Home haunts around Orange County are few and far between this early in the season; most do not open up until the week before or are only open 1 night (Halloween). So when we had the opportunity to check out HauntWorx in Brea this early in the season we jumped on it. Originally we set out to go through the Saw maze in Brea a second time to re-review it; but circumstances led us to this haunt instead Saturday night.
The outside décor is great and a large movie screen above the haunt entrance provides some great entertainment in the way of B-Movie clips for line waiters (there are also monsters wandering around). The setup reminds me of an old backwoods shack and pulls you into the haunt from the get go. Once inside the theme continues in what can be best described as “Inbred Family” similar to what has been used in horror movies such as Texas Chainsaw Massacre and The Hills Have Eyes. Being that this is the first haunt I have ever seen use this theme I must say I think this is one of the most original and unique ideas for a haunt.
The haunt itself winds through the backyard area of a home and lasts for about 8 min. The attention to detail throughout the haunt is incredible and would give most pro haunts a run for their money. The lighting within the haunt also was superb and kept you guessing where the monsters were at. The only place where this haunt lacked was in the acting. While most actors were great there were a few “boos” and “rawrs” herd within the maze. This did not detract much from the maze but it did in some parts. I did have an opportunity to talk with the haunts owner afterwards and he let me know that some of his actors were out and he had some neighborhood kids inside helping out. Again this is a home haunt and is to be expected, I think those of us with any experience in home haunting know how difficult it is to find great actors.
I think this has become my new favorite home haunt. If you are in the area and have a chance be sure to check it out; And if you are checking out the Saw maze these guys are right down the street and well worth the time and money. At only $5 to get in (and the money goes to CHOC) you can’t beat this haunt. This is definitely on my short list of recommended haunts this season.
Overall I would normally give this haunt a 4 out 5 but, as a home haunt I feel the need to handicap it a bit (home haunts generally have less to work with and in my mind can’t be judged the same as a Pro-Haunt) so my overall score is 4.5 out of 5.
Summary:
Pros:
- Décor inside and out really pulls you in from the street right away
- Attention to detail in all aspects of the haunt
- Use of sound / lighting / environment
Cons:
- Actors a little week in some areas
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