If you're a fan of the chilling horror film Fear of Clowns (2004), you're likely craving more eerie tales that play on coulrophobia—the fear of clowns. This article explores 10 movies and shows that deliver the same unsettling mix of terror and psychological dread, perfect for those who love a good scare. Whether it's the sinister grin or the unpredictable nature of clown characters, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Funhouse (1981)
Description: A horror film set in a carnival, featuring a masked killer and a creepy atmosphere. The carnival setting and the use of masks contribute to a sense of dread and unpredictability.
Fact: The film was initially criticized for its slow pacing but has since gained a cult following. The funhouse scenes were built on a soundstage to create a claustrophobic effect.


Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)
Description: This film blends horror and comedy with a focus on sinister clowns, creating a unique and unsettling atmosphere. The visual style and exaggerated clown designs amplify the fear factor.
Fact: The film was inspired by a nightmare about evil clowns attacking a small town. The iconic clown costumes were handmade by the Chiodo brothers.


House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
Description: A brutal and chaotic horror film with a carnival-like aesthetic and grotesque characters. The film's over-the-top violence and surreal visuals create a nightmarish experience.
Fact: The movie was shelved by Universal Studios due to its extreme content before being picked up by Lionsgate. The title was inspired by a real-life haunted house attraction.


The Devil's Rejects (2005)
Description: A gritty and violent horror film that follows a family of killers on the run. The film's raw and unflinching portrayal of brutality makes it deeply disturbing.
Fact: The movie was shot on 16mm film to give it a gritty, 1970s exploitation film look. The soundtrack features classic rock songs to contrast with the on-screen violence.


The Last Circus (2010)
Description: A surreal and violent film that blends horror, dark comedy, and circus aesthetics. The film's grotesque imagery and chaotic narrative create a disturbing and unforgettable experience.
Fact: The movie was inspired by the Spanish Civil War and uses the circus as a metaphor for the chaos of war. The lead actor performed many of his own stunts, including the brutal fight scenes.


Clown (2014)
Description: A dark horror film that explores the transformation of a man into a monstrous clown, emphasizing body horror and psychological terror. The film's grim tone and grotesque visuals make it deeply unsettling.
Fact: The movie was originally conceived as a fake trailer for a non-existent film. Eli Roth saw the trailer and helped turn it into a full-length feature.


The Houses October Built (2014)
Description: A found-footage horror film that explores the dark side of haunted house attractions. The film's documentary-style approach and real-life haunt actors add to its creepy realism.
Fact: The filmmakers visited real haunted house attractions across the U.S. to research the film. Some scenes were shot covertly in actual haunts without the actors knowing.


Circus of the Dead (2014)
Description: A horror film set in a traveling circus, featuring a sadistic clown as the main antagonist. The film's gritty tone and brutal violence make it a harrowing watch.
Fact: The movie was shot in just 10 days on a very low budget. The clown's makeup was designed to look like a traditional circus clown but with a sinister twist.


Hell House LLC (2015)
Description: A found-footage horror film set in a haunted house attraction, with a focus on eerie and unexplained phenomena. The film's realistic approach and slow-building tension make it particularly unsettling.
Fact: The movie was shot in a real abandoned hotel, which added to the authenticity of the scares. Many of the scares were improvised by the actors to create genuine reactions.


Stitches (2012)
Description: A horror-comedy that revolves around a vengeful clown returning from the dead. The film combines gore with dark humor, creating a macabre yet entertaining experience.
Fact: The clown's makeup was designed to look like a decaying corpse, adding to the film's grotesque aesthetic. The movie features several surreal and over-the-top death scenes.
