The Stories

What makes any good documentary compelling are the stories.

If you enjoy fall and the season of Halloween then I believe you will enjoy the stories that are presented. The purpose of this film is to get people revved up during the season and to get in the mood for fall fun. The film is broken down into three stories.

First is a story about extreme decorating which is referred to as a home haunt. Home haunters usually do a lot of custom building and decorations and themes are pretty common. Dr. Chris Merli builds a free home haunt every year and has been doing so since 2003. While many charge for admittance, Chris has more of a display and therefore offers it to the public for free. He talks about what it takes to build, how he creates props, including animated props, and the reactions he gets from visitors and neighbors.

Story two is about a pumpkin patch located in the middle of an Amish community. It is named The Great Pumpkin Patch and is located on a 70 acre, working farm. Owner Mac Condill talks about the different varieties of pumpkins, gourds, and squash (300 varieties) as well as the diverse chrysanthemums and animals that can be found throughout the property. Visitors are encouraged to walk through the various displays and historic structures that have been repurposed and saved from destruction. There is a subdued haunted house, gift shop, Amish bakery, and several varieties of mazes. And of course visitors can take a wagon out into a patch and hand pick their own pumpkin.

The third story is where it gets a little spooky. Halloween is about the frights and what better way to get into a scary mood than to listen to a great ghost tale. Illinois author Troy Taylor, who has appeared in television and film, weaves several tales about the most haunted city in Illinois, Alton. Alton is a very historic town that lies north of St. Louis, and although the townsfolk are friendly and hard working, it has had a tragic past that has given it a reputation for other-worldly spirits. Taylor discusses some of the many legends of the undead in Alton and gives historical accounts of hauntings from the civil war era. Alton was the sight of a confederate penitentiary and is now home to a confederate cemetery and a national cemetery containing Union soldiers.

Each chapter is followed by a cinematic sequence that takes the viewer on a journey through the locations and subject matter that adds to the atmosphere. The film contains original music throughout including contributions from several local artists. Music ranges from eerie and ominous to country inspired, bluegrass pieces. Historical photos are included so that viewers can be further immersed into the stories.

As of this writing the film is 99% complete, including well thought out closed captioning, with only the ending credits to be added. The film will be scheduled for Amazon Prime in August of 2020. A kickstarter campaign will be launched in late February for those who wish to stream the movie around April/May and to produce dvds and other merchandise for those who would like a physical copy to enjoy.

We look forward to sharing this with all of you.