Jeepers Creepers 3 (2017) Movie Review: A Mixed Return for the Creeper
Introduction
“Jeepers Creepers 3,” directed by Victor Salva and released in 2017, is the third installment in the popular horror franchise that began with “Jeepers Creepers” in 2001. The film continues the story of the Creeper, a supernatural entity that emerges every 23 years to feed on human flesh. This review covers the film’s plot, performances, direction, and impact, while also providing information on where to stream, rent, or purchase it in the United States.
Plot Summary
Set between the events of the original “Jeepers Creepers” and its 2003 sequel, “Jeepers Creepers 3” follows a small-town sheriff, Dan Tashtego (Brandon Smith), and his team as they hunt down the Creeper. The Creeper, a malevolent creature that emerges every 23 years to harvest human body parts, has returned to terrorize a rural town.
Sheriff Tashtego, who survived an encounter with the Creeper years earlier, is determined to stop the creature once and for all. As the Creeper resumes its killing spree, the sheriff and his team must confront the monster and uncover the secrets of its dark origins to put an end to its reign of terror.
Performances
Brandon Smith reprises his role as Sheriff Dan Tashtego, bringing a sense of experience and determination to the character. His performance anchors the film, providing a connection to the previous installments. The supporting cast, including Meg Foster and Gabrielle Haugh, delivers performances that fit within the film’s horror genre conventions. While the cast performs competently, some critics felt that the characters lacked depth and development, impacting the overall engagement with the story.
Direction and Cinematography
Victor Salva returns to direct “Jeepers Creepers 3,” and his approach maintains the tone and style of the earlier films. The direction incorporates a mix of suspenseful moments and grotesque horror, although some critics felt that the film struggled with pacing and coherence. The cinematography by Don E. Fauntleroy captures the rural setting and the Creeper’s grotesque nature, though the film’s budget constraints are apparent in certain scenes. The practical effects and creature design remain a highlight, continuing the franchise’s tradition of unsettling visuals.
Themes and Symbolism
“Jeepers Creepers 3” delves into themes of fear, survival, and the supernatural. The film explores the Creeper’s mythos and its cyclical nature, emphasizing the horror of an entity that preys on humans periodically. The struggle between good and evil is central to the narrative, with Sheriff Tashtego representing the fight against a seemingly unstoppable force. The Creeper’s origins and its connection to the local lore add layers of mythology and backstory to the franchise.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed to negative reviews from critics. While some appreciated the continuation of the Creeper’s story and the return of Brandon Smith, others criticized the film for its uneven pacing, lack of originality, and limited character development. The film’s attempt to bridge the gap between the earlier movies was seen as both a strength and a limitation, as it provided fan service but struggled to offer fresh and engaging content.
Streaming and Rental/Purchase Options in America
For those interested in watching “Jeepers Creepers 3,” the film is available on several streaming platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing costs about $9.99.
- Apple iTunes: Offers both rental and purchase options at similar price points to Amazon.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Also available for rent or purchase, typically costing $3.99 to rent and $9.99 to buy.
- Vudu: Provides both rental and purchase options, with prices generally in the same range.
Additionally, “Jeepers Creepers 3” may occasionally be available on subscription-based streaming services such as Hulu or Tubi, though availability can vary and should be checked directly on these platforms.
Conclusion
“Jeepers Creepers 3” (2017) is a continuation of the Creeper saga that attempts to build on the franchise’s lore and offer fans a new chapter in the story. While it maintains the franchise’s signature horror elements and practical effects, it has received mixed reviews due to pacing issues, limited character development, and the challenge of meeting fan expectations.
Final Thoughts
In summary, “Jeepers Creepers 3” offers a familiar experience for fans of the franchise with its return to the Creeper’s terror. Despite its mixed reception and challenges in delivering a fresh and engaging story, it remains a notable entry for those interested in the Creeper’s mythology and the continuation of the series. Easily accessible through various streaming and rental services in the United States, it provides an opportunity for fans to revisit the horror of the Creeper in a new context.
