2020’s haunt season is over, not that it really kicked off this year due to COVID-19. And while I may be a little late with this review, it doesn’t extinguish the fact that haunt season should be much longer or, dare I say it, an all year festivity. If you’re a fan of the horror genre, then it stands to reason that you’ve pictured yourself in a real life, scary situation. Haunts bring a glimpse at that madness to your neighborhood. This is perhaps what inspired film-maker Dan Brownlie to explore these extreme stops in his latest film, a documentary titled UK Haunters. While working on one of his numerous horror features, Dan experienced some of the best haunts around the UK countryside. Now, one could assume that film-makers get the “haunt experience” every time they pick up a camera and create a new narrative, but it’s a completely different environment when you’re not working and able to enjoy your strut through scary visuals and crazy clowns unencumbered. This is why, whether you live in the UK or anywhere else, you should pick up your copy of UK Haunters. It’s currently available on DVD & VOD courtesy of Alchemy Werks and it gives you insight into the worlds you get to explore every October.
Directed, produced and featuring cinematography and editing by Dan Brownlie, UK Haunters is an independent look at haunts and haunters, and an in-depth analysis of how they work and the people who make them so successful. Filled with commentary, actors’ testimonies, behind-the-scenes glimpses into the action and walk-throughs of popular attractions, UK Haunters may inspire you to try and join an event near you next year. Aided in this journey by co-producer Jessica Ann Brownlie and cinematographer Merlyn Roberts, UK Haunters is an uninhibited and honest look at the thankless job of scaring tourists and thrill-seekers every Halloween season. It may be a little rough around the edges due to budget restraints, but the picture it paints is that the dark and damned are actually filled with love and respect for the themes and masterpieces they try to create every October. Even more so, while America is noted for having the most haunts, Brownlie divulges that the tradition started overseas in the UK, and this is why a documentary is ultra-fitting. Can the UK keep up with America? What tricks do they have up their sleeves? Get your copy of UK Haunters to find out.
Of course, UK Haunters is only going to appeal to niche audiences. For starters, obviously fans who are infatuated with the attractions. Then, it’s going to seem like a good grab for documentary enthusiasts. Finally, diehard horror fans who will watch anything with the subject matter. That’s why I’m glad that I had the chance to review this movie because I can say that UK Haunters is a worthy, worth the price of purchase addition to your movie shelves. It’s inspiring, gritty and enjoyable. I can see the love from all three sides – the performers, the film-makers on this movie, and the fans who watch it. I know I’m envious that I can’t go to some of the places Brownlie showcased in his documentary. Haunters bring an enriching experience to normally civilized people and Brownlie gives a backstage look at the preparation and thoughts/opinions that go into creating the scene. UK Haunters does for England what The Houses October Built did for America. Although, they both cast light on a popular trend that’s sweeping the world.
I really have no complaints here except for wanting more. As someone who tries to visit at least two haunts every Halloween season, I was absolutely entranced by this documentary. Well done. Final Score: 9 out of 10.
