The Legend of the Bell Witch is a well-known folklore story that originated in Tennessee in the early 19th century. The story revolves around the Bell family who experienced a series of unexplained supernatural events. It is said that the witch, believed to be the ghost of Kate Batts, took vengeance on John Bell and his family. The events began in 1817 when the family started hearing strange noises and disturbances in their farmhouse. The disturbances escalated over time, with the witch displaying physical manifestations such as pulling hair, slapping, and even scratching the family members. The witch targeted John Bell in particular, often tormenting and physically assaulting him.
Year: 2006 Director: Courtney Solomon Web Site: http://www.anamericanhaunting.com I kept two key things in mind while watching this movie: 1) they don't say it is a true story, they only say that it is BASED on a true story, and 2) there is a disclaimer at the end of the movie, stating that the ending is one of many possible outcomes and that the legend remains unsolved. I also reminded myself that it's not a "horror" movie, but simply a ghost story; horror movies and ghost stories are not the same thing. " A n American Haunting" does not follow the actual legend well. Even John Bell's death was portrayed differently, as was Kate Batts' role in the legend (assuming the real Mrs. Batts even played a role to begin with, which is debatable). Many key parts of the legend were missing; e.g., Andrew Jackson, Dr. Mize, the witch family, the revival, the stockings, the simultaneous sermons, the slaves' encounters, etc. I thought the acting was very good as a whole. I was especially impressed with the actress who played Kate Batts. While I don't agree with the script and storyline given to Kate Batts, the actress looked the part and had a very nasty disposition. I was also impressed with Sutherland and Spacek's performances, but I expected nothing less from them. I was disappointed in Rachel Hurd-Wood's performance, however. Her face and hair were too model-like and not pioneer-like, and her twists and jolts looked more like she was "acting them out" as opposed to actually experiencing them. I was very impressed with James D'arcy's performance as Richard Powell. Although he wasn't scripted to be dignified and pompous like the real Richard Powell, he looked the part and his disposition was right.
com I kept two key things in mind while watching this movie 1 they don t say it is a true story, they only say that it is BASED on a true story, and 2 there is a disclaimer at the end of the movie, stating that the ending is one of many possible outcomes and that the legend remains unsolved. I will admit that they have a really good soundtrack but they could have saved themselves some embarrassment and just put that CD out and left it at that.
The witch targeted John Bell in particular, often tormenting and physically assaulting him. The witch was also known for her ability to speak and communicate with the family. She would engage in conversations, quote Bible verses, and predict future events.
The Legend of the Bell Witch 2004
"I compared your film to An American Haunting on the Coast To Coast radio show last night and said that your interpretation was far more accurate and a far better production--in spite of the Hollywood treatment and Spacek and Sutherland."
- Brad Steiger, author -
"When dealing with the paranormal, the most important thing to convey is the truth. Too many take liberties with paranormal events, exaggerating them when the fact that they even occurred to begin with should be enough. "The Bell Witch Haunting" is unique in the way it sticks to the facts, and relies on the truth to provide the chills--and it delivers! This isn't a "horror film". it's a historical re-enactment of actual events that happened to actual people, and it so happens it will actually make you sleep with the light on! Bravo to Ric and Linda and their wonderful cast and crew for getting it right."
- Tim Weisberg, "Spooky Southcoast" radio show -
"I just wanted to commend you again for this wonderful film. I just got home from seeing "An American Haunting" at my local theater, and I can honestly say that it paled in comparison to your film "The Bell Witch Haunting". Not only was the story much more intriguing, but one gets much more entertainment from your film as well. about 45 minutes more! From start to finish, your film shined. Not to ruin anything, but "An American Haunting" has a very disappointing ending and I expected so much more! (Perhaps they should have viewed your film first before making theirs!). Well, anyway, thank you so much for this great DVD. I am proud to be one of the 1st to order a copy from you and I still enjoy watching it from time-to-time! Take care."
- David M. Sitbon, Philadelphia, PA -
"The movie was outstanding. I was quite impressed by the quality of the direction and the acting, as well as the attention to detail regarding the period (sets, costumes, etc). Mister White is truly a Renaissance man, and the rest of the dedicated cast and crew deserve high praise as well. I'm somewhat familiar with the legend of the Bell Witch, and was pleasantly surprised by the accuracy of the screenplay. The DVD production was excellent. What a wonderful "behind the scenes" feature documentary! I've a large number of DVDs in my collection, but The Bell Witch Haunting is one of the best investments I've ever made and truly delivers a lot of content for the small investment. Looking forward to more from Willing Hearts in the future!!"
- Dennis Jones -
"This is a story that should have been captured in film a long time ago. Thank you for having the insight to do so. You have done an excellent job of staying true to the story. This is truly one of the best stories ever told and I cherish the fact that I can now view it and share it with others. I grew up in neighboring Cheatham county and recall having the book and hearing the tales as a young boy and later on in years. I actually visited the farm and cave and had the opportunity to sit with Mr. Eden as he told me tales that sent goose bumps all over me. Thank you so much for your hard work and commitment to the excellence of this movie. I'm 51 yrs. of age now and you have brought those goose bumps back once again. Thank you. "
- Mike Berlin -
" I just want to let you know after watching "The Bell Witch Haunting" DVD recently, and after watching "An American Haunting" in the local theater last night, I can say with certainty that your version of the story was much better. Your movie is more factual, more believable and offers much more detail about the story but is not overdone. I enjoyed the storyline of your movie more. An American Haunting was too simplified and monotonous even though they had a fairly large budget with well known actors in it. The effects in An American Haunting were fairly good, but I feel that you have outdone Hollywood with your version overall."
