Media Coursework: Learning Journey

1. Why Clowns so scary & are they
a good antagonist to use?
By Jessica Crawford

2. How has the representation of clowns
changed throughout the years?
19th century – early 20th century
Clowns were perceived as a humorous
entertainment source at the circus for all ages.
(However more specifically for children)
Mid - Late 20th century
Clowns had become outdated and unfashionable;
people laughed AT them rather than WITH them; they
became more of a tradition at the circus rather than an
actual entertainment source.
Late 20st century – 21st century
Clowns began to make an appearance in horror films
decaying, old, creepy toys. And became main
antagonists in films like ‘IT’ in 1990.

3. Why are clowns so scary?
 When clowns were a fashionable source of entertainment, they were seen as extravagant and
outlandish. This image of a traditional clown is easy for one to remember, as they have become
somewhat outdated and part of the past, people can associate them with a decaying memories
and, as referenced in various films, a dusty, creepy, old toy in the attic.
 This fear has also been manipulated by films to purge traditional emotions of fun and nostalgia
into fear of an outdated, extravagant villain. Those that have manipulated people’s perceptions
on clowns are films such as:

4. The Killer Clown Craze
 In the run up to Halloween of 2016 a strange trend swept across America, Europe and Australia.
 This was labelled ‘the Killer Clowns’. It began with reports of people dressed up in clown costumes and
standing at the side of roads and in public places at night in the US. Some clowns even chased people and
threatened them with weapons.
 In the UK a similar trend began to occur. Many sightings were even reported to the police.
 This prompted an announcement from the police who addressed people’s concerns and stated that anyone
found to be intimidating or in possession of a weapon would be treated just as severely whether it was
intended as a joke or not.

5. How is this relevant to the production of
my opening sequence?
Due to the recent interest of young people in Clowns and the
terrifying stigma surrounding them, especially in response to the
recent craze of ‘Killer Clowns’, we thought it would be highly
effective to use a Clown as our main antagonist, as we do not
have to convince the audience of the antagonist’s evil traits as
they already have a perception of clowns and that they are
brutal and intimidating.