Plot
The film follows the story of two best friends, Tara (Jenna Kanell) and Dawn (Catherine Corcoran) who meet the vicious quiet Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) on Halloween night. The night goes on, Art's dark games become increasingly violent, and the two friends are forced to fight off his sadistic onslaught. The plot itself might not be revolutionary but it's an effective way of showcasing the film's true strength which is the terrifying and frightening entity the film is Art the Clown.
The practical effects and the gruesome images
A standout aspect of "Terrifier" is its commitment to the use of practical effects. In an age when CGI is the new standard for filmmakers, Leone's choice to make use of practical effects not only calls back to the past with classic gore, but also imparts an empathetic, tangible aspect to the gore. The ingenuous and horrifying killings are a testament to the imagination of the special effects crew, which is led by Leone himself who has a background of SFX makeup. From the brutal dismemberment scene of one individual to the gross facial mutilations in another "Terrifier" breaks the boundaries of (click now to read blog post) on-screen violence and delivers truly terrifying experiences.
David Howard Thornton's Surreal Performance as Art the Clown
The most notable aspect of "Terrifier" that differentiates it unlike other movies about horror the deeply unsettling performance of David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown. Thornton's portrayal as the menacing, silent figure can be described as the stuff of nightmares. With his face painted in white an exaggerated smile, eyes that have been darkened, Art the Clown is visually stunning and exudes malice with every movement.Thornton's physical portrayal is remarkable with his mastery of facial expressions and body language that make Art's actions bewildering. The performance is enhanced by the silence of the dialogue, leaving the actor solely on his body and face to convey Art's twisted motives. This silent silence only enhances the character's frightening presence, making him one of the most terrifying horror movie villains in the 21st century.
The Film's limited budget: A testament to creativity and Resourcefulness
Another great thing about "Terrifier" it's capacity to provide a truly frightening horror experience within a tight budget. The film was produced at a cost of around $100,000, which is a little less than what many horror films cost to make. Despite this, Leone has managed to create an aesthetically stunning and deeply disturbing film that has the same quality as many of the highest-budget horror films.
The filmmakers' creativity is evident by the film's rough, urban setting that conveys the impression of being in isolation and vulnerability. Also, the small budget could have contributed to the decision to make use of practical effects which, as I've mentioned earlier just enhance the overall impact of the film.
Critic Reception, and the Response of Fans
"Terrifier" is loved by moviegoers and critics, garnering an avid following within the horror community. Reviewers have praised the film with its original effects, the terrifying performance of Thornton as Art the Clown, and its ability to create a truly horrifying experience on an extremely tight budget. People who love the genre have embraced the film for the uncompromising brutality, unsettling atmosphere and memorable antagonist.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Damien Leone's "Terrifier" is an exemplary instance of what can be achieved through creativity, resourcefulness and an in-depth understanding of what makes horror truly frightening. With its horrifying effects on the practical and David Howard's disorienting portrayal of Art the Clown and its amazing success with the basis of a small budget "Terrifier" deserves its spot among the best scary films from the twenty-first century. For fans of the genre This film is not to be put off.
Director: Damien Leone
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Jenna Kanell, Samantha Scaffidi
Day of Release: 15 October 2016
Score: 90 out of 100