The term refers to a specific character archetype often featured in horror films, particularly those centered around Halloween. This figure is typically malevolent, taking pleasure in playing cruel jokes and causing harm, often with a supernatural element associated with them. A prevalent example is a demonic clown who appears on a collection of VHS tapes and terrorizes babysitters.
Understanding this figure is crucial in analyzing the narrative structure and thematic elements of certain horror subgenres. The presence of this character often serves as a conduit for exploring themes of chaos, societal anxieties, and the dark side of human nature. Its historical context can be traced back to folklore and mythology surrounding mischievous spirits and deities associated with the harvest season and the transition from light to darkness.
