The simple, yet surprisingly complex, answer is that there are two official ThanksKilling movies: the original 2008 film and its 2012 sequel, ThanksKilling 3. However, the narrative surrounding this low-budget horror franchise is anything but straightforward, leading to much confusion and misinformation about its continuity and official status. This article delves into the bizarre world of ThanksKilling, clearing up the muddled history and answering your most pressing questions.
Understanding the ThanksKilling Universe
The ThanksKilling films, known for their incredibly low budgets, intentionally terrible effects, and darkly comedic tone, have cultivated a significant cult following. Understanding the intended – and unintended – absurdity is key to appreciating their unique place in horror cinema. The films center around Turkie, a demonic turkey brought to life to wreak havoc on unsuspecting college students during Thanksgiving break.
The Original ThanksKilling (2008)
This is where the legend began. ThanksKilling (2008), directed by Jordan Downey, introduced the world to Turkie. The film’s minimal budget resulted in hilariously bad special effects and over-the-top acting, contributing significantly to its so-bad-it’s-good appeal. The plot, though simple, established the core concept of a vengeful turkey spirit preying on modern-day teens.
ThanksKilling 3 (2012): The Meta-Sequel
Here’s where things get wonderfully strange. The creators intentionally skipped ThanksKilling 2 and jumped directly to ThanksKilling 3. This decision was a meta-commentary on the low-budget nature of the original and the expectation that a sequel would be even worse. ThanksKilling 3 embraces this absurdity, employing even more bizarre humor, over-the-top gore, and a plot that defies easy explanation. The absence of ThanksKilling 2 is a crucial element of the franchise’s identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ThanksKilling
To further clarify the confusing landscape of the ThanksKilling series, let’s address some frequently asked questions:
1. Why is there no ThanksKilling 2?
This is the million-dollar question! The creators of ThanksKilling intentionally skipped ThanksKilling 2. This was a deliberate artistic choice, a meta-joke acknowledging the low budget and often disappointing quality of sequels, particularly in the horror genre. They felt that the concept of a terrible turkey slasher was already so absurd that doing a ‘better’ or more serious sequel would betray the spirit of the original. The missing ThanksKilling 2 is a running gag and a testament to the films’ self-aware humor.
2. Is ThanksKilling 3 a direct sequel to the first film?
Yes, in a bizarre, meta-fictional sense. While ignoring the hypothetical ThanksKilling 2, ThanksKilling 3 continues the storyline from the original, albeit with a significant leap in absurdity and self-awareness. Characters and events from the first film are referenced, but the overall tone is much more comedic and self-referential.
3. Who is Turkie?
Turkie is the demonic turkey at the heart of the ThanksKilling franchise. According to the film’s mythology, Turkie is a cursed Native American spirit, brought to life every few centuries to exact revenge on unsuspecting humans around Thanksgiving. He is characterized by his foul mouth, crude humor, and propensity for over-the-top violence.
4. Where can I watch ThanksKilling movies?
The ThanksKilling movies are typically available on various streaming platforms, rental services (like Amazon Prime Video and YouTube Movies), and sometimes on physical media (DVD/Blu-ray). Availability may vary depending on your region. Check your preferred streaming services or online retailers to see if they currently offer the films.
5. Are the ThanksKilling movies actually scary?
No. While they are categorized as horror films, the ThanksKilling movies are not genuinely scary. Their low budgets, poor special effects, and over-the-top humor make them more comedic than frightening. The primary appeal lies in their so-bad-it’s-good quality and their ability to elicit laughter from the sheer absurdity of the premise.
6. Who directed the ThanksKilling movies?
Jordan Downey directed both ThanksKilling (2008) and ThanksKilling 3 (2012). He is largely responsible for shaping the films’ unique blend of horror, comedy, and low-budget absurdity.
7. What is the budget of the ThanksKilling movies?
The budget for ThanksKilling (2008) was incredibly low, reportedly around $3,500. While the exact budget for ThanksKilling 3 is not widely publicized, it is safe to assume that it remained a very low-budget production, contributing to its intentionally campy and low-quality aesthetic.
8. Are there any plans for ThanksKilling 4 or a ThanksKilling 2?
As of now, there are no officially confirmed plans for a ThanksKilling 4 or, ironically, ThanksKilling 2. However, given the franchise’s enduring cult following and the filmmakers’ penchant for meta-humor, the possibility of future installments remains open. The absence of ThanksKilling 2 remains part of the franchise’s charm.
9. What makes the ThanksKilling movies so popular?
The ThanksKilling movies are popular because of their unique blend of low-budget horror, over-the-top gore, and self-aware humor. They appeal to viewers who enjoy so-bad-it’s-good cinema and appreciate films that don’t take themselves too seriously. Their cult following appreciates the intentional absurdity and the filmmakers’ willingness to embrace the limitations of their budget.
10. Is ThanksKilling appropriate for children?
Absolutely not. The ThanksKilling movies contain graphic violence, gore, strong language, and mature themes, making them completely inappropriate for children. They are intended for adult audiences who appreciate over-the-top horror and comedic content.
11. What is the critical reception of the ThanksKilling movies?
The ThanksKilling movies have received overwhelmingly negative reviews from mainstream critics. However, these films were never intended to be critically acclaimed masterpieces. Their success lies in their ability to cultivate a dedicated cult following who appreciate their so-bad-it’s-good qualities and their intentionally ridiculous nature.
12. Is there a ThanksKilling video game or other related media?
While there isn’t a dedicated ThanksKilling video game, the franchise’s creators have explored various avenues for extending the ThanksKilling universe. Keep an eye out for potential merchandise, fan-made content, and other creative projects inspired by the films. The enduring appeal of Turkie continues to inspire fans and artists alike.
Conclusion: Embracing the Absurdity
In conclusion, there are definitively two ThanksKilling movies: the original and ThanksKilling 3. The intentional absence of ThanksKilling 2 is a key element of the franchise’s identity, reflecting its self-aware humor and embracing of low-budget absurdity. While these films may not appeal to everyone, they have cultivated a dedicated cult following who appreciate their so-bad-it’s-good qualities and their willingness to push the boundaries of taste and cinematic convention. So, grab some popcorn, prepare for some truly terrible effects, and enjoy the darkly comedic ride that is ThanksKilling. Just remember to leave any expectations of cinematic brilliance at the door!