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HORROR 101: THE A-LIST OF HORROR FILMS AND MONSTER MOVIES  VOL 1


8-24-08  HORRORHOUND COMING UP
    This weekend, we are off to Indianapolis for another adventure at HorrorHound Weekend.  We've never missed their Indy shows, and have always had a great time.  As always, if you're coming out to the show, make sure you stop by and say hello.
    For all the details about the show, check out their website HERE.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Our last photo was from the strange and bizarre film Night Warning (aka Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker), starring Jimmy McNichol, Bo Swenson, a very young Bill Paxton, and a very twisted and demented portrayal by Susan Tyrrell.  She's the one in the photo.  Her performance alone is worth the watch.
    Contrats go out to Bill Taylor, Will Wilson, and Joe Willis for coming up with the title.  Nice job.
    So check out our latest and see what you think.

HORROR HISTORY
    While we missed an entry last week, we are back with this update, by adding in one of the most talented cinematographers in the business.  Just click on over HERE for this week's lesson.

TERROR IN THE AISLES REPORT
    We have posted our official report of last week's Terror in the Aisles marathon.  Just click on our Convention Reports, located in our Features section in the link above. 

CHICAGO HORROR EVENTS PAGE
    It seems that quite a bit of our last few updates have been about some of the local events going on in the Chicagoland area.  I know for readers that are not in this area, they probably don't care to hear about it over and over.  So for them, I do apologize if it sounds like we're beating a dead horse.  But since we are in that area, we are doing our best to help build and support that community.
    So what we have come up with is a simple page, called Chicago Horror, which will be sort of like a calendar of events in the Chicagoland area.  We will try to keep this updated of different Horror Happenings that will be taking place.  If you know of any event that we don't have listed, please drop us an email HERE with all the info, and we'll add it to the calendar.  We will still mention new events in our updates, but will referrer to the Chicago Horror page for the details.  This page will be located in our Features section.

SOUNDTRACK REVIEWS
    We have posted our reviews for two new soundtracks: The X-Files: I Want To Believe and the new Alexandra Aja film, Mirrors.  You can find them in our Review section, under Features.

8-16-08  MUSIC BOX MASSACRE CORRECTION AND UPDATE
    It seems we don't read that well when we're working on our updates late in the evenings.  We thought that Rusty Nails had already started to list some of the films for this years Music Box Massacre, but those were the films from the Winter Massacre.  So we apologize for the mistake.  But now we do have a corrected and updated list along with the date.
    The 24-hour Music Box Massacre will be held this year on October 25th, a little later in the year than in the past.  The tentative movie lineup so far is as follows:
    Friday the 13th: Part 4, The Exorcist, White Zombie, Eyes Without A Face, Pieces, The Phantom of the Paradise, Black Sabbath, Dead Alive, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and Old Dark House.
    As usual, there will be special guests, but none have been announced yet.  Stay tuned here for more details when they become available, or you can check out their MySpace page HERE.

8-13-08  EVEN MORE CHICAGO AREA HORROR HAPPENINGS!!!
    It really seems like the Horror Gods are going to be keeping us busy for the next couple of months.  Just when I thought we were pretty much planned out, something else comes up.  So see below to see the current list of activities that are coming up over the next couple of months.

TERROR IN THE AISLES
    Okay folks, time is almost here for the Terror in the Aisles event this weekend.  Hopefully everyone has already gotten their tickets and are all set to have a great time.  I know we always do, as tired as we may get, it's a lot of fun.  Below is the final list of films and the start times for them.  They'll be some dealers there (including us and the usual awesome T-shirts & more from Lix...and maybe Jill will bring her hoola hoop) with some great horror merchandise to tempt your pocketbooks out.  Or even if you just want to geek out and talk horror movies, I'm sure there will be plenty of people to do that with.  If you can't find anybody, just stop over at our booth.  We'll be happy to oblige.  For all the details about the show, click HERE.

  • Noon - Spine Tingler! The William Castle Story

  • 1:45pm - The Listening Dead (voted best short film by Rue Morgue Magazine!)

  • 2:00pm - The Tingler (The Vincent Price Classic!)

  • 3:30pm - Slumber Party Massacre (Check Your Sleeping Bag!)

  • 5:00pm - The Demonology of Desire (Rue Morgue Magazine's new short film!)

  • 5:30pm - The Hills Have Eyes (The original 70's sickness!)

  • 7:30pm - The Deadly Spawn (with director Douglas McKeown in Person!)

  • 9:30pm - Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (with John McNaughton in Person!)

  • 11:30pm - The Machine Girl (The new Japanese Horror Sensation!)

MUSIC BOX MASSACRE IV
    While we haven't heard the confirmed date yet, Rusty Nails, promoter extraordinaire, has already already started to list some of the movies for this years massacre.  So far we have a couple of original classic films, the original Friday the 13th, the first and best Nightmare on Elm Street, as well as Swamp Thing, and the French film Inside.  For those who haven't seen that one, you need to see it.  And what better way then the big screen.  There will be plenty more listed soon.  And as soon as we get the confirmed date, we will pass that one.

DUSK TIL DAWN SHOW AT THE MIDWAY
    On Sunday, Aug. 31st, at the Midway Drive-In, they will be holding another one of their all-night movie marathon.  While it's not all horror themed, there's a couple of cool titles in there to satisfy your horror fix.  They will be screening American Graffiti, Steven Spielberg's Jaws, the cult classic Night of the Comet, and one feature that you can suggest a title to have them show.  Just drop them an email at info@themidwaydrivein.net and let them know a title that you'd like to see.  Who knows, maybe yours will be the one they pick.
    Unfortunately, we'll be on our way back from the Indianapolis HorrorHound show, so we won't be able to make it.  We've been out to the Midway a couple of times and have always had a lot of fun.

