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2010 Mars Haunted House - CLOSED- Event Reviews


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8 total reviews. Showing 7 of 8 on this page (1 filtered).

Page 1

Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by DarkWolf1088 (Newbie Review Crew Member) after attending on Friday, October 22, 2010 at about 4 p.m.

Fun Factor: Very High Fear Factor: High

Review


Well all I can say is WOW! This haunt is branded as the best in Milwaukee and now I have seen that not only is this true but why it deserves this title. I have to tell you now that I had to go through this haunt TWICE in order to take in all the work that this haunt has put into its house. I was amazed.



I was most impressed that this haunt really relies on its actors. I have seen too many haunts that have turned to relying on animatronics and not on actors that to see what the Mars actors were capable of was extremely refreshing. I spoke with the manager of the haunt who you could tell is proud of his actors, as he should be. These actors will absolutely blow your mind!



Next to the actors the haunt's scenes and sets were just as impressive. You really could not tell that you were in an old office building. The sets were so expansive and well made that it was hard to focus on anything else. I sometimes found myself just starring at the scenes and of course the actors used this time to their advantage.



A lot of hard work was put into this haunt. Everything looks as if it was done for a Hollywood horror movie...the makeup, the sets, the lighting...everything. Needless to say I really enjoyed this haunt.



The level of passion that those who work this haunt is really admirable. They really help to set the tone of the haunt. Depending on the person this passion is going to build up sweet anticipation or dread of what is to come. Either way it is quite a thrill.



Simply put these guys go all out and it provides for one heck of a ride!

Signage / Visibility / Location


You cannot miss the location of this haunt. No matter what direction you are coming from once you are on Historic Mitchell Street just look for the hearse, with smoke coming out of it, parked in front of a liquor store. Further you will definitely see the creeps and ghouls from the haunt waiting outside for you! If you miss it you probably need your vision checked :p

Note: Do not worry about parking. There are ample places to park including the street. You will see parking meters but those only run up to 6PM on any given night so no need to worry about spare change.

Wait Area / Line Entertainment


Although the line was not incredibly long when I arrived the haunt had a system set-up to control the line's movement. The haunt also had a few of its creeps and ghouls out and about taunting and teasing those awaiting entrance. For most it was entertaining and for others it was freaking them out...which was also enjoyable. Finally the haunt moved people through very quickly. I got in line and only ended up waiting about 4 minutes. Thus, this haunt is one of the few where the wait, itself, is also entertaining.

Actors' Performance


One word...AMAZING! The actors at Mars really put their all into their performance. They really got into character. Both my dad and I spoke with actors and they only replied as their character would let them. If their character could speak then they only replied with how their type of character could reply. It really was like watching a movie.

Further these men and women NEVER faltered or got tired. Even my second time through...30 minutes later...these guys were still going at it strong. These actors are dedicated! It was the actors that made the haunt. The sets and scenes only complimented their actions...which is how it should be.

As I already mentioned the best part with these actors is that you could interact with them which pulled you even further into the experience. If there was an Oscar Award Show for haunted houses I would give each of these actors an Oscar. It was just that amazing. You have to go and check these guys out. You will be impressed.

Finally these actors know how to scare. They know when to jump out and they know when hide in the shadows. These actors are good!

Also I have to give a shout out to two female actors that really stuck with their roles. The girl playing the statue and the girl playing the crawler. Excellent job!

Sets Scenes / Props / FX


Again...excellent. The sets, scenes, props, and effects used in this haunt all appeared as if they were out of Hollywood. The haunt really knows how to immerse you into their world. Finally they know how use their sets to foster the best scare possible.

All I will leave you with is that there are PLENTY of places for actors to pop out of and hide in.

Length


The length was great. The whole thing took about 30 minutes. You really do get the bang for your buck with this haunt.

Crowd Control


No problems here. The haunt had a ropes cordoning off where to stand. Further a Milwaukee police officer was on hand to assure that everyone had a good time.

Most Memorable Moment


Easily the most memorable moment is my first interaction with an actor. I cannot say enough about how good the Mars actors are. You can really interact with them and the interaction will always be different. It really makes for quite an experience.

Summary

From beginning to end this haunt immerses you into their world. I promise you that even when the haunt is over you will likely find one last scare to be had. This haunt is definitely the best in Milwaukee. A 5 out 5 across the board. If you are out to go to a haunted house this Halloween you have to make Mars Haunted House one of your stops.

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by bunnehop after attending on Thursday, October 21, 2010 at about 3 p.m.

