The 2006 animated horror comedy film Monster House is considered a classic in the genre. Directed by Gil Kenan, the movie tells the story of two teens working together to solve the mystery of the terrifying house on their street that seems to have a criminal life. Look at Monster House and what’s made it an enduring Halloween favorite.
The Plot
The movie centers around best friends DJ Walters and Chowder as they begin to suspect that the rotten old abandoned house across the street is alive and malicious. Locals in their town refer to the dilapidated structure as the “Monster House” due to its scary visage and the strange occurrences that always seem to happen around it.
During their investigation into the Monster House, DJ and Chowder encounter the strange older man next door, Mr. Nebbercracker, who constantly yells at kids to stay off his lawn. It becomes clear he has a personal vendetta against the Monster House and knows more about its dark secret than he lets on.
As Halloween night approaches, the boys realize the Monster House comes to life when the full moon rises, growing larger and more menacing. It sucks up anyone who wanders too close, holding its victims hostage inside. Now DJ, Chowder, and new friend Jenny must find a way to destroy the Monster House before it can gobble up the entire neighborhood on All Hallows Eve.
Memorable Characters
One aspect that makes Monster House an enduring Halloween classic is its quirky yet creepy characters. From the life-sized animated haunted house to the oddball figures that cross its path, the characters bring this story to life.
The Monster House: The main antagonist is undoubtedly one of the creepiest houses in movie history. Always watching with its little window “eyes,” it comes alive at night with a massive grinning mouth full of sharp teeth. It is genuinely terrifying for both kids and adults to watch.
Mr. Nebbercracker: Voiced to crotchety perfection by Steve Buscemi, the older man next door is paranoid and angry, constantly yelling at children. As the story unfolds, you learn why he bears such a deep grudge against the Monster House. His pivotal role in the plot gives a fun dimension beyond a one-note cranky character.
DJ Walters: Mitchell Musso voices the lead boy protagonist, who is clever and brave as he works to solve the mystery. Kids can relate to his adventuresome spirit and desire to unravel the secrets of the creepy abandoned house.
Chowder: DJ’s goofy sidekick, voiced by Sam Lerner, brings much humor. Despite all the horror, his wild antics and outlandish theories about the Monster House keep things light.
Jenny: Spencer Locke plays Jenny, DJ’s new neighbor. She provides a friendly female presence to help the boys in their mission. Her enthusiastic support of their investigation makes her a likable part of the team.
Memorable Scenes
In addition to its quirky characters, Monster House has many creepy yet fun scenes that have stayed with viewers over the years. A few that stand out include:
The Opening: The film wastes no time establishing the ominous presence of the Monster House. In the first scene, a little boy’s ball bounces into the house’s yard, only for the creature to come alive and snatch him inside. This sets an instantly unsettling tone.
The House Grows: One of the most visually compelling scenes shows the house swelling to a massive size as it prepares to feed on Halloween night. Its transformation from a dilapidated structure into a towering abomination is disturbing.
Scooby Meets His End: In a darkly comedic moment, Chowder’s dog Scooby chases a ball into the Monster House and finds himself digested. His muffled barking from inside provides both horror and black humor.
The Old Man’s Backstory: A flashback reveals the root of Mr. Nebbercracker’s hatred for the house, emotionally resonating with all his paranoid screaming. Viewers understand why he’s so dedicated to destroying the creature.
The Final Showdown: The climactic confrontation between DJ/Chowder’s team and the now humongous Monster House makes for an exciting animated thriller. Seeing the kids outwit the massive entity holds plenty of thrills.
Enduring Appeal & Sequels
Monster House has remained immensely popular since its release, gaining a devoted fanbase of kids and adults. Its clever combination of fun themes like Halloween and friendship with genuinely unsettling scares and plot twists makes it rewatchable year after year.
Beyond its movie success, Monster House spawned related video games, books, and even a potential sequel film that was announced but never materialized. Fans still hope it may eventually get made, wanting to return to this creepy animated world. Its endings also open the door for further adventures of DJ and Chowder against supernatural threats.