HORRORHOUND GUESTS ADDED
    And speaking of the HorrorHound Weekend, they have added another guest to their lineup.  Joining Dee Wallace and Jeffrey Combs in a The Frighteners reunion will be Jake Busey.  Of course, Jake has also some other genre credits like Starship Troopers and Death Row.
    For more info about the show, check out their website HERE.

A NIGHT OF FAMILY PORTRAITS
    On September 12th, at the Portage Theater, Horrorbles is sponsoring a night with director Douglas Buck.  First off, at 7:30pm, they will be screening Buck's Family Portraits: A Trilogy of America.  This features 3 short films of Buck's, Cutting Moments, Home, and Prologue.   If you haven't seen these short films, you need to check them out.  They are ones that you will never forget once you've seen them, especially Cutting Moments.  The cost is only $10.  After that, they will be having a special free screening of Buck's remake of Sisters.
    You can read our review of Family Portraits HERE, or you can even read the interview with did with Buck earlier this year at the Fangoria's Weekend of Horrors HERE

ELYSEE DOES IT AGAIN!
    A little while ago, fans of the Filipino cult horror movie Mad Doctor of Blood Island were thrilled to see the soundtrack released on CD.  Sure, this might not have been the title that millions of fans were waiting for, but the selected few of us out there were pretty damn excited to hear that news.  I pre-ordered mine right away, and was blown away how great of a job they did producing this.  The disc was the child of Elysee Productions.  And now they have a second child.
    This time they are releasing the soundtrack for Al Adamson's Dracula vs. Frankenstein!  The music of William Lava has been mastered from original session tapes and will be released on Oct. 15th.  Just like the Mad Doctor CD, there release is limited to 1000 pressings.  The first 100 copies to be pre-ordered will be signed by producer & screenwriter Sam Sherman.  The disc will have the complete Lava orchestral score, bonus tracks such as retakes, false starts, session chatter and a never-before-heard "Jazz Chase" cue.  There will also be audio liner notes from Sam Sherman as he discusses the details about the music.  Add in radio spots for a bunch of Independent International Pictures archives, and an 8-page booklet containing rare stills.  All this for only $19.99.
    So in other words, this is another must for collector of horror soundtracks, especially for those who like the cult films.  I know we'll be adding one to our collection.  For information about the CD, click HERE to be taken to their website.

8-10-08  BUG TRIPLE FEATURE
    Apparently the horror gods noticed that we had a weekend free between the Terror in the Aisle marathon and the Indianapolis HorrorHound Weekend, and decided they needed to fill that void.  So on August 23rd at the Portage Theater, they are having a "Don't Bug Me Saturday" special triple feature.  Starting at 5:45pm, they are screening Bert I. Gordon's Beginning of the End.  Then at 7:45pm is Black Scorpion.  And last but not least, they are screening Them! at 9:45pm.  And you get to see all three of the movies for only $10!  How can you go wrong with three great sci-fi / horror films at one low price.  For more information, click HERE to get to the Portage website.
    So once again, if you don't have anything planned, mark your calendar and head over to the Portage for this great triple feature.  We'll see you there.

PUTRID GORE ART TRIVIA
    Don't forget folks, we still have our Trivia Contest going for signed prints from the last creation from the amazing artist Putrid.  Check out our Trivia Page for all the details.
 

ROGUE REVIEW
    We have our review posted for Greg McLean's new movie Rogue, which is about a big-ass crocodile looking for some food.  Aren't we all?  We really enjoyed this movie, so check out our review for the full details.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Last week's photo was from Hammer Films Dracula Has Risen From the Grave.  A job well done goes out to Hoby Abernathy, Joe Willis, and Thomas Keaton.  Always nice to see some new names here.  The next one is might be a tough one, especially for the younger crowd.  But check it out anyway and see what you can come up with.  Good luck.

HORROR HISTORY
    Last week, we forgot to add someone to our Horror History entry.  So head on over there to discover who Lionel Atwill is and why you should know who he is.

FANTASTIC FLESH - MAKEUP EFFECTS HISTORY
    Coming to Starz channel this October will be Fantastic Flesh: The Art of Makeup EFX.  The new documentary by director Kevin VanHook and written by John Esposito, looks at the history of makeup effects, covering things like the blood and gore, to the creatures and monsters.  And the best of all is that they are covering the history from the beginning, with the likes of Lon Chaney Sr. and Jack Pierce, all the way to today's current masters.  Tons of people are interviewed, such as John Carpenter, Joe Dante, Wes Craven, John Landis, and many more.  The show will be hosted by KNB's very own Greg Nicotero and Howard Berger.  They cover Dick Smith and his work on The Exorcist, the competing werewolf projects between John Landis' American Werewolf in London and Joe Dante's The Howling, and much more.
    Granted, I'm a sucker for documentaries.  But when I read the following quote, I was even more excited.  Writer Esposito told Fango, "The best thing for me about the project is that I hope it’ll inspire younger fans to want to check out Jack Pierce and some of the other originators of the art form.  Maybe if they haven’t seen some of the older films, by Chaney and people like that, this will give them the inspiration.  I mean, we’re all fixated on the great effects being done now, but I like that we touch upon the old monsters.”
    We just love it when we hear people out there trying to get the younger and newer audiences to seek out and discover the films that started it all, and the people that help make them.  We are really looking forward to this show.

NIGHT GALLERY FANS CELEBRATE!
    Finally, we got news that the complete season 2 of Rod Serling's Night Gallery will be released on DVD on November 18th in a special edition box set.  The set will have an SRP of $59.98, and will contain 5 discs, featuring all the episodes from that season, and will plenty of extras.  There were be audio commentaries on most of the episodes by Night Gallery Historians Jim Benson and Scott Skelton.  Plus, there will also be commentaries on at least 6 of the episodes by none other than Guillermo del Toro.  There will also be some featurettes such as "Revisiting the Gallery: A Look Back" and "Art Gallery: The Paintings in Rod Serling's Night Gallery.  Throw in some NBC TV promos, and us Night Gallery fans are going to be very happy come November.  Makes me want to break out some of those episodes from season one....

