The ultra-violent indie horror film “Terrifier 3” topped the US box office by raking in $18 million during its opening weekend. This impressive debut not only surpassed the total earnings of its 2022 predecessor but also dethroned “Joker 2” as the top film in the US.
“Terrifier 3” centers around Art the Clown, a terrifyingly silent serial killer who has become a sensation among horror fans. The film’s extreme gore, which reportedly caused viewers to faint and vomit during early screenings, has only fueled its popularity. This buzz likely contributed to its impressive opening weekend, exceeding the $12 million earned by “Terrifier 2” and matching the debut of the iconic 2004 film “Saw”.
While $18 million might seem insignificant compared to the massive hauls of superhero blockbusters, it’s a remarkable achievement for an indie horror film. “Terrifier 3’s” success stands in stark contrast to the performance of “Joker 2,” which brought in a comparatively meager $7 million during the same weekend. This disparity suggests that audiences are connecting with the raw intensity of “Terrifier 3” and the captivating performance of David Howard Thornton as Art the Clown.
Fans and critics argue that more people choosing to see “Terrifier 3” than a film about one of cinema’s most popular characters suggests audiences aren’t taken by director Todd Phillips’ latest take on Joker’s story. They are, however, grabbed by the “Terrifier” franchise’s combination of ultra-violence and Thornton’s twisted yet entertaining performance.
One user on X wrote: “‘Terrifier 3’ gave the people what they wanted and they showed up. ‘Joker 2’ did the opposite.
Fans are even comparing Art the Clown to legendary horror figures like Freddy Krueger and Leatherface, solidifying his status as a modern horror icon. The character’s popularity has surged since “Terrifier 2,” and his presence is being felt beyond the screen, with Spirit Halloween expanding its “Terrifier” merchandise line to include a life-size animatronic of the killer clown.
