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2021 Halloween Shopping

2021 Halloween Shopping

The 2021 Halloween Shopping season has been unlike any other. Firstly, we are still in a pandemic (closer to the tail end than last year, but it is still complicating things).

Secondly, there have been severe shipping delays on merchandise. Retailers such as Spirit Halloween, Target, and more are seeing increased delays on products due to port closures and slow container processing times. These port delays due to issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic have a ripple effect and are compounded by ground-shipping logistics once the items have arrived in the U.S. This has resulted in items hitting store shelves sometimes much later than expected. Affected items include animatronics, decor, and fog machines. 

Lastly, due to many people being unable to celebrate Halloween to the fullest last year, there is an increased demand to participate in the holiday this year. Poll after poll have shown that a majority of Americans plan to celebrate Halloween 2021 – and they want to buy more decor, candy, and other supplies. More shoppers are competing to buy the few items that made it to shelves!

Despite all the issues, I still managed to find a few items worth trying to snag before they disappear!

2021 Halloween Shopping Highlights

While many items from last year have returned for 2021, here are some new highlights for this season:

1. Skull Welcome Sign (Michaels $29.99)

Images from Michaels.com

The green and off-white colors of this skull welcome sign are a wonderful change of pace from the normal black and orange Halloween color scheme. The vine-like pattern behind the skull adds a touch of whimsy. This sign will be the perfect addition to my home! The only detail to note is that the sign is a little large at 28” x 15.4”, so it may not fit easily above a doorway if you have lower ceilings.

2. 12”x12” Scrapbook Paper (Joann $14.99)

DCWV makes some of the best Halloween scrapbook paper designs currently on the market. This year’s lineup at Joann is another smash hit. “Halloween Town” is a fun and bright pack with bold colors. “Haunted Harvest” features floral prints rich burgundy and moss colors. “VoooDooo” mixes purples, blacks, off-whites, golds, and greys with skulls, spiders, and voodoo occult images. “Halloween Party” is the perfect fit for a light and girly project – with its peach colors, flowers, and cutesy images.

3. Nite Nite by Munki Munki Halloween Pajamas (Kohls $54.00)

Image from Kohls.com

As an owner of these pajamas in a different style from last year, I can say that they are in fact extremely comfortable. I love the new designs available for 2021 – Halloween characters in frames on a black background; pumpkins and fluffy black cats; and ghosts, cats, and pumpkins. Each set includes a top and matching pants with an elastic waistband.

4. Sam Rules of Halloween Journal (Spirit Halloween $14.99)

Image from SpiritHalloween.com

Ever since I was a kid, I have loved buying new journals to write stories, poems, and ideas in. Absolutely anything one can imagine can be put to the blank pages. This Trick ‘R Treat journal looks so cute and would be a great way to flaunt my love for Halloween & horror. I also like that it has the built-in strap to keep the pages closed when not in use.

5. Owl Double Old-Fashioned Glasses (Williams Sonoma $59.95)

These glasses may be a little more fall themed than Halloween, but you have to admit, their cold, black eyes are pretty creepy! Each double old-fashioned glass has a unique owl design that is cut and polished by hand and then hand-painted by Turkish artisans. They have a 3” diameter and are 3.75” high with a 10.5-oz capacity.

If you like these, Williams Sonoma also sells hand towels, plates, and a tablecloth to match.

While the pickings were a little slimmer this year, it is still fun to go out and hunt for cool items. What did you find?

Share your haul pictures with me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Emily News

In Good Health Issue #84

In Good Health Issue #84

What drives the desire for a good scare? Reporter Amanda Jowsey reached out to me and asked my opinion on why horror and Halloween are so alluring. She included my thoughts in her piece for In Good Health Issue #84, Western New York’s Healthcare Newspaper. 

Read the Ful Article Here

While the article is short, I have quite a lot more to say on the subject! With my history in the Halloween & horror industries, I have gained a wealth of insight into the horror genre and both scary and spooky sides of the autumnal holiday. 

Horror and Halloween can be very beneficial to one’s mental health. Firstly, they are both about connecting with others – as I always say, “Halloween is not a holiday you celebrate alone”. With Halloween you connect with neighbors and the people in your community as you go out into your neighborhood or welcome trick or treaters into your yard. Horror connects audiences around the world. No matter where you are from or what your background is, everyone has felt fear; we all know that feeling of the hairs on the back of our neck standing up and the uncomfortable idea that something sinister may lurk in a dark corner. We go into the theater or haunt with a group, enounter all sorts of horrors, and then survive together (even if our onscreen counterparts do not). Trauma bonding.

