Apocalypse Clown Isn't Anything You Think It Is

When you hear the title 'Apocalypse Clown,' you might be forgiven for thinking it's a movie that brings all your worst nightmares to life on the big screen. You're not alone, but it turns out 'Apocalypse Clown' isn't anything you think it is. Oh no, this is a film that - wait for it - has done something entirely different.

Sure, many of us love them, but the apocalypse genre is getting pretty oversaturated by now. That's where 'Apocalypse Clown' has switched things up and given a new take on it all. After all, it's a comedy to start - and that's just the beginning of the changes we can enjoy throughout it all.

Apocalypse Clown gallows the lives of three clowns down on their luck

It might not be about the end of the world, but the world may as well be ending for Bobo (played by David Earl), who has decided he has no choice but to give up his clown nose as they've become "obsolete." However, that doesn't stop Bobo from heading to a funeral for the last great clown. Jean DuCoque, where he bumps into failed mime Pepe (played by Fionn Foley), the terrifying street clown Funzo (played by Natalie Palamides), his former one-time lover Jenny (played by Amy De Bhrún), and his arch nemesis The Great Alphonso (played by Ivan Kaye). The problem? The clowns end up in a brawl with two human statues, and it's not long before they're sent straight to jail - right as a solar flare hits.

The trio must take back the spotlight while battling the human statuesThe trio must take back the spotlight while battling the human statues
Source: Vertigo Releasing

The trio must take back the spotlight while battling the human statues

The following morning, Bobo, Funzo, and Pepe decide it's time they take back the spotlight after being shunned for so long, thinking they are what humans need. However, things aren't easy for the trio, as they immediately realize they have to fight off the vengeful human statues if they want to be the only entertainers in the business. While Funzo might be giving off more Pennywise vibes at times, Natalie's comedic timing means she's always turning small moments into comedy gold. David also does a brilliant job at bringing a depressed clown to life, while Fionn's timing as Pepe is unlike anyone else in ‘Apocalypse Clown.’

Apocalypse Clown is almost like a condensed TV show in movie form

Arguably, 'Apocalypse Clown' does feel a little more like a TV show than a full movie, as the entire thing is largely made up of a series of extended sketches. After all, the group spends their time battling the lone survivor of a boy band, a fast food chef, and a strange forest along the way, but that doesn't mean it lacks cohesivity. What 'Apocalypse Clown' lacks in a deep storyline, it more than makes up for with its comedy and perfectly cast leading cast. Plus, it has to be mentioned that while it is filled with energy and gags, this is a film that knows how to do things smartly and doesn't feel like one silly joke after another.

One small split takes away from the overall comedy of the movieOne small split takes away from the overall comedy of the movie
Source: Vertigo Releasing

One small split takes away from the overall comedy of the movie

One of the only things that let 'Apocalypse Clown' down is the brief split between the group. It's meant to add a little bit of drama to the story, but seeing the group together is far more entertaining than them all trying to make it through the story alone. Thankfully, it doesn't take long for them to be reunited for a perfectly bizarre ending that involves a dangerous gunge tank and slow-motion walrus battle - sure, we can pretend that makes sense when you have seen the rest of the movie.

There's a chance you've never seen anything like 'Apocalypse Clown' before - and you probably never will again. It's bizarre, fun, and all the energy you could need as we head into fall. The best bit? Hitting the big screen on September 1, 2023, means we don't have to wait long to take in what could arguably be the strangest fever dream of the year.

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