Lafayette's Haunted Movie Locations for Halloween: A Spooky Stroll Through Film History
As Halloween approaches, Lafayette, Louisiana, transforms into a cauldron of eerie excitement. But beyond the spooky decorations and carved pumpkins, there's another side to the city's Halloween magic: its cinematic history. Lafayette's streets and buildings have played host to numerous film productions, some of which have a chillingly eerie past. This Halloween, why not embark on a spooky tour through Lafayette's haunted movie locations?
1. The Shadows of "The Skeleton Key": A Haunting in a Historic Mansion
The 2005 horror flick, "The Skeleton Key," starring Kate Hudson, was filmed in part at the stunningly beautiful Oak Alley Plantation. This antebellum mansion, with its haunting history and sprawling grounds, provided a perfect backdrop for the film's unsettling story. Today, visitors can take a tour of Oak Alley and imagine themselves stepping onto the set of this chilling horror film, feeling the echoes of the supernatural.
2. The Dark Side of "The Conjuring": A Real-Life Haunting
While the 2013 blockbuster "The Conjuring" was primarily filmed in North Carolina, one of its pivotal scenes was filmed at the Lafayette Cemetery. This historic cemetery, with its towering above-ground tombs and moss-draped trees, is rumored to be a site of paranormal activity. While the film's events are fictional, the cemetery's unsettling atmosphere adds a touch of real-life horror to the spooky experience.
3. "The Beguiled" & "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button": Lafayette's Historic Charm Turns Sinister
The charming streets of Lafayette, with their Victorian architecture and verdant landscapes, have served as backdrops for numerous films. In 2017, "The Beguiled," starring Nicole Kidman, was filmed in the historic downtown area, adding a layer of suspense to the city's picturesque setting. Similarly, scenes from "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" were shot in Lafayette's historic district, showcasing the city's timeless beauty and hinting at the possibility of a supernatural twist.
4. A "Night of the Living Dead" Reboot: A Frightening Film Made in Lafayette
While not filmed in Lafayette, "Night of the Living Dead: Origins", a 2012 reboot of the iconic zombie film, was actually produced in Lafayette. The city's local film community worked tirelessly to bring this horror film to life, adding a unique and chilling dimension to the genre.
Planning Your Halloween Movie Tour:
- Research: Start with a list of movies filmed in Lafayette, then explore online resources and local guides for specific locations.
- Visit: Explore the historic buildings and sites featured in these films, soaking in the spooky atmosphere.
- Experience: Don't forget to visit the Lafayette Cemetery, with its eerie grandeur and whispers of a haunting past.
- Dress Up: Embrace the spirit of Halloween with a spooky costume, adding to the fun and mystique of the tour.
As you walk the streets of Lafayette, remember that the city's history is interwoven with the magic of film. This Halloween, take a trip through Lafayette's haunted movie locations and experience the chills and thrills of a spooky adventure. It's a unique way to celebrate the season and discover the hidden secrets of this enchanting city.