Secondly, horror and Halloween allow us to face our fears and explore them. Whether you are dodging larger-than-life spiders in a haunted house or getting grossed out by a body-horror film, you get the chance to confront the things that scare you in a safe and controlled environment. Our minds can process our feelings and emotions through a fantastic lens – without having to actually put ourselves in peril.  We can learn to cope and maybe see things differently. 

Lastly, horror and Halloween give us a chace to play make-believe. Horror allows us to dabble in the fantastic and monsters of our youth. Halloween encourages dress-up and becoming whatever you want to be – if only for one night. We all accept these fun, playful activities and allow others to let loose and embrace their inner demons, princesses, or Flamin’ Hot Cheeto. 

There are so many other ways that horror and Halloween can positively impact your mental health. For an in-depth analysis of this science of fear, I highly recommend the works of Dr. Margee Kerr. Her book Scream: Chilling Adventures in the Science of Fear is a fantastic read. 

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Film Friday Movies

Film Friday: Hazbin Hotel

Film Friday: Hazbin Hotel

Freaky Fright-Filled Flicks for Film Fanatics

TGIF! The Horror Of Being Emily likes to start the weekend off right by featuring one spooky short film each week. Watch late at night with the lights turned down low to maximize the scary atmosphere. Grab your popcorn and enjoy!

Since my days curating ScareLA’s screening room, I have loved watching creative films from around the world. Short films are a wonderful way to start out as a filmmaker and demonstrate a proof of concept for longer works. It is much harder than you’d think to convey a coherent story in a short amount of time! I hope you enjoy this curated selection of the best fantastic horror, science fiction, and fantasy the internet has to offer. 

Want to binge more? Check out all my past Film Friday entries.

Hazbin Hotel (Created by Vivienne Medrano)

Hazbin Hotel is the brainchild of animator Vivienne Medrano (AKA Vivziepop). Medrano graduated from SVA (School of Visual Arts) in NYC with a major in animation. She has a distinct style with her original cartoons – they are snarky, fluid, and filled with spunk. Medrano assembled a talented team of artists and animators to create a 30-minute pilot for an adult-themed animated series, Hazbin Hotel. This passion project is a mix of a traditionally animated style, the sexual themes, coarse language, and wackiness of Ralph Bakshi, and a dash of Invader Zim all mixed together with Medrano’s signature characters at the helm. And, it’s a musical!

Synopsis

Follow Charlie, the princess of Hell, as she pursues her seemingly impossible goal of rehabilitating demons to peacefully reduce overpopulation in her kingdom. After a yearly extermination imposed by angels, She opens a hotel in hopes that patients will be “checking out” into Heaven. While most of Hell mocks her goal, her devoted partner Vaggie, and their first test subject, adult film-star Angel Dust, stick by her side. When a powerful entity known as the “Radio Demon” reaches out to Charlie to assist in her endeavors, her crazy dream is given a chance to become a reality.

Watch the Movie

Warning: While this may be an animated series pilot, it is intended for mature audiences. Be prepared for lots of inappropriate language, sexual themes, and adult situations. This is an R-rated watch for sure!

My Thoughts on Hazbin Hotel

While I would prefer just a tad less swearing and overtly sexual overtones, I am enthralled by this VivziePop version of Hell. There are so many little details in each scene – even after multiple viewings, I am still finding new nods to other characters and ways that each segment relates to other scenes.

I also love how the pilot perfectly sets up the relationships between the various characters and introduces many different storylines a full series could follow. There are no one-dimensional characters here; they all feel alive and multi-layered. 

Charlie, the princess of Hell, is a bubbly, passionate young woman. She follows her dreams of reforming the damned souls of those in her kingdom. Her partner, Vaggie, is far less of a glass-half-full personality, but her commitment to Charlie and protectiveness make her a force to be reckoned with. Angel Dust, a famed adult-film star & stripper may outwardly seem headstrong and in control, but part of him is certainly happy to be Charlie’s first test subject with her “Happiness Hotel”. 

The last main character of note is simply referred to as the “Radio Demon” . He is one of the creepiest animated characters I have ever seen. I can’t wait to find out what sinister motives are hidden by his ever-present grin (although the fan girl in me wants him to end up secretly being a good guy instead of the main villain). I’ll just have to wait to find out. What can I say – I’m a sucker for bad boys!

