The Haunted History of Halloween (1997)

The Haunted History of Halloween

1997

Documentary

Synopsis

The origins of Halloween are explored in this engrossing program on the subject. A ghoulish array of costumes, make up, and decoration descend on communities every year on October 31st, but few people are aware of how the celebration came to exist. Harry Smith attempts to get to the bottom of the mystery in THE HAUNTED HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN, which delves into the 3,000 years of hoopla that traditionally unfolds when October comes around. As the history is explained, so are various failed attempts to co-opt the festival by various religious groups; but the most compelling revelation is how little the festival has changed over the centuries. A marvelous way to gain a historical perspective on this entertaining holiday, Smith's program is almost as fun as carving a pumpkin, donning a spooky costume, and undertaking a little trick or treating!

Credits

Cast

Art Linkletter as Self

Garrison Keillor as Self

Harry Smith as Host / Narrator (voice)

Jamie Lee Curtis as Self

Liza Minnelli as Self

Crew

Christopher Seivard (Camera Operator)

Jeff Muhlstock (Camera Operator)

John Rosenblatt (Camera Operator)

Richard Neill (Camera Operator)