There's a new movie coming out in the UK on the 5th of April called
Dark Skies - not to be confused with the UFO period drama TV series from
the early 90's (which was unfortunately cut short in its prime). Not
much is revealed about the plot, but it looks to be a very sinister and
suspenseful take on Alien Abduction and it is high on my 'must see'
list! View the trailer etc here: http://darkskiesfilm.com/
This
got me thinking into past movies on this kind of theme and how
effective they were. Close Encounters was obviously the first major
movie to tackle this subject, and while it is considered to be a classic
I was feeling a bit underwhelmed by it, I think Speilberg watered it
down and made it a bit too fantastical which let it down. I loved the
opening part and it had a lot of potential ...perhaps a remake is
possibility in the future?
Fire in the Sky was released in 1993
(possibly on the back of The X-Files beginning to hit its stride and
dominate the entertainment world), I think it went straight to video at
the time in the UK. Based on the infamous Travis Walton abduction case
in the 70's, this is a fairly far-fetched dramatisation of those events.
An episode of Paranormal Witness in recent years covered the same
story and interviewed the witnesses and abductee himself, and along with
their dramatisation it results in a very different account of things.
The movie is well told, taken seriously, and is quite effective in
places. What I like about it is how the story mainly focuses on the
witnesses and how it affects their lives in their community and dealings
with the law over the missing person. its worth a watch.
Next up
(working chronologically) is The X-Files: Fight The Future, the 1998
movie for the (initially wonderful) and iconic TV show. It was a partly
abduction-based plot interwoven with the ongoing Alien
conspiracy/colonisation storyline. This kind of reflects upon the TV
series as well actually as the show started so strongly for the first
handful of seasons (in my opinion leading up to this movie), but seemed
to be flogging a dead horse after that by milking and mutating the
ongoing storyline thread into something a bit ludicrous and very
obviously improvised with its own sense of logic as each season went on.
Such a shame really as it was a world dominating show that would be
looked upon with awe and reverance if the powers that be had decised to
condense the quality of storytelling into 5 seasons and capping it off
with the movie. Something that happens repeatedly with promising tv
shows.
Signs is one of my all time favourite paranormal-themed
movies and a movie that seems to divide people. While the abduction
theme is not really there, it kind of ties in with the ultimate purposes
of the Alien foe. What I love about this movie is its small, contained
story (no Will Smith and exploding cities in this one) and its effect
on a troubled family. Its sub-plots tied in with this family trying to
heal and rediscover their own faiths is what truly makes the story so
effective. Its extremely clever, and when the Aliens appear, we view it
almost as though its happening in the real world (harkening back to the
days of the infamous War of the World radio broadcast). Watch it if you
haven't seen it ...and if you have, give it another try.
The
Fourth Kind was released in 2009 to a small amount of fanfare, and it
was immediately tarnished by mild controversy over the fact it tried to
claim it was based on real events using real footage. Once again I
think its a like it or loather it movie. Personally,i think this movie
does for Alien Abduction what Paranormal Activity did for ghosts and
hauntings. I find it especially scary in places, giving you a real
sense of helplessness and the terrifying nature of what people claim to
experience. The 'real footage' played in tandem with the 'dramatised'
version adds to the experience, and while it goes over the top on the
religious claims, there are some existing theories and beliefs backing
this up. This is not a pleasant film, but it the subject matter
interests you, give it a go with the sound turned up and the lights
turned off. Then try to sleep!
I have no doubt missed out many
others, but those are the most notable ones to my mind. Feel free to
comment, add your own favourites and discuss etc. As always, this blog a
personal viewpoint only and does not reflect the opinions and beliefs
of other members of the BCPS team or the team as a whole. If you would
like more information on the BCPS and what we do, just visit our website
at www.bcps.moonfruit.com
Thursday 28 March 2013
Friday 22 March 2013
The Sceptics
In the field of the Paranormal, you always come up against your fair share of sceptics, whether it be in person or online. As soon as you mention the subject you instantly get an indication of where people lie with their viewpoint. The way the BCPS operates is one of tolerance and an open mind, as we respect everyone's point of view. Each team member has his or her belief system, thoughts and opinions on various subjects within and related to the field and we are respectful of every one. After all, who is qualified to categorically say if someone is 100% right or wrong with this stuff?
