"Terrifier" Franchise Faces Backlash: Actors and Artists Allege Mistreatment

In the past 11 days, "Terrifier" actress Catherine Corcoran has filed a lawsuit against filmmaker Damien Leone and producer Phil Falcone, alleging breach of contract. Corcoran claims she is entitled to 1% of the franchise's total profits, which have exceeded $102 million worldwide.

The lawsuit has inspired other sources to come forward with their own complaints about Leone and Falcone's business practices. IndieWire has spoken to multiple artists and businesses who say they were misled by the filmmakers, providing significant uncredited or uncompensated design work before being abruptly excluded from the "Terrifier family."

Many of these fans-turned-collaborators feel "stupid," "naïve," or "embarrassed" for not insisting on contracts before beginning their respective "Terrifier" projects. They believed the filmmakers would take care of them professionally as the franchise grew, only to be left feeling cheated.

One artist, Matt Bolea, had his designs featured prominently in the "Terrifier" community, even being worn by the franchise's star, David Howard Thornton. However, when Bolea tried to pursue an official merchandising deal, he was shut down by Falcone, who told him he wasn't licensed to sell any more merchandise.

The behind-the-scenes drama has left a sour taste for many "Terrifier" fans, who feel the filmmakers have prioritized profits over treating their collaborators fairly. As the franchise continues to expand, the backlash is likely to intensify, with calls for greater accountability and transparency.