Stitches (2012) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Stitches (2012) is a dark comedy horror film directed by Conor McMahon and starring Ross Noble as a murderous clown who returns from the dead to exact revenge on the children who accidentally caused his death years earlier. Known for its twisted humor and over-the-top gore, Stitches has gained cult status among fans of horror comedies. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, critical reception, and where to watch Stitches online in the U.S.
Plot Summary of Stitches
The film opens with Stitches (Ross Noble), a washed-up and disheveled birthday party clown, who tragically dies during a performance at a children’s party when a prank goes horribly wrong. Six years later, the kids who witnessed Stitches’ death are now teenagers, and they decide to throw a party to celebrate their friend Tommy’s (Tommy Knight) birthday—the same event where Stitches met his demise.
However, Stitches isn’t done yet. He rises from the grave, brought back by a bizarre clown cult ritual, to take revenge on the now-teenaged kids who caused his death. What follows is a blood-soaked rampage, filled with dark humor, brutal deaths, and plenty of clown-themed carnage.
Critical Reception
Stitches received mixed to positive reviews from both critics and horror fans alike. While the film is undeniably campy and doesn’t take itself too seriously, many viewers appreciated its blend of gruesome practical effects, slapstick humor, and the unique portrayal of a killer clown.
Ross Noble’s performance as the undead clown Stitches was widely praised. Known for his career as a stand-up comedian, Noble brought a morbid charm to the role, making Stitches both terrifying and hilarious. The film’s practical effects—used to create creatively gory deaths—were also a major highlight, offering a throwback to old-school horror while keeping the tone light enough for horror-comedy enthusiasts.
Criticism of the film primarily focused on its predictability and reliance on genre tropes. However, for fans of slasher comedies, Stitches delivers exactly what it promises: a gory, irreverent, and wildly entertaining ride. Its absurdity is part of the appeal, and it has since become a favorite among fans of campy horror.
Why Stitches Is Worth Watching
If you enjoy your horror mixed with humor, Stitches stands out as an underrated gem in the killer clown sub-genre. The film doesn’t aim to be a deep or philosophical horror experience; instead, it revels in its outlandish kills, comedic timing, and cheeky dialogue. Ross Noble’s comedic background shines through in his portrayal of Stitches, giving the character a balance of menace and wit.
The creative death scenes are also a big draw for fans of practical effects. From using balloon animals as murder weapons to incorporating typical clown props into the kills, Stitches keeps the audience entertained with inventive gore and laugh-out-loud moments.
While Stitches may not appeal to everyone, it’s a fun, bloody romp that knows exactly what it is and plays to its strengths. Whether you’re looking for a Halloween movie night pick or just enjoy a good horror-comedy, this film is well worth a watch.
Where to Watch Stitches Online
If you’re interested in watching Stitches in the U.S., there are several streaming and on-demand platforms where you can find the film. Here’s a detailed guide on where to watch it:
1. Streaming on Subscription Platforms
There are a few subscription-based services in the U.S. where you can stream Stitches, making it easily accessible for horror fans.
- Shudder: Stitches is available on Shudder, a streaming service dedicated to horror, thriller, and supernatural content. Shudder offers a curated selection of horror films, including cult classics, new releases, and exclusives. You can stream Stitches with a subscription, which is perfect for those looking to explore other horror titles as well.
- AMC+: Since AMC+ bundles Shudder and other networks, you can also stream Stitches via an AMC+ subscription, giving you access to both horror and mainstream films and series.
2. Rent or Purchase on Demand
If you don’t have a subscription to Shudder or AMC+, there are several platforms where you can rent or purchase Stitches for a one-time fee. Renting or purchasing gives you flexibility without needing a subscription, and you can watch it on multiple devices.
- Amazon Prime Video (rental/purchase): You can rent Stitches on Amazon Prime Video for about $3.99 or purchase it for around $9.99. This option lets you stream the film in HD and download it to watch offline on compatible devices like smart TVs, laptops, and smartphones.
- Apple iTunes: Apple iTunes offers Stitches for both rental and purchase. You can rent the film in HD for $3.99 or purchase it for around $9.99. Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV make for seamless streaming with iTunes.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play Movies & TV offers Stitches for rent ($3.99) or purchase ($9.99). It’s a great choice for those using Android devices, Chromebooks, or browsers that support Google Play.
- YouTube Movies: YouTube Movies allows you to rent or purchase Stitches directly from their platform, with rental prices at $3.99 and purchase prices at $9.99. This is an ideal option if you want to stream directly from YouTube on any device.
3. Other Streaming Options
- Vudu: Stitches is also available for rent or purchase on Vudu, with standard prices similar to other services. Vudu is a popular choice for users looking to stream movies without a subscription service.
- Microsoft Store: The Microsoft Store offers Stitches for rent or purchase, making it accessible for Windows PC users or those streaming on Xbox consoles. Prices are consistent with other platforms, making it a convenient choice for gamers or PC users.
Conclusion
Stitches (2012) is a gleefully macabre horror-comedy that manages to deliver a fun mix of scares, laughs, and outrageous gore. With its dark humor and over-the-top kills, it’s a perfect pick for fans of slasher comedies and killer clown movies. Ross Noble’s deadpan performance as the vengeful clown Stitches is the film’s highlight, adding a comedic twist to the otherwise bloody proceedings.
If you’re looking to watch Stitches online in the U.S., there are plenty of options available, from subscription-based services like Shudder and AMC+ to on-demand rental and purchase platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Vudu. Whether you’re a fan of horror comedies or simply in the mood for a campy and gory good time, Stitches is an enjoyable film that knows how to entertain.
