DVD Corner

Killer Klowns From Outer Space 4K UHD Steelbook Review

“Killer Klowns From Outer Space” is campy horror fun.  

Directed by Stephen Chiodo, 1988’s “Killer Klowns From Outer Space” is an alien invasion horror story in which a circus tent shaped ship of alien Klowns arrives on Earth (more specifically the town of Crescent Cove). Soon the citizens (including a cop named Dave, his ex-girlfriend Debbie, Debbie’s new boyfriend Mike, and the ice cream salesmen Terenzi brothers) find themselves terrorized by the Klowns who are encasing citizens in cotton candy cocoons for food. Can the Klowns be stopped?

‘Klowns’ has long been a cult horror favorite since its release, but miraculously the movie continues to become more and more popular over the years. It’s even become a staple at Spirit Halloween stores as of late. It’s not hard to see why as the Charles and Stephen Chiodo penned horror flick is an entertaining and  cheesy slice of 80’s horror that never takes itself seriously. It’s simultaneously an homage to the alien invasion films of yesteryear and an 80’s slasher all rolled into one. Sure, the acting is suspect outside of veteran character actor John Vernon (who always plays a great jerk), but you’re not watching this for the acting. You’re watching this for a spooky fun good time and it delivers in that department. 

What’s really striking about ‘Klowns’ are the visuals. The matte paintings, the now iconic costumes, the wild and colorful sets, the nifty props (ala the cotton candy cocoons and the various guns), the creative special effects (killer shadow puppet!), and, yes, even several vehicles all give the film a unique visual experience. There’s a real sense of love and care that went into every scene here. It’s a practical effects fan’s dream come true.

“Killer Klowns From Outer Space” knows exactly what it is. It’s all in the title after all. It’s the type of 80’s horror that continues to endure and find new audiences along the way. Now, when are we getting a long overdue sequel?

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? This new 4K scan of the original camera negative is an impressive new transfer from Scream Factory. This is the best the very colorful film has looked on home video to be sure.

Audio Track: 5.1 and 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The 5.1 track isn’t the type of track you would test audio equipment with, but it’s satisfactory nonetheless. 

Extras (On The Blu-ray Unless Noted):
* Blu-ray copy
* Commentary by the Chiodo Brothers on the 4K and Blu-ray
* 2 deleted scenes with optional commentary
* “Killer Klowns From Outer Space” trailer
* Nearly 3 minutes of bloopers.
* “Chiodo Brothers’ Earlies Films”- A 7 minute collection of silent short films with Chiodo commentary.
* “The Making Of Killer Klowns” featurette.
* “Komposing Klowns”- An interview with film composer John Massari.
* “Visual Effects With Gene Warren Jr.” – An interview with Gene Warren and Charles Chiodo.
* “Kreating Klowns”- An interview with Charles Chiodo who discusses various aspects of the production.

May 14, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | 80's Horror, Chiodo Brothers, Clowns, Killer Klowns From Outer Space, Killer Klowns From Outer Space 4K UHD Steelbook Review, Scream Factory