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


 

12-30-07  2007 IN REVIEW
    First of all, as we do every year, we’d like to take a moment to remember all the celebrities that had made some contribution to the horror genre that passed away this last year.  Whether they were actors, directors, or writers, these people have made an impact on the genre, and to film fans like us.  And because of fans like us, these names will never be forgotten.  And I think that is the best gift that fans like us can give to any of these talented people….the gift of immortality.  Thank you for all those wonderful films, performances, images, and memories!

Bob Clark, Yvonne DeCarlo, Freddie Francis, Charles B. Griffith,
Karl Hardman, Bruno Mattei, Tony Tenser, Roger Watkins

    We are still battling the real world with our day job.  It seems to grow worse by the day, and we’re hoping that there will be some major changes coming shortly.  And that may result in some major changes here at the Krypt, as far as conventions and such go, but we’ll just have to wait and see.  But we know that something has to change.
    For 2007, I would have to say that the major highlight for me in 2007 was the publication of the HORROR 101 book.  Sure, I only had a minor part in it with two essays and the photos.  But it showed two things to me.  First of all, this book featured my first real published work.  To some that might not have been a big deal, but for me it was.  And I’d like to thank Aaron Christensen for letting me be a part of this wonderful project.
    And second of all, I learned something even more valuable from AC.  And that is that if you want something to happen, like getting a book published, just do it.  Aaron showed me that putting all that time and hard work into something that you believe in can happen.  And that gives me hope.  Now I just need to learn something about procrastination and motivation and I’ll be on my way!
    Of course, one of the other highlights, just like every year, is every time we head off to a convention.  With every show, we see our old friends and make even more new ones.  As we keep trying to spread the gospel of the horror genre, we're amazed to find so many other people that are either doing the same thing, or are ready and willing to let you guide them to some unknown horror.  That still gives me hope that there are still fans out there that are interested in the both the genre's history and contributions from around the world.  Just remember to keep Discovering the Horror!

BEST OF 2007?
    One of our goals for next year is to start keeping track of every movie that we watched throughout the year.  That way, at the end of the year, it's pretty easy to compare your notes to see what you've actually seen that year.  I know now when I try to think of all the movies that I've seen this year all run together with the ones that I've seen years before.  But as we were going through our updates over this last year, trying to think of all the movies that we've seen, there's one that keeps coming to mind that I was having a hard time thinking of another one to top it.  And that would be Robert Rodriguez's PLANET TERROR.
    This is one movie that I could watch over and over again, and still be entertained time and time again.  From the dialog, the music, the wacky action, the blood and gore galore, it's pretty tough for me to find a flaw here.  Plus it's just so damn fun to watch.  Plus, having had the opportunity to watch this in the theater as part of the original GRINDHOUSE double feature, packed full of other genre fans, was also one the highlights of the year.

ANNIVERSARIES OF TERROR
    2008 will have a few anniversaries for me to be celebrating.  Back in April of 1988, I traveled off to California for my first horror convention, Fangoria’s Weekend of Horrors.  That weekend, I had the opportunity to meet some major horror celebrities for the first time, not to mention that it was really the first time I had met ANYONE famous.  But these were the people that I had only read about in books and magazines.   People like Tom Savini, George Romero, Clive Barker, Tobe Hooper, Roddy McDowell, Anthony Perkins, and the list goes on.  So for me, it was one of the best times I’ve ever had at a show.  And now, 20 years later, with more conventions under my belt that I can even start to count, I still have a blast at them.  Granted, now that tends to be due to the company that we keep there as oppose to the celebs.  But in either case, we still have a great time.
    Then a short month after that first horror con, I went to another very scary place.  A church.  And I got married.  It still amazes me that my wife Dawn has put up with me for these last 20 years (25 years, if you count the “dating phase”).  Just picture someone who cooks like a gourmet chef (and actually loves to cook), but then also puts up with someone who collects horror DVDs, posters, and is slowly turning their house into a haunted movie theater!  Now that is true love.  Or she’s just waiting for me to kick the bucket so she can sell my collection.  Not really sure which is the case, and at this point, don’t care.  I just know that if it wasn’t for her, I don’t think I’d be here today.
    And the last anniversary coming up is that of what you are currently reading now.  Back in October of 1998, I officially launched Kitley's Krypt.  I never would have believed that 10 years later, I would still be at it.  This site has changed over the years, some changes minor, some major.  But the one thing that has always stayed the same was my devotion to the horror genre and the hopes of helping others out there expand their knowledge and love the genre as well.  Has it helped anyone out there?  I would like to think so.  Maybe not the thousands I had delusions about when I first started.  But just helping out one newer horror fan making that decision to check out a film that he probably wouldn’t have looked at twice before, does make all the work here worth it.
    So our plans for 2008 is make this landmark pretty special, especially when it gets closer to October.  We are hoping to have several big giveaways and other stuff to help celebrate our 10 Years of Terror.  So stay tuned for that.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Only got 2 correct answers for the last Mystery Photo.  And the kudos go to our regulars Hoby Abernathy and Aaron Christensen.  The pic is of the great Boris Karloff in one of his last films, THE SNAKE PEOPLE.
    This time up, we have a little tougher one.  So let's see if I can stump everyone on this one, even our regulars.  I think I got them on this one.  I will tell you it's not some obscure movie, but one that was pretty popular in the late 80's.  Good luck!