Where things get tricky is when someone is determined to prove you wrong, to immediately ridicule what you think or say without being open to suggestion. The first one being 'there is no such thing as ghosts' or 'its all a load of rubbish' or 'where is the proof?' or words to that effect. The first thing I do is not to argue, which is sometimes hard to do depending on what has been said, as sometimes it can feel insulting. If I argue, then the situation will deteriorate quickly and no good will come of it. Instead, what I try to do is passively neutralise the argument by respecting the person's wishes, which sometimes takes them by surprise as the occasional sceptic will be doing it to try to intentionally get an angry response in order to make them look like they have the upper hand. This usually works as they cannot argue this response.
Then, I ask them to explain their reasoning why they have this viewpoint. Over the years I now think it tends to be because of a few main hidden reasons; they are scientifically minded, they are the type of people in technology or engineering orientated jobs, logically minded, usually not a very creative person and they are just programmed that way. These are the type of people who will only accept something is if it is physically in front of them, fully explainable and rational. The other type of person I usually find are wary of unknown things, they are wary of new things and experiences, sometimes superstitious and cover their fears and concerns by denial. I'm sure there are many other types and shades and levels in between, but I suppose what I'm trying to get across is that there is a reason for their scepticisms.
Anyway, back to my example. Once I have cooled the conversation, I explain my background, thoughts and beliefs. not in any great detail as I'm not trying to plead my case, that is a futile exercise. You cannot forcefully convert someone into a belief system, history has shown us that! I tend to sum things up by saying that I'm not out to prove sceptics wrong by finding scientific proof that ghosts, UFO's, Werewolves etc exist, this is something that may never be proven. I just investigate because of my own personal fascination of things that are unexplained. Regardless of what you think of the infamous Derek Acorah, I do remember a brilliant quote from him that rings very true: “To the believer, no proof is necessary. To the non-believer, no proof is possible.”
Sometimes it is refreshing to have a conversation with someone who is sceptical of the paranormal, it keeps me objective in my approach to investigating. Being on the fence (but leaning more towards being a believer - otherwise I wouldn't have a passion for what I do with the BCPS) helps eliminate possible explanations and causes of what people think is a paranormal phenomena.
So to sum up this blog post, what I am trying to convey is if you are a believer and encounter a hardened sceptic, pause for a moment and try to diffuse the situation before offering a response and carrying on the discussion. Try to be respectful of their beliefs and if the other party isn't respectful of yours, I would advise ending the conversation on the subject. I've seen many a mature conversation about the paranormal on forums quickly deteriorate into a verbal slanging match that ends very badly.
I hope you have enjoyed this blog post. As always, this blog a personal viewpoint only and does not reflect the opinions and beliefs of other members of the BCPS team or the team as a whole. If you would like more information on the BCPS and what we do, just visit our website at www.bcps.moonfruit.com
Where things get tricky is when someone is determined to prove you wrong, to immediately ridicule what you think or say without being open to suggestion. The first one being 'there is no such thing as ghosts' or 'its all a load of rubbish' or 'where is the proof?' or words to that effect. The first thing I do is not to argue, which is sometimes hard to do depending on what has been said, as sometimes it can feel insulting. If I argue, then the situation will deteriorate quickly and no good will come of it. Instead, what I try to do is passively neutralise the argument by respecting the person's wishes, which sometimes takes them by surprise as the occasional sceptic will be doing it to try to intentionally get an angry response in order to make them look like they have the upper hand. This usually works as they cannot argue this response.
Then, I ask them to explain their reasoning why they have this viewpoint. Over the years I now think it tends to be because of a few main hidden reasons; they are scientifically minded, they are the type of people in technology or engineering orientated jobs, logically minded, usually not a very creative person and they are just programmed that way. These are the type of people who will only accept something is if it is physically in front of them, fully explainable and rational. The other type of person I usually find are wary of unknown things, they are wary of new things and experiences, sometimes superstitious and cover their fears and concerns by denial. I'm sure there are many other types and shades and levels in between, but I suppose what I'm trying to get across is that there is a reason for their scepticisms.
Anyway, back to my example. Once I have cooled the conversation, I explain my background, thoughts and beliefs. not in any great detail as I'm not trying to plead my case, that is a futile exercise. You cannot forcefully convert someone into a belief system, history has shown us that! I tend to sum things up by saying that I'm not out to prove sceptics wrong by finding scientific proof that ghosts, UFO's, Werewolves etc exist, this is something that may never be proven. I just investigate because of my own personal fascination of things that are unexplained. Regardless of what you think of the infamous Derek Acorah, I do remember a brilliant quote from him that rings very true: “To the believer, no proof is necessary. To the non-believer, no proof is possible.”
