IFH 782: Turning Holiday Cheer into Chills: The Shaker Brothers’ Journey Behind Killer Christmas

Indie Film Hustle® - A Filmmaking Podcast

When two brothers decide to turn their holiday traditions into a cinematic thrill, they step into a world where creativity is born from the mundane. On today's episode, we welcome Peter Paul and Tony Shaker, the innovative minds behind the indie horror film Killer Christmas. With the echoes of sleigh bells and the flicker of holiday lights, they invite us into their journey of making an 80-minute feature film against all odds.The Shaker brothers, hailing from New Jersey, embraced the modern age of filmmaking, proving that artistry no longer demands lavish sets or big studios. As Peter Paul aptly put it, “You can do this from anywhere, even in the middle of nowhere, if you're willing to put in the work.” From scriptwriting in their basement to editing with Adobe Premiere Pro, their story is an anthem for resourcefulness and determination.What began as a family tradition of Christmas tree cutting in western New Jersey blossomed into a creative spark. They envisioned an eerie story of a derelict retreat house and a masked Santa slashing through the cheer. This whimsical yet haunting idea became the bedrock of Killer Christmas. The brothers’ vision materialized with long hours of planning, meticulous scriptwriting, and a bold decision—Tony quit his day job to chase the dream of making their first feature film.Filming on a shoestring budget came with its own set of hurdles. The Adler Hotel in Sharon Springs, New York, served as the perfect abandoned setting, but its ominous atmosphere wasn’t just cinematic. The brothers encountered mysterious sounds, unexplained footprints, and eerie vibrations during their shoot. "It felt like the hotel was alive," Tony shared, reflecting on the uncanny experiences that added an authentic layer of unease to their film.From securing a location to overcoming sound challenges, the Shakers demonstrated that passion is the ultimate tool. They shot through snowstorms and frigid nights, relying on ingenuity and collaboration. Their DIY approach extended to props and effects—crafting realistic rubber weapons and digitally adding blood effects in post-production to adhere to safety and insurance standards.
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