Plot
The film follows the tale about two of them, Tara (Jenna Kanell) and Dawn (Catherine Corcoran) who meet the hostile yet silent Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) on Halloween night. The night goes on, Art's demented games get increasingly violent and the two friends need to fight their way through the cruel assault. The story may not be revolutionary, but it serves as an effective tool to show its true strengths which is the terrifying and frightening entity the film is Art the Clown.
Pictures with practical effects and gruesome imagery
The standout feature of "Terrifier" can be seen in its dedication to realistic effects. In a time when CGI is the preferred method for filmmakers, the decision of Leone to utilize practical effects not only harkens back to classic horror, but adds an emotional, tangible dimension to the gore. The shockingly inventive killings are a testament to the imagination of the special effects crew, which is led by Leone himself who has an extensive background with SFX makeup. From the brutal dismemberment of a character to the grotesque facial mutilations of another "Terrifier" breaks the boundaries of what can be seen on screen, and gives shockingly horrific scenes.
David Howard Thornton's unsettling performance in the role of Art the Clown
The most notable aspect of "Terrifier" that makes it stand out from other horror films is the unsettling performance of David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown. Thornton's portrayal of the menacing, silent character is the stuff of nightmares. With his white face paint with a smug smile and blackened eyes, Art the Clown is an aesthetically striking character who conveys malice in every step.
Thornton's physical acting is exceptional as he demonstrates an impressive mastery over facial expressions and body language that make Art's every action unnerving. The performance is further enhanced by the completely silent dialogue, which forces the actor to rely entirely on his body, and face to convey Art's bizarre intentions. This silent silence only enhances his dreadful appearance which makes him one the most terrifying horror film villains of the 21st century.
The Film's Small Budget: A Testament to Creativity and resourcefulness
Another (blog post) impressive aspect of "Terrifier" is its ability to deliver a truly terrifying experience for a budget-conscious. The film was said to have been made for about $100,000, which is a one-third of what most horror movies cost to make. However, Leone has managed to make a visually captivating and deeply unsettling experience that is up against some of the more expensive horror films.
The filmmakers' ability to think outside the box is evident in the film's gritty urban setting, which effectively creates a feeling of isolation and vulnerability. Furthermore, the film's limited budget was likely a factor in the decision to employ practical effects and, as previously stated just enhance the overall impact of the film.
Critic Reception, and the Response of Fans
"Terrifier" is highly acclaimed by moviegoers and critics, garnering its fans a loyal following within the horror scene. Film critics have praised it for its original practical effects, Thornton's shivering performance for her role as Art the Clown, and its capacity to provide a truly horrifying experience on an extremely low budget. Fans of the genre love the film for the uncompromising brutality, unsettling atmosphere, and memorable villain.
Conclusion
Damien Leone's "Terrifier" is an exemplary example of what can be created with imagination, skill and a profound understanding of what makes horror truly terrifying. Through its horrifyingly realistic effects as well as David Howard Thornton's disturbing depiction of Art the Clown, and its remarkable success with a limited budget "Terrifier" deserves its spot in the top terror films in 21st-century. For fans of the genre it's not to be left out.
Director: Damien Leone
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Jenna Kanell, Samantha Scaffidi
Day of Release: October 15th, 2016
Rating: 90/100