Plot
The film follows the adventures of two friends, Tara (Jenna Kanell) and Dawn (Catherine Corcoran) who come across the unfriendly, silent Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) on Halloween night. The night goes on, Art's twisted games become increasingly violent, and the two friends have to fight for their lives against the brutal assault. The story may not be revolutionary but it's the perfect vehicle to display it's greatest strengths: the nightmarish entity called Art the Clown.
Practical Effects and Gruesome Imagery
A standout aspect of "Terrifier" will be the commitment towards practical effects. In an age when CGI is now the standard for filmmakers, Leone's choice to make use of practical effects recalls classic horror, but also gives an authentic, tangible quality to the gore. The inventive and disturbingly gruesome murders testify to the creativity of the special effects team, led by Leone himself who has a degree working in SFX makeup. From the brutal dismemberment that happens to one individual to the gross facial mutilations of another "Terrifier" sets the bar for the quality in the realm of screen violence and provides an incredibly terrifying experience.
David Howard Thornton's shocking performance as Art the Clown
The main thing about "Terrifier" that sets it apart and other horror film is the terrifying performance by David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown. Thornton's portrayal as the menacing, silent character is truly the stuff of nightmares. With his white face paint over-exaggerated smile as well as eyelashes that are dark, Art the Clown is an aesthetically striking character who shows a hint of malice with each step.Thornton's Terrifier (2016) movie review physical acting is exemplary showing a mastery in body language and facial expressions which make Art's movements infuriating. The performance is further enhanced by his total absence of dialogue, making the actor rely solely on his body language and facial expressions to convey Art's perverse motives. This silent silence only enhances the terror-inducing character's presence and makes him one of the most terrifying horror movie villains of the 21st century.
The Film's Limited Budget: A Testament to Creativity and resourcefulness
Another notable aspect of "Terrifier" the ability to deliver a truly terrifying experience for a budget-conscious. The film was made for around $100,000, a fraction of what most horror movies cost to make. Despite this, Leone has managed to create an aesthetically stunning and deeply disturbing experience that can compete with the best horror films with higher budgets.
The filmmakers' skill is evident through the film's gritty, urban setting that conveys the impression of being in isolation and vulnerability. In addition, the budgetary constraints is likely to have influenced the decision to utilize practical effects which, as mentioned previously add to the film's overall impact.
critical reception and fan response
"Terrifier" has been popular with reviewers and the general public, and has gained an extremely cult following in the horror scene. It has received praise from critics for its original practical effects, Thornton's terrifying performance portrayal of Art the Clown, and its ability to create an extremely terrifying experience on the budget of a small one. People who love the genre have embraced the film because of its brutality and uncompromising atmosphere, and memorable villain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Damien Leo's "Terrifier" is a shining demonstration of what's possible to be made of creativity, resourcefulness as well as a keen knowledge of the elements that make horror truly frightening. With its horrifying effects on the practical, David Howard Thornton's unsettling portrayal of Art the Clown, and its impressive accomplishment on a limited budget "Terrifier" is now among the best horror films of the 21st century. For those who love the genre this film isn't to be ignored.
Directed by: Damien Leone
Starring: David Howard Thornton, Jenna Kanell, Samantha Scaffidi
Launch Date: 15 October 2016
Rating: 4.75/5