8-03-08  DOOMSDAY CONTEST
    Thanks to everyone to sent in their answers for our Doomsday contest.  I was happy to see a lot of fans out there know a little bit about these movies and the people who are in them.  Sure, some may call it worthless trivia, but as they say "Knowledge is Power!"  The lucky winner for our Doomsday DVD contest was Jason Roth.
    Here's the correct answers:
    For the first question, Liam Cunningham, who portrayed Capt. Ryan in Dog Soldiers, went on to star in the film The Card Player, directed by Dario Argento.  On the second question, Sean Pertwee, who portrayed Sgt. Wells in Dog Soldiers, had battled a mummy in Russell Mulcahy's 1998 film Tale of the Mummy (aka Talos the Mummy - uncut version).  Co-starring in that movie was Christopher Lee, who had played vampires, mummies, and Frankenstein's creature for Hammer Films.
    Now keep reading to find out about our latest Trivia contest.

PUTRID GORE ART TRIVIA
    We have a new trivia contest this week.  This one is going to be a little tougher than what we normally have, so we need all the die-hard fans out there to give it a try.  Our good friend and amazingly talented artist Putrid has come up with a new print of the cult classic movie Deadly Spawn, in honor of the upcoming Terror in the Aisles marathon (see details below) coming up in a couple of weeks.  You can see a small version of it to the right.  Well, we are giving away 3 signed prints of this incredible piece of work, signed by Putrid.  And all you have to do to win one of these prints is to simple name four movies from another one of Putrid's drawings.  So just click HERE to be taken to our Trivia page, and follow the directions.  This contest will be going for the next two weeks, so you have plenty of time to do your research.

HORROR FANS....OUR TIME IS NEAR
    It use to be that us horror fans had to wait until October for all the Halloween and horror related festivities to happen.  But this year we don't need to wait that long.  As a matter of fact, we only need to wait about another week for it all to start.  Now I know that most of these festivities are mainly for Chicago area fans, but that doesn't mean you can't come out and join us.  So check out what we have planned in our continuing Kryptic World Domination Tour 2008.

HORRORBLE SCREENING OF CREATURE WITH SPECIAL GUEST
    Next Saturday, August 9th at the Portage Theater, Horrorbles is hosting a special screening of Creature From The Black Lagoon, with the creature himself, Ricou Browning appearing.  There will be a Q&A session along with Browning signing autographs in the lobby of the theater at 7pm.  The film starts at 8:30pm.  Tickets are $15.  If you can't make it out to the theater that night, Browning will also be doing an in-store signing at the Horrorbles store on Sunday, Aug. 9th, from 12pm to 5pm.

TERROR IN THE AISLES
    The following weekend, Aug. 16th, also at the Portage Theater, will be the Terror in the Aisles movie marathon.  Starting at 12pm on Saturday and featuring 13+ hours of horror!  The tickets are only $13 presale, or $17 at the door.  Either way, you're getting your moneys worth.  We will be there, set up in the lobby.  So be sure to stop and say hello.
    Here's the list of titles they are scheduled to show (all subject to change of course):
Spine Tingler - William Castle Documentary
The Tingler - A classic William Castle feature
Hills Have Eyes - The Original Wes Craven film
Slumber Party Massacre - Slasher film extraordinaire
Deadly Spawn - Director Douglas McKeown in person
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer - Director John McNaughton in person
Machine Girl - New Japanese horror that is over the top with blood and guts
Plus some short films, trailers, and much more fun.

HORRORHOUND WEEKEND
    Then after a short break, we head to Indianapolis for the HorrorHound Weekend, Aug. 29th-31st.  We always have a great time at these shows, and are planning to do the same thing time around.  Their guest lineup consists of: Joe Dante, Dick Miller, Michael Biehn, Jason Mewes, Andrew Divoff, Doug Jones, Dee Wallace, Zach Galligan, Danielle Harris, Derek Mears, Jeffery Combs, John Amplas, Jennifer Blanc, Belinda Balaski, Tom Savini, and many more.  Check out their website for all the detail HERE.

CHICAGO HORROR FILM FEST
    After HorrorHound we do have a few weeks to rest up.  At least so far.  On Sept. 26th-28th, we travel back to the Portage Theater for the Chicago Horror Film Festival.  We will be set up in the lobby once again, selling our wares and spouting our philosophical rantings.  The special guests that they have scheduled to appear are Chicago's own Svengoolie, the lovely scream queen extraordinaire Tiffany Shepis, magician Ron Fitzgerald, and horror author John Everson.
    They have listed a few of the films that they will be screening this year.  First up is Dark Reel, which co-stars Tiffany Shepis, along with Lance Henriksen and Tony Todd.  They will also be screening another Shepis movie, but that hasn't been announced yet.  They will also be screening the William Castle documentary Spine Tingler.
    Once again Chicago Horror Fans, this is the time to come out and support the genre.  We're hoping that this is going to be great time and really looking forward to seeing all the Chicago horror fans that will be there.  Will you?

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Got a few more winners with this last photo.  It was from Jess Franco's The Awful Dr. Orlof, starring Howard Vernon, which is probably one of my favorites of Senior Franco.  The scholars that sent in the correct answers were Hoby Abernathy, Ken Michaels,  Mike Shields, William Thorpe, and Will Wilson.
    Check out our next one and see what you can come up with.  It's a little easier, especially for you fans of gothic horror.

HUMAN LANTERNS REVIEW
    We've posted our review of this 80's Shaw Brothers film where they were trying to mix their usual kung fu fighting with a little bit of horror.  Check out our review, located in our Features Section.

