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Taking Shape
Taking Shape: Developing Halloween From Script to Scream
Silver Shamrock. Thorn. White Horses. It's all in here. Join authors Dustin McNeill and Travis Mullins for a deep dive into the evolution of Halloween's vast mythology. Extensively researched, Taking Shape is the ultimate guide to the first forty years of Haddonfield history. Featuring exclusive interviews with filmmakers from every instalment, prepare to gain new insight into Halloween's iconic boogeyman. Oh, you don't believe in the boogeyman? You should.
Taking Shape includes:
- Comprehensive story analysis on the entire series!
- A rundown of all deleted and alternate scenes!
- A look at what scholars got right (and wrong) about H1!
- Exclusive details on Nigel Kneale's original H3 script!
- Comparisons of early scripts to the final theatrical films!
- A rare interview with H5 screenwriter Michael Jacobs!
- An exhaustive account of H6's troubled production!
- An examination of H20's roots as a direct-to-video sequel!
- A revealing look behind the grunge of the Rob Zombie era!
- Insight into how test audiences and execs shaped the films!
- In-depth dissection of the official novelizations!
Taking Shape includes:
- Comprehensive story analysis on the entire series!
- A rundown of all deleted and alternate scenes!
- A look at what scholars got right (and wrong) about H1!
- Exclusive details on Nigel Kneale's original H3 script!
- Comparisons of early scripts to the final theatrical films!
- A rare interview with H5 screenwriter Michael Jacobs!
- An exhaustive account of H6's troubled production!
- An examination of H20's roots as a direct-to-video sequel!
- A revealing look behind the grunge of the Rob Zombie era!
- Insight into how test audiences and execs shaped the films!
- In-depth dissection of the official novelizations!
378 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2019
129 people are currently reading
820 people want to read
About the author
Dustin McNeill
10 books67 followersDustin McNeill is the author of eight books released through Harker Press. A lifelong genre fan, he began his writing career in the pages of HorrorHound Magazine before publishing his first book in 2014. Titled Phantasm Exhumed, this franchise companion was warmly received by fans and filmmakers alike, which encouraged the author to continue his writing efforts. In 2019, he teamed with co-author Travis Mullins for the best-selling and critically acclaimed Taking Shape book series, which the pair followed up in 2022 with Reign of Chucky: The True Hollywood Story of a Not So Good Guy. In 2023, Dustin penned yet another solo effort with House of Rejects: The Making of Rob Zombie's Firefly Trilogy. He has contributed supplemental material to multiple Phantasm and Chucky boxsets by Arrow Video and Scream Factory. In 2024, Dustin recorded an official audio commentary for Via Vision Entertainment's Blu-ray release of the original Halloween II.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
February 17, 2020
Any book that devotes over 60 pages to the production of Halloween 5 the Revenge of Michael Myers is definitely worth a look for any true Halloweenie. Much love much love
May 6, 2020
This was fine but felt like an overly long Wikipedia article by a fan. Most of it was summaries of the film with very little information about the actual production, reception or cultural impact it had. I was hoping to hear more “insider info” and less about the various story ideas they went through.
December 8, 2020
Full video review to come! But basically, this book rocked.
November 22, 2021
I had a blast with this extremely informative book about one of my favorite movie franchises, Halloween. It is engaging and full of so many interesting facts and stories I never knew. It talks about the movies as well as the novelizations. Any fan of the franchise will love this one! I cannot wait to rewatch the entire series now knowing a little bit more about each of the movies.
September 26, 2022
A somewhat deep dive into the production, plot, and reception of each Halloween movie up until Halloween Kills which came out shortly after this book (which is a shame - I would have loved to have these authors discuss the similarities in it to 2 and 4 especially).
The parts I enjoyed the most were actually the authors' summary and analysis of each film (it is very validating to have someone else say Halloween 5's Tina is an unfairly maligned and fascinating character in an otherwise incredibly messy film).
