Fantastic Fest is hosting the World Premiere of Spooktacular!, director Quinn Monahan’s gripping documentary that unravels the secrets behind SpookyWorld, America’s iconic Halloween extravaganza, which set the template for the multi-billion-dollar industry of terror.
At the heart of it all stands David Bertolino, the mastermind behind SpookyWorld, the first-ever multi-attraction Halloween theme park that redefined the haunted house experience. From humble beginnings as a whoopee cushion salesman, Bertolino’s journey culminated in a terrifying hayride trail through the woods that captured the imaginations of thousands, and soon became a sensation.
As the crowds swelled, so did SpookyWorld’s reputation, attracting A-list horror celebrities like Tom Savini, Linda Blair, and Kane Hodder. The documentary delves into David’s audacious advertising campaigns, electrifying sponsorships, and unforgettable charity events that drew attention from national media outlets, turning SpookyWorld into a global phenomenon.
With a rich palette of interviews featuring luminaries from the vast spectrum of horror history including Tom Savini, Linda Blair, Kane Hodder, Robert Englund and more, the film uncovers the thrilling voyage of a man who dared to tap into the zeitgeist of a generation, inspiring and frightening them while laying the foundation for the mammoth Halloween creations that followed.
