A loving father finds a clown suit for his son’s birthday party, only to realize the suit is part of an evil curse that turns its wearer into a killer.
Movie Review: Clown (2014) – A Chilling Descent into Horror
Introduction
“Clown,” directed by Jon Watts, is a 2014 horror film that offers a unique and terrifying twist on the clown trope. Produced by Eli Roth, this film combines psychological horror with body horror, creating an unsettling atmosphere that will leave viewers on edge. In this review, we delve into the spine-chilling elements of “Clown” and provide details on where you can stream it in the United States.
Plot Overview
“Clown” follows the story of Kent McCoy (Andy Powers), a loving father who discovers an old clown costume in his basement just in time for his son’s birthday party. After donning the costume, Kent realizes that he cannot remove it. What begins as a harmless inconvenience soon transforms into a nightmare as the costume takes over his body and mind, revealing itself to be the skin of an ancient, malevolent demon. As Kent’s transformation progresses, he battles the growing urge to harm children, and his wife Meg (Laura Allen) desperately searches for a way to save him from the sinister curse.
Visuals and Cinematography
Jon Watts’ direction brings a stark and disturbing visual style to the film. The cinematography by Matthew Santo effectively captures the transformation of Kent, using a mix of practical effects and makeup to depict his gradual and horrifying change into the demonic clown. The film’s use of shadows and eerie lighting enhances the sense of dread and foreboding, creating a chilling atmosphere that permeates each scene.
Performances
Andy Powers delivers a compelling performance as Kent McCoy, portraying a man torn between his love for his family and the demonic force taking over him. His transformation is both physically and emotionally intense, making his descent into horror believable and affecting. Laura Allen as Meg provides a strong counterpoint, displaying determination and resilience as she fights to save her husband. Peter Stormare also delivers a memorable performance as Karlsson, a man with knowledge of the costume’s dark history.
Themes and Interpretation
“Clown” explores themes of identity, transformation, and the battle between good and evil. The film delves into the psychological horror of losing control over one’s body and mind, as well as the devastating impact of supernatural forces on a family. It also touches on the fear and mistrust associated with clowns, using this common phobia to heighten the horror experience.
Streaming Availability in the U.S.
As of 2024, “Clown” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States. You can watch “Clown” on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
For those who prefer renting or purchasing, the film can be found on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies
- YouTube
- Vudu
Conclusion
“Clown” is a disturbing and effective horror film that offers a fresh take on the classic clown trope. With its strong performances, particularly from Andy Powers, and Jon Watts’ adept direction, the movie provides a gripping and unsettling experience. Whether you’re streaming it for the first time or revisiting its horrifying narrative, “Clown” delivers a chilling journey into the macabre.