Sometimes it is refreshing to have a conversation with someone who is sceptical of the paranormal, it keeps me objective in my approach to investigating. Being on the fence (but leaning more towards being a believer - otherwise I wouldn't have a passion for what I do with the BCPS) helps eliminate possible explanations and causes of what people think is a paranormal phenomena.
So to sum up this blog post, what I am trying to convey is if you are a believer and encounter a hardened sceptic, pause for a moment and try to diffuse the situation before offering a response and carrying on the discussion. Try to be respectful of their beliefs and if the other party isn't respectful of yours, I would advise ending the conversation on the subject. I've seen many a mature conversation about the paranormal on forums quickly deteriorate into a verbal slanging match that ends very badly.
I hope you have enjoyed this blog post. As always, this blog a personal viewpoint only and does not reflect the opinions and beliefs of other members of the BCPS team or the team as a whole. If you would like more information on the BCPS and what we do, just visit our website at www.bcps.moonfruit.com
Monday 18 March 2013
The Aftermath of the Paranormal TV Craze
So, as the BCPS gears up for the year ahead, looking into possible
locations and potential investigations, I find myself perusing
documentary/factual paranormal tv entertainment for inspiration.
The other day I came across that old chestnut 'Most Haunted' with what started out as promising concept in the early 2000's that quickly became an embarrassment to watch, not only from the rank-amateur approach to investigations, but also a unique BCPS personal insight as to how ethical and professional they were. Sure, over the years they caught the odd bit of interesting phenomena, but on the whole it was a cringe-worthy hour of people screaming in the dark, practicing methods and 'rituals' that they had no knowledge or experience of, along with the usual suspects becoming all macho and being aggressive at every possibility in the hope of getting some kind of response from whatever alleged spirit was said to haunt the place. One live investigation left me aghast as I watched Yvette show everyone Blue peter-style, how to supposedly summon up a demon, drawing symbols and reciting incantations ...I wonder if I could get a blue peter badge for doing that successfully? The strange and suspicious circumstances over the sudden departures of mediums, cast and crew members over the years has sparked lots of rumours, along with youtube video clips supposedly showing them faking stuff on camera.
Even the demise of the show was surrounded in controversy. The worst effect this had by far though, was the way it soon turned the paranormal into a national theme park, with events companies popping up left right and center offering people looking for a 'Most haunted' style thrill ride the chance to take part in an evening of ghost hunting ...for a handsome fee too of course. I have attended one of these things personally and in my own opinion it is a complete farce, a waste of someone's time and hard-earned money, as no real investigating can be done. The end result of all this has wizened locations known to be haunted (such as hotels, public houses, historical sites etc) to cash-in on the craze and makes things exceptionally hard and unbelievably expensive for a true, passionate investigation group to gain access to these places. Its a real shame really, as groups just like the BCPS (who were here long before the days of Yvette, Carl and Co.) find it incredibly hard to offer their expertise, helpful advice and information to business-owned premises who would rather make a quick buck by opening the doors to anyone willing to pay the hefty price tag. Not to say we aren't more than happy to make a contribution to utilities used during the investigation or even a charitable donation etc.
The above show seemed to inspire numerous shows from all corners of the globe, and soon certain TV channels became almost devoted to the theme of the paranormal. Perhaps most notably is 'Ghost Hunters', following the adventures of plumbers-turned ghost hunters TAPS, as they investigated hauntings across the USA, even trespassing on UK territory occasionally, which spawned their spin-off 'Ghost Hunters International' and their (I assume) short-lived 'Ghost Hunters Academy' ...I shudder thinking about that one! As with Most haunted, Ghost Hunters seemed to practice iffy techniques and rationale, often being more self-important and hierarchical rather than focusing on the job at hand. That said, they are far less irritating on screen and they thankfully keep a level head. Whats more, they have produced some truly fascinating evidence over the years, stuff that stays in your head long after the show ends.
