The Scream Queen

From Pennywise to Ronald McDonald, it is easy to see why coulrophobia exists; otherwise known as a fear of clowns. Although originally entertaining jesters, the clown has transformed into a far more murderous figure. Their exaggerated facial features, unpredictable behaviour, and ability to fit into tiny cars make them easy targets for horror villains, whether that be in Stephen King’s coming-of-age tale IT or 80s cult classic Killer Klowns from Outer Space. But in 2025, there is a joker in town; Frendo, the maniacal antagonist in Eli Craig’s Clown in a Cornfield.

Based on a 2020 novel of the same name, Clown in a Cornfield asks ‘are you a friend of Frendo?’, as the slasher follows teen Quinn and her father, who have recently moved to Kettle Springs, amidst town animosity amongst the townsfolk over the Baypen Corn Syrup factory burning down. While tension rises between the locals, a killing spree begins, with the town’s mascot behind the bloodshed. For the most part, Clown in a Cornfield plays out as any slasher would; there are a series of suspects, stereotypical teen victims, and a plethora of cerated weapons sharpened for destruction. However, the third act reveals that Clown in a Cornfield has a major trick up its sleeve, as the narrative shifts into an unexpected direction. Although some may see the twist coming through the vast sweeping cornfields, the film at least attempts to subvert the subgenre that has recently seen a revival with films such as Thanksgiving (2023) and Heart Eyes (2025).

Unfortunately, even with this twist, Clown in a Cornfield still fails to play its cards right. The film’s humorous tone often falls flat, particularly when it comes to jokes at the expense of the Gen Z protagonists. Eye-rolling jabs at them not knowing how to drive stick or use a rotary phone are tired and boring, and suggest the writers have never actually met anyone under the age of 25. Speaking of the teenage cannon fodder, their characters are downright annoying, and its hard to empathise with them in any capacity. The film is too spineless to include any real gore – I’m surprised this is rated R in America, as everything about it screams PG-13. Younger audiences who are less familiar with the slasher genre may have fun with this one, but for seasoned horror viewers, its a snoozefest.

Final Verdict:

Clown in a Cornfield tries to juggle humour, horror, and one big twist, but ultimately drops the ball when it comes to striking the perfect balance. This one fails to paint a smile on one’s face, and will make you feel like the real clown for wasting your time sitting through this circus of a slasher.