Killer Klowns from Outer Space!
The 80s were sure were fun! Everyone was sipping on New Coke, wearing leg warmers and rocking out to Men Without Hats. Okay, so none of those trends actually caught on and overly bad horror movies were no exception to the rule. However, they, like Killer Klowns from Outer Space, still have a special place in cinematic history.
The film was created by the Chiodo brothers, who mostly are known for their work on this film. Although their resume might be considerably short; Stephen, Charles and Edward Chiodo still was able to perfect their career-stopping masterpiece.
Killer Klowns follows a couple of teens, one actually named Mike Tobacco, in the sleepy town of Crescent Cove, who uncover a circus tent in the middle of the woods. After recognizing a few dead bodies and determining that tent was actually a spaceship in disguise, the two decide to inform the local law enforcement. Deputy Dave believes the story and insists on helping investigate, while Sheriff Mooney, actually played by legendary actor John Vernon, does not. Deputy Dave soon realizes that the clowns, or Klowns, are real and are turning the townfolk into big piles of cotton candy.
This movie screams camp, yet is strangely satisfying. The clowns make no attempt to appear realistic and look like Dollar Tree Halloween costumes. Worse yet is their method of killing, which includes popcorn kernals that birth baby clowns, shadow-puppets and throwing cream pies. Obviously this film is now considered horror-comedy but, like Troll 2, one has to wonder what parts are actually supposed to be comedy and what is just low-budget "lulz".
Although Klowns didn't perform very well in the box-office area, it now has quite the cult following, especially among fans of musical group, Insane Clown Posse, otherwise known as "Juggalo"s. This increased popularity has even prompted those Chiodo brothers to hint at a possible sequel. Whether or not such a rumor is true is up for speculation.
Klowns may be ridiculous but, for what it's worth, not all that bad either. It's a great late-night flick if you happen to catch it on cable but it's hardly groundbreaking. I'd say if you're in the mood for a bad horror film, then there are probably better alternatives. However, if you're really itching for a terrible clown movie with lame gags and an over-the-top story, then Killer Klowns from Outer Space may be your ticket to gold.
Rating
2 / 5 "Kills"
Comments
Now this was a classic right of the bat, good review.
I used to love watching this movie as a kid. I have this in my Netflix queue and will watch this tonight thanks to your article! My favorite scene is with the cotton candy! Always made me hesitant to eat any of that stuff after seeing that movie! Great article.
Haven't seen it and it might scare people who have a clown phobia.
What a great movie! I loved it
i've had better
This movie is scarier than Healthcare Reform!!
oh man.. gotta say.. i love this creepy dumb film! It used to scary me when I was a kid and I never got over the genius of a cotton candy cocoon! I just wrote an article on how to spot a bad film, and this was definitely in there somewhere, hahahaha
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!