Not long ago the world was introduced to a new horror iconic–Art the Clown–that has made an indelible a mark on the genre in the Terrifier series of films. With the third installment captivating audiences, Terrifier has solidified its place in horror history. Now, in Art Attack! The Dissection of Terrifier 3, filmmakers Gary Smart and John Campopiano dive into how these gruesome films get made.
Art Attack! peels back the curtain on these incredible films, focusing mostly on Terrifier 3, offering an insightful look into not only how these terrifying films are created but also how they impact our culture at large. With behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with cast and crew, Art Attack! truly brings to light some of the extremely wonderful things about these films and proves that it takes a team to craft one of horror’s most popular film series in recent years.
Gary Smart and John Campopiano, who co-wrote and directed the documentary, have put together a comprehensive homage to Art the Clown’s journey from obscurity to becoming a bona fide horror icon. The duo uses interviews with key players such as Terrifier creator, writer and director Damien Leone, Art the Clown himself David Howard Thornton, and star Lauren LaVera, to give us insight into not only the creative process but also the fandom surrounding this eerie clown. The interviews with Leone were especially insightful as we can truly see his dedication not only to crafting horror tales but also weaving complex stories that explore human instincts and fears.
Art Attack! The Dissection of Terrifier 3 captures more than just the making of the blood scenes; it delves deep into the skills and passion required to bring such a horrifying film to life. The behind-the-scenes footage shows the team of creators working together–having a blast at the same–to ensure the best quality film is put together but also that is comes in for the lowest possible cost. Even though Terrifier 3 had a much larger budget than the first two feature films, the goal was to continue to keep the movie true to the original vision.
Smart and Campopiano have crafted a documentary the gives us fresh insights into making some pretty gruesome films while also leaving just enough mystery as to not take away from watching these movies over again. The creative duo have a similar passion to telling the stories behind the stories as the likes of Damien Leone has to creating fantastic horror films. This made for a superb documentary that has me eagerly wanting more from the Terrifier franchise!
Art Attack! The Dissection of Terrifier 3 comes it at just north of 90 minutes and is captivating during the entire run. The best part is that Art Attack! is available on Screambox–the same home to the Terrifier films which allows you to rewatch Art the Clown in action and then followup with some behind-the-scenes action.
Smart and Campopiano join the Capes and Tights Podcast for Episode 216 to discuss the making of the documentary.
