I consider "the beginning" to be the worst of the entire series, although I didn't get to experience it in theaters. It's a shame, since I really appreciated the remake. The beginning wasn't necessarily awful, but it was extremely forgettable. Even part 3 had a moment of brilliance with Leatherface playing with his Speak & Spell. I just didn't see anything cool enough about this one to make it seem even remotely necessary.
Has anyone here seen
Eaten Alive? It's a must watch for fans of the '74 TCM