The team that satisfied horror fans' bloodlust with 'Terrifier 2' is back with another bloody massacre. The film isn't entirely tongue-in-cheek, but other body parts are strewn about.
Is Terrifier 2 THAT violent?
Those who think the days of the truly independent sleeper are long gone should take note of the "Terrifier" films, which, with their immediate, somewhat insular appeal to hardcore horror fans, have raked in a tidy sum on relatively small-budget layouts. A third film is due out this fall, but in the meantime, there's "Stream," a standalone effort from much of the "Terrifier 2" crew (save for writer-director Damien Leone, a co-producer here) that capitalized on the cult status of the original and grossed nearly $16 million two years ago. "Stream" is also launching as a limited theatrical event, booked for Aug. 21-25 in the U.S. and Canada, with other territories to follow.
Though it deviates from their conceptual template — there’s no killer clown — “Stream” also echoes the “Terrifier” films in its general nature, as well as its individual pluses and minuses. They’re all films on the higher end of that peculiar gorehound terrain, where a surplus of sadistic violence and FX viscera compensates for a near-complete disinterest in basic plot and character niceties. There have been plenty of utterly inept, inert, quasi-underground films made in that vein. But Fuzz on the Lens productions, by contrast, are colorfully well-made within their modest means. They look good, have professional actors, a decent pace, and a modicum of humor. What they lack is even a hint of original thinking to lighten the eventual monotony for anyone not automatically sold on the sheer display of guts in abundance.
“Stream” is set in the Pines resort, a “gem of Pennsylvania” according to the ads — and is preparing to reopen this weekend. Unfortunately, owner Linda (Dee Wallace) may not live to see it. An unseen intruder will end her hospitality career forever before the opening credits roll.