NEW INTERVIEW
    Well, kind of.  While working on some plans for next year, we discovered that we had totally forgotten that we had interviewed Caroline Munro last April at the Cinema Wasteland show, but never got around to putting it up.  Well, now it's done and posted in our Interview section, which can be found under the Features link.

OLD & NEW SECTIONS NOW OPEN!
    We have finally gotten around to transferring most of the pages from our old site.  Now back up and running is our Psycho-Babble page, our page dedicated to those wacky mad scientists in our S.M.S. page, and we also have the last of our Convention reports posted as well.
    We have also transferred over, with a slight change in appearance, what use to be called our Tombs Of Fame section.  It is now simply called Kryptic Salutes.  These pages will highlight people working the genre that we feel need to be pointed out.  Some of the names you might now, some not.  But we feel that each of them have made a impact on the genre, and is someone that all fans should know a little bit about.
    So check them out and let us know what you think.  You can find these pages all under the Features section.

DAY OF REST...
    Yesterday, we came home from work, and due to a cold/flu coming on, just felt like a wet rag.  While we tried to get some work done on this site, we mainly were just sitting here in a daze.  So we figured if we're just going to sit and not get anything accomplished, we might as well sit in front of the TV and get some movies watched.  So we did.  As a matter of fact, five of them.  One right after another.  What a much needed re-fueling it was, too.  For details on what we watched, and to add in your own thoughts in, check out our Blog.

12-24-07  HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
    First and foremost, we want to wish everyone out there Happy Holidays!  And hoping that you have some time off to enjoy with your friends and family.  Since when it comes down to it, that's really what counts....besides of course, our DVD collections, posters and the other important stuff that we have.  But friends and family are right up there too.

MIKELS BOOK REVIEW
    We have posted our review for Christopher Wayne Curry's latest book, FILM ALCHEMY: THE INDEPENDENT CINEMA OF TED V. MIKELS.  It's in the Biography section in our recently revived Reference Book Reviews, which can be found in our Reviews Section.

RAISING HELL AT MIDNIGHT...WITH BARKER
    For Chicago area fans, the Music Box Theatre will be hosting a midnight screening of Clive Barker's HELLRAISER on January 11th & 12th.  Clive Barker will be there for the screening on the 12th.  But you have to buy your tickets in advance through Ticketweb to get in.  If you're interested, I would get your tickets soon, since I'm assuming it will sell out.
    For more information about the Music Box, click HERE.

