Terrifier (2016)
Is the slasher movie Terrifier one of the goriest, most toe curling movies ever? Not quite, but it is definitely one that you won't forget–even years to come. Like a humiliating memory, it will always be lurking in the back of your mind. Let's take a look at this bloody nightmare!
The movie has a simple enough storyline: three young women just trying to survive on Halloween night after be targeted by the brutal and terrifying (hence the title) clown, Art. But as the night unfolds, you'll start to wonder if anyone is gonna make it out alive....`
WHAT WORKS
The killer. Art The Clown is a truly sickening character that was played brilliantly by David Howard Thornton. He truly made this character come to life with his eerie silence, sick humor and cartoon-ish movements that made his killings 10x more disturbing and unforgettable.
The atmosphere and tone. The continuous chase- predator after prey- is both exhausting and terrifying. No time to rest. No time to breathe. No time to heal. No time at all. And the settings only amplify this infinite nightmare to feel like claustrophobic hell.
Budget. It's clear that the budget wasn't very high in the creation of this film but honestly, that makes it so much better. Each slaughter is brutal, nauseating and completely foul and I'm here for every gruesome second of it.
WHAT DIDN'T WORK
No Story. For my over-the-top gore fans this might be a dream come true. But for people who enjoy solid plots, Terrifier falls short. The movie relies heavily on murder and shock value to keep people interested which over time can start to wear thin.
Kill Scenes. For many viewers, the kills start to get repetitive and really seem as just a way to shock the audience then really adding depth to the story.
Pacing. The stretches between the kills can feel pretty boring and uneventful which can disrupt the flow and throw the audience off with uneven viewing experience.
OVERALL
Overall, the Terrifier is a unapologetic slasher that is designed perfectly to be a gore-filled nightmare that you won't be forgetting. Although it lacks in plot and pacing, it makes up for it with its killer, intense atmosphere and excruciating violence. This isn't for the weak nor for those who want something light to tie up their night nicely- if you want a clown that will make you feel like you're never alone..... this is for you.
