Film Review: ‘Terrifier 3’ Brings Art the Clown Back for More Gore As Only He Can Do It

When Terrifier 2 came out, it was an unexpectedly epic sequel to the tiny independent horror film Terrifier. Raising the stakes with a higher budget and bigger ambitions, the second installment became notable for inspiring walkouts. Now, with Terrifier 3, lots of the movie’s marketing is focusing on fainting spells and walkouts. How is it as a film, though? Well, it’s pretty good if you love gore with your horror. The flick definitely delivers.

Terrifier 3 is very successful at what it sets out to do. The franchise is very much only for hardcore horror buffs and gore hounds, but it’s undeniable that those into the concept are going to be satisfied. It’s a series that knows who to cater to and does it almost with surgical precision. I had a bloody good time once again.

In the aftermath of the previous movie’s carnage, Sienna (Lauren LaVera) and her brother Jonathan (Elliott Fullam) are trying to carry on with their lives. The former has been in and out of psychiatric hospitals, while the latter has retreated inward while at college. When their uncle, aunt, and cousin are set to host them for Christmas, it’s a chance to bond and move on. Of course, it would be, if not for the return of Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton), their murderous torturer.

This time around, Art is taking the disfigured Victoria (Samantha Scaffidi) along for his rampage. As they butcher their way around town on Christmas Eve, a new showdown is inevitable. This time, Sienna will be ready for Art, though the stakes will be even higher. In between, there’s blood and guts galore.

Horror sequels are rarely known for good acting, though this franchise does feature the distinctive unique work of David Howard Thornton. He’s having so much fun as Art this time, especially when he gets to lean into the dark comedy. Thornton is one of the hidden gems of horror. Lauren LaVera builds well upon her work last time, while Samantha Scaffidi is a memorable presence. Elliott Fullam somewhat fades into the background, but you’re mostly just noticing LaVera and Thornton. Supporting players include Margaret Anne Florence, Clint Howard, Chris Jericho, Bryce Johnson, Daniel Roebuck, Antonella Rose, and more.

Filmmaker Damien Leone continues to soak the celluloid in blood, guts, and viscera. He’s quite good at it, too, this time getting into the Christmas spirit as well. Shrinking the running time to only about two hours and not focusing as much on the mystical element of the first sequel prove to be strong decisions. Now, the choice to make almost every kill an extended set-piece does lead to less shock value than last time, so keep that in mind. It’s all plenty gross, in the best way, but it’s not the novelty it previously was. Leone is telling a story, though, one that we could certainly see continue in a potential Terrifier 4. In fact, unless it tanks at the box office, I’d almost bank on it.

Terrifier 3 firmly establishes this as an ongoing concern in the horror world. If they make one of these every few years, I’ll be more than happy to spend more time with Art the Clown and company. It’s a bloody good time, and provided that you’re up for this sort of thing, it’s the type of gnarly endeavor you’re sure to enjoy.

SCORE: ★★★