Haunt Season takes the concept of a serial killer using a haunted house attraction as his hunting ground and brings it to life at the Realm of Terror Haunted House in Illinois. This unique setting adds an extra layer of authenticity to the film, going beyond typical B-movie scares. The audience at a recent screening enjoyed the flickering lights, vintage cartoons, and quirky commentary by John Waters before the show.
While the scares may not be the most terrifying, Haunt Season offers more than just jump scares. The story follows Matilda, a recent college graduate struggling to find her way while living in her car. Her journey working at the haunt and forming connections with her co-workers, who are described as “theater kids who never grew up,” adds a heartwarming touch to the film.
Writer-director Jake Jarvi doesn’t shy away from addressing problematic horror tropes, including nudity and gender dynamics in haunted attractions. Matilda’s realization of the real danger she faces at her job leads to a climactic moment where she and her fellow female co-workers band together to survive. This twist adds depth to the film, turning it into a poignant tribute to the Halloween season and those who embrace it.
In addition to Haunt Season, several other films are making waves in the film industry. “Cloud” by Kiyoshi Kurosawa explores online crime and real-world consequences with expert precision. “Fréwaka” uses folk horror elements effectively to create a chilling atmosphere, while “Grafted” delves into body horror in a truly immersive way.
For a change of pace, “Piece by Piece” offers a sensory delight with a Lego documentary featuring Pharrell Williams. On the thriller front, “Conclave” presents a gripping story about the transfer of power in a pressure-chamber setting. Lastly, “Anora” stands out as one of the funniest and most harrowing films of the year, thanks to director Sean Baker and star Mikey Madison.
As the season of scares and thrills continues, these films provide a diverse range of experiences for movie enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for thought-provoking narratives, immersive horror, or heartwarming dramas, there’s something for everyone in the world of cinema.
