BY EMERSON LAYNE

Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a sci-fi comedy released back in May 27th 1988, directed and created by the Chiodo Brothers and distributed by Trans World Entertainment. At the box office, the movie was a complete failure. The movie’s budget was $2 million and made $745 in the box office. Notable with the movie’s failure, it was virtually unknown at the time of release. In the present day, Killer Klowns from Outer Space has a thriving fanbase who adore the movie. Killer Klowns from Outer Space merchandise continuously pops up in stores like Spirit Halloween with masks, props, toys, clothes, pins and even animatronics. Killer Klowns from Outer Space has a video game too, released back in July of this year. For a relatively small franchise, it has racked up quite an audience. 

The general story of the Killer Klowns from Outer Space movie revolves around the main characters, Mike, Debbie, and Dave with the comedic reliefs, the Terenzi brothers. After witnessing a comet crash in the town of Crescent Cove, Mike and Debbie investigate the crash site, finding an abnormal circus tent in the middle of the woods filled with terrifying clowns and other-worldly technology. Soon after, the town of Crescent Cove falls into comical madness as killer klowns attack and capture the townsfolk. From cotton candy ray guns, popcorn bazookas, and acid pies, the klowns dispatch the people of Crescent Cove. The audience follows Mike, Debbie, Dave, and the Terenzi brothers as they survive and fight off the killer klowns. 

A decent story filled with dark comedy and horror, has its fans captivated. One of the main things people love about the movie is its practical effects. From the props to the clowns themselves, where made by hand for the movie. For being released in the late 80’s, the movie’s practical effects were very impressive for its time. The movie’s digital effects were decent too, though a bit choppy at times. The Chiodo brothers put love and passion into Killer Klowns from Outer Space, with a killer theme song by the band, The Dickies. The Chiodo brothers plan on having a sequel and a tv series, though it’s highly doubtful. It’s a shame that the Chiodo brothers saw their success for their movie decades after its release. But the fans are grateful for what they have and are patiently waiting for more killer klowns. For being a B grade horror movie, it’s a fine horror movie classic. 

9.7/10.