Cast
View All
Sonja Ball
as Spookley the Square Pumpkin / Other Honeydoos
Bruce Dinsmore
as Poe
Craig Francis
as Jack the Scarecrow
Norman Groulx
as Boris
Holly Gauthier-Frankel
as Bella / Other Honeydoos
Rick Jones
as Little Tom / Edgar
Ranee Lee
as Other Honeydoos
Michael Perron
as Big Tom
Terrence Scammell
as Allen
Jennifer Seguin
as Bobo
Kim Richardson
as Lead Honeydoo
Vlasta Vrana
as Narrator (voice)
Wondress Hutchinson
as Other Pumpkins (voice)
Karen Ashe
as Other Pumpkins (voice)
Tanya Diona
as Other Pumpkins (voice)
Crew
Director
- Bernie Denk
Producer
- Jeffrey Zahn
- Mark Zander
Reviews
Dsnake1
Spookley is about what you'd expect from a direct-to-video kids movie made on a relatively low budget.
It's fine. That's about the line I draw. The songs are fine. The story is fine. The animation isn't quite fine. Overall, it's fine.
The movie, in general, is about not judging people based on their appearances or other shallow reasons. That's a fine moral, and I don't really have any problems with kids' movies having a clearly defined (and stated) moral.
There are some issues, however. First, they play off two characters for laughs due to the fact they are a little 'slow'. It's strange to have this movie about acceptance have two characters playing with qualities that are often played off for laughs in a damaging way to people who really may be different.
Other than that, the biggest issue is how simple it all is. Granted, that's not a bad thing for a movie for toddlers, but there are a lot of kids' shows on Disney Jr. or Nick Jr. that feel a little more complex in about a quarter of the runtime this one had.
Again, it's fine. If you're struggling to find something Halloween-related to watch with your young kids but don't want them downright terrified for hours, this is probably a fine bet.
Oct 11, 2019
Thematic Analysis
Spookley the Square Pumpkin represents a fascinating example of Animation/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Bernie Denk brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Spookley the Square Pumpkin took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 47 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 80 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Spookley the Square Pumpkin shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Monster High: Howliday Special, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Spookley the Square Pumpkin offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Nightmare Before Christmas and Casper explore similar territory, Spookley the Square Pumpkin stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 30, 2004
- Runtime: 47m
Where to Watch
