“Haunt”, “Hell Fest” and, “The Houses October Built” are horror movies that all welcome the use of haunted attractions as a backdrop. If you’re a fan of these types of scary movies, you might have already heard of “Scare Zone.” A film that was released back in 2009. Terror Films thinks this particular horror story, one that was filmed in the famous Universal Studios Halloween Haunted Nights is worth a revisit. The Terror Films channel aired the film on May 27th before a re-release to digital and VOD shortly after on June 3, 2022.
Director Jon Binkowski had always been a fan of Halloween Haunted Houses. Similarly, he had also always pondered the question:
“What if a killer has nested in the attraction and, dressed like one of the actors, just walks up and hacks me with an axe… would anyone notice that it’s not part of the show?”
Jon Binkowski quote about the making of Scare Zone
Scare Zone Universal Studios
Binkowski astutely recognized the scheduling gap at the Universal Orlando Resort Scare Zone, leaving it unoccupied for a notable three-week period. Seizing this golden opportunity, he swiftly embarked on the creation of the long-desired cinematic, now, cult favorite. The fruit of his labor emerged as the camp but cool “Scare Zone” movie 2009.
“The script practically wrote itself and it was a blast shooting for three crazy weeks on the Universal soundstage. Although I always had that nagging feeling someone was going to leap out and hack me with an axe! “
Jon Binkowski quote about the making of Scare Zone
This film revolves around an eagerly anticipated real-life attraction, the Scare Zone. A dedicated team of scare actors brought to life this haunted house. The show has garnered immense popularity. For its creator, Oliver (Simon Needham), it offered substantial financial success. Working alongside him is Clare, an alluring goth who, by day, graces a Christmas store with her presence, In her spare time, she seeks solace amidst the beauty of the cemetery. She is drawn to both the macabre and the art of self-expression. Serving as the spokesperson and announcer is Spider (Neil Brown Jr.).
The movie isn’t a big-budget affair and, relies on well-executed practical special effects. The narrative is minimalistic at best and doesn’t make much effort to be overly clever or psychologically challenging in any way. This is a horror movie made purely from the aesthetics of classic slashers with the bonus of a cool set.
Scare Zone Movie
Steadily over a three-night event, The Scare Zone filters out its stereotypical cast. A hidden unseen villain takes them out in inventive and gore-filled ways each night. There are ditzy blondes who show off their boobies. There are also nerds, and jocks to fill in some quality screen time between kills. Additionally, there is plenty of space in the script for remarks about the subsequently missing staff. Of course, no one bats an eye about actors who have better things to do (or not because they are actually dead.) They simply get on with the show.
Writer/director Jon Binkowski put together a very entertaining film in the Scare Zone. What it lacks in being memorable, it sure makes up for with the zesty appeal of all things slasher.
The Cast of Scare Zone
Neil Brown, Jr, Arian Ash (Lonely Hearts), Michele Simms (Sex Drive), and Jordan Woods-Robinson (The Walking Dead.) The Scare Zone movie also includes Chris Burns (Bloodline), and Simon Needham.
Film Trailer (2009)
