In the late 2000s, following the cancellation of its theatrical release, Michael
Dougherty’s iconic Halloween anthology "Trick 'r Treat" was accompanied by a
series of promotional short films that were just as iconic as the popular
feature film.
The Rules of Halloween.
On October 6, 2009, as part of the film's physical release, Warner Home Video
and Legendary Pictures released four promotional shorts focusing on the rules
of Halloween.
"Trick 'r Treat" Rule #1: Wear a Costume.
"Trick ‘r Treat" Rule #2 - Always Pass Out Treats.
"Trick 'r Treat" Rule #3 - Never Blow Out a Jack O' Lantern.
"Trick 'r Treat" Rule #4: Always Check Your Candy.
The FEARnet Bumpers.
Following the massive success of “Trick 'r Treat” in 2009, the cable
television channel FEARnet (a U.S. network dedicated exclusively to horror
that operated until 2014) acquired the rights to air the film. And so, on
Halloween 2011, the network held a 24-hour nonstop marathon of the film,
during which five promotional shorts were produced and aired during the
marathon’s commercial breaks. To ensure that the quality and visual style were
identical to the film, Dougherty returned to the director’s chair and brought
back his trusted team: producer Zach Shields, composer Douglas Pipes, and,
most importantly, the practical effects studio MastersFX to operate Sam.
Later, in 2013, a sixth short film based on the movie's universe was released,
this time with a Christmas theme, as part of the network's special programming
to keep the brand active outside of the October season (they often used
“Halfway to Halloween” events or winter-themed marathons).
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