Having read a fair amount about the movies and their bizarre journey and multiple continuities, this didn't really feature any new information or revelations aside from their sections on novelizations and different cuts of some of the films that change the storyline. Still, a fun read to start the Halloween season and gear up towards yet another sequel being released.
The parts I enjoyed the most were actually the authors' summary and analysis of each film (it is very validating to have someone else say Halloween 5's Tina is an unfairly maligned and fascinating character in an otherwise incredibly messy film).
Having read a fair amount about the movies and their bizarre journey and multiple continuities, this didn't really feature any new information or revelations aside from their sections on novelizations and different cuts of some of the films that change the storyline. Still, a fun read to start the Halloween season and gear up towards yet another sequel being released.
January 27, 2022
A must for any Halloween diehard, horror hound, or cinephile.
December 3, 2019
I picked up "Taking Shape" because an article I happened upon promised this book would tell me things I didn't already know about the "Halloween" film series. I'm happy to report that is the case; if you're a diehard Michael Myers fan, there are indeed anecdotes and bits of information contained herein, that will add to your already unhealthy knowledge of "Halloween" lore.
The layout and basic style will be familiar to those who've read author Dustin McNeill's "Slash of the Titans," which detailed the long pre-production of "Freddy Vs. Jason," giving each proposed screenplay and treatment its own chapter. McNeill is joined this time by Travis Mullins, and the two serve up eleven chapters, each taking on a different film in the series, beginning with the John Carpenter original and ending with last year's Blumhouse production.
The plot summaries are kept mercifully short. They're necessary, especially for comparison's sake, once alternate versions and drafts are discussed later in the chapter, but these one-to-two page synopses will be the least interesting paragraphs for those already familiar with the films. The authors have a style that's easy to follow and flows pretty well. But there are, frankly, too many typos and grammatical errors for a professionally put-together volume such as this (but chances are that's only going to bother a handful of readers).
Some of the book's quotes are pulled from back issues of "Fangoria," along with some other sources. But each chapter ends with one to three interviews with folks involved. There's no interview with John Carpenter or Malek Akkad, but readers should find a lot of useful insight from cinematographers, writers, and even authors of some of the novelizations of the films.
In short, if you're a fan of "Halloween," have seen all the sequels, and think there's nothing new under the sun . . . check it out.
The layout and basic style will be familiar to those who've read author Dustin McNeill's "Slash of the Titans," which detailed the long pre-production of "Freddy Vs. Jason," giving each proposed screenplay and treatment its own chapter. McNeill is joined this time by Travis Mullins, and the two serve up eleven chapters, each taking on a different film in the series, beginning with the John Carpenter original and ending with last year's Blumhouse production.
The plot summaries are kept mercifully short. They're necessary, especially for comparison's sake, once alternate versions and drafts are discussed later in the chapter, but these one-to-two page synopses will be the least interesting paragraphs for those already familiar with the films. The authors have a style that's easy to follow and flows pretty well. But there are, frankly, too many typos and grammatical errors for a professionally put-together volume such as this (but chances are that's only going to bother a handful of readers).
Some of the book's quotes are pulled from back issues of "Fangoria," along with some other sources. But each chapter ends with one to three interviews with folks involved. There's no interview with John Carpenter or Malek Akkad, but readers should find a lot of useful insight from cinematographers, writers, and even authors of some of the novelizations of the films.
In short, if you're a fan of "Halloween," have seen all the sequels, and think there's nothing new under the sun . . . check it out.
November 19, 2020
A really engaging, informative overview of the entire series to date, false starts included. Insightful interviews with a lot of unconventional and lesser-deposed interview subjects throughout. Mercifully fresh when it could have easily proven derivative, given how much ink has been spilled on this series over the decades.
July 9, 2022
Easily one of the most enjoyable reads in recent history for me. Written with love, deep understanding and intelligence for the entire franchise, this is a love letter to fans by fans. I was surprised by how little I knew of the background shenanigans behind some of the best and worst entries in the series. In all honesty it was like an added layer of lore being bestowed upon me. This is why Michael Myers will never die, his legacy lives on, transcends celluloid. Into the zeitgeist. As always, by fans, for fans. Brilliant.