7-27-08  SOME MINOR CHANGES
    We have made a few changes in our navigational structure.  Hopefully nothing too complicated for you to find what you are looking for.  Our Reviews section is now in our Features section, along with the rest of our other features, like our Convention Reports, Interviews, and the rest.
    We are also working on a new page to our Features section, one that is just in the beginning stages for right now and still under construction.  We'll let you know when it's up and running.  It will be our Sub-Genre Guide.  What is that, you ask?  In our never-ending attempt to help fans discover films that they might know much about, we are creating a guide or checklist for different Sub-Genres that hopefully will help guide newer fans to films that we feel are required viewing.  For example a list of Paul Naschy films, or Hammer films, or even Italian zombie films, and much more.  Stay tuned.

DOOMSDAY DVD CONTEST
    With the release of Neil Marshall's Doomsday hitting DVD on Tuesday, we thought it would be a great idea to give away a copy of the DVD.  But this one is going to make you have to think.  Let's go back to Marshall's first movie, Dog Soldiers.  There two particular actors in there that we're interested in, with a question about each of them.  Ready?  First of all, click HERE to open up an email, then just send us your answers.  Those entries with all the correct answers will be put in a skull and one winner will be chosen before the update the following week.  And if you're not sure on all the answers, send it what you know.  If nobody gets all the correct answers, we will go with the one with the most answers.  Good luck.

  • One of the actors from Dog Soldiers would go on to star in an film made by a famous Italian director.  Name the actor, the director, and the movie.

  • Another actor from Dog Soldiers had already done battle with another classic monster in another movie, which also co-starred an actor known for playing many of the classic monsters.  Name the actor from Dog Soldiers, name the movie where he battled another classic monster, and also name the actor that co-starred with him that was known for playing monsters.

HORROR HOUND UPDATE
    The Horror Hound boys have added a few names to their lineup for their Detroit show in October.  Joining Tom Atkins for a Night of the Creeps reunion will be fellow actor Jason Lively and director Fred Dekker (who also directed Monster Squad).  Maybe one of these days we'll see an actual DVD release of this movie!
    Also added to the lineup, joining Doug Bradley, are Cenobites Simon Bamford and Barbie Wilde.  The date is October 24-26th, so make your plans.  For more information about this show, as well as their Indy show at the end of August, check out the website HERE.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Seemed we had another tough one there.  Of course that didn't stop our regular Hoby Abernathy coming through with the correct answer.  The film was the uber-classic Microwave Massacre.  Doesn't get any better than that, does it?  Well...actually it does.
    So check out our new photo and see if this one is any easier.  Go ahead and give it a try.  You never know, you just might be right.  Just click HERE to send us an email with your guess.

HORROR HISTORY
    Head on over to our Horror History section for this week's lesson.  This time out, we learn about one of the best Production Designers in British history.

CULT REVIEWS
    We've recently come across this review site, simply called Cult Reviews,  that is run by a fellow contributor to the Horror 101 book, so he must know what he's talking about, right?  Honestly, the site is still pretty new, but has some pretty good content in there.  They know of what they speak, so check them out.

7-20-08  COFFIN JOE RETURNS
    Brazilian horror star Coffin Joe (aka José Mojica Marins) returns in Embodiment of Evil.  After 40 years since the 2nd film in his Coffin Joe trilogy, he returns to  search to find the perfect woman who will make him immortal.  The first film in the series is At Midnight I'll Take Your Soul (1963), followed four years later with This Night I Will Possess Your Corpse (1967).  And now, he makes his return.  If you've never experienced any of Coffin Joe's movies, you should seek them out.  When he started making films, since there were no real ratings board in Brazil at that time, it was up to the local area to decide.  Most states refused to play his first Coffin Joe film, but the ones that did, make a lot of money.  And he continued to make them until the late 80's.  But now he's back...black coat and hat, long fingernails and all.
    According to Dread Central, the film premiered last week at the Paulínia Film Festival in Brazil and seemed to have taken just about every award from Best Production Design, to Best Soundtrack, to Best Editing, as well as Critics Award for Best Film.  Not bad for a guy who's only a "cult icon", huh.
    Check out the trailer for his new film by clicking HERE.

NEW REVIEWS
    We have posted our review for Neil Marshall's Doomsday and Carter Smith's The Ruins.  So head on over to our reviews section and see what you think.

HORROR HISTORY
    This week in our little History lesson, we take a quick look at John Chambers.  Check it out.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    It seems that we stumped everyone again with our last photo.  So much so, that we had totally forgotten to even update it last week.  Well, the photo was of an unfortunately victim of the 4-D Man, starring Robert Lansing as the title character.  We didn't get any correct answers this time out.
    And now on to our latest pictorial quiz.  Take a gander and see what you can come up with.  Think hard, now....

TRIPLE HORROR AT THE MIDWAY DRIVE-IN
    Feel like getting a triple dose of horror at the Drive-In?  Then on Aug. 1st or 2nd, head out to the Midway Drive-In for their horror triple feature.  First off, they will be playing the first run The Mummy 3: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor.  Up next will be the US premiere screening of Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer, starring Robert Englund.  The third feature has not been announced yet.  The ticket prices are only $6.50 for all three movies!  How can you beat that?  Plus, you can always load up on the great food at their concession stand.  Trust me on this....I've been there a couple of times and have never left hungry.
    So make your plans to have a night of horror at the Drive-In and give them  your support.  For more information about the drive-in, check out either their official site HERE, or just head over to Flashback Weekend's site HERE.

NOX ARCANA HITS THE HIGH SEAS
    For their 10th CD release, Nox Arcana will dive into the depths of  the haunted seas and ghost ships.  The CD, which will be released later this fall, will be called Phantoms of the High Seas.  According to Joseph Vargo, "The album is a cross between the haunting melodies of Transylvania and Carnival of Lost Souls, and the epic sounds of Blood of the Dragon. There are some really elaborate orchestrations and big chanting choirs, but there are also some very creepy sounding ghostly tracks to raise some shivers. Fans of Pirates of the Caribbean will love this release."
    Since we are huge fans of  Nox Arcana's work, we are really looking forward to their take on this.  Amazing how they can just keep coming up with great ideas for different themes.  For more information about the band, check out their website HERE.

