The Stanley Hotel in Colorado, renowned for its eerie ambiance and historical significance, is set to host the highly anticipated Stanley Film Festival starting May 2nd. This event promises a thrilling lineup of horror films, both classic and contemporary, and will honor notable figures in the genre. With its rich history and connection to Stephen King's "The Shining," the Stanley Hotel provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of horror cinema.
The Stanley Hotel, located in Estes Park, Colorado, is one of America's most infamous haunted locations. Opened in 1909 by Freelan Oscar Stanley, the hotel has a storied past filled with ghostly tales and paranormal activity. The hotel's eerie reputation reached new heights when it inspired Stephen King to write "The Shining," a novel that would later be adapted into a critically acclaimed film starring Jack Nicholson.
Stephen King and his wife stayed at the Stanley Hotel in 1974, where they were the only guests due to the hotel's off-season. This experience, combined with the hotel's haunting atmosphere, inspired King to write "The Shining." The novel, published in 1977, follows a writer who descends into madness while staying at a remote hotel with his family. The 1980 film adaptation, directed by Stanley Kubrick, remains one of the most iconic horror films of all time.
The Stanley Film Festival, debuting in 2013, aims to celebrate the horror genre by showcasing a diverse range of films from various filmmakers. The festival will feature everything from low-budget indie films to classic horror masterpieces, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents.
This year's festival will honor Eli Roth with the 2013 Visionary Award. Roth, known for his work on films like "Cabin Fever" and "Hostel," will present an exclusive director's cut of "Cabin Fever" followed by a Q&A session. Additionally, Roth will attend the premiere of "AfterShock," a film he co-wrote and stars in, directed by Nicolás López.
The festival will also feature a remake of the 1980 cult horror film "Maniac," starring Elijah Wood and directed by Franck Khalfoun. Set in modern-day New York, the film follows a disturbed individual with a gruesome habit of scalping his victims.
Another highly anticipated film is "The Purge," directed by James DeMonaco. Set in a dystopian future where the government allows a 24-hour period of lawlessness to prevent societal collapse, the film explores the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones during this chaotic time.
In addition to contemporary films, the festival will screen classic horror films like "The Haunted Castle" (1896) by Georges Méliès, considered the first horror film in recorded history. This silent film will provide a nostalgic look at the origins of the horror genre.
John Cullen, Founder and President of the Grand Heritage Hotel Group, expressed his excitement for the festival, stating, "The Stanley Hotel is iconic not only for being one of the great historic hotels of our country, but also for the inspiration it gives to its fans. From the making of 'The Shining' to the one million people that have toured the hotel in the last three years…it has inspired generations."
Festival Director Jenny Bloom added, "It’s an honor to join the Stanley Film Festival team in its inaugural year and build a prestigious cinematic event specifically for the horror genre. The Stanley Hotel's history with Hollywood and real paranormal activity makes it such a natural fit for an annual celebration of film."
With its unique blend of history, horror, and cinematic excellence, the Stanley Film Festival is poised to become a beloved tradition for horror enthusiasts. The presence of industry icons like Eli Roth and the screening of both new and classic films ensure an unforgettable experience for attendees.
For those seeking an even more immersive horror experience, Eli Roth's Goretorium in Las Vegas offers a terrifying haunted house attraction. This year-round horror experience, crafted by Roth himself, allows visitors to step into their own slasher film and face their deepest fears. Don't miss the chance to experience true terror at the Goretorium.
With the Stanley Film Festival's debut, horror fans have much to look forward to. From honoring legends like Eli Roth to showcasing groundbreaking films, this event is set to become a cornerstone of horror cinema celebrations.