October 7, 2020
I was very curious to know how this book read as I could see it being very dry. As it turns out I was pleaselntly supprised. It was very well written and very fun to read. Lots of behind the scene things that I had no idea about, just overall a good time and right in time for the season!
December 29, 2020
A fantastic read for all fans of the Halloween franchise!
June 25, 2021
I think I probably know all there is to know about this series now.
November 7, 2022
Awesome book. Too bad the audiobook narrator's use of emphasis borders on parody, like that episode of Community where Abed discovers inflection.
July 7, 2025
Taking Shape is a near perfect chronicle of everything that makes the Halloween films such a fascinating, complex series.
Its treatment of even the most derided entries makes for engaging and fascinating reading that gives every movie it's time in the sun.
Would love an update one day for the recent films!
Its treatment of even the most derided entries makes for engaging and fascinating reading that gives every movie it's time in the sun.
Would love an update one day for the recent films!
December 3, 2020
Fantasy Read for Horror Film Fanatics
Informative and fun. If you like knowing what's going on behind the scenes, look no further. A must for fans of the Halloween series.
Informative and fun. If you like knowing what's going on behind the scenes, look no further. A must for fans of the Halloween series.
February 10, 2025
Everything you ever wanted to know about the Halloween franchise. If you're obsessed, like I am, you will definitely enjoy this book. You can tell the authors are fans and cared about the topic.
March 21, 2025
Really insightful and fun
I loved all the interviews
I loved all the interviews
August 22, 2022
I’ve been a diehard Halloween fan for twenty years and there’s little that I don’t know, but friends, Taking Shape changed all that. It contains a wealth of new knowledge for even the most informed scoundrel.
The book is a movie-by-movie history and examination, and while it does touch on the basics, it glosses over the familiar histories we’ve been told a hundred times and delves deeper into the little nuggets and kernels that really shed light on the development and evolution of the franchise. This is done through a rich analysis into each film’s production, as well as an in-depth look into deleted and alternate scenes–those that have been filmed as well as those that were only ever written. Even the novelizations get a thorough analysis. Each chapter then ends with an interview or two with crew members of whatever film is being discussed. And they certainly dish the goods.
Authors McNeill and Mullins pull no punches, and neither do those who are being interviewed in their book. Taking Shape is a refreshingly candid read. Unlike a making-of featurette on a DVD, the interviewees are not here to only sing the praises of a certain sequel. Here, we find out exactly where the bodies lie, and on whose hands is the blood. Names are given and blame is directed.
By the book’s end, we find the true villain of the Halloween franchise is not Michael Myers, but studio heads Bob and Harvey Weinstein. Their meddling in the series is well documented, and often hilariously so, by the likes of "Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers" screenwriter Daniel Farrands, "Halloween: Resurrection" screenwriter Larry Brand, and "Halloween" 2007-"Halloween II" 2009 writer-director Rob Zombie, just to name a few. Farrands even makes a poignant plea to the fans not to hate on "Curse" director Joe Chappelle, as any blame tossed his way is misguided; Chappelle was simply at the mercy of the Weinsteins when it came to the film’s controversial reshoots.
So much of the brilliance (and fun) behind Taking Shape lies within the scope and breadth of how each film’s origins are traced. Reading the play-by-plays on early treatments and scripts is a true treat. Of special note is a detailed synopsis of the coveted original Halloween III screenplay written by Nigel Kneale. But also, seeing who pulled the strings or dashed the dreams on certain ideas is very interesting, and certainly profound when you consider how some decisions have altered the entire trajectory of the series, for better or worse. Where there have been certain failures in the series, or where there have been long periods when the franchise has lagged in development hell, oftentimes the fault can’t be placed on any one person, just studio politics and legal red tape–not to mention the occasional poorly represented test screening.