The Future of Hazbin Hotel

In 2020 A24 (the company behind such modern horror classics as Midsommar and Hereditary) announced that they would be producing a full season. No release date is currently scheduled, but you can learn more about Hazbin Hotel and all VivziePop’s updates at the official website, Twitter, and VivziePop’s Patreon page. You can also check out VivziePop’s Youtube channel for other original animations from her and her team.

Call for Submissions

Are you a filmmaker? Do you have a scary short film you would like posted on The Horror of Being Emily? Send me a message with the youtube or vimeo link via my contact form for a chance to be featured in a future Film Friday entry.
Submit Your Film Via My Contact Form

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Film Friday Movies

Film Friday: Rick & Ruby

Film Friday: Rick & Ruby

Image credit: samuelfddunning.com

Freaky Fright-Filled Flicks for Film Fanatics

TGIF! The Horror Of Being Emily likes to start the weekend off right by featuring one spooky short film each week. Watch late at night with the lights turned down low to maximize the scary atmosphere. Grab your popcorn and enjoy!

Since my days curating ScareLA’s screening room, I have loved watching creative films from around the world. Short films are a wonderful way to start out as a filmmaker and demonstrate a proof of concept for longer works. It is much harder than you’d think to convey a coherent story in a short amount of time! I hope you enjoy this curated selection of the best fantastic horror, science fiction, and fantasy the internet has to offer. 

Want to binge more? Check out all my past Film Friday entries.

Rick & Ruby (Directed by Scott Woodburn)

Image from the Rick & Ruby Kickstarter Campaign

Rick & Ruby is the brainchild of Writer/Producer/Actor Samuel FD Dunning and Director Scott Woodburn. Dunning wrote the piece after the success of Woodburn’s previous horror short, It’s a Boy. Hype and excitement continued with this new venture – over $26,000 was raised from two Kickstarter campaigns to film and later complete post production for the short. Since entering the film festival circuit in 2019, Rick & Ruby has graced screens around the world at Screamfest, NYS Horror Film Festival, Dead by Dawn Film Festival, and Sitges Film Festival – just to name a few.  

Although I had thoroughly read the description in the 2019 Screamfest Horror Film Festival program and had been recommending this short to festival attendees for most of my week, nothing prepared me for the awesomeness that is this action-packed horror-comedy short. From an intriguing opening of a mysterious woman dragging a large chest to the surprising reveal of Rick, the audience never quite knows exactly what twists and turns they are in for next. This film had me and the rest of my fellow moviegoers laughing and cheering for the captivating onscreen duo of  Samuel FD Dunning and Ellie Lee. Their strong chemistry as allies journeying to defeat a shared enemy brought the already well-written script to life. Dunning’s Rick is a fun, refreshing take on the classic vampire – and his comic timing is impeccable. Lee’s Ruby holds her own as a strong female character who is an equal to her vampiric counterpart. One also can’t help but enjoy the over-the-top gore and mayhem.

The short sets up a larger story that I hope someday becomes the feature film we all deserve. I need to know exactly how their quest end!. Well, I am pretty sure Rick & Ruby will kick butt – but I need to know how they ultimately get there, what other quick retorts they will spew out, and how many bodies will pile up along the way.

Stay up-to-date with the filmmakers via Samuel FD Dunning’s website and the films Facebook & Instagram pages.

Synopsis

Ruby, a mysterious, leather-clad badass, drags a trunk with unknown cargo to a seedy Roadhouse in the middle of nowhere.​ Inside, three overly friendly hicks overpower her and prepare to have their “dueling banjos” way, when her trunk teeters over and… out…​pops…​RICK, a “man” with an unquenchable thirst and an allergy to the sun.​ In short order Rick and Ruby dole out their own form of frontier justice on the trio of hillbillies in a suitably grotesque and oddly satisfying fashion. Heads and dad-jokes roll.

Watch the Movie

** Warning: This film contains violence, gore, strong language, and is intended for mature audiences. **

About Screamfest

Screamfest Horror Film Festival is America’s largest and longest running horror film festival. The festival runs for 10 days each year in October in Los Angeles. Screamfest, has launched careers – providing a platform for filmmakers and actors to showcase their latest work to enthusiasts and general audiences. Every week they upload a fantastic short horror film that has premiered in their festival to their Youtube channel. Horror fans please LIKE, SHARE, FAVORITE or EMBED their videos with your friends and support talented filmmakers on Screamfest’s official Youtube channel. Join me in supporting this amazing non-profit organization!