Another promising show was the New Zealand-set 'Ghost Hunt'. Lasting only one series sadly, it was ten episodes of fairly interesting stuff (and had a great theme tune), and kept things quite intimate and honest with a 3 person investigation team, approaching things from an objective, fresh point of view. Evidence produced ranged from the suspect, to pretty interesting. Worth a watch if you can catch it.
On the poorer side of things is 'Ghost Adventures' - another US produced show that ignores the level-headedness of the TAPS team and goes for all out macho warfare on alleged ghosts. The host utterly irritates me (I dare you to last an episode without wanting to shouting at the TV for him to shut up) and opts to prove how big his biceps are and challenge, aggravate and stomp about like some ghost-busting Rambo with a death wish. Irritating on every level, I implore you to avoid this.
For a more different approach, the show 'Paranormal Witness' is a great watch, and refreshingly includes other areas of the paranormal including UFOs - which seem to be 'out of fashion' these days. There are some chilling and thought-provoking stories here and often the interspersed interviews with the actual people making the claims come off very well, believable and compelling, with some very polished and effective reconstructions. Another similar factual, interview-based show is the UK made 'Great British Ghosts' hosted by Michaela Strachan. Honest in its approach, the show is a great way to spend half an hour and often surprises, with some fascinating locations hidden in remote corners of the UK.
So, I hope this part rant-part review of TV based entertainment has offered you some ideas on something to watch on a rainy day. Following my earlier thoughts on locations, if you do think your premises is haunted and would like a genuine team to investigate, just drop us a line via the email address at the top of the blog, or visit www.bcps.moonfruit.com for more information on us.
Please note: this blog offers only personal opinions and views, and in no way reflects the views and thoughts of every BCPS team member and the BCPS as a whole.
The other day I came across that old chestnut 'Most Haunted' with what started out as promising concept in the early 2000's that quickly became an embarrassment to watch, not only from the rank-amateur approach to investigations, but also a unique BCPS personal insight as to how ethical and professional they were. Sure, over the years they caught the odd bit of interesting phenomena, but on the whole it was a cringe-worthy hour of people screaming in the dark, practicing methods and 'rituals' that they had no knowledge or experience of, along with the usual suspects becoming all macho and being aggressive at every possibility in the hope of getting some kind of response from whatever alleged spirit was said to haunt the place. One live investigation left me aghast as I watched Yvette show everyone Blue peter-style, how to supposedly summon up a demon, drawing symbols and reciting incantations ...I wonder if I could get a blue peter badge for doing that successfully? The strange and suspicious circumstances over the sudden departures of mediums, cast and crew members over the years has sparked lots of rumours, along with youtube video clips supposedly showing them faking stuff on camera.
Even the demise of the show was surrounded in controversy. The worst effect this had by far though, was the way it soon turned the paranormal into a national theme park, with events companies popping up left right and center offering people looking for a 'Most haunted' style thrill ride the chance to take part in an evening of ghost hunting ...for a handsome fee too of course. I have attended one of these things personally and in my own opinion it is a complete farce, a waste of someone's time and hard-earned money, as no real investigating can be done. The end result of all this has wizened locations known to be haunted (such as hotels, public houses, historical sites etc) to cash-in on the craze and makes things exceptionally hard and unbelievably expensive for a true, passionate investigation group to gain access to these places. Its a real shame really, as groups just like the BCPS (who were here long before the days of Yvette, Carl and Co.) find it incredibly hard to offer their expertise, helpful advice and information to business-owned premises who would rather make a quick buck by opening the doors to anyone willing to pay the hefty price tag. Not to say we aren't more than happy to make a contribution to utilities used during the investigation or even a charitable donation etc.
The above show seemed to inspire numerous shows from all corners of the globe, and soon certain TV channels became almost devoted to the theme of the paranormal. Perhaps most notably is 'Ghost Hunters', following the adventures of plumbers-turned ghost hunters TAPS, as they investigated hauntings across the USA, even trespassing on UK territory occasionally, which spawned their spin-off 'Ghost Hunters International' and their (I assume) short-lived 'Ghost Hunters Academy' ...I shudder thinking about that one! As with Most haunted, Ghost Hunters seemed to practice iffy techniques and rationale, often being more self-important and hierarchical rather than focusing on the job at hand. That said, they are far less irritating on screen and they thankfully keep a level head. Whats more, they have produced some truly fascinating evidence over the years, stuff that stays in your head long after the show ends.