Definitely give this book a read. The juicy what-ifs and what-could-have-beens are, at this point in the franchise, almost as stimulating as the films themselves. But bad blood or commercial-critical failures aside, one important lesson to be learned from this book is that no one ever sets out to make a bad movie. Every sequel has a cult following in its own right. Look into any of the creators in the Halloween franchise, and you’ll find individuals with a lot of heart, passionate about the material and looking to write a good story.
The book is a movie-by-movie history and examination, and while it does touch on the basics, it glosses over the familiar histories we’ve been told a hundred times and delves deeper into the little nuggets and kernels that really shed light on the development and evolution of the franchise. This is done through a rich analysis into each film’s production, as well as an in-depth look into deleted and alternate scenes–those that have been filmed as well as those that were only ever written. Even the novelizations get a thorough analysis. Each chapter then ends with an interview or two with crew members of whatever film is being discussed. And they certainly dish the goods.
Authors McNeill and Mullins pull no punches, and neither do those who are being interviewed in their book. Taking Shape is a refreshingly candid read. Unlike a making-of featurette on a DVD, the interviewees are not here to only sing the praises of a certain sequel. Here, we find out exactly where the bodies lie, and on whose hands is the blood. Names are given and blame is directed.
By the book’s end, we find the true villain of the Halloween franchise is not Michael Myers, but studio heads Bob and Harvey Weinstein. Their meddling in the series is well documented, and often hilariously so, by the likes of "Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers" screenwriter Daniel Farrands, "Halloween: Resurrection" screenwriter Larry Brand, and "Halloween" 2007-"Halloween II" 2009 writer-director Rob Zombie, just to name a few. Farrands even makes a poignant plea to the fans not to hate on "Curse" director Joe Chappelle, as any blame tossed his way is misguided; Chappelle was simply at the mercy of the Weinsteins when it came to the film’s controversial reshoots.
So much of the brilliance (and fun) behind Taking Shape lies within the scope and breadth of how each film’s origins are traced. Reading the play-by-plays on early treatments and scripts is a true treat. Of special note is a detailed synopsis of the coveted original Halloween III screenplay written by Nigel Kneale. But also, seeing who pulled the strings or dashed the dreams on certain ideas is very interesting, and certainly profound when you consider how some decisions have altered the entire trajectory of the series, for better or worse. Where there have been certain failures in the series, or where there have been long periods when the franchise has lagged in development hell, oftentimes the fault can’t be placed on any one person, just studio politics and legal red tape–not to mention the occasional poorly represented test screening.
Definitely give this book a read. The juicy what-ifs and what-could-have-beens are, at this point in the franchise, almost as stimulating as the films themselves. But bad blood or commercial-critical failures aside, one important lesson to be learned from this book is that no one ever sets out to make a bad movie. Every sequel has a cult following in its own right. Look into any of the creators in the Halloween franchise, and you’ll find individuals with a lot of heart, passionate about the material and looking to write a good story.
October 21, 2021
A very engaging read. I recently rewatched Halloween 2018 (the best of the sequels) and Halloween Kills (a disappointment), but I didn't feel done with Haddonfield for the time being. I remembered a friend recommended this book and its sequel to me, so I finally read the Amazon preview and was kinda surprised how into it I was.
Some info could probably be found on wikis, but it's great to have it all in one place and very organized. You get to read about bits of drama behind the scenes here and there. The book even includes interviews with people who have directed, edited, and written for the films. Even novelization author interviews are included. It's interesting how the fleshed out past for Michael Myers in the original Halloween's novelization sounds mildly interesting on paper, but totally doesn't work onscreen if you watch the additional footage that was shot around the time of Halloween II.
Most of the Halloween movies I've seen only once back in 2010, so going through this book and reading the plots and what did and didn't end up in the final versions, or even the Producer's Cut of 6 and Director's Cut of II (2009) was a fun way of re-experiencing the films. I was reminded of how terrible The Curse of Michael Myers and Resurrection were, and it turns out the Rob Zombie remake could've been worse than it already was. The book does make me consider rewatching Halloween II (2009), either the theatrical version again, the Director's Cut, or both. That's not to say I don't still have issues with that film, but I am wondering if my opinion would change a bit.
