carson, who passed away as well, on October 20th, 2014. When the film was submitted to the MPAA it received an X rating, prompting it to be released unrated. Three different actors portrayed Leatherface in the film, Bill Johnson, Bob Elmore and Tom Morga. Ed Guinn, the semi-truck driver in the original, makes a brief appearance as one of the chili cook-off judges. Jim Siedow also returned to reprise his role as The Cook. The character that really makes the film fun to watch though, was that of Chop Top, played by Bill Moseley. The amount of energy and just sheer craziness he put into the role was exactly what the movie needed. I've met Bill multiple times at conventions, the first one being the 2004 Cinema Wasteland in Strongsville, Ohio. He's always down to earth and doesn't mind doing impressions of his characters for fans. I was fortunate enough to meet Bill Johnson and the late Lou Perryman as well, at that same convention.
I've probably seen this film more times than any other over the years, as it was one of my go-to movies whenever I found myself bored when I was a little boy. I could probably quote every line from the movie to be honest. Rather than attempt to duplicate the feel and atmosphere of the original, which would've been nearly impossible mind you, Tobe Hooper decided to take the sequel in a completely different direction with over the top personalities, a dark sense of humor and gore galore, which was probably the very best thing he could've done with it. At the time of it's release it wasn't received very well by fans, mostly because they expected a repeat of the original. However, over the years it's become a true cult-classic and a favorite of fans of the franchise. The film has a stellar 80's rock soundtrack, as should be expected from a movie that features a radio station as an important part of it's plot. The soundtrack was released via cassette tape and LP record. The films beautifully haunting score was composed by Tobe Hooper and Jerry Lambert. It's a real shame that it has never officially been released. The films first DVD release was on August 1st, 2000.
Opening - Farm to Market Rd. 1209 Bastrop, Tx. 78602
In the opening shot, the Mercedes-Benz is driving southwest, just as the hill starts to descend. During the chicken sequence, they're seen driving in both directions along the road.
2016
All "Now" pictures taken in 2018.
2020
Bridge chase - Loop 150 Bastrop, Tx. 78602
(Colorado River Bridge at Bastrop)
The bridge was constructed in 1924. It consists of three steel truss spans. During the 90's, it was closed off and turned into a pedestrian walkway after a larger bridge was built right next to it. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 19th, 1990. Despite it's seemingly never-ending length span in the film, it's actually only 1,285 feet long.
All "Now" pictures taken in 2020.
2018
Car crash - Airport Blvd. and Montopolis Dr. Austin, Tx. 78741
This used to be the Montopolis Dr. overpass, until it was completely removed in 2019 as part of the Highway 183 expansion. R.I.P. to another TCM 2 location.
All "Now" pictures taken in 2016.
The original overpass is gone, picture taken in 2019.
Cut-Rite Chain Saws - 1621 W. 5th St. Austin, Tx. 78703
(Mean-Eyed Cat)
During the time of filming it was an actual chainsaw repair shop. In 2004, it was converted into the Mean-Eyed Cat. A bar area and open wooden patio were added onto the structure. When you walk in the front door, the original Cut-Rite sign can still be seen hanging on the wall. If you'll notice, in the film there is a marching band in the background when Lefty arrives. That was the Leander High School band playing "The Eyes of Texas". The production paid the school $1,500 and gave each band member a prime rib dinner for their contribution to the film.
2020
All "Now" picture taken in 2016.
Drayton driving/pulling over - State Hwy. 95 and Mesquite St. Bastrop, Tx. 78602
This location serves as the establishing shot of Drayton driving his "Last Roundup Rolling Grill" catering truck as well as where he angrily pulls over upon hearing that Choptop and Leatherface's latest kills were recorded and broadcast by KOKLA. The first screenshot is facing south. The second, third and fourth screenshots are all facing north.
All "Now" pictures taken in 2022.
KOKLA exterior - Near *Guadalupe St. and W. 2nd St. Austin, Tx. 78701
This has been one of the most sought after and mysterious locations from the film. Although it's exact location is still not 100% certain, it was believed to have been near the southeast corner of San Antonio St. and W. 3rd St. In a scene with Stretch, the top of the Hyatt Regency Austin can be seen in the background, just on the other side of Lady Bird Lake. The building which served as the KOKLA exterior was demolished shortly after filming concluded and a high-rise now stands where it used to be.
2016
Stretch follows Leatherface & Chop Top - W. Cesar Chavez St. Austin, Tx. 78701
At one point they pass under the Lamar Blvd. bridge.
2016
Texas Battle Land - 22612 N. Interstate 35 Jarrell, Tx. 76537
Formerly The Matterhorn, which was only open for about one year. The amusement park closed shortly before filming began and was demolished shortly after filming concluded. The land was used as an RV park for sometime but now appears to be private property with houses. Foundation from some of the structures are still visible.
The following pictures are from 2016.
2019
Prairie Dell Lake
KOKLA interiors, Lefty's hotel room, Parking garage (deleted scenes) and Texas Battle Land interiors - Guadalupe St. and E. 3rd St. Austin, Tx. 78701
All of these locations were filmed inside the old Austin American Statesman printing building.
It was demolished not too long after filming and has been a parking lot ever since.
2016
2019
Myself with Caroline Williams, Bill Johnson, Bill Moseley and Nubbins at Mad Monster Az.
