Rating: 2/5
Synopsis:
The hardcore “Terrifier” franchise returns for a third entry. We follow Sienna and Jonathan five years after the events of the original. Jonathan is away at school, trying to move on from the past. Sienna on the other hand has been in therapy, haunted by visions of Art the Clown. She believes Art is back with a vengeance after encountering him in public. Is this a figment of her imagination? Or is Art ready to cause havoc yet again?
Positives:
The “Terrifier” films feel like an anomaly in modern cinema. From the micro budget of the first film to the fan funded venture of the second, “Terrifier 3” manages to put the franchise on the largest map yet. It’s inspiring to see director Damien Leone work tirelessly to grow the franchise he created. Most little movies would never see the light of day, let alone turn into a wide released franchise. The most important reason for this success is Art the Clown. He continues to impress as one of horror’s most recognizable icons. I’d even argue it’s David Howard Thornton’s best performance yet. He brings so much energy and charisma to the role of Art, escalating his depraved behavior from the first two films.
Lauren LaVera also does a nice job in her returning role as Sienna. Seeing her character struggle with survivor’s guilt was a great progression of the story. I also enjoyed seeing how Jonathan dealt with the trauma in a different way. It feels like a natural progression from the events of the previous film so I enjoyed seeing where everything went. I also enjoyed that the film pulled back on the supernatural exploration in the second movie. Those elements didn’t add anything to the backstory of Art, but rather complicated his backstory. It asked more questions than answered. While nothing is answered in this third film, it gives fans more of what they came to see…Art slashing his way through the holiday season. For me, that’s enough from this franchise.
Negatives:
While the “Terrifier” franchise has some undoubtedly impressive returns, I believe it is stuck in neutral. Sure, the practical effects and focus on creating horrific deaths for Art’s victims is improving, but the story and acting are not. There is no true progression of the central characters or the foe they’re battling. It is clear what director Damien Leone is focused on: grossing his audience out in the most sadistic ways imaginable. What disappoints me is that there is so much potential to explore with the character or Art, yet they keep him stuck in a tired routine of hacking people up with a paper thin story around him. The plot doesn’t move along very naturally. The “story” feels like a few events stitched together in between the grotesque killings. There is a premise at hand, a big finale, and countless brutal murders. For fans of the franchise, this may be enough. But me? I wish there was more because the intense mutilation of people is not the main reason I see horror movies. “Terrifier 3” will likely impress the right audience but I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m not a part of that group.
I don’t normally include spoilers in my reviews but feel the need to disclaim an element to the film that potential viewers should be aware of. While the sick, depraved nature of Art’s killings may be palatable on adult victims…he murders multiple children in the film. That’s going too far for me as it is hard to discern entertainment from depravity. It is not fun to listen to a child being hacked apart and hear the sound effects of their demise. Not at all. This is gross and going too far. Director Damien Leone has openly stated that he is trying to push the boundaries of what people can tolerate and how much he can get under the audience’s skin. I just wonder why…why would he be interested in offending people to that degree? I would instead focus on creating a stronger plot and directing the actors to give better performances. But it’s clear that the niche fanbase of this franchise enjoys this routine…so we can expect more eccentric kills and a mediocre story. There is also a very mean spirited nature that carries over from the other entries. The film fails to be fun, trading in the usual thrills from slashers of the past for a grotesque and grim presentation of events. Again, this is not what I come to horror movies to see. Art can take a page out of Michael, Freddy, or Jason’s book and infuse some fun into the story. For such an eccentric character, Art’s films lack enjoyment.
Conclusion:
“Terrifier 3” doubles down on the torture porn corner of the horror genre. It uses its increased budget to magnify the gruesome killings and heinous nature of Art’s twisted persona. It simplifies the story from the previous entry but doesn’t do anything worthwhile. The plot is pretty thin and the performances are standard. Fans of the previous entry will enjoy the uniquely brutal presentation of Art’s killings. Other audiences? I’d advise them to stay away from this film as it will likely leave them feeling upset and offended. Sure, maybe that’s what they’re going for…but there isn’t much fun to be had here. It’s a bummer Art isn’t in better movies because he’s such an iconic villain! I’d recommend audiences check out horror franchises with better taste this spooky season.