Since the book was published in 2019, it only goes up to Halloween 2018. I kinda wish a book like this had come out after Halloween Kills and Halloween Ends were out, but those films have been delayed and I wouldn't be reading this now. I wouldn't mind if there were a Taking Shape III devoted to just those two films. But for now, I'm really looking forward to reading Taking Shape II and learning more about the Halloween movies that never were.
If you're a Halloween fan or someone who likes to read about how slasher films like these are pitched, greenlit, and made, this is the book for you. Reading the preview will give you an idea of how invested you are in reading further.
Some info could probably be found on wikis, but it's great to have it all in one place and very organized. You get to read about bits of drama behind the scenes here and there. The book even includes interviews with people who have directed, edited, and written for the films. Even novelization author interviews are included. It's interesting how the fleshed out past for Michael Myers in the original Halloween's novelization sounds mildly interesting on paper, but totally doesn't work onscreen if you watch the additional footage that was shot around the time of Halloween II.
Most of the Halloween movies I've seen only once back in 2010, so going through this book and reading the plots and what did and didn't end up in the final versions, or even the Producer's Cut of 6 and Director's Cut of II (2009) was a fun way of re-experiencing the films. I was reminded of how terrible The Curse of Michael Myers and Resurrection were, and it turns out the Rob Zombie remake could've been worse than it already was. The book does make me consider rewatching Halloween II (2009), either the theatrical version again, the Director's Cut, or both. That's not to say I don't still have issues with that film, but I am wondering if my opinion would change a bit.
Since the book was published in 2019, it only goes up to Halloween 2018. I kinda wish a book like this had come out after Halloween Kills and Halloween Ends were out, but those films have been delayed and I wouldn't be reading this now. I wouldn't mind if there were a Taking Shape III devoted to just those two films. But for now, I'm really looking forward to reading Taking Shape II and learning more about the Halloween movies that never were.
If you're a Halloween fan or someone who likes to read about how slasher films like these are pitched, greenlit, and made, this is the book for you. Reading the preview will give you an idea of how invested you are in reading further.
July 5, 2021
Halloween has always been MY franchise. It’s the series that I have returned to and rewatched the most. I love even the ill-regarded films in the series (looking at you 5 and 6!), with the exceptions of Resurrection and the Rob Zombie travesties. Ugh! Anyhow, this book does a tremendous job of detailing the history of this franchise. It’s riddled with glorious behind the scenes details of each outing, drama, and just so many facts. As someone who has been all about this franchise since middle school, there were SO many things that I learned here. I was shocked to discover that there was even more to hear about. The interviews are really detailed and effective.
Literally my only complaint, and the reason for the four star rating instead of a full five, is due to the fact that the Kindle version of the books is absolutely chock full of spelling and grammatical errors. The majority were so egregious that a quick read-through would have caught them. It’s so disappointing that the editors of this book so clearly couldn’t be bothered to actually read it. These weren’t simple “there, their, or they’re” errors, either. There were some real whoppers. I’m not sure if the paperback version was better edited, but I’d imagine not if they were cool just releasing this version as-is. Woof! What an absolute shame, though. Because I really loved every minute of this one. I even enjoyed reading about the three films that I despise, because it actually helped to make some sense out of the madness.
I’d absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves this franchise. It’s full of new information and also really just reminded me of why it’s my favorite franchise to begin with.
Note to editors: please do better!
Literally my only complaint, and the reason for the four star rating instead of a full five, is due to the fact that the Kindle version of the books is absolutely chock full of spelling and grammatical errors. The majority were so egregious that a quick read-through would have caught them. It’s so disappointing that the editors of this book so clearly couldn’t be bothered to actually read it. These weren’t simple “there, their, or they’re” errors, either. There were some real whoppers. I’m not sure if the paperback version was better edited, but I’d imagine not if they were cool just releasing this version as-is. Woof! What an absolute shame, though. Because I really loved every minute of this one. I even enjoyed reading about the three films that I despise, because it actually helped to make some sense out of the madness.
