Terrifier 2

REVIEW:

“Terrifier 2” takes a significant leap in quality from its predecessor, a fact that becomes immediately apparent when considering the budget. The first “Terrifier” film was produced with a modest $35,000, whereas “Terrifier 2” had a budget of $250,000. This increase in funding allowed for better production values, and it shows. The lighting, set designs, and special effects are all significantly more polished, making for a much more engaging viewing experience. While I may have been harsh on my rating of the original film, without a sequel, my opinion wouldn’t have changed. The acting in the first film was a major drawback, but the sequel redeems itself with a generally better cast, especially with the performance of Lauren LaVera as Sienna, who carries much of the film.

My biggest complaint about the first “Terrifier” was the poor acting, but I’m pleased to report that this issue is mostly addressed in the sequel. LaVera brings a strength and charisma to her role as Sienna, making her a compelling lead and a strong “final girl” for audiences to root for. If the weak performances in the original put you off, I’d urge you not to let that stop you from watching the sequel. “Terrifier 2” vastly improves upon its predecessor in this regard, showing that the film can be both brutal and led by strong performances.

The gore and practical effects, a hallmark of Damien Leone’s work, are once again a standout element in “Terrifier 2.” As repulsive as some of the death scenes are, they are also unapologetically over the top and exaggerated. Leone clearly has no intention of making a grounded, realistic serial killer movie, but rather embraces the absurdity of his vision, creating an 80s-inspired, cheesy gore fest. In this, he succeeds spectacularly, and fans of practical effects and extreme horror will likely find much to admire, even if the violence borders on cartoonish.

Slasher films aren’t known for their thought-provoking narratives, but the screenplay in “Terrifier 2” is far more interesting than in the first movie. Questions linger long after the credits roll, such as the mystery surrounding Sienna’s father and his connection to Art the Clown. These added layers of intrigue make the film more engaging than the first, providing a plotline that’s more than just a vehicle for carnage.

That said, the film’s pacing is a bit off. At 138 minutes, “Terrifier 2” is easily 20 minutes too long, especially in the first half, which could have been trimmed for a tighter narrative. While the extra time is used to develop the characters, the film does drag in places, particularly when compared to the fast-paced brutality of the final act. However, once it finds its footing, the film delivers a bloody good time, especially for gore fans in the latter half.

In conclusion, “Terrifier 2” may not be what I would call a “scary” movie in the traditional sense, unless you already have a fear of clowns. But the film’s shock factor comes from its gore, which will certainly please aficionados of the genre. Unlike the first movie, which left me feeling indifferent, the sequel makes me want to see where this twisted saga is headed next. Sienna is a solid final girl, and Art the Clown is quickly establishing himself as a memorable villain in the slasher genre.