I don't often get mail directly to my mailbox after one of my segments, but one man is pretty consistent with his comments and feedback: Robert Beech, groundskeeper of Brandywine Cemetery. He, too, loves The Halloween Tree, and was kind enough to share this wonderful story with me, and graciously gave permission for me to pass it along to all of you, as well:
While I was living in LA many years ago I was very impressed with the animated version of Hallowe'en Tree. So much so that I sculpted a Moundshoud mask. I made 5 copies before the mold broke. One, I sent to Ray.
On Hallowe'en afternoon, 1995, I received a telephone call at work; "Thank you, thank you, thank you for that wonderful mask you made!" It was Ray.
Kind of made my day.
The other masks made their way to collectors. One went to John Debney, the composer of the music for the animated version. For that I own the only legitimate full version of the soundtrack.
Thanks again for the segment.
BTW, I really hope that someone (Michael Dougherty?) makes a live-action/CGI version of the book someday. A version that more closely resembles the book than then animated version.Thanks again, Robert for sharing this, and for your continuing support of Hauntcast.
Posts
That is so cool! I just got turned on to The Halloween Tree this year, great book and that mask is exactly what Mr. Moundshoud looks like in my mind.
ReplyDeleteThat is an awesome story. Thanks so much to both of you for sharing it. Wow, just amazing work.
ReplyDeleteCheers!
When I sculpted the mask I compromised between the animated cartoon, and the book illustrations. Also, it had to be wearable.
ReplyDeleteFinally, Moundsroud's eyes are green as described by Ray.
So, not only does this guy do an amazing haunt, he does MASKS too!?! This is pure awesomeness, I'm gonna have to find a copy of the book!
ReplyDeleteGosh I love that book and the video. We watch it every year and I am dying for it come out on DVD. But a CGI version like mentioned, that is closer to the book would be a dream come true. Great post!
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome post! Thank you both for sharing this. I would so love to get my hands on a mask of Moundshroud that looks as nice as these. The mask is perfect! Puts my attempt this year at Moundshroud to shame.
ReplyDeleteWow! Incredible story, and what amazing talent Robert has! Wonderful mask! I'm envious :)
ReplyDeleteI would LOVE to have one of these!!!!! Is it possible to obtain one at present?
ReplyDeleteThis was a special set of masks that someone else made. They're not available commercially, as far as I know.
Delete