Jon Watts Discusses ‘Clown’ 4K Blu-ray, ‘Spider-Man,’ and ‘Star Wars’
Jon Watts, known for his work on the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Spider-Man” films, began his career with a darker tone as the director of the indie horror film “Clown.” Watts, alongside his writing partner Christopher Ford, originally created “Clown” as a viral fake trailer on YouTube in 2010. The initial premise features a father who becomes trapped in a possessed clown costume while trying to entertain his child.
From Fake Trailer to Full-Length Film
The buzz surrounding the trailer caught the attention of horror producer Eli Roth, who invited Watts and Ford to pitch their idea. This opportunity led to the development of the full film, which introduces the Clöyne, an ancient Nordic demon linked to the clown suit. Roth not only produced the film but also starred in it, making the project even more intriguing.
Success and Challenges
- Overseas Performance: “Clown” earned $4.3 million internationally.
- Limited U.S. Release: The film was only released in the U.S. in 2016, grossing a mere $55,000.
Watts’ next film, “Cop Car,” premiered at Sundance in 2015, which eventually led to him directing the popular “Spider-Man” films featuring Tom Holland. His ability to balance genres was tested as he transitioned from dark horror to vibrant superhero narratives.
New Beginnings with a Rerelease
“Clown” is making a comeback, as the German distributor Turbine Medien plans to release a remastered 4K Blu-ray edition on November 13, 2023. Watts expressed his surprise and excitement over this development, calling it a pleasant acknowledgment of his early work in the film industry.
The Process Behind the Original Film
Watts described the making of “Clown” as an accidental journey fueled by creativity and a desire to prank audiences. Using a big name like Eli Roth helped validate the project, allowing it to evolve from a humorous idea into a full-fledged horror film.
Reflections on Career Growth
Looking back, Watts shared that even though “Clown” was intended as a horror film, it has elements of psychological thriller. His first feature taught him crucial storytelling techniques that he continues to apply to his projects, including his recent Disney+ series “Skeleton Crew.”
The Future of Horror and Sequels
Watts and Ford have plans for a sequel to “Clown,” envisioning a potential long-term franchise reminiscent of other cult horror series. This idea reflects their continued interest in the character and its evolving storyline.
Working in Franchises
The director expressed his desire to explore new stories within both the horror and superhero genres, showing his versatility as a filmmaker. He remains open to fresh and original ideas as a guiding principle in his career.
As horror themes become entwined with popular culture, Watts’ experiences illustrate the potential for growth and innovation in the genre. He hopes to revisit the clown motif, exploring the balance between good and evil in storytelling.