FLASHBACK TO HOST DEAD REUNION
    This year at the Flashback Weekend, they will be hosting the 40th Anniversary World Tour of the original NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD.  So far on the guest list they have George Romero, John Russo, Marilyn Eastman, Krya Schon, Bill Hinzman, Judith O'Dea, Russ Streiner, and George Kosana.
    They also have listed the babysitters from Rob Zombie's HALLOWEEN, Danielle Harris, Scout Taylor-Compton, and Kristina Kelbe.
    More guests to be announced.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Mike Shields and Hoby Abernathy were the only ones to send in the correct answer for the last Mystery Photo.  That was the lovely Juliet Mills in BEYOND THE DOOR, another great EXORCIST "inspired" movie.  See our DVD news below for some great news about this movie!
    So check out the latest photo to see if we get can a few more answers this time out.  Click HERE to send in your answer.  Good luck.

DVD NEWS
    Here is some great news for us fans of cult titles, once again proving that just about ANY movie can get a DVD release.  BCI/Navarre has made a deal with Code Red to exclusively distribute their DVD titles.  Here's some of titles that they are going to be releasing over the coming year:  SOLE SURVIVOR, BOARDING HOUSE (A great Turkey Day Movie if there ever was one), THE DEAD PIT, THE UNSEEN, BUTCHER BAKER NIGHTMARE MAKER, THE VISITOR, THE MUTILATOR (Once again, hope it's the uncut version), THE NESTING, NIGHTMARE, SPASMS, TERROR CIRCUS (Is this BARN OF THE NAKED DEAD???), and a few other non-horror titles.
    But the one title that I'm pretty excited to see, oddly enough was our last Mystery Photo, is BEYOND THE DOOR.  They have already recorded an audio commentary from director/producer Ovidio Assonitis.  We're just hoping that it's the uncut widescreen version of the film, and not the cut US print.  Fingers are crossed.
    I know that Code Red has done a great job so far on their releases, so we'll very excited to hear some of these titles that they have announced, since they should be well worth the wait.

12-15-07  FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT
    Back again after missing our update over last weekend.  Once again, just too much stuff going on here.  And with the holidays coming up fast, it's keeping us busy.  But we do have a few new things for this update, so hopefully it was worth the wait.

INTERVIEWS AND MORE UP AND RUNNING
    Our Interview Section is now back up and re-designed.  Unfortunately, we somehow lost most of the photos from the behind-the-scene stuff that Pete O'Herne had sent us for the Bad Taste Cast Interview, but the text is still all there.
    One of our goals for next year is to work on more and more of interviews for the site.  To find our Interviews, just click on the Features section in the above links.
    We also have un-archived some more of our Convention Reports as well.  Those are also in the Features section.
    And lastly, we have also un-archived some of our Reference Book Reviews.  These can be found in our Reviews Section.

HALLOWEEN REVIEW & CONTEST
    Well, we have finally got around to seeing Rob Zombie's HALLOWEEN and have posted our review of it.  The review is for the new 2-Disc Unrated Director's Cut DVD that comes out next week.  So check out our review to see which side of the fence we are on.
    And to celebrate this momentous occasion, while doing a little cleaning here at the Krypt, we stumbled across  a copy of the soundtrack from HOUSE OF 1000 CORPSES, signed by Rob Zombie.  So we decided to give it away to one lucky winner.  All you need to do is send us an email letting us know if you liked his version of HALLOWEEN or not, and why.  Don't worry folks, we're not talking an essay here, but a sentence or two of your thoughts.  Think of it as a little poll.  One winner will be chosen from the list of emails that we get.  To participate, just click HERE to open the email, type your thoughts and send away.  Good luck!

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Okay, so the photo wasn't the greatest quality.  But since this film has never gotten a decent release, that's going to be pretty tough.  And since the film is William Girdler's ABBY, and is a...slight variation on William Friedkin's THE EXORCIST, who knows if it will ever get an official release.
    Only Will Wilson, Kevin Hart, and Hoby Abernathy had the correct answers.  Nice job guys.  At least I know there are some people out there that have seen it.
    With this week's pic, we're going to stay on a theme here and see if that will help.  Just remember, there's no penalty for a wrong answer.

