The red nose of terror

The vast majority of television commercials are inane at best and horribly, horribly obnoxious at worst. But sometimes, an agency gets it right, like in the currently-airing USPS commercial about the creepy clown gift (see below).

I suspect a casual poll would reveal that most folks you know are secretly terrified by clowns. Remember Poltergeist? When I saw that film in the theater many moons ago, the clown attack spurred dozens of people to literally squeal in terror, an accomplishment I've seen no film achieve since. 

What is it about them that allows these almost-overtly demonic symbols (flame red hard, menacing grin, distorted physical features such as the bulbous nose and the Bigfoot-sized feet) to permeate so much of our cultural landscape? As a horror archetype, I understand. But as circus performers and birthday party regulars? That's just wrong.

The full commercial:

Comments

[Phlemoe]

I love this lil clown. I have been looking for the photo of him at the door. What's the chance you got it some where?? Thanks

[Stephen Thor]

Phlemoe,

Sorry -- no photo. Saw this commercial air not too long ago. It's still terrific.

Stephen