It takes a strong stomach to watch a “Terrifier” film.
Director Damien Leone’s trilogy (a fourth film is reportedly in the works) traffics in some of the most gruesome FX in the horror genre. And that’s saying something with films like “Men” and “The Substance” in the public space.
Franchise killer Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) delights in slicing and dicing his prey, and Leone’s camera catches every droplet of fake blood.
There’s nothing overtly political about the films, although one could argue their adherence to retro ’80s shock is a statement unto itself.
Leone disagrees.
He shared a powerful statement on X saying his films aren’t political in any way. (Hat Tip: Midnight’s Edge) He also invites fans from across the ideological spectrum to savor Art’s appetite for destruction.
Hopefully I never have to bring up politics publicly ever again but this desperately needed to be said on behalf of the Terrifier franchise pic.twitter.com/b7soIj9P33
— Damien Leone (@damienleone) February 3, 2025
“Terrifier is not in ANY way, shape or form a political franchise … our cast and crew has and still consists of both Republicans and Democrats and anyone is welcome to be a part of it regardless of their political affiliation as long as they’re a decent human being.”
His parting thought? Don’t let “toxic rhetoric” spoil the fun.
Not everyone agrees.
Damien man I love you, I’ve always been a huge huga fan and I love your work sooooo much.
Love the franchise, love David, and Lauren so much….I wish this just wouldn’t have been said.
We need to speak out against/condemn evil people that discriminate….A LARGE following…
— (@KryptKeeper21) February 3, 2025
With great power comes great responsibility. When you’re given a platform it’s a moral imperative to use it responsibly.
Politics affects people’s lives. Often negatively. Institutions wield power to harm the helpless. To deliberately ignore such is COWARDICE.
— Jordan Hamilton (@BearsFanJordan) February 3, 2025
Others, including horror veteran Caroline Williams (“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2,” “Renfield”) cheered Leone on.
Right on, dude! I stand beside you . . .
— Caroline Williams (@WilliCaroline) February 3, 2025
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