Clowns Taking Over Pop Culture
Clowns have become a significant part of pop culture recently, with characters like The Joker, The People’s Joker, Art the Clown, and more gaining prominence. Hulu’s latest original film, Mr. Crocket, brings a unique twist to this trend by infusing bright colors and strained smiles reminiscent of ‘90s kids’ TV, with a dark and evil twist.
Overview of Mr. Crocket
Directed by Brandon Espy, Mr. Crocket expands on a short film of the same name produced for Hulu’s Bite Size Halloween anthology series in 2022. The movie follows single mom Summer, played by Jerrika Hinton, as she navigates life with her hyperactive son Major, portrayed by Ayden Gavin. Major’s obsession with a kids’ show hosted by Mr. Crocket, played by Elvis Nolasco, provides both relief and stress to Summer. The feature film delves deeper into the unsettling world of the kids’ show host, adding moralistic motivations and intricate lore.
The Menagerie of Mascots
One of the highlights of Mr. Crocket is the array of mascots surrounding Mr. Crocket, designed by illustrator Alex Pardee. While the daytime versions of these mascots are cheery and colorful, the nightmare versions are where the true horror lies. These creatures, with exposed eyeballs, fangs, and flesh, add to the eerie atmosphere of the film. Despite some derivative elements, the character design and practical effects shine in Mr. Crocket.
The Dark Mission of Mr. Crocket
The title character in Mr. Crocket embarks on a messianic mission of punishing bad parents and taking their children to a TV world where everyone is happy. This dark theme adds grit to the film, showcasing disturbing punishments that fit the crimes of neglectful or abusive parents. The backstory behind Mr. Crocket’s worldview is unveiled through a chilling animated sequence, adding depth to the narrative.
Challenges Faced by Mr. Crocket
However, Mr. Crocket faces challenges in its portrayal of Summer, who is depicted as a decent parent despite her struggles. The film’s attempt to blend childlike imagery with real-world terrors, reminiscent of ‘90s horror anthologies, falls short due to execution flaws. While the effects sequences impress, the overall scripting, performances, and pacing lack consistency.
Despite its shortcomings, Mr. Crocket showcases director Brandon Espy’s creative potential in the horror genre. While the film may not hit all the marks, Espy’s flair for inventive storytelling leaves a promising impression for his future projects. With some refinement in execution, Espy has the potential to deliver impactful horror experiences in the future.