Terrifier 3, A true work of Art.

Picture it, an independent horror film with an opening scene that depicts the murder of children. Imagine further that midway through the film, our main villain would proceed to bomb a Santa meet and greet and murder even more children.

That film has gone on the beat the sequel to a near perfect comic book movie at the box office this past weekend. Joker 2 had all the makings of a great sequel. How do you fumble Lady Gaga? In a musical no less.

Terrifier, in my eyes, is the little franchise that could. Since Art made his debut in the 9th Circle short film, he has cut quite the imposing figure. However, it wasn’t until David Howard Thorton took over the role in Terrifier that he became the horror icon that we all (horror fans) know and love. More demented that Pennywise and, somehow, more durable that Michael Myers.

Since Terrifier 2 our final girl has been Sienna Shaw. Played by the amazing Lauren LaVera, she has brought a raw emotion to her acting that makes you root for her even though we all want Art to win. Terrifer 3 shows us a different side to Sienna and a complete evolution in Lauren LaVeras acting. It has been awhile since I’ve seen anyone act PTSD and anxiety so well. She makes you feel for her, makes you feel with her. To see everyone, including people that lived the horrors of Terrifer 2 with her, write her off as “crazy” is so infuriating to witness. Ms. LaVera makes you care.

Acting is only one facet to this movie. We come for the gore. Damien Leone. What can you say about the man? Rumors persist that he turned down a major studio investment in Terrifier 3 if he would “tone down” the gore. He refused. Respect is earned, but he took it from us all. He had a vision and he would not sacrifice it. Knowing that he does the practical effects and all of this came from his mind? Scary and insanely amazing. Also, very demented.

I could go on about this franchise for pages and pages. I would too, but that may come later. Right now, I just want to say go see this movie. Watch it in theaters. Show big production companies that smaller, gorier horror movies deserve a seat at the table. The little guy can win and did.

We loved this movie. It’s no secret. Terrifier 3 has earned 5 Threatening Trash Bags out of 5.