Call for Submissions

Are you a filmmaker? Do you have a scary short film you would like posted on The Horror of Being Emily? Send me a message with the youtube or vimeo link via my contact form for a chance to be featured in a future Film Friday entry.
Submit Your Film Via My Contact Form

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Attractions News

Haunted Attraction Network’s Annual Hauntathon

Haunted Attraction Network’s Annual Hauntathon

Countdown to Halloween with daily podcasts from the Haunted Attraction Network’s annual Hauntathon. September 1st through October 31st, this daily programming will help haunters navigate the unique challenges of this upcoming Halloween season.  

“This year’s Halloween is critical for the industry, and we’ll be there every day to help. While we’re producing serious segments on emerging issues, we also need some room to enjoy the holiday; I’m thrilled with the balance of informative and entertaining content that we have lined up. I’m grateful to all the partners that have stepped up to help this year,” – Philip Hernandez, Publisher at the Haunted Attraction Network and CEO of Gantom Lighting.

As a contributor to the Haunted Attraction Network, I am proud to be a part of this 61-Day Hauntathon. Keep an ear out for my interviews with various haunters and some on-location audio from haunts around California! As usual, I will also help create the weekly newsletters to keep you  up-to-date with all the haunt industry news from around the globe. 

Follow the Haunted Attraction Network for daily podcasts, available on: iTunes, Spotify, Soundcoud, RSS, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Programming Details

The Haunted Attraction Network’s Annual Hauntathon has gathered a gang of ghouls to provide a wide range of informative and entertaining content, including:

  • State of The Industry updates from the Haunted Attraction Association Board Members.
  • Trip Reports from The ScareFactor, The Hauntline, and ScareTrack.
  • Hack Hacks, implementable tricks to provide haunt professionals helpful information in small packages, from Scott Swenson.
  • Industry News from Green Tagged, Haunter’s Toolbox, and Socalloween909.
  • Foam Carving and decorating from Victoria Lohman of Hot Wire Foam Factory.
  • Various poems and short stories of the dark and witchy sort from Whispers of a Witch.
  • Guerrilla Marketing from Scary Good Marketing.
  • Last Minute Haunt Lighting from Gantom Lighting & Controls.
  • Haunt owner check-ins from around the world.

About the Haunted Attraction Network

The Haunted Attraction Network connects and educates the Global Haunted Attraction Industry through weekly podcasts and newsletters. In 2021 they’re celebrating their 7th year, 500th episode, and over 2 million downloads!

Follow the Haunted Attraction Network for daily podcasts, available on: iTunes, Spotify, Soundcloud, RSS, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Haunted Attraction Network's Annual Hauntathon Partners

Gantom illuminates attractions worldwide with the world’s smallest award-winning intelligent spotlights.

ScareTrack is the UK’s first podcast dedicated to the Scare Attraction & Haunted House Industry. We bring listeners in depth interviews with some of the biggest names in the UK scare scene, discussion & debate episodes as well on on-location review episodes from scream parks, zombie chases, immersive theatre and much more.

For over 30 years, Scott Swenson has been bringing stories to life as a Producer, Director, Writer and Performer. His work in Theme Park, Consumer Events, Live Theater and Television has given him a broad spectrum of experiences. After 21 years working with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Scott has now formed Scott Swenson Creative Development LLC and is working with various clients developing shows, events, festivals and training classes.

The Hauntline is a YouTube show and Podcast dedicated to SoCal Haunts & Events! Follow for Haunt Reviews, Rumors, & Behind the Screams!

SoCalloween909 is the 909’s LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS Source On All Things Horror, Haunts, Halloween, & Everything In Between in SoCal, 365.

The Haunted Attraction Association, the only official association in the haunt industry, serves as the voice of the haunted attraction industry. Their mission is to promote their worldwide network of haunted attractions including Haunted Houses, Haunted Hayrides, Scream Parks, Mega-Haunts, Halloween Festivals, Haunted Outdoor Trails, Corn Mazes, and Amusement Park Halloween Events.

“Our board members are a wealth of knowledge and we’re excited for this opportunity to share solutions to the challenges for this season. It’s also in alignment with our goal of connecting more with our members,” – Spencer Terry, Board President of the Haunted Attraction Association.

The Scare Factor provides Haunted House and Halloween lovers with the most professional and accurate info possible. They are not the oldest or the newest, but they are BY FAR the most complete and up-to-date website of our kind in the haunted attraction industry.