WASTELAND UPDATE
    The Wasteland crew just keeping adding more and more guests to their already awesome lineup for their October show.  Joining the guest list is none other than Martin himself, John Amplas.  Amplas was not only the title character in George Romero's early film, but also had a part in Day of the Dead, as well as playing the Nathan Grantham corpse that comes crawling out of his grave looking for his Father's Day cake in Creepshow.  Amplas hasn't done that many shows before, so this is a great treat for Wasteland fans.

7-13-08  FLASHBACK REPORT POSTED
    We finally got our report done and posted, with plenty of pics.  So head over to our Conventions section, located in under Features, to check them out.
    Our next show that we'll be hitting will be next month at the Terror in the Aisles movie marathon at the Portage Theater in Chicago.  See our last update for more details.  And then a couple of weeks after that, we'll be heading to Indianapolis for the Horror Hound Weekend.  Hope to see you there!

SULTAN OF SLEAZE COMES TO WASTELAND
    That's right folks, David Friedman will be appearing at the Cinema Wasteland show this October.  This will be Mr. Friedman's first Wasteland appearance and should not be missed.  Friedman is one of the frontrunners in the field of exploitation cinema, starting back in the 40's & 50's.  Of course, let's not forget that it was him and Hershell Gordon Lewis that created the splatter film with Blood Feast.
    So if you haven't already made your plans to attend this October show, what are you waiting for?  They have killer line up already, with names like Lamberto Bava, John Saxon, Marilyn Chambers,  Brett Halsey, Cinzia Monreale, Coralina Cataldi Tassoni, Kane Hodder, Betsy Palmer, Adrienne King, Michael Berryman, and many more.
    Check out the website HERE and then make your plans.

HORROR HISTORY
    We've added another feature to our site.  As we've said many times before, one of main goals is help educate horror fans out there about the genre and the people involved in it.  Everyone knows the obvious people in the genre, like Boris Karloff, Val Lewton, or even Robert Englund.  But there are quite a few people out there that had a lasting impact in the movies that we love.  So with this new feature, each week we will have a new name and brief bio added to the page.  It won't take long to read through it, but it will give you a glimpse into very important person in the genre.
    Also, if there might be someone that you think should be noted as having an important part, please send us an email by clicking HERE.  We'll pass the name onto our Kryptic Research Department for a detailed investigation.  And if we decide to use your suggestion, we'll give you credit.
    Just head over to our Features Section to check it out.

BEYOND THE DOOR COMES TO DVD
    This Exorcist-inspired film scared the hell out of me when I was kid, first seeing it on regular TV.  This did get a nice (but expensive) Japanese DVD release, but nothing for over here in the States.  Until now.  This September, Code Red DVD will be releasing Beyond the Door (aka Devil Within Her  aka Chi sei?) onto DVD.  The film stars Juliet Lewis as a young woman who becomes pregnant with the spawn of Satan.  Richard Johnson also co-stars in the film.  Horror fans know him from both classic horror (Robert Wise's The Haunting) as well as some fun Italian films like Fulci's Zombie and Sergio Martino's Island of the Fishmen.
    The DVD will feature a 16x9 1.85:1 widescreen presentation of the uncut European version, which was much longer than the version released here on DVD.  The disc will also have 2 different audio commentaries.  The first one is from director Ovidio G. Assonitis (also the man who brought us Tentacles, as well as producing many other classics) and writer Nathaniel Thompson, the man behind the great review site Mondo Digital.  The second commentary will be star Juliet Lewis, with Scott Spiegel and film historian Darren Gross.  There's also a video interview with Richard Johnson, and lastly a featurette entitled Beyond the Door, 35 Years Later that features director Assonitis, writer Alex Rebar (who also starred as the title creature in The Incredible Melting Man), and stars Mills and Johnson.  We personally can't wait for this, since it's always been a favorite of ours.
    A few years ago, we had a chance to talk to Mrs. Lewis about her work on this film.  Check it out in our Interview section, located in under Features.

STEEL TRAP REVIEW
    We got this screener in the mail earlier this week, and needless to say wasn't too happy losing that 90 minutes of our life.  Check out our review to find out why.  Just head over to our Review section.

ENTER VARGO'S WEB
    The multi-talented Joseph Vargo has unleashed his new website, simply called www.josephvargo.com.  Mr. Vargo is a member of the incredible soundscape musicians Nox Arcana, but he is also an accomplish artist.  As a matter of fact, Vargo is the one responsible for creating our Kryptic Logo.  So check out his website and be amazed at the talent that lies within.

KUCHTA ACADEMY
    While on the subject of artists, check out another artist buddy of ours.  We met up with Chris at the Chicago Fango show earlier this year and were just blown away by his work.  While most of his work is of the classic horror nature, he still has some recent ones to keep the younger fans happy.  Not to mention that he has a great style to his work.  We've gotten a couple of prints from him already and they look great in a nice matted frame.  So click on the link below and check out this prints.  And if you get a chance to see him at one of the conventions, you won't regret stopping by and seeing his work.  And make sure you tell him him still waiting for a Paul Naschy print!


 

7-6-08  TERROR IN THE AISLES - COMPLETE SCHEDULE
    On August 16th, at the Portage Theater in Chicago, there will be a 13+ hour marathon called Terror in the Aisles.  We mentioned in our last update, but since then they have finalized their movie lineup, and even added another guest appearance  Here is a listing of the films that will be featured:

- Spine Tingler! The William Castle Story - New documentary on the amazing William Castle
- The Tingler - One of Castle's best films, and even stars Vincent Price
- The Hills Have Eyes - Wes Craven's original gritty 70's classic.
- Slumber Party Massacre - How could this not be fun?
- Deadly Spawn - Can't go wrong with monster full of teeth!
- Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer - One of the scariest movies ever made
- The Machine Girl - New Japanese gore flick
- They will also be showing these short films: Rue Morgue's own Rodrigo Gudino's The Demonology of Desire, as well as Rue Morgue's Best Short of 2007, The Listening Dead.