- Gary Bell (Somewhat distant relative of John Bell) -
"I've been meaning to write you for sometime . I purchased the Bell Witch Haunting and loved every minute of it. Masterful job! The whole thing was mesmerizing and engaging. And now I'm equally excited to purchase a copy of Poe . makes me want to go up there and be in your next movie. Keep up the good work!! Big fan in Florida!"
- Michael Clinkenbeard -
"I'm a big fan of your work and have purchased both of your DVD's, "The Bell Witch Haunting" and "Nightmares from the Mind of Poe," the last one of which I found extremely entertaining and very well done. Bravo! I also saw the other film that was made about the Bell Witch, I think it was titled, "An American Haunting," which I found horribly done. In my opinion, you can't even compare the two. Even though the big "Hollywood" version had a big name or two attached to it, it still didn't quite capture the feel that your film captured. The period piece and especially the wardrobe and costumes in your version were all top notch. I hope that you have something coming up, as I have thoroughly enjoyed all the Ric White films that have come from Willing Hearts Productions."
- Steve Dryden -
"I got the movie in this morning , great job! I enjoyed it . I liked it better then American Haunting. That one just didn’t explain the story right, like this one did ..thanks."
- Bob Williams -
"Thank you. thank you. thank you. Thank you so much for making this movie. I recently ordered your version of the bell witch along with the 'other' independent company's version and although theirs arrived first. yours was worth the wait. I will admit that they have a really good soundtrack but they could have saved themselves some embarrassment and just put that CD out and left it at that. Your movie had good actors and it was actually scary, their movie was like a bad unsolved mysteries re-enactment without the scare factor. Good music and beautiful scenery does not make a good movie. good writing, good acting and the ability to frighten your viewers does. I mean come on. it's a freaking ghost story not a poorly taught history lesson. As for the Hollywood done movie, I can't say much. I'm a big fan of Sissy Spacek and Donald Sutherland. I mean come on. it's Loretta freakin' Lynn and the guy who showed us his butt in animal house. What more could you ask for? Anyways, thank you again."
- Christine Tartt -
"I purchased the DVD a year and a half or so ago and thought it was very true to the Bell With Story that I've read and grew up hearing being from Tennessee. This movie was way better than the current movie out on the Big Screen "American Haunting". They left out so many details and tid bits. It has nothing on the Bell Witch Hauthing Movie. Thanks."
- Donna Tokarski -
Come join me in October and get in the Halloween spirit!
"I compared your film to An American Haunting on the Coast To Coast radio show last night and said that your interpretation was far more accurate and a far better production--in spite of the Hollywood treatment and Spacek and Sutherland."
The witch's voice was described as high-pitched and eerily terrifying. The witch's presence extended beyond the Bell family. She interacted with visitors and became a notorious figure in the community. News about the haunting spread, attracting curious individuals who wanted to witness the events for themselves. Some witnesses claimed to hear the witch's voice and experience physical attacks. The Bell Witch phenomena lasted for several years, until John Bell's death in 1820. The witch is said to have taken credit for his death. Afterward, the attacks gradually ceased, with the witch finally leaving the Bell family alone. The legend of the Bell Witch continues to capture the imagination of people to this day. It has been the subject of books, documentaries, and even a 2004 horror film called "An American Haunting." Whether the events were truly supernatural or simply a product of folklore and imagination, the legend persists as a chilling tale of a vengeful spirit and the impact it had on one family..
Reviews for "Ghosts and Spirits: The Legacy of the Bell Witch"
1. John - 2/5
I was really looking forward to watching "The Legend of the Bell Witch," but I have to say I was quite disappointed. The storyline was confusing, and the acting was subpar at best. The movie failed to build any suspense or create a creepy atmosphere. The special effects were poorly executed, and it felt like a low-budget production. Overall, I found it to be a forgettable and uninspiring horror film.
2. Sarah - 2/5
I had high hopes for "The Legend of the Bell Witch," but sadly, it didn't live up to my expectations. The pacing was incredibly slow, and it felt like nothing significant was happening for long stretches of time. The characters were poorly developed, and their motivations were unclear. Additionally, the scares were predictable and lacked originality. On the positive side, the cinematography was decent, but that wasn't enough to salvage the overall mediocre experience.
3. Mark - 1/5
"The Legend of the Bell Witch" was an absolute disaster. The acting was cringe-worthy, with actors delivering their lines in a monotone and unconvincing manner. The film relied heavily on jump scares, which became repetitive and lost their impact quickly. Furthermore, the plot lacked coherence and failed to provide a satisfying resolution. I found myself constantly checking the time, hoping for the film to end. Save yourself the disappointment and skip this one.