Another promising show was the New Zealand-set 'Ghost Hunt'. Lasting only one series sadly, it was ten episodes of fairly interesting stuff (and had a great theme tune), and kept things quite intimate and honest with a 3 person investigation team, approaching things from an objective, fresh point of view. Evidence produced ranged from the suspect, to pretty interesting. Worth a watch if you can catch it.
On the poorer side of things is 'Ghost Adventures' - another US produced show that ignores the level-headedness of the TAPS team and goes for all out macho warfare on alleged ghosts. The host utterly irritates me (I dare you to last an episode without wanting to shouting at the TV for him to shut up) and opts to prove how big his biceps are and challenge, aggravate and stomp about like some ghost-busting Rambo with a death wish. Irritating on every level, I implore you to avoid this.
For a more different approach, the show 'Paranormal Witness' is a great watch, and refreshingly includes other areas of the paranormal including UFOs - which seem to be 'out of fashion' these days. There are some chilling and thought-provoking stories here and often the interspersed interviews with the actual people making the claims come off very well, believable and compelling, with some very polished and effective reconstructions. Another similar factual, interview-based show is the UK made 'Great British Ghosts' hosted by Michaela Strachan. Honest in its approach, the show is a great way to spend half an hour and often surprises, with some fascinating locations hidden in remote corners of the UK.
So, I hope this part rant-part review of TV based entertainment has offered you some ideas on something to watch on a rainy day. Following my earlier thoughts on locations, if you do think your premises is haunted and would like a genuine team to investigate, just drop us a line via the email address at the top of the blog, or visit www.bcps.moonfruit.com for more information on us.
Please note: this blog offers only personal opinions and views, and in no way reflects the views and thoughts of every BCPS team member and the BCPS as a whole.
Friday 15 March 2013
Mothman.
Hi All,
I've just finished reading the book the Mothman Prophecies by John Keel (1930-2009.). What a great book. I've read it that many times, I don't need the book anymore, I just read it from memory, yes and pigs can fly.
Anyway it got me to thinking, what do others think about this phenomena. Does the Mothman appear prior to a disaster, like it is claimed. Which I don't remember being so prior to the film of the same name with Richard Gere.
So does Mothman appear prior to disasters or has yet again fiction been assimilated into alleged fact. Which is notorious within the paranormal field. When less unscrupulous researchers just grab any old rubbish and put it out there without any real evidence. I'd be interested in hearing other people's views. please feel free to comment.
Please allow me to add, we at the B.C.P.S are happy to chat about anything paranormal. Anyway that's it for now.
Regards.
Wayne.
I've just finished reading the book the Mothman Prophecies by John Keel (1930-2009.). What a great book. I've read it that many times, I don't need the book anymore, I just read it from memory, yes and pigs can fly.
Anyway it got me to thinking, what do others think about this phenomena. Does the Mothman appear prior to a disaster, like it is claimed. Which I don't remember being so prior to the film of the same name with Richard Gere.
So does Mothman appear prior to disasters or has yet again fiction been assimilated into alleged fact. Which is notorious within the paranormal field. When less unscrupulous researchers just grab any old rubbish and put it out there without any real evidence. I'd be interested in hearing other people's views. please feel free to comment.
Please allow me to add, we at the B.C.P.S are happy to chat about anything paranormal. Anyway that's it for now.
Regards.
Wayne.
Saturday 2 March 2013
Hello All,
Sorry we have been absent for while now. The Black Country Paranormal Society is still up and running and investigating all sorts of paranormal phenomena. We are putting a web site together and we have a Facebook page where you can come and chat to us also! http://www.facebook.com/groups/305441396231415/?bookmark_t=group
Please feel free to join us there and come tell us your paranormal experiences or just come along and have a chat to like minded folk. When the Web site is up and running you will also be able to contact us there also.
Anyway sorry again for the absence, but we will be doing regular updates from now on.
Regards from the BCPS team.
Sorry we have been absent for while now. The Black Country Paranormal Society is still up and running and investigating all sorts of paranormal phenomena. We are putting a web site together and we have a Facebook page where you can come and chat to us also! http://www.facebook.com/groups/305441396231415/?bookmark_t=group
Please feel free to join us there and come tell us your paranormal experiences or just come along and have a chat to like minded folk. When the Web site is up and running you will also be able to contact us there also.
Anyway sorry again for the absence, but we will be doing regular updates from now on.
Regards from the BCPS team.
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