Summary of "Terrifier 3: An Interview with David Howard Thornton"

Last Podcast On The Left hosted by The Last Podcast Network delves deep into the chilling realms of horror, cults, serial killers, and more. In the Halloween-special episode titled "Terrifier 3: An Interview with David Howard Thornton," the hosts engage in an engaging and insightful conversation with David Howard Thornton, the actor behind the infamous horror icon, Art the Clown.

Introduction to the Episode

The episode kicks off with an exciting announcement, as the hosts express their enthusiasm about having David Howard Thornton join them for a unique, one-off interview. The atmosphere is tinged with the spooky spirit of Halloween, setting the perfect backdrop for an in-depth discussion about the Terrifier franchise and David's role within it.

Background of David Howard Thornton

David Howard Thornton shares his journey into acting, highlighting his roots in children's theater and his extensive experience with prosthetics and makeup. He mentions his initial focus on stage and voiceover work before transitioning into film.

• David Howard Thornton [04:19]: "I did, yes. They put a notice up on Actors Access when I was living in New York, and I just went in and did that."

He reflects on his early roles, including understudying the Grinch and playing Grandpa, emphasizing his comfort and familiarity with heavy makeup and prosthetics—a skill that later proved invaluable in his portrayal of Art the Clown.

Evolution of Art the Clown

The conversation delves into the origins of Art the Clown, tracing his beginnings in All Hallows Eve and his evolution into a standalone horror icon through the Terrifier series.

• Podcast Host 1 [03:04]: "Well, hey, that's what it's for."

David discusses the creative freedom afforded by director Damien Leone, contrasting it with his past experiences of being micro-managed by directors. This freedom has allowed Art the Clown to become a more fleshed-out and menacing character in each installment.

• David Howard Thornton [07:48]: "Damien is completely opposite. He's a very actor-friendly director."

Filmmaking Insights and Character Development

David provides an insider's view of the filmmaking process for Terrifier 3, particularly focusing on the balance between horror and campy comedy. He shares anecdotes about on-set experiences, such as the meticulous way certain scenes are crafted and the collaborative environment fostered by Damien Leone.

• David Howard Thornton [08:39]: "Each scene is a different genre of horror movie... it's a fun, kind of like campy scene, but then the next scene, it's just terrifying."

He emphasizes the intentional layering of horror elements to maintain suspense and terror, ensuring that Art the Clown remains unpredictable and frightening.

Art the Clown's Arsenal and Lore

A significant portion of the interview explores the various weapons and methods Art the Clown employs, highlighting his versatility and unpredictable nature.

• Podcast Host 2 [09:12]: "I think that's like one of our favorite bits is that he also uses a gun."

David asserts that no weapon is off-limits for Art, reinforcing the character's role as a relentless and inventive antagonist.

The discussion also touches upon the evolving lore of Art the Clown, particularly with hints about his supernatural aspects introduced at the end of the first film.

• David Howard Thornton [21:26]: "I'm just like, he is so evil. He came out of his mother's womb and strangled her with his own umbilical cord. He's just evil incarnate."

Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations

David expresses his excitement about future Terrifier installments and hints at the expansive plans for the character's lore in Terrifier 4 and beyond.

• David Howard Thornton [11:53]: "He's keeping so many things close to his vest right now... he's probably going to have five movies at least."

Additionally, he reveals his enthusiasm for an upcoming project titled Scream Boat, a horror-comedy twist on the classic Steamboat Willie, showcasing his versatility and continued passion for the horror genre.

Personal Insights and Experiences

The interview delves into David's personal life, shedding light on his aspirations beyond Art the Clown. He candidly discusses his dreams of portraying iconic characters like the Joker, drawing parallels between his comedic roots and his horror roles.

• David Howard Thornton [25:36]: "I want to return more to that Alan Moore era of the dark Joker."

He reflects on his journey from struggling actor to horror icon, sharing heartfelt moments about fan interactions and the unexpected paths his career has taken.

• David Howard Thornton [38:27]: "I was very frustrated... But who knows? If I had gotten any of those, I wouldn't have been able to do Terrifier."

Community and Fan Interactions

David highlights the supportive nature of horror fans, contrasting it with his humorous take on comedy fans.

• David Howard Thornton [15:32]: "Horror fans in general are just the coolest, sweetest, kindest people to ever meet."

He recounts experiences from screenings, including encounters with young fans, emphasizing the universal appeal and impact of horror cinema.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the interview wraps up, the hosts and David share lighthearted banter, cementing the camaraderie and mutual respect among them. David mentions his upcoming projects and expresses gratitude for his unexpected rise in the horror community.

• David Howard Thornton [43:03]: "It's a wild ride. I'm just very grateful for it."

The episode concludes with well-wishes for Halloween and excitement about future collaborations, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the next installment of both Terrifier and David's acting ventures.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• David Howard Thornton [04:19]: "I wanted experience doing work in on film because I had always just done stage work and voiceover work."

• David Howard Thornton [08:39]: "Each scene is a different genre of horror movie... it's a fun, kind of like campy scene, but then the next scene, it's just terrifying."

• David Howard Thornton [14:57]: "We have to still acknowledge that he is a clown. So he is having fun, but we don't want to go too cartoonish, campy with it all."

• David Howard Thornton [21:26]: "He is just evil incarnate. He is just. That's why hell latched on to this guy."

• David Howard Thornton [25:36]: "I want to return more to that Alan Moore era of the dark Joker."

• David Howard Thornton [38:27]: "If I had gotten any of those, I wouldn't have been able to do Terrifier."

Final Recommendations

Listeners are encouraged to watch Terrifier 3 for its blend of horror and campy elements, explore David's other works like Stream, and stay tuned for upcoming projects such as Scream Boat. The hosts humorously suggest taking the film for a family viewing—albeit with the tongue firmly in cheek.

• Podcast Host 1 [41:15]: "Take your family and then watch it again, Christmas. Sneak in your kids."

This episode not only provides a comprehensive look into David Howard Thornton's portrayal of Art the Clown but also offers valuable insights into horror filmmaking, character development, and the unexpected trajectories of an acting career. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or new to the genre, this interview is a must-listen for its depth, humor, and behind-the-scenes revelations.