Fun Factor: Medium Fear Factor: Low

Review

I went to this haunt not expecting much from the previous reviews,but was intrigued by the location. So a friend of mine and I went to check it out.
Actors' Performance
The stayed in character well, some spots were way too dark to appreciate the time they had taken to do their makeup. One man in particular was by for the creepiest of all! He was an large man and just creepy even the sounds he makes. They did seem to be short quite a few actors as well, we went on a thursday so maybe that was part of it.
Sets Scenes / Props / FX
The utilized their small spaces well, however with some constructive criticism; they had way too much stuff hanging from the ceiling. It was over kill! The meat room where the man offered us some guts was priceless. I asked for some but the spoon was empty.The actors are great at standing still to look like statues etc. so beware!
Length
12-15 minutes. I wish I couldv'd done another go around just to see alot more of the props. Which were very neat.
Crowd Control
Waiting line is clearly roped off and patrolled frequently by ghouls. Yet there was no line when we went.
Most Memorable Moment
I'd have to say the large creepy guy with his belly hanging out. He was pretty awesome.

Summary

It's overall a good sight, kind of short for the money though, other haunts do seem to take longer to get through. I didn't get scared once and I'm female. So was looking form them to pick on me more. I led the entire time and still didn't get a scare, I was disappointed over all.

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by btweezy414 after attending on Saturday, October 16, 2010 at about 2:30 p.m.

Fun Factor: Medium Fear Factor: High

Review

We arrived at the haunt around 7:30ish. Place was easy to find, and from what I can tell only street parking. There was a line of probably 20 people, so not bad. They had 2 or 3 creatures lurking around which is always fun. The line was not far enough back but when it got busier I’m sure, the winding part of the line had a nice size screen with an old horror movie playing on it to entertain those in line. So after about 15 minutes or so of waiting it was our turn. We went up the stairs to the ticket both and purchased our tickets. The couple in front of us could not pay as they did not accept credit cards. So we got placed in group with 2 others making ours a group of 4. The rooms are a little small but the actors made good use of them and really stayed in character. Everything was going really well, until bout half way thru we caught up with what seemed 2 other groups. We tried to delay it some but still caught up to them in the next room and eventually it was a 15 person or so back up. Which can be a major buzz killer. It continued to be stop and go the rest of the way thru.

Summary

Overall I thought the house was nicely setup and the actors are placed well within the sets. Minus the timing problem we ran into in the middle I would recommend this house. It took around 15 minutes to go thru….

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by gregory_carlson (Newbie Review Crew Member) after attending on Saturday, October 16, 2010 at about 4:30 p.m.

Fun Factor: Very High Fear Factor: Medium

Review

Do you like to interact with lots of actors who just ooze (sometimes literally) Halloween?  If you like all of that in an intimate setting full of creepy scenes then make sure you visit Mar's Haunted House.


I feel it is important to note that you should not judge this haunt by it's 'cover', it may not be impressive at first glance but once you are inside prepare yourself for an experience you probably won't find elsewhere.  Mar's has quite a few mature actors that really work their areas, whether it be to scare, surprise and have you laughing (or all of them at the same time).

The passageways throughout are narrow, uneven and FILLED with everything imaginable and quite a few things I don't want to imagine again after seeing them.  I had props, scenery and actors constantly in my face or at my ankles.  Some of the scenes were better than others but the actors are really what make this haunt and they should be an example to other haunts.  Get good people, keep them year after year and let them grow into their parts and become GREAT haunters.

Everyone has ideal things that they look for in a haunt, and while I really like to be scared I also like to be entertained by people that are enjoying themselves just as much.  Mar's might not be the scariest haunt you'll visit but it may be the most fun you'll have getting scared.

Signage / Visibility / Location


It was the only place where you could see long lines of people waiting by a hearse right in Milwaukee.

Wait Area / Line Entertainment


The wait was over 40+ minutes and curbside.  There isn't any seating, that I saw, but there are a number of creatures and characters walking through the area to keep you entertained.  There was also a movie showing if you were on that side of the building waiting.

Actors' Performance


I don't know that there wasn't an actor that didn't hit their marks, scare or surprise at least one person in our group AND provide some of the best one-lines and come backs in any Haunt I've been to.

Sets Scenes / Props / FX


The overall atmosphere was very intimate, creepy and kept me off balance.  They really make the best use of the space they have, as all of it was filled to the hilt with detailed scenes, a few static and animatronic props but more than anything it was filled with LOTS of actors.

