Jeepers Creepers 3: A Cult Classic Revisited
While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the first, or even the second, film, Jeepers Creepers 3 is still worth a watch for fans of the franchise.
Twenty-three years ago, the Creeper wreaked havoc on rural America. Now, it’s back, awakening every 23 years for a 23-day feeding frenzy. Law enforcement is on the monster’s trail, but even they seem powerless to stop the brutal killings.
The Jeepers Creepers series has evolved into a cult favorite, reminiscent of Phantasm or the Child’s Play franchise. These are projects that may not achieve blockbuster status, but are eagerly anticipated by dedicated fans on home video. The issue here isn’t necessarily the material, but rather the creator. Victor Salva, once a promising horror director, faced serious allegations and is now a persona non grata in the industry.
There are talks of a fourth installment in the near future, potentially focusing on Gina Philips’ character.
Salva spent considerable time trying to get Jeepers Creepers 3 off the ground. Initial rumors suggested the return of Gina Philips and Brandon Smith, key actors from the first film. However, Philips only has a brief cameo, and Smith’s role could have been filled by any actor willing to play a helpless, small-town cop.
More of the Same?
Essentially, Jeepers Creepers 3 serves as a bonus track to the first two films. While it expands on the Creeper’s mythology, its primary purpose is to deliver another dose of ruthless, almost brazen, killings to the fans. The Creeper is virtually invulnerable, allowing it to hunt in broad daylight, right in front of bewildered law enforcement.
The Creeper’s Ride
The main addition in the third film is a closer look at the Creeper’s truck, which turns out to be a “Batmobile” of sorts. It’s bulletproof, equipped with weapons like a harpoon launcher, and filled with deadly traps. One wrong move can lead to being sawed, impaled, or at least maimed. While it stretches believability, Jeepers Creepers 3 doesn’t prioritize realism or logic.
A Step Back in Quality?
Unfortunately, Salva’s directorial skills seem to have diminished over the years. The film’s editing is somewhat clunky, and the suspense falls short compared to the first and even the second film. However, Jeepers Creepers 3 remains brutal, expressive, and as realistic as a low-budget horror film can be. While it’s unlikely to be considered the best in the series, it definitely has its moments.