REVIEW: “Terrifier 3” (2014)

As a lifelong horror enthusiast who has survived countless sleepless nights thanks to the genre’s most chilling offerings, I can confidently say that “Terrifier 3” is a triumphant addition to the franchise. Having witnessed its humble beginnings as an indie splatter film, it’s fascinating to see how far it has come, growing into a legitimate horror powerhouse with a passionate fanbase.


It’s likely that Damien Leone, the creator of the “Terrifier” franchise, never thought he would see a third movie in this series. What began as a low-budget indie splatter film costing just $35,000 has transformed into a full-fledged franchise with escalating budgets and an eager audience. Now, “Terrifier 3” is playing in theaters and it adheres closely to its winning formula. This means a few scares, some solid humor, and plenty of gruesome scenes.

Initially, the first installment in the series, “Terrifier” from 2016, was light on narrative and character development but compensated with a disturbing concept and gruesome visuals. The subsequent sequel, “Terrifier 2” released in 2022, aimed to improve storytelling but may have overcompensated. However, it continued to deliver what fans eagerly anticipated.

REVIEW: “Terrifier 3” (2014)

In contrast to its predecessors, “Terrifier 3” follows a similar narrative path but with a more compact storyline and heightened entertainment value. The plot continues from where the previous film ended, addressing several unresolved questions. What’s more, it is set during the Christmas season, providing director Leone with a festive playground to explore. Right off the bat, he launches into a chilling opening scene designed to challenge his audience’s resilience. This scene encapsulates the essence of the “Terrifier” series – shock the audience, drench them in gore, and then inject some unexpected humor to lighten the mood.

Five years following the occurrences depicted in “Terrifier 2”, Sienna Shaw, portrayed once more by Lauren LaVera, exits a mental institution and prepares to reside with her Aunt Jess (Margaret Anne Florence) and Uncle Greg (Bryce Johnson). They have a daughter named Gabbie (Antonella Rose), who admires Sienna deeply but remains unaware of the ordeals she has faced. Regarding Sienna’s younger brother Jonathan (Elliot Fullam), he has relocated to college where he attempts to distance himself from the Miles County Massacre.

In my opinion, crafting a chilling horror film is no walk in the park – it’s often easier said than done. However, in the case of “Terrifier 2,” that statement couldn’t be more accurate as the menacing Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) makes his return, this time accompanied by his grotesquely transformed first victim turned partner-in-crime, Victoria (Samantha Scaffidi). Together, they embark on a murderous rampage across Miles County, with their ultimate target being Sienna. But before we reach the climactic showdown between them, Director Damien Leone provides Art with ample chances to display his gruesome skills against an unfortunate assortment of victims.

As a die-hard fan of the “Terrifier” series, I can’t help but marvel at how each film takes gory creativity to new heights when it comes to Art’s grisly killings. The methods are often over-the-top, designed to leave viewers in a state of shock and outdoing the previous films. Yet again, these scenes provide Leone with an opportunity to demonstrate his exceptional makeup and special effects skills. However, let me warn you, this is not for the squeamish.

REVIEW: “Terrifier 3” (2014)

In part three, Leone continues to portray Art as something more than just a mindless nihilistic killer clown; he’s suggesting a darker, perhaps supernatural, backstory. This element was hinted at in the first movie and developed further in the second. Although it seems absurd and hard to follow, it gives Leone an opportunity for creating even more violent chaos on screen, while also paving the way for another film, which now seems quite likely.

Similar to its previous installments, “Terrifier 3” builds suspense primarily by keeping viewers guessing about who might be next to fall victim. It maintains the raw, gritty feel characteristic of grindhouse films, which some may find appealing or off-putting. The narrative can be uneven at times and certain plot details don’t always add up. However, Art the Clown is steadily climbing the ranks of horror movie villains, while Lauren LaVera solidifies her status as a true scream queen. All under the direction of Damien Leone, who seems to be on track for another successful horror film.

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2024-10-14 17:56