In American Clown, directors Guilford Adams and Casey Pinkston follow Adams, a veteran performer who spent years as one of the last “assistants” to Ronald McDonald at store openings. Adams hits the road, chatting about how he and fellow clowns, once beloved, have become objects of fear and ridicule in American culture. He points to the shuttering of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, the disappearance of Ronald McDonald from public life, and media portrayals of sinister clowns as signs that the art form he dedicated his life to is fading.
His journey introduces audiences to clowns across generations, from longtime professionals still trying to work in smaller venues to younger performers struggling to find a place outside the mainstream. Adams sits down with notable figures such as David Arquette, Bill Irwin, John C. Reilly, Steve-O, and David Howard Thornton, each offering their own perspective on the role of clowning in entertainment and how it has been instrumental in their success in Hollywood. The film also highlights working clowns, including Angelique Adams, Richie the Barber, Kynisha Ducre (“Daisy the Clown”), Avner Eisenberg (“Avner the Eccentric”), Mike Geier, and many others, sharing personal stories of performance, resilience, and the emotional cost of this misunderstood craft. Together, they paint a vivid picture of an art form that thrives on humor, vulnerability, and what Adams describes as a “celebration of failure.”
The documentary also explores the history and origins of clowning, tracing its evolution from ancient comedic traditions to its peak in circuses, television, and popular culture. With insights from performers such as Joey D’Auria, Chad Damiani, J.J. Harrison, Adam Kuchler, Matt Walker, and Carlos Ragas Sethward, American Clown walks us through both the discipline and improvisation behind the painted smile. Through interviews, archival footage, and candid conversations, the film presents a heartfelt and sometimes bittersweet chronicle of how clowns fight to remain relevant in a culture that increasingly sees them with suspicion rather than joy.
Legendary performer Bill Irwin shares his perspective on clowning in American Clown.
“Adams hits the road, chatting about how he and fellow clowns…have become objects of fear and ridicule in American culture.”
I think American Clown exists because of the negative reputation clowns have in the world today. When speaking to David Howard Thornton, a.k.a. Art the Clown, he shares the messages he gets from other clowns for his portrayal of Art in the Terrifier series. In the end, I believe clown and filmmaker Guilford Adams has restored the good name of clowns. I would dare say there was never a dull moment in American Clown. I’m glued to my screen, watching some of my favorite actors discuss their history of clowning, particularly Bill Irwin and John C. Reilly.
One subject spoke of clowning as a celebration of failure. To me, that’s the prime message of the movie. We’re all on this long road of life, facing trials and tribulations. Along the way, there is a clown whose shoes are literally big enough for you to walk in, and, when you do, the only response is to laugh.
American Clown demonstrates that, despite shifting perceptions, clowning remains one of the oldest art forms, built on resilience, humor, and vulnerability. By embracing failure and turning it into laughter, directors Guilford Adams and Casey Pinkston restore dignity to clowns, reminding us of their timeless place in our culture.
For more information, visit the American Clown documentary official website.
"…clowning remains one of the oldest art forms, built on resilience, humor, and vulnerability."
