In Horror, the title of a film could take it a long way in terms of piquing an audience’s interest. Capitalized on this clever marketing technique flawlessly in the ‘80s, can anyone honestly say titles like 1980’s Motel Hell, 1982’s The Slumber Party Massacre, 1986’s Chopping Mall, or 1987’s Blood Diner did not catch their eye and make them think, “What in God’s name is that all about? I need to see it!” The truth is if you enjoy a sense of humor in your Horror, these names absolutely made you snicker, and more than likely so did Killer Klowns from Outer Space when it arrived in 1988.
The mother of all film titles, without even knowing what it is about, it brilliantly captures your imagination in the most extraordinary way. After all, you have clowns, who in this case have a lust for murder, and in this film’s universe, they are from outer space! Now, sometimes with high expectations comes extreme disappointment; because many times ‘80s Horror flicks’ quality began and ended with a really fantastic poster art. Fortunately this was not the case with Killer Klowns from Outer Space which delivered not only a fun film with a good story and dark sense of humor, but quite clever creation of the clowns themselves.
Initially released on May 27, 1988, Killer Klowns from Outer Space was the work of The Chiodo Brothers (Stephen, Charles & Edward Chiodo), who prior to this feature were known for their special effects work. In fact, The Chiodo Brothers were responsible for designing the furry little carnivorous space creatures in 1986’s Critters. Giving you some understanding of their creative outlook toward Horror mixed with Science Fiction, with Killer Klowns from Outer Space they crafted a film that had a staying power far longer than anyone could have ever expected. What is considered a cult classic at this point, the film has entertained its original viewers time and time again through the decades, yet still, manages to find new audiences along the way as well.
Truly fascinating to see how Killer Klowns from Outer Space is still relevant, beyond everything already mentioned, the film also featured a cast of recognizable faces such as Grant Cramer (known for films such as 1980’s New Year’s Evil and 1984’s Hard Bodies) as the good intentioned Michael Tobacco, Suzanne Snyder (who appeared in 1985’s Weird Science, along with 1988’s Return of the Living Dead Part II) as the sweet Debbie Stone, John Allen Nelson (who went on to find success with the hit series Baywatch) as young, strong police officer David Hansen, plus veteran Actor John Vernon (remembered for roles in 1971’s Dirty Harry, as well as 1978’s Animal House) as the hard-ass police officer Curtis Mooney. A good mix of talent, they come together in a world where a strange spaceship (taking on the appearance of a brightly lit circus tent) has landed just outside town, unleashing a group of nightmarish alien clowns in the process. Easy enough to follow, these clowns are no ordinary pranksters though… and they have some pretty devious little devices (such as a popcorn gun) to assist their kills.
Something that matches up with some of the ‘80s best Horror Comedies hybrids, now as Killer Klowns from Outer Space prepares to celebrate its 35th anniversary, it is set to arrive in 4K UHD on May 14, 2024 through Scream Factory. More than likely many fans already own the 2001 “Midnite Movies” DVD, the 2012 Blu-ray edition, or even the 2018 Arrow Video Special Edition Blu-ray, however, this new release marks the first time ever you will get to experience the film in 4K. Quite exciting, Scream Factory are offering it as a standard 2-disc set featuring a cardboard slipcover, but also as a limited edition steelbook. Two very solid options, for each, on disc one you get the new 4K scan, while on disc two you get the same, but a list of bonus material, such as featurettes as The Making of Killer Klowns, among others. Keep in mind that some of these features are holdovers from prior home video editions, such as the older DVD, but it is still very cool to have each of them all in one neat package.
Beyond all of this, the most attractive aspect of this new set is indeed the fact that you get Killer Klowns from Outer Space in 4K… and it is well worth it. In comparison to prior editions on home video, there is certainly an upgrade in the color, light, and overall image clarity. Something that should please the film’s dedicated fanbase, let us not forget that for years there has been talks of follow up Killer Klowns films. Unfortunately nothing has yet to materialize, and with the changing hands of the film’s rights, plus all the corporate media conglomerate nonsense that goes along with it, who knows when it will happen. Still holding out hope that a sequel will eventually become a reality, until then, at least fans can celebrate the 35th birthday of the original film with this fantastic 4K release. Additionally, for some extra fun, you can find the brand new Killer Klowns from Outer Space The Game on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on June 4, 2024. Lots to look forward to, in terms of the film itself, the 4K release is an imperative addition to your collection, and Cryptic Rock gives these editions of Killer Klowns from Outer Space 5 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment