Filmmaker CODY MEIRICK, like so many, was weaned on the beloved horror stories of Alvin Schwartz, “Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark.” To this day, he is a huge fan of the works. It’s because of his own love of the books that Meirick became passionate about not only delving into the story behind the books but the decades since their release and how they have impacted the culture at large. And that brings us to his insightful, fascinating, and entertaining documentary, SCARY STORIES, a “must see” for the horror fan and fans of the “Scary Stories” books!
Are you a fan of “Scary Stories To Tell In the Dark” with those unforgettable illustrations by Stephen Gammell? Were you one of those teens (or adults) who combed libraries and bookstores for the series when the books were banned from some library shelves? Or were you one of those waiting in line at the bookstore on publication days? In spite of, or despite, efforts by many over the years to remove the three-volume book series from our culture (these are some of the most banned books of modern times), the books have not only survived, but thrived, impacting so many aspects of our lives be it in literature, film, art, pop culture, and above all, inspiring kids to read. But what is it that makes these books such a compelling part of the fabric of our lives?
Researched, developed, shot, animated, and edited over an approximate five-year time period, SCARY STORIES boasts more than 40 interviews, including those of Alvin Schwartz’ family members, most notably his widow, his son Peter, his daughter and his grandson Daniel. We also hear from notable YA “horror” authors R.L. Stine of “Goosebumps” fame, as well as Q.L. Pearce. Adding historical context to the documentary, Meirick provides ample discussion on the origin of Schwartz’ scary stories within American and urban folklore as we hear from not only the family but folklorists who talk about the history of these “myths” which have imbued the fabric of mankind since before man could write.
As any reader of the book series knows, a large part of the success of the books is the illustrations done by Stephen Gammell. Masterful and haunting, Meirick devotes a good deal of time covering Gammell’s original illustrations, celebrating them with animated segments and transitions, as well as traveling to different art galleries and shops and even tattoo parlors speaking with artisans and fans alike who have been inspired to create their own art based on Gammell’s work. Standout is the work of cinematographer Brenton Oeschsle when lensing the various pieces of art and sculpture, adding even more emotional texture to the pieces, and the film as a whole.
Although celebratory in tone, where SCARY STORIES really digs into some sobering eye-opening discussion is with the objective presentation of the various periods during which attempts were made, and often successfully made, to ban the books. From librarians to PTA members involved at the inception of the brouhaha on the books’ releases, Meirick creates a tapestry of interviews, enticing visuals, archival footage, and commentary peppered throughout that is thought-provoking and well balanced. Of particular interest are interviews with librarians, one of whom was ready to go toe-to-toe with the school administration and school board when they wanted to ban the “Scary Stories” books from the library shortly after their publication. There is still fire in her voice as she recalls the past and the threat to her very job should she not comply with book removal from the library shelves. Another powerful multi-segmented interview involves a former PTA member who to this very day still speaks with rancor about the books, and then in a real twist, has the opportunity to sit down with Alvin Schwartz’ son Peter and express her concerns while getting his feedback. Adding a third eye to the proceedings are thoughts from YA novelist Bruce Coville (“Aliens Ate My Homework”; at one time in his life, a gravedigger) as he talks about the philosophy found within horror.
Thanks to three summers of shooting and doing self-editing, Meirick developed a perfectly paced throughline and by giving himself time, it also allowed him to create some wonderful animated segments that prevent a parade of talking heads which is so often the kiss of death in a documentary. He has a wonderful sense of timing that bodes a sense of lyricism while finding a balance within the film’s intricately interwoven visual construct.
With quality production values from start to finish, the icing on the cake for the documentary is E.K. Wimmer’s score which plays hauntingly from beginning to end of the film, heralding a constant, yet subtle beat, reminiscent of a heartbeat or footsteps in the dark of night.
One watch of SCARY STORIES and it’s easy to understand why Schwartz’ “Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark” series has moved generations of pre-teens and teens (and adults!) alike while impacting us on a cultural, educational, and even political level. Each sees the beauty of each story intertwined with the mystery of the unknown and a little bit of fear.
Director: Cody Meirick
by debbie elias, 04/25/2019