Regardless of any sequels, the original 2006 Monster House will continue to stand as a modern animated classic of the horror-comedy genre. With its memorable blend of likable characters, genuinely unsettling atmosphere, and creature effects, alongside heartwarming themes of friendship, it’s sure to be an enduring Halloween favorite for generations to come. Its reputation as perhaps the creepiest haunted house in movie history is well deserved.
The Cast Behind Monster House
An animated movie is only complete with talented voices bringing the characters to life. Monster House assembled a great cast that helped elevate the already creepy story.
Mitchell Musso led the cast as the brave and clever protagonist DJ Walters. At the time, Musso was rising to fame on the Disney Channel show Hannah Montana, and his performance as DJ helped make the character incredibly likable.
Sam Lerner delivered all the humor as Chowder, DJ’s goofy sidekick. Lerner perfectly captured the essence of an imaginative but easily scared young boy.
Spencer Locke rounded out the friend group as cheerful new neighbor Jenny. Locke portrayed Jenny as brave and eager to help the boys solve mysteries.
However, many fans argue the true star was Steve Buscemi as the cantankerous Mr. Nebbercracker. Buscemi is a master at playing offbeat, oddball characters, and he gives the older man a deliciously unhinged edge. Nebbercracker’s big reveal as the keeper of the Monster House’s dark secret is made all the more impactful by Buscemi’s layered voice performance.
On the animation side, animation supervisor Nicolas Marlet brought all the various creatures and setting designs to life. The Monster House looked monstrous yet tactile, with its constant shape-shifting jaw-dropping. Meanwhile, realistic character motions elevated the stakes of the climactic final battle.
The film’s voice cast and animation team indeed succeeded in translating Dwayne Johnson, Bob Murawski, and Gil Kenan’s script and vision into a beloved movie that terrified and entertained audiences for over a decade. Their collective talents are a big part of why Monster House remains such a compelling and cherished animated thriller to this day.
Exploring the Themes of Monster House
Beyond its scares and laughs, Monster House also touches on deeper themes that have resonated with viewers of all ages. At its core, it’s a story about the power of friendship and bravery in fear.
DJ and Chowder display incredible teamwork, loyalty, and problem-solving skills as they work to uncover the house’s secret. Even when in danger, they support each other. Meanwhile, Jenny’s enthusiasm represents the value of welcoming new friends.
The film shows that even average “every day” kids can triumph over seemingly impossible threats with creative thinking. DJ and Chowder outwit the more powerful Monster House using their smarts and resources rather than physical strength. It’s an empowering message of courage.
Additionally, Mr. Nebbercracker’s arc represents the importance of facing trauma rather than letting it consume you with bitterness. Only by making peace with his past can he join the kids in destroying the creature. It’s a heartwarming redemption.
The timeless themes of friendship, bravery, and empowerment, coupled with outstanding animation and scares, ensure Monster House remains a Halloween staple for all ages who can find new meaning in its story each year.
Where to Watch Monster House Movie
For those looking to experience Monster House for the first time or do an annual rewatch around Halloween, there are a few different ways to find the film:
Streaming Services: Monster House can be streamed on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. This is likely the most convenient option for modern viewers.
Blu-Ray/DVD: The movie was released on both Blu-Ray and standard DVD formats. This allows for the best video and audio quality if watching on a home theater system. Used copies can often be found affordably online.
Video Store Rentals: Some local video stores, especially ones specializing in horror, may still have Monster House available to rent on disc. This is best for those wanting the temporary option to watch without purchasing.
Television Airings: Monster House occasionally airs on cable TV channels like Cartoon Network, especially around Halloween. Check your on-screen guides for potential showings.
This animated classic’s creepy atmosphere and thrills will send chills down your spine no matter where you choose to watch. Revisiting DJ, Chowder, and Jenny’s battle against the sinister house never gets old.
