A.V. Opinions: Is Art the Clown losing the spotlight, or just evolving?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Art the Clown has become a co-lead in his own movie. While some might see that as a step back for the gleefully sadistic horror icon, I can’t help but admit that I’m thoroughly enjoying the Terrifier series. In fact, Terrifier 3 has taken the crown as my favorite entry so far. While I’d rather see him take the spotlight back, it obviously doesn’t hurt the franchise for me, since Terrifier 3 has become my favorite of the three movies.
However, the decision to make Art a co-lead since Terrifier 2 has been divisive. For some, it’s a bold move that expands the series and allows the supporting characters and overarching lore to shine. For others, it feels like Art’s anarchic spotlight is being shared too much, risking what made him so terrifying in the first place. Coupled with the introduction of an otherworldly power controlling him, this narrative shift has sparked passionate debate among fans.
On one hand, the supernatural element provides some explanation for his abilities and opens up a whole new layer of storytelling. On the other hand, it risks diluting Art’s raw, anarchic appeal by tethering him to something beyond his chaotic nature.
That’s where I think Terrifier 4 could be a game-changer. Picture this: Art the Clown turning the tables on the entity that gave him his supernatural edge. Instead of being a mere pawn in some cosmic horror game, he destroys the demon and seizes control of its power. He doesn’t just exist within a parallel dimension, he rules it.
This shift would transform Art from a vessel of terror into the ultimate nightmare architect. He’d become his own master, a chaotic force entirely unbound by rules, entities, or expectations. It could take the franchise into even darker, more uncharted territory while reinforcing why Art deserves his place among horror’s elite villains.
Of course, this raises an important question for fans. Should Art stay tied to the supernatural, or should he break free and carve out his own kingdom of chaos? The allure of a supernatural mystery can’t be understated, it’s part of what makes characters like Freddy Krueger and Pinhead so iconic. But Art the Clown has always thrived on his unpredictability, his brutal and grotesque humor, and his sheer audacity. Giving him agency over his supernatural destiny could elevate his status as a horror legend while keeping true to his unhinged, no-rules persona.
What do you think? Is it time for Art to shed his strings and become the ruler of this other dimension or should the supernatural co-lead element remain a defining part of his story? Wherever the franchise goes next, one thing is certain: Art the Clown isn’t done shocking us yet.
-Brad McBoom