The modern clown dates back to the 19th century but it originated from the caricature of a fool or country bumpkin a few hundred years earlier. Whilst they became a staple of circuses around the world, performing a mix of physical comedy and acrobatics. They’re also incredibly scary. A fact that didn’t go unnoticed by the likes of Steven King. In 2016, we were introduced to Art the Clown. More serial killer than tortured soul. In the sequel, Terrifier 2, he’s back and ready to cause more carnage.
Art (David Howard Thornton) has been (conveniently) resurrected by a sinister entity. He returns to the scene of his crimes last year, Miles County. It’s Halloween night and Sienna (Lauren LaVera) has been working on her costume for months. Her younger brother, Jonathan (Elliott Fullam), wants to dress up as the clown who went on a killing spree last year. Their mother despairs, but they’re all struggling after the recent death of their father. The family is a perfect target for a deranged mind.
Terrifier 2 builds on Art’s good work in the first film, significantly upping the ante in the process. It’s always concerning when a horror film clocks in at over two hours, but the runtime actually works in the favour of Damien Leone’s film. It in no way dilutes the violence but it does allow the characters to develop. Given us two perspectives. Terrifier 2 is bloody and brutal. It takes no prisoners and spares no victims. It’s also brilliant.
Terrifier 2 is out on Digital Platforms, DVD and Blu-ray on 24 October alongside Terrifier 1 & 2 Blu-ray box-set.
