Though I’ve always been deeply intrigued by spooky folklore, I’ve seldom took the time to explore it. Prior to watching Seth Breedlove’s latest documentary, The Mark of the Bell Witch (2020), my only exposure to the subject matter was via Mercyful Fate. Having been familiar with Breedlove’s previous work (namely On the Trail of Bigfoot (2019), which I simply adored), I had an inclination I’d love this one just as much as his last – I’m happy to report that I was indeed correct.
The Bell Witch Haunting is a legend that occurred in the town of Adams, Tennessee a century ago. Though variations of the tale exist, they all centre around the torment carried out by malicious spirits against the Bell family. It is said that the haunting spanned from 1817 up until 1821, and that it grew progressively more hostile with time. What began with unusual noises eventually evolved into threatening voices and grotesque apparitions. If that was not terrifying enough, it is said that physical attacks became the norm for the Bell family as well – A true blue poltergeist, though poltergeist phenomenon would not be introduced into ghost-lore until the 1950s.
Utilizing the knowledge of a multitude of historians, every variation of the tale is given it’s due. Furthermore, the cinematic aspect is absolutely mesmerizing. Whereas several documentaries focused on similar content frequently come off as cheap and mundane, The Mark of the Bell Witch is anything but. Stylish, haunting scene recreations allow this non-fictitious exploration of folklore feel like a true-blue horror flick at times, which is beyond satisfying upon considering that this serves primarily as an educational viewing experience.
It was also incredibly interesting observing how the tiny town of Adams has not only embraced their supernatural heritage, but bonded over it. With a mere population of 600 people, it is oddly wholesome observing a community become close-knit over such peculiarities. I believe this to be yet another positive of this documentary – Not only does it explore every inch of the legend, it explores the lasting residual effects of it.
What I appreciate the most about the work of Breedlove is the absence of an agenda. Viewers aren’t to be swayed to believe nor deny the tales, but simply to enjoy them. Whether you believe in the supernatural, The Mark of the Bell Witch provides a brief window of time where one can suspend their preconceived notions and wax on what-ifs. What if it was real? What if it was all bullshit? Either way, it cannot be denied – it is one hell of a good story.
The Mark of the Bell Witch is now available on VOD & Blu-Ray – do yourself a favour and check it out!