Do you have questions about starting your own haunted attraction or keeping the doors open at your current one? The Haunter’s Toolbox is the place to get those answers. Monthly online masterclasses with professionals in the haunt industry, access to the exclusive toolbox media library, and a private community to get instant feedback. Get the tools you need at HauntersToolbox.com

Created by actress and voice over artist Jennifer Anne Scott this weekly podcast provides something of a different sort to listen to and enjoy – a dark escape if you will. If you love spooky stories, you will love Whispers of a Witch!

Hot Wire Foam Factory offers a wide range of foam cutting and shaping tools, foam coating products, instructional DVDs and patterns for the hobbyist, home crafter and professional artist.

At Scary Good Marketing, they take the fear out of marketing and advertising your business using battle-tested strategies and creativity to bring you a better ROI.

I hope you give these podcasts a listen! Happy haunting!

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Film Friday Movies

Film Friday: Shine

Film Friday: Shine

Freaky Fright-Filled Flicks for Film Fanatics

TGIF! The Horror Of Being Emily likes to start the weekend off right by featuring one spooky short film each week. Watch late at night with the lights turned down low to maximize the scary atmosphere. Grab your popcorn and enjoy!

Since my days curating ScareLA’s screening room, I have loved watching creative films from around the world. Short films are a wonderful way to start out as a filmmaker and demonstrate a proof of concept for longer works. It is much harder than you’d think to convey a coherent story in a short amount of time! I hope you enjoy this curated selection of the best fantastic horror, science fiction, and fantasy the internet has to offer. 

Want to binge more? Check out all my past Film Friday entries.

Shine (Directed by Jesse Blanchard)

Although not used together as much as they should be, horror and puppetry go together quite well. From Jim Henson’s creepy Skeksis to fluffy aliens in Attack the Block, puppets can add an element of horror to films. They lead themselves to practical effects and can be quite expressive if done well. 

Puppetcore understands this principal well. The group makes all-puppet horror films. Their self-imposed rules are simple: 1. The Characters are real; they just happen to be puppets. 2. The effects are practical whenever possible. This leads of solid horror films that would work well even if created as live-action films. The group has created multiple short films and, in 2020, a feature. 

Shine (2011) uses a simple concept – and harmonious tune – to create a chilling little tale of terror Be wary, there will be blood – a surprising amount in fact. This juxtaposition of cutesy puppets and gore adds to the uneasy atmosphere and watching these poor puppets meet their horrific fate packs an extra punch for the viewer. 

As someone who enjoys spending her time in the spotlight, I think I’ll keep an extra light (or two) on tonight – because you never know what may be lurking out there in the dark. Enjoy!

Shine - Synopsis

A barbershop quartet fears their moment out of the spotlight.

Watch the Movie

Fun Fact: A Family Act – The barbershop quartet’s costumes were creaeted by director Jesse Blanchard’s mother. 

Now that you’ve had a taste of Puppetcore, are you ready for more? In 2020 Puppetcore finished their first feature film, Frank & Zed. It has since been touring the festival circuit and delighting horror fans around the world. You may even see a cameo from our lovable quartet in the feature. Follow the film’s latest news and stay abreast of release announcements via Puppetcore’s official website. 

Frank & Zed Synopsis: Two reanimated corpses, dependent on each other for survival, live a life of solitude until a power-hungry magistrate tricks a group of villagers into attacking their lonely castle, fulfilling an ancient prophecy: The Orgy of Blood.

See the trailer below.

Call for Submissions

Are you a filmmaker? Do you have a scary short film you would like posted on The Horror of Being Emily? Send me a message with the youtube or vimeo link via my contact form for a chance to be featured in a future Film Friday entry.
Submit Your Film Via My Contact Form

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Film Friday Movies

Film Friday: Rebooted

Film Friday: Rebooted

Freaky Fright-Filled Flicks for Film Fanatics

TGIF! The Horror Of Being Emily likes to start the weekend off right by featuring one spooky short film each week. Watch late at night with the lights turned down low to maximize the scary atmosphere. Grab your popcorn and enjoy!

Since my days curating ScareLA’s screening room, I have loved watching creative films from around the world. Short films are a wonderful way to start out as a filmmaker and demonstrate a proof of concept for longer works. It is much harder than you’d think to convey a coherent story in a short amount of time! I hope you enjoy this curated selection of the best fantastic horror, science fiction, and fantasy the internet has to offer. 

Want to binge more? Check out all my past Film Friday entries.

Rebooted (Directed by Michael Shanks)

Before the days of CGI and the catchall “we’ll fix it in post”, practical effects were king in horror, sci-fi, and fantasy. Ray Harryhausen’s stopmotion  skeletons in Jason and the Argonauts and dinosaurs in One Million B.C. thrilled audiences. Rubber suit monsters like The Creature from the Black Lagoon terrorized teens at the drive in. The animatronic t-rex from Jurassic Park still holds up for today’s audiences.

