The Next Reel Film Podcast

“Well I’ll be greased and fried! What’s the circus doing up in these parts?”
The Chiodo Brothers and Their Creature Feature Legacy
Before Killer Klowns from Outer Space, the Chiodo Brothers – Charles, Edward, and Stephen – had already made a name for themselves in the special effects world of the 1980s. With credits on films like Critters and sequences in RoboCop, they were well-versed in creating practical effects and creature designs. Killer Klowns from Outer Space represented an opportunity for them to showcase their skills in a feature-length film, with Stephen Chiodo taking on the role of director. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about their 1988 film Killer Klowns from Outer Space.
Clowning Around with Horror Tropes and Twisted Expectations
In our discussion, we marvel at how Killer Klowns from Outer Space gleefully subverts classic clown tropes, turning seemingly innocent gags into sinister and often grotesque moments. From the balloon animal hunting dog to the shadow puppet T-Rex that devours its victims, the film consistently surprises and delights with its inventive use of clown iconography. However, we question whether the horror-comedy balance always lands, with some scenes leaning more heavily into the absurd than the truly frightening.
A Trio of Heroes and the Trope of Incompetent Authority Figures
Throughout our conversation, we explore the dynamics between the film's central trio – Mike, Debbie, and Dave – and how their relationships evolve as they face the alien clown threat. We also examine the trope of young heroes pitted against incompetent authority figures, a common theme in 1950s-era B-movies that Killer Klowns from Outer Space both embraces and satirizes.
Other topics we cover include:
  • The memorable performances of the supporting cast, particularly Royal Dano as Farmer Gene Green and John Vernon as the skeptical police officer
  • The film's vibrant color palette and the effectiveness of the practical effects
  • The Chiodo Brothers' continued work in the industry, including their involvement in Team America: World Police and Marcel the Shell with Shoes On
Why Killer Klowns from Outer Space Endures as a Cult Classic
Despite its status as a one-and-done feature for director Stephen Chiodo, Killer Klowns from Outer Space has endured as a beloved cult classic. Its unique blend of horror and comedy, combined with the Chiodo Brothers' imaginative creature designs, has helped it stand the test of time. While it has some soapy acting and feels of its era, we ultimately find Killer Klowns from Outer Space to be a delightful and entertaining entry in the realm of 1980s horror-comedy. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries

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Creators and Guests

Host
Andy Nelson
With over 25 years of experience in film, television, and commercial production, Andy has cultivated an enduring passion for storytelling in all its forms. His enthusiasm for the craft began in his youth when he and his friends started making their own movies in grade school. After studying film at the University of Colorado Boulder, Andy wrote, directed, and produced several short films while also producing indie features like Netherbeast Incorporated and Ambush at Dark Canyon. Andy has been on the production team for award-winning documentaries such as The Imposter and The Joe Show, as well as TV shows like Investigation Discovery’s Deadly Dentists and Nat Geo’s Inside the Hunt for the Boston Bombers. Over a decade ago, he started podcasting with Pete and immediately embraced the medium. Now, as a partner at TruStory FM, Andy looks forward to more storytelling through their wide variety of shows. Throughout his career, Andy has passed on his knowledge by teaching young minds the crafts of screenwriting, producing, editing, and podcasting. Outside of work, Andy is a family man who enjoys a good martini, a cold beer, a nice cup o’ joe. And always, of course, a great movie.
Host
Pete Wright
#Movies, #ADHD, & #Podcasting • Co-founder @trustory.fm🎥 The Next Reel Family of #Film Podcasts @thenextreel.com🎙️ Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast @takecontroladhd.com📖 Co-author of Unapologetically ADHD • https://unapologeticallyadhdbook.com

What is The Next Reel Film Podcast?

A show about movies and how they connect.
We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too.
When the movie ends, our conversation begins.