Terrifier 3: First Reactions and What They Mean
A New Chapter of Chaos
The third installment of the Terrifier franchise, directed by Damien Leone, has recently premiered, and the initial reactions are rolling in. This time, Art the Clown, portrayed by David Howard Thornton, wreaks havoc on the tranquil Miles County during Christmas Eve. The film features a mix of returning and new cast members, including Lauren LaVera, Jason Patric, Daniel Roebuck, Samantha Scaffidi, Charlotte McKee, Bryce Johnson, and Krsy Fox. With its theatrical release set for next month, anticipation is high.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Buzz
Following its debut at Fantastic Fest, critics and audiences have taken to X, previously known as Twitter, to share their thoughts on Terrifier 3. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many applauding the extreme gore and expansion of the franchise’s lore. Here are some highlighted reactions:
– Ryan Ranc describes the film as having gore that surpasses previous entries, with Art the Clown being more malevolent than ever. He hints at “gag-worthy kills” and commends LaVera’s performance.
– Cody Leach states that Terrifier 3 is exactly what fans of the franchise desire. It effectively merges the tone of the first two films while advancing the lore and characters. He confirms it’s “brutal AS FK.”
– Cris Parker calls it a “gruesome & festive ride” with a “moody dark aesthetic” and “BAT-SH!T kills.”
– Noah Levine promotes the film as a “splatter fest of unseen proportions,” mentioning a brutal shower scene that will be memorable. He appreciates the deeper dive into the franchise’s lore, drawing comparisons to Hellraiser.
– Alex Papaioannou labels Terrifier 3 as “absolutely depraved sicko sh*t,” highlighting this as a positive aspect. He also praises the film’s visual elements and its “all-timer final girl sequence.”
– Jacob Harper finds the movie “bloody and blasphemous in all the right ways.”
– Sean Chandler notes that each kill sequence offers something new and memorable, ultimately deeming it a “worthy follow-up & escalation of the series.”
– Mathias Peyre comments that Damien Leone pushes boundaries with Terrifier 3, surpassing a particularly violent kill in In A Violent Nature (2024).
Leone expressed gratitude to the audience at Fantastic Fest, saying, “Thank you to everyone who showed up at [Fantastic Fest] to watch the world premiere of Terrifier 3. You guys are awesome and your support for this franchise means the world. We loved hearing those reactions tonight.” There are also claims that Leone confirmed Terrifier 4 is already in development.
Potential for Success
Will It Match Terrifier 2‘s Triumph?
The reception of Terrifier 3 seems to echo that of Terrifier 2 (2022). The sequel, with a budget increase from $35,000 to $250,000, received positive reviews and grossed over $15 million worldwide. The third film, following on from Terrifier 2‘s conclusion, further increases its scope with a reported budget of $2 million.
Art The Clown Is So Much Scarier In Terrifier 3 Thanks To This Big Sequel Change
The positive early reactions suggest that Leone has once again crafted a crowd-pleasing gore-fest. It appears poised to replicate the success of the second installment. Terrifier 2 gained notoriety for its viral release, with reports of audience members fainting or vomiting during screenings. Similar occurrences for Terrifier 3 could enhance its visibility and contribute to its commercial success.
Our Perspective on Terrifier 3‘s First Impressions
The Future of Art The Clown’s Franchise
Based on online feedback, Terrifier 3 is unlikely to attract new fans who didn’t enjoy the first two films. The franchise appeals to a niche audience, but it has cultivated a devoted fanbase that could support this movie and a potential Terrifier 4.
While Terrifier 3 seemingly amplifies the gore from its predecessor, it raises the question of how future films will continue to escalate without reaching diminishing returns. Nevertheless, the initial reactions indicate that the franchise hasn’t hit that point yet, promising another thrilling experience for current fans.
Sources: Various (see above)
Terrifier 3
- Horror
Terrifier 3 is the third film in Damien Leone's ultra-violent horror series starring David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown. The third film is set during Christmas time, with Art unleashing his reign of terror on Miles County citizens on Christmas Eve. Lauren LaVera returns as Sienna, along with Damien Leone as director and writer.