Rebooted, written and directed by Michael Shanks of Late Nite Films,  pays homage to these classic effects with a touching story that is sure to delight move fans of all ages. Despite being a silent stop motion skeleton, Phil is relatable and a character to root for as he comes to terms with the fact that the world has moved on from the type of filmmaking he rose to stardom through. Although Phil’s world may no longer have a use for stop motion, this film proves that classic practical effects do still have a place in modern films. With a strong story and using digital processes to enhance the practical effects, you can create a filmic world that feels real – much better than CGI alone. 

Synopsis

It’s not easy for a movie-star to age – especially when you’re a stop motion animated skeleton monster. Phil, once a terrifying villain of the silver-screen, struggles to find work in modern Hollywood due to being an out-of-date special effect.

Watch the Movie

Mixing Classic and Modern Techniques

Rebooted is a perfect example of how filmmakers can mix classic techniques and the “realness” of practical effects with modern computer technology. Shanks incredible team combined traditional stopmotion animation, rear projection, creature suits and more with motion capture and After Effects to bring Phil and his friends to life. You can learn more about the techniques and filmmaking process for this short from this interview Shanks did with Ian Failes of Befores & Afters. Shanks describes many of the behind the scenes challanges the team faced – and overcame – during production. It is a fascinating read and quite inspirational!

Want another behind-the-scenes look? This video gives a more in-depth look at the stopmotion and VFX processes used to create the film:

Call for Submissions

Are you a filmmaker? Do you have a scary short film you would like posted on The Horror of Being Emily? Send me a message with the youtube or vimeo link via my contact form for a chance to be featured in a future Film Friday entry.
Submit Your Film Via My Contact Form

2024 Halloween Shopping

September 4, 2024 No Comments

Happy Halloween shopping 2024! For over two decades now, the Halloween shopping season has been my main time for household and clothing purchases. Each year, I love to shop around

Read More »

57 Ghosts

February 16, 2024 No Comments

Take part in a spirited séance aboard the historic – and haunted – Queen Mary with 57 Ghosts. From Master Magician and Apparitionist Aiden Sinclair, this 90-minute immersive experience takes

Read More »
Categories
Music

Summer Screams Playlist 2021

Summer Screams Playlist 2021

Sweating in the 90+ degree heat this summer? You can still get some spooky chills while working on your tan with this Summer Screams Playlist 2021 edition. I have compiled thirteen groovy 1950’s & 60’s-inspired tunes perfect for your Summerween beach or pool party. Carve a watermelon, grab a cool apple cider, and keep the Halloween vibes going from June – August!

The Song List

The Halloween season never truly ends in my home. My friends and family have come to expect all manner of spooky additions to celebrations year round. The summer months are no different. Just as retro dresses are the hip Halloween fashion as of late, the 1950’s & 60’s surfer rock also blends wonderfully with Halloween & horror themes. These would be a perfect pairing for a 1950’s horror and sci-fi movie night – perhaps The Blob or I Was a Teenage Werewolf. 

Playlist Song Explanations

1. Season of the Witch - Karen Elson

Season of the Witch was originally written and performed by Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan and released in September 1966. It has been covered by many artists over the years but my favorite cover is this version by Karen Elson. Although the song is appropriate all year long, I have always associated it with long summer days and people watching out my front window near the Niagara River (where I grew up). 

2. The Blob - The Five Blobs

Before I was ready for more modern and mature horror, my Dad introduced me to the best of the classic b-horror films. The 1950’s had so many fun horror and sci-fi flicks featuring teenage teeny-boppers, creatures from outer space, and beach parties galore. There is only one of these films that ever terrified me as a child – The Blob (1958). Something about a monster from outer space that could not be reasoned with or defeated gave me chills. As my Dad loves to share with all my friends, co-workers, and random strangers at social functions, I told him when I was six years-old, “Dad – the Wolfman, Dracula, all those monsters aren’t real, but the Blob is from outer space and we don’t know what could be out there!”

The Blob premiered at a time when original theme songs were all the range. Burt Bacharach and Mack David wrote the song & lyrics. It is now a staple for Halloween playlists and Summerween celebrations.

3. The Twilight Zone - The Ventures

Open the door to your imagination and come with me to a dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. Let’s move into a land of both shadow and substance, of things and ideas. While listening to this playlist, we’ve crossed over into The Twilight Zone. Even without lyrics, this groovy instrumental sets the mood for a spooky summer soiree. 

