Mixed emotions, all in one sitting.
When most people think of Halloween they think about scary movies. But Steven Brill thought of a Halloween comedy, “Hubie Halloween,” starring Adam Sandler, Noah Schnapp, Julie Bowen, Karan Brar and China Anne McClain.
Pranks and flirtation are just some of the things you will first notice in the film, but it will quickly become dark.
Netflix released “Hubie Halloween” on Oct. 7, three weeks before Halloween. Netflix sets the mood for the film by captioning it with, “It’s October 31st in Salem, Massachusetts, and a town’s eccentric, devoted community volunteer and the good-natured object of his fellow citizens’ derision and meanest pranks, finds himself in the midst of a real investigation, for a real murderer.” This keeps the watchers intrigued and on their toes.
Hubie Dubois is the main character played by Sandler. Hubie is what one considers the neighborhood “freak” and like any “freak,” he will experience the worst pranks and bullying anyone can imagine.
The film takes place in the town of Salem. When one hears Salem it immediately reminds us of the Salem witch trials from centuries ago.
According to Factinate, “The stars of the Salem story were the Puritan community of the Massachusetts Bay colony, a religious group that came over to America to escape religious persecution back in England.”
In the film it hints at a few religious jokes, especially with nuns.
I believe the writer picked a great city to bring this film to life. The details in the Halloween themed front yard display of Hubie’s home is frightening. The decorations are enormous and are kind Christmas like with dramatic effects. You will spot the usual pumpkins, skeletons and ghosts but don’t get comfortable, you’re in for a spooky surprise.
Such amazing costume choices appeared in the film and the famous Harley Quinn costume made an appearance three times, an attractive red riding hood, a Nubian queen and much more. I suggest if you don’t already have your Halloween costume picked then take a quick watch because there is a catalog filled with ideas in the film.
“‘Hubie Halloween’ is generally entertaining enough to be harmless, while also the kind of movie that people will have trouble remembering exists by the time he makes ‘Tommy Thanksgiving,’” said Brian Tallerico from Roger-Ebert.com
If you have patience to tune in for 103 minutes, you will be surprised to witness a lot of shocking moments. Voices aren’t who they seem and family isn’t as safe.
The lesson of the movie is to appreciate the “freaks” in your community because you never know what’s going on with one’s life. The film tackled bullying in a very unique aspect and it’s a great lesson for large communities.
Who knew a neighborhood “freak” could eventually be the hero the town is seeking. Find out in “Hubie Halloween,” available on Netflix.