I’d absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves this franchise. It’s full of new information and also really just reminded me of why it’s my favorite franchise to begin with.
Note to editors: please do better!
January 11, 2024
Halloween has been my go-to franchise in horror films since 1978, when my step-mother took me to the theater to see the first, though I didn't always love what I saw on the screen (or understood some of the choices made in the stories). I could spout trivia about a lot of them. I thought I knew a lot.
I did not.
I dove into this book thinking I'd pick up a few tidbits from BTS that I hadn't known before, but this book is so thorough on all areas of the franchise that page after page would bring new light to the films. Interviews range from directors to producers, screenwriters to novelization authors, cinematographers, and more. Deep dives are made into all areas of the production, dramas both on the screen and off. That lends itself to both being a plus and a minus in the bigger scheme, albeit objectively. Some of the depths plumbed were with folks that I didn't come away with a lot of interesting information, and others were fairly riveting to me. Thankfully, the drier interviews were kept to a minimum and often still yielded some information I was glad to know.
I'd be interested to see if an updated version comes out covering Kills and Ends, the two most recent films. This volume covers the original (1978) film through the 2018 film. Regardless, if you consider yourself a real fan of the film franchise, I think the book is worth a read.
I did not.
I dove into this book thinking I'd pick up a few tidbits from BTS that I hadn't known before, but this book is so thorough on all areas of the franchise that page after page would bring new light to the films. Interviews range from directors to producers, screenwriters to novelization authors, cinematographers, and more. Deep dives are made into all areas of the production, dramas both on the screen and off. That lends itself to both being a plus and a minus in the bigger scheme, albeit objectively. Some of the depths plumbed were with folks that I didn't come away with a lot of interesting information, and others were fairly riveting to me. Thankfully, the drier interviews were kept to a minimum and often still yielded some information I was glad to know.
I'd be interested to see if an updated version comes out covering Kills and Ends, the two most recent films. This volume covers the original (1978) film through the 2018 film. Regardless, if you consider yourself a real fan of the film franchise, I think the book is worth a read.
October 20, 2022
In as simple of terms as possible, my main comment on "Taking Shape" is this: if you are a fan of the Halloween film franchise, this book will immediately become your Holy Grail. It is almost a bit astounding that a tome like this existed and I didn't find it for a few years!
"Taking Shape" starts from the beginning--John Carpenter's 1978 original--and covers up through Blumhouse's 2018 film of the same name. For each of the movies, a plethora of information is given--plot summary, development notes, production stories, deleted scenes, alternate endings, other media (like novelizations), etc. Basically, author Dustin McNeill provides the be-all, end-all coverage for each of these films.
The text is an interesting mix of informed opinion mixed with conclusions derived from voluminous research. It strikes the perfect balance between being informative and entertaining without going too far in either direction.
Overall, this is easily THE definitive work ever produced on the Halloween film franchise. If you are a fan of the whole shebang in any context, this MUST be on your bookshelf as soon as possible!
"Taking Shape" starts from the beginning--John Carpenter's 1978 original--and covers up through Blumhouse's 2018 film of the same name. For each of the movies, a plethora of information is given--plot summary, development notes, production stories, deleted scenes, alternate endings, other media (like novelizations), etc. Basically, author Dustin McNeill provides the be-all, end-all coverage for each of these films.
The text is an interesting mix of informed opinion mixed with conclusions derived from voluminous research. It strikes the perfect balance between being informative and entertaining without going too far in either direction.
Overall, this is easily THE definitive work ever produced on the Halloween film franchise. If you are a fan of the whole shebang in any context, this MUST be on your bookshelf as soon as possible!