Monster House Merchandise and Collectibles
The popularity of Monster House has also led to various merchandise, which is perfect for fans to display their affection for the movie. Here are some top collectible items:
Action Figures: The Monster House is represented by regular and “growing” figures. DJ, Chowder, and other characters are also made into figures.
T-Shirts: Creepy graphic tees featuring the Monster House, Mr. Nebbercracker, and other icons are widely available online.
Pop Vinyl Figures: Funko has created pop vinyl bobbleheads for DJ, Chowder, the Monster House, and more.
Prop Replicas: Some movie prop replicators sell 1:1 scale replicas of Mr. Nebbercracker’s “Beware” sign or items from his house.
Halloween Decor: Inflatable lawn decorations, yard signs, masks, and costumes let you bring the Monster House to your Halloween events.
Tracking down these collectibles is a fun way for devoted fans to showcase their fandom for this horror comedy classic all year long. The merchandise helps its legacy live on.
Could There Be a Monster House Sequel?
While the 2006 film concluded on a satisfying note, many fans have wondered if the makers of Monster House might revisit the story with a sequel one day.
Directors Gil Kenan and Robert Zemeckis have expressed interest in exploring the potential for further adventures of DJ, Chowder, and Jenny against other supernatural forces. The ending does leave that door open.
However, resurrecting a project over a decade later is rarely easy. Complicated rights issues and busy schedules have likely stalled any sequel so far.
Still, as computer animation continues advancing, a Monster House 2 could look even more photorealistic and scary than the original. The characters have also endured in popularity enough that a new story would likely find an audience.
As long as the cast and creatives feel they have a story worth telling, hope remains for DJ and Chowder’s next bone-chilling case. With the continued love for the first film, a sequel would satisfy many longtime fans if it ever comes to fruition. Only time will tell if the gang gets called back into action against another supernatural terror.
Remastered Re-Release?
With the success of remastered, updated re-releases of other classic animated films, some have speculated Monster House may receive the same treatment.
A high-definition remaster of the movie could enhance the impressive visuals and creature effects through advanced restoration. Bonus features exploring its creation may also appeal to devoted fans.
While still holding up remarkably well, a remaster would allow younger generations to discover the film in its full high-definition glory on modern screens at home. It could even provide renewed buzz that aids any potential sequel project.
Only the future will reveal if the Halloween hit deemed one of the creepiest haunted houses in movie history will someday get such an upgraded re-release celebration befitting its classic status and loyal fandom.
The Legacy and Inspiration of Monster House
Over 15 years after its release, Monster House continues to find new generations of fans and inspire other filmmakers with its creative take on the haunted house genre.
The movie became a cult classic that fans of all ages can enjoy yearly for its scares, laughs, and heart. It proved an animated film could deliver both serious thrills and emotion.
Directors who grew up loving Monster House have cited its influence, from its phenomenal creature effects to its marriage of humor with horror. The level of detail involved in crafting such a fully realized living character in Monster House itself also left an impression.
Later animated films like Hotel
Transylvania and its sequels would adopt a similar tone of mixing monster scares with family-friendly fun. The 2010s also saw a revival of animated films embracing mature horror concepts.
Even live-action works like Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle borrowed elements of a mystical structure coming to life. While different in other ways, it showed Monster House had illuminated new avenues for extending the haunted location premise.
From the memorable characters to the genius of conceptualizing a sentient threatening domicile, Rob Zemeckis and Gil Kenan tapped into a formula that has resonated across genres. Their movie remains the gold standard for animated horror.
Whether scaring a new generation each Halloween or fueling other creatives’ visions, Monster House will continue casting its long shadow over popular culture for decades. Its legacy as a one-of-a-kind haunted house story is cemented.
Monster House Events and Fan Celebrations
Given the film’s enduring popularity, Monster House fandom has found creative ways to celebrate and experience the movie in group settings.
Several cities have organized “Monster House Movie Nights,” where fans can gather at a theater, park, or drive-in to enjoy a communal film viewing. Shared excitement over favorite scenes builds community.