Length


About 15 minutes will get you through the haunt, some of the best parts are when you are stopped, waiting for the next scene to empty and you are left with the actors in the area.

Crowd Control


The Mar's staff and police were present and in control.  The lines were well managed as well as incoming foot traffic walking to the haunt.

Most Memorable Moment


There was a scene with a small room with a bed in the floor and a bearded man dressed as woman in full gown.  His dowdy gown was backless, displaying his hairy back while he kept us entertained with humorous & witty conversation (and maybe creeped out a little) while he 'managed' the traffic.  There were many other fantastic interactions throughout.

Summary

If you're in Milwaukee you really need to visit one of the oldest haunts in the area.  You'll have a great time and won't regret it.

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by LadyScarlet after attending on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at about 3 a.m.

Fun Factor: Very High Fear Factor: Very High

Review

I have been to Mars Haunted House before but I must say they really outdid themselves this year. The sets were very painstakingly detailed from what i saw whoever designed the sets took great care in making each room come to life. The lighting for each room was very well done to compliment each scene that always keeps you guessing what will come up next.

The acting and performances were very intense and in your face which they are not afraid to do. Each one did an amazing job. One in partiular got me and (though i dont want to spoil anything i must say) the lady before the Egyptian room dubbed "The Statue" or the "Stone Lady" did an incredible job. i thought she was a maniquin. Though you dont have to take my word for it its better if you see it yourself.

The Crowd control was very well handled though they dont just leave you waiting bored outside. They have monsters who roam the lines and entertain you getting you pumped up for the excitment ahead. Never a dull moment at this haunt!

Summary

All in all id say this Haunted house is most definatly reaching its peek on the scare and entertainment factor. Look no further then the greatest haunt in the mitchell area. i would definatly come back again and again!

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by OnceBitten after attending on Sunday, October 10, 2010 at about 3 p.m.

Fun Factor: Very High Fear Factor: High

Review

I really loved this house. It was totally new and fresh this year.
The wait was not long, the outside monsters were great and really freaked my friend out. The house as a whole was just great. Great detail, great scares, and terrific actors.

I always love this house and I was really impressed with the total transformation it took this year. A lot of work and talent went into it and I highly advise you to go check it out!

Summary

What a way to start out my Haunted House tours for the year. It was a great show and I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it.

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by HocusPocus (Newbie Review Crew Member) after attending on Friday, October 1, 2010 at about 3 p.m.

Fun Factor: Very High Fear Factor: Very High

Review


This haunt has undergone nearly a complete transformation for 2010! The location has remained the same, a haunted hearse continues to be parked directly in front of the entrance and a few familiar fiends can be found roaming around outside and inside this haunt. Beyond that the horrific experience that lurks within this haunt has been completely redone.



Traditionally I have declared this attraction to be Milwaukee's Scariest haunt. This year's edition of the Mars Haunted House once again makes a really strong case to continue as the area's top attraction. If you've enjoyed Mars in the past you certainly won't be disappointed this year. If you haven't, the new sets and techno-scares that have been added this year are definitely worth checking out.



If you're looking to totally immerse yourself into a nightmarishly good time, look no further. This year's Mars Haunted House offers an even more interactive experience than in the past. Sets and passage ways are elaborately decorated with a keen attention to detail to provide ample visual stimulation. Encounters with ghouls seeking not only to scare the bajeebus out of you but also to creep you out make for both a bloodcurdling and chilling experience.



If you're into evaluating haunts with your senses you might find this helpful:


* Sight: Elaborate sets with great attention to detail. Lighting and special effects were frequently used to surprise me even though I was expecting it.


*Sound: Superb! The sound experience allowed me to become totally immersed in many of the rooms….especially immediately upon entering this haunt!


* Smell: Believe it or not I think there were sets that intentionally smelled a little musty (like BO or perfume) to compliment the scene. Interesting thought...if Barn yard Bob is chasing you around with an ax why shouldn't he smell like one?


* Touch: Nothing special on this front...although there are haunts that venture into this realm.

Signage / Visibility / Location


If the hearse parked by the front door and the elaborately dressed ghouls meandering along the sidewalk don't catch your attention you may be dead already...but if you're not you probably wouldn't be the first person to drive past the site.

Wait Area / Line Entertainment


Be on the watch for Violator! Words won't do justice for this ghoul…but trust me, when you encounter Violator you'll know it! Also, if you happen to encounter Stitches try not to make him laugh…you won't be able to get the experience out of your head…

In summary, elaborately dressed ghouls interact with you to heighten your anticipation while you wait to enter. The waiting line is all outdoors...so dressing for the weather may be a good idea if you're attending during peak haunting hours.

