Movie Review: Terrifier (2016)
Synopsis:
"Terrifier" is a slasher film that follows the terrifying exploits of Art the Clown, a sinister figure who wreaks havoc on Halloween night. The film opens with a chilling atmosphere as it introduces us to a group of friends—two women, Tara and Dawn, and a man named Mike—who encounter the unsettling character in a decrepit, desolate area of town. Art, a clown with an unsettling smile and a penchant for sadistic violence, becomes the focal point of their nightmarish experience.
After an unsettling encounter with Art at a local pizzeria, the group finds themselves drawn into a harrowing series of events after their car breaks down. Seeking refuge at an abandoned building, they soon realise that Art is not just a harmless trickster but a brutal force of evil intent on making them part of his gruesome game. As the night deepens, Tara and Dawn are subjected to a horrifying ordeal as Art relentlessly pursues them, leading to a chilling climax that will haunt viewers long after the credits roll.
The film is notable for its stark, unflinching portrayal of violence and gore, pushing the boundaries of the slasher genre while offering a nod to the campy horror films of the past. The practical effects, coupled with a minimalist plot, contribute to the film’s raw, relentless feel, making it a standout among indie horror films.
Cast:
- David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown
- Jenna Kanell as Tara Heyes
- Catherine Corcoran as Dawn
- Samantha Scaffidi as Victoria Hayes
- Pooya Mohseni as Maddy
- Lizzie Zerebko as the TV Reporter
- Mike Giannelli as The Man in the Moth Suit
Review:
"Terrifier" is a visceral journey into the mind of madness and terror, showcasing the appalling nature of a truly malevolent antagonist in Art the Clown. The embodiment of fear is brought to life through David Howard Thornton’s masterful performance, which immerses the audience in a nightmarish reality where laughter turns to screams. Thornton eschews dialogue for the most part, relying instead on exaggerated facial expressions and physicality to convey Art’s psychotic tendencies. His portrayal is unnervingly effective, evoking a sense of dread that permeates each scene he occupies.
The film’s strength lies in its absence of a complex narrative, allowing its characters to exist primarily as fodder for Art’s insatiable thirst for violence. Tara, played by Jenna Kanell, is both a relatable and strong protagonist—a character with depth amid the chaos surrounding her. Through her, the audience experiences a rollercoaster of emotions as Tara grapples with fear, anger, and desperation, ultimately leading to a fight for survival. Her relationship with Dawn, played by Catherine Corcoran, is both endearing and tragically ephemeral, further emphasising the stark contrast between moments of camaraderie and the inevitable horror that follows.
While "Terrifier" draws heavily from the slasher genre’s rich history, it is an homage laced with a distinctive originality. The film’s deliberate pacing allows tension to build gradually, leading to scenes of frenetic violence that strike an unsettling chord. The practical effects are a significant highlight; they ground the film in a tangible reality often lost in the ocean of CGI seen in modern horror. The visceral impact of Art’s carnage is a gruesome feast for horror aficionados, marking the film as a classic in the realm of independent terror.
However, "Terrifier" does not shy away from its shortcomings. The pacing occasionally suffers in the middle act, dipping into segments that feel slightly elongated, leading to moments where tension might ebb rather than flow. Additionally, while the characters serve their purpose in the grand scheme of the film, they often lack the depth that could elevate the viewer’s emotional investment. While Tara stands out, others merely serve as vehicles for horror without much characterisation.
The film’s cinematography captures the decaying beauty of the urban setting, lending an air of authenticity to the narrative. The choice of locations—from the dilapidated pizzeria to the hauntingly empty warehouse—adds to the overall unease. The sound design further augments this atmosphere, amplifying the sinister sounds that accompany each brutal act, thus heightening the viewers’ tension.
The soundtrack, although minimalist, plays a crucial role in maintaining the film’s suspenseful nature. It is sparse during moments that call for quiet dread, only to erupt into a cacophony during Art’s horrific displays of violence. The juxtaposition of silence and sudden outbursts mirrors the unpredictability of Art’s character, enhancing his role as an unpredictable source of terror.
One of the most striking aspects of "Terrifier" is its unabashed approach to graphic violence. This level of gore is not for the faint of heart; it challenges even seasoned horror fans. The blend of creativity and transgressive violence at times borders on the gratuitous, yet it demonstrates a commitment to a particular style—a homage to the golden age of slasher films. It revels in its own audacity, offering unapologetic brutality that partially underlines the film’s success in replicating horror’s primal fear element.
Moreover, “Terrifier” is a fervent reminder of the effectiveness of practical effects over digital manipulation. The gruesome sequences are painstakingly crafted, and the film does well to allow viewers to feel every slice, cut, and puncture. There is a rawness to the horror here, capturing not just the act of violence but the aftermath in stark detail. While some viewers may turn away at the highest points of gore, it is important to note that "Terrifier" doesn’t just aim to shock; it seeks to explore the depths of a killer’s mind and the impassive disarray it creates.
In conclusion, "Terrifier" is not merely a rehash of familiar slasher themes; it is a testament to the indie horror genre’s resilience. With its compellingly grotesque portrayal of Art the Clown, the film taps into the deep-set fears that reside within us. While it suffers from minor pacing issues and a limited character arc beyond the protagonists, the film’s sheer audacity and commitment to practical effects more than compensate for its flaws. As a celebration of horror in its purest form, "Terrifier" appeals to those who relish the dark corners of cinema.
For those willing to venture into this world of brutal violence and psychological terror, "Terrifier" promises an unforgettable experience. It stands as a formidable entry into the slasher canon, one that carries the legacy of those who came before while boldly paving its own path.
Score: 8/10