    Also, Deadly Spawn director, Douglas McKeown will be appearing.  And if that wasn't enough, John McNaughton, the director of Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer will also be there.  Sure sounds like a no-brainer, huh?  Plus, there will be dealer tables, live charity auction, prizes, and co-hosted by Aaron 'Dr. AC' Christensen, and much more.  So make sure you mark you calendars and be there to Share the Scare and have a lot of fun.
    Presale tickets are only $13 (www.indietickets.com), or $17 at the door.  If you didn't count the short films, the pre-sale price is less than $2 a movie.  When is the last time you paid that for a movie!?!?!?

    Also at the Portage Theater next Friday (the 11th), Horrorbles is having a special screening the original Invasion of the Body Snatchers, with special guest appearance by Kevin McCarthy.  Ticket prices are $15.
    McCarthy will also be appearing at the Horrobles store on Saturday the 12th, from 12pm to 5pm.
    For more information, check out the Horrorbles website HERE.

CHICAGO HORROR FANS - WANT TO BE IN A MOVIE?
    Local director Robert Cappelletto is currently shooting his latest movie, Pickman's Muse, which is based on the story Haunter of the Dark, by H.P. Lovecraft.  In his film, there is a scene that takes place in a movie theater, and they need people in the seats.  So if you don't have any plans next Sunday (July 13th) at 11am, head over to the Portage Theater to join in the fun.  The address for the Portage is 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave (near the corner of Cicero & Irving Park).  Please dress casually and comfortably (with no large logos or brands).  The shoot should take about 2-3 hours, and should be a lot of fun.
    For more information, you can email here: cappelletto_productions@yahoo.com

LADY BLOOD TRAILER
    Does anybody remember that twisted little French film about the pregnant woman who's alien baby craves blood, called Baby Blood?  Well, believe it or not, but they've made a sequel to it.  Entitled Lady Blood, the main star, Emmanuelle Escourro reprises her role from the first movie.  From the looks of the trailer, it looks to be as bloody and twisted as the first film.  Not sure when exactly it's going to be release, but you can check out the trailer HERE.
    And if you haven't seen Baby Blood, then you might want to seek that one out.  It's a fun one, that's for sure.

FLASHBACK REPORT COMING SOON
    We're still working on our full report from the recent Flashback Weekend.  We did get plenty of photos, and also have a great time as usual.  So hopefully we'll have it ready and posted for our next update.   

WILLIAMS INTERVIEW
    While at the recent Flashback Weekend, we sat down with the lovely Caroline Williams to talk to her about her role in Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2.  Head on over to our Interviews to enjoy, which is in our Features section.

NEW LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS
    The latest issue of the best magazine on Hammer Studios is about to release their 20th issue.  Although this one has a slight change.  The main subject of this issue will be on Amicus Productions, who was the leading competitor of Hammer.  Amicus was behind such classics as Tales From The Crypt, Dr. Terror's House of Horrors, Asylum, The House That Dripped Blood, and many, many more.
    As usual, LSoH covers all the details in their stories, so it's going to be well worth it.  The issue is only $10, and can be ordered through their website HERE.  They are also taking pre-orders on issue #21, which is planned to be out this September.  The main theme of that issue will be the one that started it all for Hammer, The Curse of Frankenstein.

20th ANNIVERSARY DVDs
    Now this is a sure way to make me feel old.  On September 9th, we will have two different 20th Anniversary DVDs hitting the shelves.  Has it really been that long ago since these movies were released???
    The first one, and the one I'm most excited about, is Stan Winston's Pumpkinhead.  Sure, the creature looks kind of like a naked Alien, but the movie is still great.  The new DVD will feature seven new featurettes on teh film, along with some behind-the-scene video, still gallery, and audio commentary by co-screenwriter Gary Gerani, creature FX creators Tom Woodruff Jr. and Alec Gillis, and moderated by Scott Spiegel.  Still a little puzzled by the lack of a Winston commentary, but I'm sure there's a good reason.
    The other film being given the special edition treatment is Child's Play.  Yes folks, Chucky is 20 years old!  This DVD edition is going to have audio commentary with Alex Vincent, Catherine Hicks, FX artist Kevin Yagher, producer David Kirschner & screenwriter Don Mancini.  There is also something called "Select Scene Chucky Commentary".  It also looks like there will be several featurettes on the disc, covering many aspects of the making of the film and more.  The featurette titles are 'Evil Comes in Small Packages', 'Chucky: Building a Nightmare', 'A Monster Convention', and a making of featurette as well.  Add in photo gallery and trailer, and we've got the makings of a great special edition DVD.  I know we're looking foward to both of these hitting the streets.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    I was trying trick everyone with our last photo.  Since I figured if you recognized Caroline Munro, you'd figured it was Maniac.  But my little scheme didn't work and a few of you sent in the right answers.  It was from another movie starring Munro and Maniac's Joe Spinell.  But it actually was from Last Horror Film (aka Fanatic).  Kudos go out to Kevin Hart, William Thorpe, Hoby Abernathy, and Mike Shields.  Good job guys....now take a gander at our latest, but don't try too hard, or you might end up looking like him....

DO WE REALLY NEED MORE REFERENCE BOOKS???
    Damn straight we do!  I even had a hard time typing that line.  We all know my favorite saying about reference books, so I won't go into it.  But so far this book has all the makings of another one that will have to be added to the collection.  Axelle Carolyn has finished her new book called It Lives Again! Horror Movies in the New Millennium.  For those who might not know Carolyn, she has written for many different publications, including Fangoria, as well as being married to director Neil Marshall.  The book has dozens of interviews with directors like Stuart Gordon and Eli Roth, as well as tons of reviews.  I know we are looking forward to it, and would pick it up regardless just by this cover alone!
    There's no release date yet, but she is looking to have it out in the fall.  But that is probably for the UK.  No word on the availability here in the states.  I'm sure you could order it from Amazon.uk, but the shipping might cost a few $$.  But if you are interested in pre-ordering it, you can do that HERE.