June 6, 2021
This book intends to cover every (at it's time) existing Halloween film in the same level of depth. That's 11 films to go over. No easy task, and considering the first of them was made 40 years ago, there's a lot of ground to cover.
On a base level, the book manages that. If you're a fan of the Halloween series, this is a book to read. If you're perhaps looking for information mainly on a specific entry in the series, you may be disappointed with how brief the sections can feel by the time all is said and done.
Information wise, there's plenty here. Some of it I was familiar with, other things not so much (for example, Rob Zombie's Halloween could have been A LOT worse than what we got). Certainly a treasure trove of trivia nuggets and interviews, some of which were conducted specifically for this tome.
Perhaps not the most detailed of books (a hundred or so more pages might have helped), but an entertaining and insightful read nonetheless.
Also, be advised, this book is definitely biased towards the author's preferred entries in the series and he makes no attempt at hiding this. If you were looking for objective reporting, this is not where you'll find it.
On a base level, the book manages that. If you're a fan of the Halloween series, this is a book to read. If you're perhaps looking for information mainly on a specific entry in the series, you may be disappointed with how brief the sections can feel by the time all is said and done.
Information wise, there's plenty here. Some of it I was familiar with, other things not so much (for example, Rob Zombie's Halloween could have been A LOT worse than what we got). Certainly a treasure trove of trivia nuggets and interviews, some of which were conducted specifically for this tome.
Perhaps not the most detailed of books (a hundred or so more pages might have helped), but an entertaining and insightful read nonetheless.
Also, be advised, this book is definitely biased towards the author's preferred entries in the series and he makes no attempt at hiding this. If you were looking for objective reporting, this is not where you'll find it.
September 15, 2020
Taking Shape: Developing Halloween From Script To Scream was a really fun and informative read that is a must for any fan of the Halloween film franchise. Dustin McNeill and Travis Mullins use a host of interviews and quotes from a variety of people involved in the productions, from John Carpenter's original classic to Rob Zombies re-imaginings to the newest installment released in 2018. We get script and story development on all the films, accounts of the production shoots, unmade script details and sometimes tales of development hell, scarier than the films themselves, when attempted sequels fell victim to artistic differences and studio interference. It's a fast and fun read and one that gives a detailed account of the making of one of horror's most renown series from many of those who were involved. A recommended read for anyone who is a fan of this classic franchise, or horror movies and filmmaking in general.
November 29, 2023
Taking Shape is a book that any Halloween series fan should want on their shelf. It is a very detailed look into the making of how many of the films were developed. It sure is a lot of fun to read about certain plot elements that were almost included but never made it in to the finished films and also about other plot elements that grew into things that weren't intended originally. An intriguing read right from the get go, Taking Shape was clearly written for the fan that wants as much information on the development of the films as they can get their eyeballs on. McNeill has done his research and delivers for the fanbase. John Carpenter and Debra Hill kicked this off with a little independent film that would grow on to a mega franchise. Carpenter formed the basics of the evil and Hill fleshed out the characters, which made us care about what happened to the characters. This book is followed up by a part 2 which I have and can't wait to dig into. Part 2 focuses on unmade sequels and things that almost happened in the series but never came to fruition.
June 14, 2024
While many people know of the Halloween films, few know the stories behind each entry. Taking Shape shares the stories from the people behind the scenes, the ideas that made it to film, and the ones left on the cutting room floor.
The book covers everything in the franchise from the small beginnings of the first movie to Halloween 2018 and the reception of the film. Every single entry in the long-running horror franchise went through the tough process of script to screen, and each is more interesting than the last. The book covers those along with the reception to each entry at the time.
The only real disappointment in this book is that it ends after Halloween 2018. It isn't the book's fault it was created before the two sequels, but it does acknowledge that they are coming. It would be interesting to see an updated version with the stories of those films. Overall, it's still a fantastic read but feels incomplete.
The book covers everything in the franchise from the small beginnings of the first movie to Halloween 2018 and the reception of the film. Every single entry in the long-running horror franchise went through the tough process of script to screen, and each is more interesting than the last. The book covers those along with the reception to each entry at the time.
