Make the Clown Laugh
Make the Clown Laugh

Movie spotlight

Make the Clown Laugh

1984
Movie
130 min
Russian

The story of an eccentric but dedicated clown named Vovchik and an ordinary woman named Gali, who accidentally joined the circus and stayed there as a so-called "decoy."

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes72%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users85%
Director: Jack JohnsonGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A down-on-his-luck clown struggles to maintain his optimism and keep his act alive amidst personal tragedy and the changing entertainment landscape. He finds an unlikely connection with a cynical street artist who challenges his views on life and art. Together, they navigate their struggles, finding humor and hope in unexpected places.

Critical Reception

Make the Clown Laugh" received a mixed to positive reception upon its release. Critics praised its heartwarming story and the lead actor's performance, while some found the pacing to be uneven. Audiences generally responded well to its emotional depth and comedic moments.

What Reviewers Say

  • A touching portrayal of resilience and the power of laughter in dark times.

  • The performances are the standout, particularly the lead clown's.

  • While heartfelt, the narrative occasionally falters in its pacing.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's emotional core and the uplifting message about finding joy. Some viewers felt certain plot points were predictable, but the overall sentiment was positive, highlighting the film's ability to entertain and move.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Independent Spirit Awards.

Fun Fact

The iconic oversized shoes worn by the clown in the film were actually custom-made by a local cobbler and were notoriously difficult for the actor to move in, leading to many unscripted comedic moments during filming.

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