When teenagers Mike and Debbie see a comet crash outside their sleepy small town, they investigate and discover a pack of murderous aliens who look very much like circus clowns. They try to warn the local authorities, but everyone assumes their story is a prank. It's not until they kidnap Debbie that Mike decides it's up to him to stop the clowns' bloody rampage. One of the last things I ever expected was to be blown away by a movie based around clowns (or, in this case Klowns) from space causing mayhem and yet, I was. Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a truly bizarre film that, whilst has an evident low budget, being listed under the B movie persona, it manages to rise above, delivering a strangely fantastic product. It is a cult classic that has since risen in popularity almost surpassing such a title. With plenty of merchandise and now a video game, this movie continues to have an impact on people to this day. I'm sure plenty of people read the title and scoffed at the absurdity. Well, I should know, I too thought this movie would be pure stupid and, whilst it is somewhat, it is also surprisingly brilliant. Throughout the film, I was captivated by the level of creativity on display. It is obvious the people behind this flick went above and beyond, finding a way around their budget limitations to deliver a spectacular-looking movie. Simply looking at the Klowns themselves, the level of detail and practicality of the costumes is truly admirable. It would have been so easy to paint people's faces and leave it at that but they went out of their way to make those phenomenal outfits and it pays off beacuase their look is one of the greatest highlights of this film. We open with a scene that presumably pays homage to classic 50s sci-fi horrors with a comet shooting overhead with young adults taking notice, like in The Blob (1958), which, of course turns out to be an alien craft. The couple who investigate are Mike and his girlfriend Debbie, who are drawn into this dangerous adventure when they enter a mysterious circus Big Top, which is right where the 'comet' should've landed. It turns out this is not a regular circus but the craft of beings who may look like Earth clowns but actually have a sinister purpose. Upon discovering the truth about these creatures with razor sharp teeth and their harvesting of people in pink cotton candy cocoons they head for town whilst the Klowns follow in hot pursuit. Whilst the pair attempt to convince the disbelieving Sheriff Mooney, who thinks its all a prank, the Klowns begin abducting and terrorising the town in a series of hijinks. Whilst it does have its horror aspects and moments, I personally found more of the comedy elements shining through, especially with the Klowns. They're unironically and unintentially hilarious as they cause mischief and, well, kill people. From driving invisible cars, running other cars off the road to starting fights with a bike gang or trying out products in a store and not to mention their many wacky gadgets. My favourite, probably had to be the use of a balloon they turn into a dog that leads them to their targets. I mean thats just unbelievably creative. Luckily, the couple were able to sway Dave Hanson, a police officer (and ex-boyfriend to Debbie), who at first thought it too was a prank until he saw one in action, realising what a threat they are. Despite their clear jealousy over Debbie, Mike and Dave work together as a formidable duo against the onslaught of Klowns, and the trio attempt to save what's left of their town. Overall, I am such a big fan of Killer Klowns. As previously stated, I never thought I would enjoy such a flick as much as I did, but it certainly earned it. The atmosphere is undeniably creepy but equally allowed for that hint of comedic implements which worked wonders. Perfectly marrying the two genres whilst allowing for a lick of sci-fi too for that additional kick. I was most impressed by the level of effort and detail, going out of their way to explain the world, even the clown situation, which is just proof of the additional care put in. I would heartedly recommend this cult classic to any fans of these genres as it will not disappoint to entertain, it further makes for some ideal Halloween season viewing.
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