6-23-08  AFI RESPONDS!
    I really wasn't expecting to get a response from my email to AFI about their 10 TOP 10 list, so was pretty surprised.  But I have to say that after reading it, as nice as they were, you could easily read through the lines, and understand the reasoning.  Below is the response that I got.

    Thank you for contacting the American Film Institute and for watching AFI's 10 TOP 10.  We appreciate and respect your opinion and suggestions.
    AFI’s 10 TOP 10 honors America’s 10 greatest films in 10 classics genres. It is not the list of the 10 greatest film genres. The genres were chosen by a committee of AFI film historians, executives and AFI Board members after receiving many suggestions from AFI members and film enthusiasts. Unfortunately, we could not include all of the suggested genres at this time.
    Best Regards,
    AFI Web Team

    When I read who the group choosing these genres consisted of, I realized where the problem was.  When you have a committee of "AFI film historians" and "executives", right away I figured it was a bunch of old film critics that wouldn't give the horror genre the time of day, and a bunch of executives that wouldn't know the time of day, unless they asked one of their lackys.  Sound a little bitter.  I wonder why.
    I'm not sure if anybody else got a response from them, but if you did, I'd love to hear them.

HELP THE MEAT TRAIN RIDE INTO THEATERS
    While we're all in horror genre defensive mode, here's another task for you to tackle.  In case you haven't read this notice, and already joined the cause, now is your time.  It seems that Lionsgate has gotten some new management, and like usual, that means that titles get dropped, shoved in the closet to rot, or throw to DVD without ever seeing the inside of a theater.  It seems that is going to be happening to Midnight Meat Train.  But with your help, maybe we can stop this.
    Clive Barker has made a few announcements about this and what we can do to help.  You can read one on his website HERE to give you an idea what to do.  This is the time for horror fans to let their voices be heard and to let the studios know that we are more than willing to support these types of films if they can be made and released.
    So head over to the website and follow the directions.  Clive Barker, myself, and all other horror fans out there are hoping for your help and support.

TERROR IN THE AISLES UPDATE
    We just wanted to post a little update with some of the added titles to the lineup.  Making a nice companion piece to Spine Tingler!, the documentary about William Castle will be a screening of Castle's The Tingler, starring Vincent Price.  There will also be a screening of Rue Morgue's Rodrigo Gudino's new short film, The Demonology of Desire, as well as Rue Morgue's best short film of 2007, The Listening Dead.  More guests and films to be announced soon.
    And in case you don't remember, it will be held on August 16th at the Portage Theater in Chicago.  Tickets are $13 pre-sale, or $17 at the door.  There will be dealer tables (including yours truly), charity auctions, prizes and more.  So make your plans to come out and share the scare with other Chicago area horror fans.  Stay tuned for more info.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    I guess we finally got a photo that stumped everyone.  And not to say that it was a real tough one, but I'll give you a little clue that was in that very same update.  Right above the Mystery Photo was our little blurb about the passing of Mel Ferrer....with a photo of him from the movie The Anti-Christ....which just so happens to be where the Mystery Photo is from as well.  Pretty devious, aren't we?
    Just keep that in mind next time you get stumped on one of our photos.  Who knows...maybe there just might be clue in that update as well.  So check out our latest photo and see if this is any easier.
    Good luck.

WICKED LAKE
    Our buddy Adam Rockoff, author of the book Going to Pieces, has got a new movie coming out, called Wicked Lake.  From the trailer alone, it looks pretty over the top.  Check out the official website HERE, where you can see the trailer, and read all about it.
    And speaking of Mr. Rockoff, if you head over to Horror.com to their Fangoria report, there is a nice interview with him where he talks about the movie.  There is also an interview with the multi-talented Coralina Cataldi Tassoni.

6-19-08  THE HORROR GENRE IS THE RED-HEADED STEP-CHILD...ONCE AGAIN
    Yesterday, I came across a little news story about AFI's latest movie list, American's 10 Greatest Films in 10 Classic Genres.  For those who don't know who AFI is, they are a film school of sorts, who in the past have given us lists such as AFI's 100 Thrills, AFI's 100 Movie Quotes, and so on.  According to their website, "AFI is a national institute providing leadership in screen education and the recognition and celebration of excellence in the art of film, television and digital media."  Sounds cool, right?  We are always behind people that are trying to educate people in the art of the cinema.
    So imagine my surprise when checked out just what genres were listed in their "10 Classic Genres".  Here they are: Animation, Romantic Comedies, Westerns, Sports, Mystery, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Gangster, Courtroom Drama, and lastly Epic.  That's right folks, the horror genre is nowhere to be seen.  Now, I know they did a previous show on AFI's 100 Thrills.  But can someone please explain how you can have a list of classic genres and not include one of the oldest and most profitable genres out there!?!?!  I just don't get it.  Once again, the horror genre is pushed aside like some embarrassing relative that is kept hidden in the attic.
    So if you wish to send AFI a little note asking why they left out the horror genre, click HERE to be taken to their website's Contact Us section.  Remember....be polite and intelligent.  We don't want them thinking that the horror fan stereotypes are true.  At least not all of them.