The only real disappointment in this book is that it ends after Halloween 2018. It isn't the book's fault it was created before the two sequels, but it does acknowledge that they are coming. It would be interesting to see an updated version with the stories of those films. Overall, it's still a fantastic read but feels incomplete.
November 11, 2021
[Audiobook review]
Impressively thorough and detailed about each of the films in the franchise, up to and including the recent 'Halloween' (2018). I found out a lot about the franchise that I didn't already know and the calibre of some of the interviewees for each film were impressive.
It would have been interesting to hear more directly from some of the stars of the franchise about their experiences but if your a 'Halloween' fan this feels like THE book to get into.
As an audiobook it was absolutely fine, if a bit bland? Would have been nice to have a few different contributors just to liven it up at points as the same narrator throughout every single film was a bit repetitive at times.
Impressively thorough and detailed about each of the films in the franchise, up to and including the recent 'Halloween' (2018). I found out a lot about the franchise that I didn't already know and the calibre of some of the interviewees for each film were impressive.
It would have been interesting to hear more directly from some of the stars of the franchise about their experiences but if your a 'Halloween' fan this feels like THE book to get into.
As an audiobook it was absolutely fine, if a bit bland? Would have been nice to have a few different contributors just to liven it up at points as the same narrator throughout every single film was a bit repetitive at times.
December 11, 2023
This book was strongly recommended on a podcast I like, so I decided to check it out. It’s an unauthorized book on the Halloween series, which is clear from the outset, as it is in a rather odd university textbook-esque wide shape. The book dives deep into each instalment of the series, though perhaps a bit too deep at times. I found some of the interviews felt a bit long and unedited when they could have been condensed and made more manageable. I did manage to enjoy entire chapters on the Rob Zombie books, despite not even seeing those movies.
Pretty much a must-read if you’re a Halloween fanatic, but everyone else can move on. Now, if you don’t mind, my kitchen is missing a butcher knife and some guy is hanging out by my clothesline, so I’m going to check in on that. Trick or treat!
Pretty much a must-read if you’re a Halloween fanatic, but everyone else can move on. Now, if you don’t mind, my kitchen is missing a butcher knife and some guy is hanging out by my clothesline, so I’m going to check in on that. Trick or treat!
December 22, 2019
I'm not sure how big the audience is for a real deep dive into the Halloween franchise, but I will tell you that I loved this book so much!
I would consider myself a Halloween enthusiast (holiday and franchise) but there was a lot in here that I didn't know, especially in regard to the novelizations. I'm mentioning that so you know that this is good for horror newbies and for more established fans. It's also written in a very engaging way so that it never feels like a lecture. Instead, it's like the most fun conversation (granted, one where you listen rather than talk).
I'm excited to read his book on Freddy vs. Jason, and I'm planning to get to that next year.
Highly recommended.
I would consider myself a Halloween enthusiast (holiday and franchise) but there was a lot in here that I didn't know, especially in regard to the novelizations. I'm mentioning that so you know that this is good for horror newbies and for more established fans. It's also written in a very engaging way so that it never feels like a lecture. Instead, it's like the most fun conversation (granted, one where you listen rather than talk).
I'm excited to read his book on Freddy vs. Jason, and I'm planning to get to that next year.
Highly recommended.
April 8, 2022
I just finished this absolute beast of a book and loved every minute of it. TAKING SHAPE focuses on the entire HALLOWEEN movie franchise, with in-depth analysis of the original film and special attention is given to its many sequels. Each chapter is filled with interviews with those involved in creating this amazing franchise, with discussions on deleted and alternate scenes to keep hardcore fans happy. I was particularly impressed with the authors' knowledge of 'The Thorn Trilogy' (parts 4, 5 and 6) as a lot of the information behind this mysterious entry has been hard to come by. If you think you know HALLOWEEN, think again! Highly recommended!
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