by Joel Harley
When a solar flare plunges Ireland into a complete technological blackout, a troupe of washed-up clowns come together for an ambitious cross-country road trip led by depressive Bobo (David Earl). Accompanied by journalist Jenny (Amy De Bhrún), the clowns take their last shot at success and redemption while the country crumbles into looting, riots, and lawlessness around them.
Directed by George Kane, this post (or mid) apocalyptic comedy is a unique take on the road trip movie. Its loose, shaggy story follows the four clowns (plus a journalist) as they encounter the perils of a society in collapse. The low budget negates any explosions or big action sequences but is instead content with a hippy commune (led by Pollyanna McIntosh) and scenes in which the gang stand around arguing in a field.
Standout star Natalie Palamides gives the film much of its energy as scary clown Funzo, while Ivan Kaye makes for a particularly bombastic villain, playing the Great Alphonso. Between them all, there’s enough variety to all the clowning around that no one wears out their welcome, grating as some of the personalities can be.
This isn’t for want of trying, though, with many of the (already hit and miss) jokes dragging on long past the point of funny. At 102 minutes, the film’s one joke wears thin, even as the stakes are raised, and the humour gives in to shock tactics and a surprising level of violence.
Apocalypse Clown may struggle to keep up the momentum, but it’s a charming oddity, brimming with warmth and inventiveness.
Apocalypse Clown is in UK cinemas from September 1st.