TERROR IN THE AISLE - SUMMER MASSACRE
    Chicagoland fans that have been hitting the 24-hour movie marathons at the Music Box Theatre will be happy to know that Rusty Nails, promoter extraordinaire, has announced the date for the Summer Massacre.  First of all, mark August 16th on your calendar.  But then also, this time around it will be held at the Portage Theater instead, not the Music Box.  So make sure you don't show up at the wrong theater, or you will be disappointed.
    So what does Mr. Nails have in stuff for us so far?  How about the a screening the of one of the best low budget monster movie of the 80's?  Yes, I'm talking about The Deadly Spawn!  And even better, the director Douglas McKeown will be there for the screening.  Haven't seen this movie?  Or (shudder) haven't heard of this movie?  Then make sure you're there at the Portage Theater on August 16th so you can change that.
    Also being screened there, making it's Chicago Premiere, is Spine Tingler: The William Castle Story.  Castle is a legend in the horror genre for making films like Mr. Sardonicus, The House on Haunted Hill, 13 Ghosts, Homicidal, and even producing Rosemary's Baby.  Being a huge fan of Castle and his work, we are very excited to see this.
    They will also be screening a new gory flick from Japan called Machine Girl, which is featured on the latest cover of Rue Morgue magazine.
    The show officially starts at noon on Saturday and goes until around 2am.  There will be short films, dealer tables, and will be co-hosted by everyone's favorite Ambassador of Horror, Dr. AC himself, Aaron Christensen.  So make sure you come out to have fun and more importantly to support these types of festivals.  This shows the theaters that this type of programming will attract the crowds and make it worth it for them to continue such festivals.  So we all win.  Hope to see you there.

WILDCLAW's MIDSUMMER NIGHTMARE!
    Chicago's WildClaw Theatre is presenting their Midsummer Nightmare this Sunday at the Full Moon Tavern in Chicago.  There will be food & drink, along with trivia games and prizes, fun horror re-enactments, with all proceeds going to help the WildClaw to keep doing what they started with their presentation of The Great God Pan.  So if you don't have plans this Sunday, head on out to the Full Moon Tavern and have a good time, support the horror, and who knows...maybe you'll even win something!
    For more information about the WildClaw Theatre, check out their website HERE.

HAMMER BOX SET
    Hammer Horror fans are going to love this one.  In October, Sony Home Entertainment will be unleashing more Hammer films that have never gotten a DVD release here in the states, and even some never even having a video release.  Icons of Horror: Hammer Films will include The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll, The Curse of the Mummy's Tomb, The Gorgon, and Scream of Fear (aka Taste of Fear).  While some of these titles might not some of the best from Hammer's catalog, that doesn't mean they're not entertaining.  It will be interesting to see which version of Jekyll it will be, since the American version is pretty well cut up.  We'll just  have to wait and see.  But I will say that Scream of Fear is probably one of their best thrillers Hammer made.  Can't wait for this one to hit the shelves.
    All are expected to have commentaries, trailers, supplements, and newly remastered transfers.  The retail will be $24.96.
    News bite courtesy of DVD Drive-In.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    I'm sure some of you might have noticed that we haven't updated our Mystery Photo in the last few updates.  That might be partly because we're either lazy or keep forgetting it, or that we still haven't gotten one correct answer.  We have had a few good tries, but no winners.  Have I found one that the reigning Mystery Photo Champ Hoby Abernathy can't get???  We'll give it a few more days, then we'll be updating it.  So keep trying!

6-17-08  A MAJOR LOSS TO THE GENRE
    Most of you probably have heard already, but special effects master Stan Winston passed away last Sunday from a long battle with multiple myeloma.  He was only 62.  I know in the past, I've dissed on Winston a little for being a little high on the ego side.  But he was one man who's huge resume of work could back up that ego.  Looking over his resume, it's amazing at not only the number of films that he's worked on, but just how many landmark films as well.  Aliens.  Terminator.  Jurassic Park.  Pumpkinhead.  Predator.  And the list goes on and on and on.
    As we always mention during these notices, the loss of this great talent will not be forgotten because of his fans.  His huge body of work will not only live on with his legacy, but also the technical advances that he helped to create and advance for future effects artists.
    Our prayers and wishes go out to his friends and family.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MASTEO FULCI!
    To show that even though we lose a great talent in the industry, because of us fans, they will live on.  Such is the case of Italian director Lucio Fulci.  Today is Fulci's birthday.  I still remember hearing the news back in 1996 that he had passed away, only a few short months from making his first and only convention appearance in the US.  So while we might want to break out Aliens or Dead & Buried in tribute of Stan Winston, make it a double feature and add in Zombie or The Beyond as well.
    As horror fans, it's our job to not only keeping these important names alive, but also to make sure that the newer and younger fans know who these people are as well.

BUCK'S NEWEST PROJECT
    In January at the Fangoria's Weekend of Horrors, we had the chance to interview young up-and-coming director Douglas Buck.  In the interview (you can read the whole interview HERE), he talked about his next project about a boarding school on a remote island that is attacked by a virus.  The film is going to be called The Broken Imago, and Buck and cinematographer Karim Hussain just returned from Argentina recently shooting the trailer for the new film.  As he told us in the interview, it's "
sort of like David Cronenberg doing Lord of the Flies."
    I know we are looking forward to whatever this young talent is attached to.  So keep your eyes peeled for this one.  And if you still haven't gotten around to checking out his trilogy of short films called Family Portraits: A Trilogy of America, then drop what you're doing and seek it out.

LORDI'S DARK FLOORS ONLINE
    If there's any fans out there of the Finnish rock band Lordi (like me) and are anxiously awaiting the release of their film Dark Floors....well, you don't have to wait anymore.  You can watch the whole movie (in four parts) online.  I am a huge fan of the band, but after watching this movie, I'm a little disappointed.  I found it like eating one of those veggie-burgers.  Looks good.  Smells good.  But after a few bites, you start to wonder just what the hell am I eating.  The movie does have some atmosphere, very little gore, and the band seems to be in there as monsters, with really not much to do.  Almost reminded me of Kiss Meets The Phantom.  At least in there the band actually did something.  Here...they just seemed wasted.
    But if you're interested, click HERE to be taken to the site.

 


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