4. Out of Limits - The Marketts

Out of Limits by the Marketts is another take on the Twilight Zone vibe. Written in 1963 by Michael Z. Gordon, this surf rock classic has been included on many Halloween playlists and compilations over the years.  I first heard this song as part of the Elvira’s Haunted Hits CD and fell in love with the beachy instrumental vibe. 

5. The Crypt Keeper's Holiday - Gein & The Graverobbers

Gein and the Graverobbers’ Songs in the Key of Evil was my first experience with modern horror surfer rock, having picked up the CD at a record store solely based on the cover and band name. Their songs from this album all feature audio or riffs from classic horror movies and television. The Crypt Keeper’s Holiday puts a new spin on the opening theme from the popular series Tales from the Crypt.

6. Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein, or Dracula - The Diamonds

I can completely relate to the girl this song is about! My Honey-Bunny certainly knows that the way to my heart is through scary movies. 

Of course, it’s not just me. There has been much research into why we love to be scared and how it can create close bonds. Sociologist, Dr. Margee Kerr, is one of the most prominent researchers on the subject (read her books, they are fantastic). As she says in this article from The Atlantic: 

One of the reasons people love Halloween is because it produces strong emotional responses, and those responses work to build stronger relationships and memories... We’re social and emotional beings. We need each other in times of stress, so the fact that our bodies have evolved to make sure we feel close to those we are with when afraid makes sense. So yes, take your date to a haunted house or for a ride on a roller coaster; it’ll be a night you’ll never forget.

Dr. Margee Kerr

7. Cemetary Beach - Messer Chups

This creepy surf rock hit comes from a very unlikely place – Russia! The group was formed in  St. Petersburg, Russia in in 1998 by composer and guitarist Oleg “Gitaracula” Fomchenkov. Their music pays homage to classic horror and the surf rock vibes of the 1950’s and 60’s.

8. Munster Creep - The Munsters

While no Halloween dance can quite live up to the perfection that is the Time Warp, some performers have tried to create their own spooky steps. The Munster Creep may not be well-known, but it is a fun dance celebrating Frankenstein’s monster. Shake things up at your Summerween celebration by teaching your guests this hip dance.

Put out your arms like a Frankenstin(‘s monster), stomp around the room and have a real good time! 

9. Igor's Party - The Montesas

Igor is apparently one party-loving dude. Aside from being mentioned playing the chains  in the Halloween party staple, Monster Mash, Igor’s Party is an entire song dedicated to the lab assistant’s love for rock-and-roll. Frankenstein’s castle is apparently the place to go for a spooky swinging soiree!

10. Lullaby of the Leaves - The Ventures

The Ventures are groovy enough to be mentioned twice on this list. Lullaby of the Leaves is a jazz standard originally written in 1932 by composer Bernice Petkere and lyricist Joe Young.  The lyrics (although not used in this instrumental version of the song) tell of a beautiful night under a leafy canopy. Changing leaves are a staple in Autumn and Halloween iconography, so I included this tune in our Summer Screams Playlist. Even on warm summer nights, I certainly long for a cool breeze blowing through red and orange leaves on the treetops. 

11. Horror Movies - Dickie Goodman

Produced two years after Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein, or Dracula by The Diamonds, this song deals with the same theme – loving a girl who loves horror. I think my poor Honey-Bunny can certainly relate to the lyrics for this one!

12. Back to the Dark - Mystic Braves

Unlike the previous songs, this one is a little less on-the-nose with the Halloween in summer theme. It is not a Halloween song, but the groovy melody and  twangy guitar fit with the mood of the playlist.

I love the chorus lyrics “So come with me into my world… Don’t throw our love away and go back to the dark”. They inspire me to think of all sorts of spooky stories to tell around a summer barbeque pit.

13. Spooky Luau Beach Party - The Trolls

Since I only have one more chance on this list to be corny and without restraint, I am ending this playlist with a silly atmospheric track of a haunted luau. I like the background groans and moans. Oh the sweet sounds of zombies, ghouls, and black cats as I float in the pool!

And That's the Summer Screams Playlist 2021!

Did you like it? What songs are on your Summerween playlist? Let me know on Instagram and Twitter @EmilyIsHorror

Don’t have someone special to share the day with? Check out more music and playlists here.

