Plot
The movie tells the tale of two friends, Tara (Jenna Kanell) and Dawn (Catherine Corcoran) that meet the vicious quiet Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) on Halloween night. The night goes on, Art's twisted games become increasingly violent and the two pals must battle to survive the cruel attack. The plot itself might not be groundbreaking however it is an effective tool to show the strengths of the film its dark, terrifying character known as Art the Clown.
Graphic Effects and Gruesome Imagery
One of the best aspects of "Terrifier" will be the commitment to real-world effects. Even in a time where CGI is the new standard for many film makers, Leone's decision to utilize practical effects not only brings back the classic horror, but also gives an intense, tangible feel to the gore. The novel and gruesome killings showcase the inventiveness of the team of special effects, headed by Leone himself who is a specialist working in SFX makeup. From the horrific dismemberment of an actor to the disgusting facial mutilations of another "Terrifier" sets the bar for the quality of violence on screen and provides an absolutely terrifying experience.
David Howard Thornton's Strange Performance as Art the Clown
The most important aspect of "Terrifier" that distinguishes it and other horror film is the deeply frightening performance of David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown. Thornton's portrayal of the silent, menacing figure is a thing of nightmares. With his white face (blog) paint an exaggerated smile, eyelashes that are dark, Art the Clown is a visually striking figure who has a look of malice that is evident in every move.
Thornton's physical acting is outstanding as he demonstrates an impressive mastery over body language and facial expressions that make Art's every action bewildering. The performance is further enhanced by the lack of dialogue, which forces the actor to rely solely on the body and face to communicate Art's bizarre intentions. This silence only adds to the character's frightening presence making him one the most frightening horror movie villains of the 21st century.
The Film's Limited Budget: A testament to creativity and Resourcefulness
Another striking aspect of "Terrifier" has to do with its capacity to provide a truly terrifying experience with a small budget. The film was said to have been made for around $100,000, a tiny fraction of the amount that most horror films cost to make. Despite this constraint, Leone has managed to craft a visually striking and deeply unsettling experience that stands toe-to-toe with other high-budget horror movies.
The filmmakers' resiliency is evident in the film's savage, urban setting, which effectively conveys a sense and vulnerability. Also, the small budget probably played a role in the decision to employ practical effects that, as was mentioned previously just enhance the film's overall impact.
Critical Reception and Fan Response
"Terrifier" has been highly acclaimed by reviewers and the general public, and has gained its fans a loyal following within the community of horror. Reviewers have praised the film with its original effects, Thornton's shivering performance for her role as Art the Clown, and the ability to deliver a truly horrifying experience on an extremely limited budget. Fans of the genre have embraced the film because of its unapologetic brutality, shocking atmosphere and memorable antagonist.
Conclusion
Damien Leone's "Terrifier" is an exemplary demonstration of what's possible to be achieved through creativity, resourcefulness and a complete knowledge of what makes horror truly terrifying. With its horrifyingly practical effects and David Howard Thornton's chilling depiction of Art the Clown, and its impressive accomplishment on a limited budget "Terrifier" will be among the best terror films in 21st-century. For those who enjoy the genre it's not to be ignored.
Directed by: Damien Leone
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Jenna Kanell, Samantha Scaffidi
Launch Date: 15 October 2016
Score: 4.25 out of 5