'Clown in a Cornfield' Debuts at SXSW to Positive Reception

Eli Craig's adaptation of Adam Cesare's novel blends slasher tropes with humor, earning praise for its creative kills and social commentary.

The film, directed by Eli Craig, premiered at SXSW and is based on Adam Cesare's 2020 young adult horror novel of the same name.
Set in the small, struggling town of Kettle Springs, the story follows teenager Quinn Maybrook as she encounters the town's murderous mascot, Frendo the Clown.
Critics have highlighted the movie's mix of gruesome kills, humor, and self-aware nods to classic slasher tropes, with some comparing it favorably to 'Terrifier' and 'Fear Street.'
The film explores themes of generational divides and societal tensions, using satire to comment on small-town struggles and cultural rifts.
Scheduled for a theatrical release on May 9, 2025, with a subsequent streaming debut on Shudder, the movie is positioned as a fresh take on the slasher genre for younger audiences.