Fan-run Monster House conventions have featured guests such as voice actors, prop designers, and more. Panels, trivia contests, screenings, and exclusive merchandise give superfans an immersive experience.
Some enthusiastic fans have constructed real-life scale replicas of the Monster House for Halloween haunted house attractions. Walking through the towering structure with all its details is a chilling thrill ride.
Amateur horror directors have paid homage by filming their short Monster House fan films on YouTube. While low budget, they showcase fans’ passion and creativity within the source material’s universe.
With its ongoing cult following, more officially sanctioned Monster House celebrations may emerge, too. Large-scale event screenings, talent signings, or an interactive traveling exhibit could be in the future.
For now, grassroots fan gatherings keep the movie’s community alive wherever enthusiastic fans of its bold mix of scares and laughs can safely connect each Halloween season and beyond.
Monster House’s Legacy in Halloween Culture
As one of the creepiest and most memorable haunted houses in film history, Monster House has also cemented its influence in broader Halloween culture.
Every October, more Monster House-inspired costumes, decorations, and celebrations emerge, from kids dressing as characters to full-size yard displays of the towering title structure itself.
One tradition started by fans is an online “Monster House Watch Party” each Halloween night. Using social media, scattered fans synchronize playing the movie simultaneously to feel like a communal viewing.
Creative haunted house builders have taken inspiration, crafting elaborate walk-through attractions featuring life-size replications of iconic scenes—a chilling highlight for daring guests.
Artists have paid tribute through impressive fan art, tattoos, and pumpkin carving patterns depicting the film’s iconography, helping to keep Monster House memories and nightmares alive year-round.
With its nightmarish yet kid-friendly vision of terror, Monster House tapped into universal seasonal traditions in a way few other films have. Ensuring the movie remains forever intertwined with the autumn favorite holiday.
There’s no sign that the wave of annual Monster House tributes, parties, and celebrations growing each Halloween will stop anytime soon. They cement the film’s classic status for horror hounds and families alike.
Lessons Learned from Monster House
Nearly 15 years since its release, Monster House still holds valuable lessons for animators, filmmakers and storytellers today:
Blend of Tone: By skillfully mixing humor, heart, and genuine scares, the movie appealed to both kids and adults. A problematic balance few achieve.
Creative Lore: The filmmakers crafted vibrant Lore around the Monster House’s mysterious origins, enhancing replay value and extending its horror.
Character Depth: Beyond surface charms, relatable characters like DJ and Chowder had layered backstories that made their plight viscerally engaging.
Practical FX: The movie proved that even animated films can create an aura of practical effects through superb creature design and motions that feel visceral.
Heart in Horror: Even as a work of horror, Monster House found time for emotional redemption arcs that gave greater meaning beyond scares.
Revisiting Classics: By paying homage to 80s Amblin films, the movie reminded us that modern works can still draw influence from retro touchstones.
Empowering Youth: With cleverness and bravery, even average “every day” kids could unite to defeat a seemingly unstoppable force.
Animation Value: The film showed that animation is a viable medium for mature horror stories, helping broaden the types of movies made in this style.
Monster House’s enthusiastic fanbase and influence over pop culture prove it managed that unique blend almost flawlessly, leaving a longstanding model for future generations of storytellers to draw from.
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Conclusion
Over 15 years since its release, Monster House remains one of the most celebrated and downright scariest animated films ever made. It has endured in the hearts and nightmares of fans due to its irresistible blend of humor, heart, and pure horror crafted with incredible animation artistry and voice performances. By bringing the concept of a living, breathing haunted house villain to vivid life, Monster House tapped into universal fears and fantasies in a wholly original way. While sequels and re-releases have yet to materialize, the legacy of this modern Halloween classic lives on through devoted annual viewings, fan creations, and influence over subsequent works in animation and horror genres alike. For children and adults alike, the strange and scary secrets of the Monster House will undoubtedly continue to frighten and delight audiences for generations of Halloween seasons.