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Categories
Movies

The Tattooist

The Tattooist

In the movie business, short films can be a way to give audiences (and financiers) a taste of a director’s style and vision for a longer piece. A wonderful example of this is: The Tattooist (directed by Michael Wong). The short has been making its way through the horror film festival circuit, winning in the Best Trailer category at the 2018 Independent Shorts Awards, HorrorHaus Film Festival 2018, Terror in the Bay Film Festival 2018, Cult Critic Movie Awards 2018, Bloody International Film Festival 2018, The Optical Theatre Horror Film Festival 2019, and more.

Official Synopsis

‘The Tattooist’ follows the dark obsessions of a tattooist whose studio is acclaimed for its exceptional and intricately crafted tattoos. Those who receive his prized masterpiece are drugged, imprisoned, and then forced to fight their fears in a race against the clock to escape. Can they escape or will they become victims of The Tattooist?

Review

This 1 minute 20 second proof of concept micro-short has all the trappings of a standard horror flick – a deranged killer, pleading victims, and a tattoo parlor that hides a sinister secret. While the short itself lacks a narrative (despite the story described in the synopsis), it provides the viewer with a glimpse of what could be coming should Wong create a longer piece with these characters.

What sets this piece apart is beautiful cinematography while in the tattoo parlor set. A bright pink, purple, and blue color palette is a stark contract to the gray and brown of the Tattooist’s industrial torture chamber. In these tattoo parlor segments the camera is constantly moving, mirroring the energetic groove of the jazzy soundtrack. Unlike the generic industrial sets of the torture area, the shop feels fresh and full of possibilities for a vibrant environment for a longer piece.

I would surely check out a longer story with the characters from this short, but my hope would be for more of the bright colors and energy of the tattoo parlor and less of the standard gore from the torture chamber.

About the Director - Michael Wong

Michael Wong is an independent filmmaker with 16 years experience as an ad agency art director and creative director. He has worked with brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Unilever, Microsoft, and more. 

His directorial debut short film ‘The Story of 90 Coins’ picked up 60+ accolades from international film festivals. This includes Best Direction and Best Cinematography at Malta Short Film Festival, Rising Star Awards at Canada International Film Festival, Best Foreign Short Film at Ukrainian International Short Film Festival, Best Drama and Best Cinematography at Los Angeles Film Awards, Best Foreign Short at Los Angeles Independent Film Festival Awards, among others.

Michael’s works have been featured in Shots, Trendwatching and Graphis magazine. He has judged at the New York Festivals International Advertising Awards and Ad Stars Festival.

I look forward to seeing Michael’s future works. Hopefully they include a feature-length version of this creative and visually interesting short!

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Categories
Music

Munster Creep

Munster Creep

℗ A Decca Records Release; ℗ 1964 UMG Recordings, Inc.

Looking for a spooky fun song for your Summerween beach party? Try Munster Creep by The Munsters. This song was included on the 1964  album, The Munsters. The album featured songs inspired by the television series with the same name. This particular song features a hip new dance craze sure to draw all the boys and ghouls out onto the dance floor.

Song Credits:

Producer: Joe Hooven
Producer: Hal Winn
Producer: Sill
Producer: Eddie Carroll
Composer Lyricist: Eddie Carroll
Composer Lyricist: Joe Hooven
Composer Lyricist: Hal Winn

℗ A Decca Records Release;

℗ 1964 UMG Recordings, Inc.

Munster Creep Lyrics

Turn up this record and turn the lights down
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
Try a new dance that just blew into town
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

Put out your arms like a Frankenstein
Stomp around the room and have a crazy time
And do the Creep
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
And do the Creep
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

All you gotta do is just stomp your feet
And put out your arms like you’re walking in your sleep
Uh-huh
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
Uh-huh
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

Come on everybody and sip a witch’s brew
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
You can do the Creep now like the monster do
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

Make like a vulture, give your girl a peck
She can be a vampire nibblin’ on your neck
And do the Creep
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
And do the Creep
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

If you do the Creep and you do it well
Your favorite ghoul friend will be under your friend
Uh-huh
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
Uh-huh
Do do do the Munster Creep

Do do do do the Munster Creep
Come every midnight and bring your special date
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
Everybody’s meeting at the cemetery gates
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

It may look dead but the minute we arrive
The clock strikes twelve and the man it comes alive
We do the Creep
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
We do the Creep
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep

Turn on this record, turn the lights way down
And try a new dance that just blew into town
Uh-huh
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
Uh-huh
Do the creep, do the Munster Creep
Uh-huh
Do do do do the Munster Creep
Uh-huh
Do do do do the Munster Creep
Uh-huh

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