(KTLA) – Have you ever come across “Halween”? This unofficial holiday, often referred to as the midway point until Halloween, generally falls between late April and early May. Currently is an ideal moment for thrilling movie experiences—Eli Craig’s film “Clown in a Cornfield,” set to be released in theaters this Friday, promises just the right amount of frights to kick off the spook season nicely.
Based on Adam Cesare’s book of the same title, this movie tracks the journey of Quinn (portrayed by Katie Douglas from “Netflix’s Ginny & Georgia”) after she moves with her dad from Philadelphia to Kettle Springs, Missouri—a small town facing decline since losing its primary source of employment. The townsfolk often point fingers at a clique of teenagers who engage in online pranks; however, Quinn ends up becoming friends with them over time.
Although Quinn and her dad (Aaron Abrams) wish for a fresh start in Kettle Springs following her mother’s passing, the town is fraught with despair and quickly descends into danger.
However, “Clown in a Cornfield” offers more than just a killer clown narrative. According to director Eli Craig (“Tucker & Dale vs. Evil”), the movie also serves as a reflection of the contentious sociopolitical environment we see today, acting somewhat like a miniature version of current societal tensions.
“[Cesare’s novel] holds a mirror up to the American dream — exposing the warped facade of capitalism gone wrong and the rage that comes from being on the losing end of it,” said Craig, of his initial thoughts on his film’s source material. “Frendo the Clown, in happier times, was a beloved company mascot but now he has morphed into a symbol embodying all the embitterment, spite and aggrievement — emotions that conflate violence with justice — of those left behind.”
Craig and his collaborator Carter Blanchard crafted a screenplay that expands upon the turmoil introduced in Cesare’s 2020 book, blending it with a witty “Scream”-esque vibe that lightens some of the movie’s intense and graphic scenes. According to Craig, slashers from the ’70s and ’80s served as significant influences for their project, infusing it with the lightheartedness characteristic of movies during those decades.
This formula is a winner that simultaneously helps compensate for some of “Clown”’s weaker elements.
Although the movie boasts an excellent atmosphere and talented teenage actors, it gives off a rather wandering vibe throughout most of its runtime until it reaches its thrilling (and intense) finale. The initial portion of the film seems disjointed and slightly undercooked—factors that could likely be attributed to financial limitations; thus, we feel inclined to cut it some slack. Nonetheless, the narrative would have benefited from additional development in Kettle Springs prior to everything spiraling out of control, potentially resulting in a stronger overall impact.
A trend we’ve noticed with new horror movies lately is an unwillingness to allow tension to
sit
A recent case in point is Leigh Whannell’s “Wolf Man,” which had numerous advantages yet fails to build up any significant suspense as it unfolds within the span of just one day.
first
On the day the family ventures into a creepy woodland, “Clown” mirrors “The Wolfman,” as both narratives unfold during the initial days of Quinn’s life in Kettle Springs. Similar to its predecessor, this movie also falters due to overlooking those crucial opening scenes that could have built up suspense effectively.
However, don’t be misled, we really
really
I enjoyed “Clown in a Cornfield.” Although it may not be flawless, it exudes an affectionate quality crafted by individuals with a deep understanding and passion for the horror genre. It’s hard not to find value in this film. Additionally, its 90-minute run time adds to its appeal as “Clown in a Cornfield” skillfully exits stage before losing its charm.
Overall, approach this film not for “refined horror” or expecting deep emotional release. View it if you’re a fan of horror and wish to see teenagers battling against a murderous clown. “Clown in a Cornfield” aims primarily for entertainment, which it successfully achieves.
Should the film leave you wanting more of the clown and the cornfield, you’re in luck. Cesare has penned two direct sequels so far—and he recently mentioned his intention to create a fourth installment in the “Clown in a Cornfield” series.
“Clown in a Cornfield” hits theaters across the country on May 9.
Score: ★★★☆☆
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