Clowns, with their painted smiles and whimsical antics, can be both enchanting and terrifying. This curated list of thriller films featuring clowns delves into the darker side of this iconic figure, offering a blend of suspense, horror, and psychological twists. Whether you're a fan of horror or just looking for a thrilling experience, these films provide a unique perspective on the unsettling potential of clowns.

Clownhouse (1989)
Description: Three brothers are left alone at home when escaped mental patients dressed as clowns invade their house. This film's raw, unsettling atmosphere makes it a classic in the clown horror subgenre.
Fact: It was the directorial debut of Victor Salva, who later directed 'Powder'.


House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
Description: While not exclusively about clowns, this film features Captain Spaulding, a clown who runs a roadside attraction, leading to a night of terror for unsuspecting travelers. Its inclusion highlights the versatility of clowns in horror narratives.
Fact: This was Rob Zombie's directorial debut, and it was initially banned in the UK for its graphic content.


Amusement (2008)
Description: This anthology horror film features a segment where a clown terrorizes a babysitter. Its anthology format provides a variety of scares, with the clown segment being particularly memorable.
Fact: The film was directed by John Simpson, known for his work on 'The Simpsons'.


It (2017)
Description: This modern adaptation of Stephen King's classic novel features Pennywise, a shape-shifting clown that preys on children. Its inclusion in this list is due to its masterful blend of horror and psychological terror, making it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The film was so successful that it spawned a sequel, 'It Chapter Two', released in


Clown (2014)
Description: A father dons a cursed clown costume for his son's birthday party, only to find he can't take it off. This film explores the horror of being trapped in a clown persona, making it a fitting addition to this collection.
Fact: The film was directed by Jon Watts, who later directed 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'. It was initially conceived as a fake trailer for the film 'Grindhouse'.


Stitches (2012)
Description: A clown named Stitches returns from the grave to seek revenge on the children who caused his death. Its dark humor and grotesque imagery make it a compelling watch for fans of clown-themed horror.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Ross Noble, a well-known British comedian.


The Clown at Midnight (1999)
Description: A high school student discovers that a killer clown is haunting her school, linked to a tragic event from the past. This film offers a classic slasher vibe with a clown twist.
Fact: The film was shot in Canada, and the school used in the movie was an actual high school.


Frayed (2007)
Description: A group of friends find themselves terrorized by a clown doll that comes to life. Its inclusion showcases the terror that can arise from inanimate objects turned malevolent.
Fact: The film was released straight-to-DVD, but it has gained a cult following among horror fans.


The Last Circus (2010)
Description: Set during the Spanish Civil War, this film features a tragic clown whose life spirals into madness. Its surreal and dark narrative provides a unique twist on the clown horror theme.
Fact: The film won several Goya Awards, including Best Makeup and Hairstyles, highlighting its visual impact.


Killjoy (2000)
Description: A jilted lover conjures a demonic clown to exact revenge, leading to a series of gruesome murders. This low-budget film has become a cult classic for its unique take on the clown horror trope.
Fact: 'Killjoy' spawned several sequels, making it a franchise in the horror genre.
