Alexander Hall

Alexander D. Hall, born in 1990, is an American creator recognized for his work in horror fiction and digital storytelling. He is best known for originating the 'Ben Drowned' web series, which began in 2010. This project, centered on an artificial intelligence within a Nintendo 64 game cartridge, achieved significant acclaim and is credited with popularizing creepypasta as a literary form and establishing many tropes common in internet horror. Hall also hosted 'The Digital Fireside' podcast and produced several documentaries.

His career began in 2008, and he attended Saint Louis University. Hall has explored emerging technologies, notably using OpenAI for the 2020 sequel to 'Ben Drowned,' expressing both enthusiasm for their potential and concern about their impact on creators. Beyond his creative endeavors, Hall has engaged in advocacy, meeting with elected officials in 2023 to promote blockchain technology. His upcoming project, 'Dead Save' (2025), continues his exploration of horror fiction intertwined with digital media, focusing on urban myths and lost media from early video game eras.

Alexander Hall's career gained significant traction with the creation of "Ben Drowned" in 2010. This narrative, exploring an AI entity named BEN that infiltrates a Nintendo 64 game, resonated with a vast audience, reaching millions and becoming a notable example of a modern urban legend. The project is widely acknowledged for its role in elevating creepypasta as a recognized literary genre. Furthermore, "Ben Drowned" is credited with originating many of the stylistic elements and narrative devices that have since become standard in contemporary internet horror stories, influencing a generation of online storytellers.

Beyond his fiction, Hall has produced a body of documentary work, often characterized by a gonzo style. These films have explored unconventional subjects and individuals. One notable piece covered Chris Cantelmo, a scientist who claimed N,N-Dimethyltryptamine had cured his brain cancer, highlighting Hall's interest in fringe science and alternative narratives. In 2020, Hall demonstrated an engagement with cutting-edge technology by utilizing OpenAI for assets in the "Ben Drowned" sequel. This application of AI in creative production led him to comment on the democratizing potential for independent creators while also voicing concerns about the displacement of human artists.

In 2023, Alexander Hall expanded his public engagement by participating in discussions on Capitol Hill concerning blockchain technology. His advocacy aimed at promoting its adoption and the development of a regulatory framework in the United States. Looking ahead, Hall is set to return to his signature blend of horror and digital storytelling with the developing series "Dead Save," slated for 2025. This project intends to delve into urban myths and lost media connected to the sixth generation of video games, employing game modding tools and collaborative artistic efforts.