The third installment of the Terrifier series, Terrifier 3, has generated significant buzz for its intense and gruesome content. Director Damien Leone aimed to push the boundaries even further after the success of Terrifier 2, incorporating shocking and controversial scenes that have prompted strong reactions from audiences. The film has already caused some viewers to walk out within minutes of its U.K. premiere, and it has been labeled “unrated” in the U.S. due to its graphic content. Additionally, France has banned minors from watching the film in theaters.
Terrifier 3 features the relentless serial killer Art the Clown terrorizing a town before Christmas, with the first scene being particularly over the top and controversial. The movie’s PR team confirmed that at least 11 audience members left the screening, and one person even vomited. Director Damien Leone expressed the desire to deliver even more intense and shocking content, stating that the franchise is built on controversy, exploitation, and shock value.
The film’s teaser, released in November 2023, hinted at a controversial scene involving the potential killing of a child, causing further uproar among viewers. Despite the divisive reactions, the actor portraying Art the Clown, David Howard Thornton, emphasized the character’s entertaining and fun nature, despite his horrifying actions.
Terrifier 3 boasts a bigger budget, allowing director Damien Leone to indulge in practical effects and create several barbaric murder scenes. The film aims to deliver the same level of intense and shocking content that has become a staple of the franchise.
In a recent interview, filmmaker Damien Leone discussed his approach to pushing boundaries in his work, noting that he enjoys testing the limits to see what he can get away with creatively. However, he emphasized the importance of not going too far and alienating the audience. Leone expressed that as an artist, he doesn’t believe in limits as long as no actual harm is done, as everything in his films is fictional. He clarified that viewers have the choice to opt out if they find certain content uncomfortable.
Actor David Howard Thornton, who plays Art the Clown in “Terrifier 3,” emphasized his role in ensuring the safety and comfort of the actors involved in the film, particularly the child actors. Prior to filming a scene at a mall involving children, Thornton organized a Q&A session to reassure the young actors and address any concerns they had about his character’s appearance and the makeup used.
David Thornton has portrayed the character Art the Clown for several years, but he admits that he still finds it surreal to see his heavily made-up face featured prominently. He reflects on how his life has changed since taking on the role, recalling the years he spent waiting tables and enduring mistreatment from customers over trivial matters. Thornton marvels at the transformation from that experience to now walking into stores and encountering entire sections dedicated to his character.
Art the Clown made his debut in a series of short films within the horror anthology movie “All Hallows Eve” in 2013. Following the retirement of the original actor, Thornton assumed the role for the 2016 film “Terrifier.” His unconventional audition, where he arrived without a script and pantomimed a gruesome act before cheerfully departing, has become legendary.
Thornton attributes Art the Clown’s appeal to the character’s exuberant and charismatic clown persona. Despite his penchant for dark humor, Art the Clown is a chilling amalgamation of traits from iconic horror villains of the past.
The “Terrifier” movie franchise, known for its escalating levels of gore, is also praised for its deepening plot and character development with each installment. In the second film, a new character named Sienna, played by Lauren LaVera, emerges as a central figure, eventually becoming the “heart and soul” of the series, alongside the iconic villain, Art the Clown.
Sienna, initially depicted as a high school student with a passion for cosplay, discovers her potential as the only person capable of defeating Art the Clown through a series of chilling encounters. As the franchise progresses, Sienna evolves into an older and more traumatized character, ultimately triumphing over her adversary. The intricate link between Sienna and Art the Clown is gradually unveiled throughout the films.
LaVera highlighted the complexity of her character, emphasizing that Sienna stands out due to her openly displayed flaws. She expressed her enthusiasm for portraying a character with imperfections, allowing her to infuse her own “messiness” into the role. LaVera also revealed that she performed the majority of her own stunts, drawing from her extensive background as a stuntwoman and 20 years of martial arts training.
Director Damien Leone has confirmed plans for a fourth installment in the “Terrifier” franchise, promising an even more intense and wild experience for audiences. Leone believes that amidst a climate of social and political tension, there is a heightened need for the cathartic release that intense and shocking cinema can provide. “Terrifier 3” is set to hit theaters nationwide on October 11th.