Actors' Performance


Solid! Some hilariously funny, others ghastly scary. (I'd love to name a few of the characters that were portrayed but I find the element of surprise to be priceless...go and check it out for yourself!)

Sets Scenes / Props / FX


Definitely worth checking out! With the total immersion and interaction with the actors and sound in each room it's very easy to miss some of the attention to detail found in each room....but there are plenty of outstanding effects to keep you visually entertained if the acting isn't grabbing 100% of your attention.

At the risk of giving away one of the best effects found at this haunt I will offer only two words…”Laser Vortex”. Check it out!

Length


12-15 minutes. I actually went through this haunt twice. Duration is dependent upon the amount of interaction you have with the ghouls and the time you spend admiring the attention to detail found on the sets and passage ways.

Crowd Control


Waiting line is clearly roped off and patrolled frequently by ghouls.

Most Memorable Moment


SPOILER ALERT! ...reading this section will definitely give away one of the surprises of this year’s haunt…

Challenging to pick just one “moment”…noteworthy is the opening passage way experience that really gets this haunt rocking.

Without a doubt though, what has left me a bit unhinged since the Mars experience was the totally twisted and disturbingly funny interaction with “Princess” (a.k.a. “bubbles” from 2009) For my first tour of Mars “Princess” was looking for someone to play Radio Repair Man…coming back through this room a second time in the same evening has definitely left me a bit warped.

Summary

An outstanding attraction! Completely redone this year. If you've enjoyed Mars in the past you certainly won't be disappointed this year. If you haven't, the new sets and techno-scares that have been added this year are definitely worth checking out. Traditionally Mars Haunted House has my vote for the best haunt in Milwaukee….and this year's edition has made a strong case to remain on top!

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Please note: this review is for the 2010 season rather than the current season.

Mars Haunted House - CLOSED-

by spookshow_babe (Newbie Review Crew Member) after attending on Saturday, October 2, 2010 at about 5 p.m.

Fun Factor: High Fear Factor: Medium

Review


This will be my 8th year visiting the ghouls and goblins at The Mars Haunted House and what I can tell you is that every year I have been impressed with the set designs and the actors performances!



The atmosphere starts before you even enter the haunt, the actors in line are ready to tease and taunt you to get you ready for the scares inside. The haunt does a very good job at making you feel afraid once you make your way into the first room and they tell you the history of the building REALLY being haunted as floor boards rattle violently beneath your feet.



As you make your way through the creepy hallways you can hear monsters lurking in the dark and getting ready to scare you. The great thing about Mars Haunted House is they build up your anticipation before the scare happens, and most of the time it will come when you least expect it! I love that the actors will follow you into the dark hallways slamming on the walls and yelling at you to make sure you are afraid, this is always that "little something extra" that impresses me in haunted houses.



There are very well designed rooms throughout the haunt that make you feel like you are in another world and keep you distracted from the scare up ahead. The make up effects and masks are top notch, even when they get in your face, which they are not afraid to do, and you see all the blood and decay! One of the best things in this haunt is halfway through they add a bit of humor to lighten the mood a bit, it is a great way to calm you down just before the last few scares! I recommend this haunted house to anyone who enjoys a great creepy atmosphere and good actors that are ready to stop at nothing to scare even the bravest of souls!

Signage / Visibility / Location


The location is easy to find if you google map it. It is pretty much right off the highway. There was a sign on the building and a hearse right outside to help you find it.

Wait Area / Line Entertainment


The line was short when I went, but they had an actor outside in a GREAT mask that did a good job in that short time to entertain me with his wits.

Actors' Performance


All the actors did an outstanding job of getting into character and using unique ways in the room to scare me! I love that they followed me down the dark hallways and were not afraid to get in my face!

Sets Scenes / Props / FX


The sets were very detailed and well thought out and the props were placed appropriately to build suspense.

Length


It took me about 30 minutes to get through the haunt.

Crowd Control


They did a great job of making sure that the crowds were small and that they would not run into eachother inside the haunt.

Most Memorable Moment


My favorite moment was halfway through the haunt when one of the actors worked with another actor to add some funny elements to the haunted house. It was unexpected and distracted me from the scares up ahead!

Summary

The atmosphere was great, the sets were really creepy, the make up fx were very well done and all the actors did a fantastic job! I highly recommend this haunt!

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