Catherine Corcoran, an actress known for her role in the horror film “Terrifier,” has initiated legal action against the film’s producers and director Damien Leone, citing breach of contract and the unauthorized distribution of sexually explicit material. The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court on Sunday, illustrates a troubling narrative of exploitation that often occurs within the independent film industry, as described by Corcoran’s legal team. The defendants listed in the suit include production companies Dark Age Cinema and Fuzz on the Lens Productions, as well as producer Phil Falcone and Leone, through his production banner, Art the Clown.
Corcoran gained recognition for a particularly harrowing scene in the 2016 film in which her character was subjected to extreme peril, being hung upside down and murdered by the film’s antagonist, Art the Clown. According to the suit, this demanding scene required Corcoran to remain in a vulnerable position for over ten hours in freezing conditions, raising concerns regarding the treatment of actors during production.
The actress reportedly accepted a low upfront payment to participate in “Terrifier,” with an agreement to receive 1% of the film’s profits as well as earnings from potential sequels and related merchandise. Despite the film’s success, having grossed over $105 million globally along with additional revenue from merchandise and fan events, Corcoran alleges that her royalty payments have dwindled significantly over the years. She claims that since July 2024, she has not received any back pay, and the total royalties she has received do not align with the expectations set by her initial agreement.
Corcoran confronted both Falcone and Leone regarding her compensation but claims she was dismissed, with Leone attributing financial matters to Falcone, who allegedly denied maintaining proper accounting records. Moreover, the suit states that during the filming of her death scene, the necessary informed consent for her nudity was not acquired, as mandated by Screen Actors Guild regulations. She asserts that despite her insistence on wearing underwear, she was filmed topless and only provided minimal comfort between takes, resulting in her suffering from health issues post-filming, including cranial swelling and eardrum damage.
The lawsuit underscores serious concerns regarding the treatment and rights of actors in the independent film sector, particularly concerning compensation and working conditions. As Corcoran seeks justice, the case shines a light on the need for stricter adherence to industry standards designed to protect performers, particularly in low-budget productions.