TONY TENSER - REST IN PEACE
    Who is Tony Tenser?  Don't know?  That's a shame.  That means you still have some learning to do.  But that's okay, since after reading this, you'll now know who Tenser was.  Tenser was a British producer who's studio, Tigon British Film Productions, seemed to specialize in the exploitation market.  Tenser was behind such films as Michael Reeves WITCHFINDER GENERAL, Peter Walker's FRIGHTMARE, Freddie Francis' THE CREEPING FLESH, and many other titles.  He was also the executive producer on a couple of early Roman Polanski films, such as CUL-DE-SAC and REPULSION.  So while his films may not have been blockbusting smash hits, but for us horror fans, we knew that we were in for a good time with something that Tenser was involved with.
    Tenser passed away on December 5th, at the age of 87.  If you're interested in reading more on Tenser, I would highly recommend getting the book BEASTS IN THE CELLAR by John Hamilton.  It was published by FAB Press and is one great book.

12-05-07  A SLIGHT DELAY
    We had even intention to have this update done over the weekend.  But since we didn't have a weekend (having to work both Saturday AND Sunday), that made it a little tough.  But we do have something new with this update.  We have finally brought back our Vincent Price Memorial Poster Art Gallery.  For those who were around when we had it up on our old site, it's basically a place to see the different poster art from different movies and from different countries.  Since we are a big fan of poster art, and am a collector, I try to let other collectors and fans see some of the great artwork that used to be used for movie posters.  It really is a dying art form.  So for more details about what the Gallery is about, just click on the Features link above and have fun.  There's a lot of posters to check out.  We have all of the sections open now, except the American Movies Section.  But there is more enough eye candy with the sections on Spanish & Paul Naschy films, British & Hammer films, and the Italian films.  We will have the American Section up shortly.
    So take a few minutes and check it out.  And please give us some feedback on what you think.  We always like hearing from you.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Somehow we completely forgot to put up a new photo with our last update.  So here's a new one before we forget.
    The last photo was from Wes Craven's THE SERPENT AND THE RAINBOW.  While watching parts of the film, looking for a good frame grab, I had forgotten how good some of that movie is.  It does have it's weak points, but for the most part, I think it's pretty effective.
    Anyway, the ones that sent in the correct answers were Hoby Abernathy and William Wilson.
    So check out the latest pic and see what you can come up with.  Good luck.

NEW REVIEW
    We also have one new review with this update.  It's for one of the latest releases from Dark Sky Films, THE KILLING KIND.  If you enjoy 70's films with a sleazy feel to them, then you'll love this one.  Check out our full review for more details.

DARK SKY UNLEASHES THE KING OF THE WITCHES!
    And speaking of Dark Sky Films, we were very excited to hear the news that they will be releasing a rare cult classic film, SIMON - KING OF THE WITCHES.  Just trying to find a video pre-record of this movie was tough enough.  And if you were lucky to find one, the quality wasn't that great.  So we are hoping that Dark Sky does their usual excellent job of giving films a great looking presentation.  Hopefully they will have some good extras, at least of some sort of participation with Andrew Prine.  When we interviewed him a couple of years ago, he had some great stories about the making of this movie.
    But let's not just stop with that great bit of news.  Since the holidays are coming up, what better present to have for your favorite movie fan that getting them a DVD from Dark Sky.  Right now, they are having a 30% discount sale on 12 of their titles.  There are different offers each day, so make sure you check out their website HERE for more details.

CHICAGO SCREENING OF CURSE OF THE DEMON
    For those in the Chicago area, the classic film CURSE OF THE DEMON (aka NIGHT OF THE DEMON) will be showing at the Gene Siskel Film Center this Friday and also next Wednesday.  After the screening on Wednesday, there will be a lector/discussion by film critic and author Jonathan Rosenbaum.  Even if you have seen this film, having the chance to see it on a big screen is well worth your time and money.  This is one of those films that defines what a "classic" is.  And of course, if you haven't seen it, now is your chance.
    For more information about the screening, check out the website HERE.

11-25-07  ANOTHER TURKEY DAY MARATHON...I'M FULL!
    We survived another day chocked full of "rare" movies.....the "rare" meaning they're not well done.  Doc AC came out to participate in the festivities, along with my son, who only managed to survive the first film before having to wander off to do other things that teenagers tend to do.  But the Doc and I had a pretty good time with our viewing choices.
    The first up was KILLDOZER, a made-for-TV movie from the 70's, which was probably the last time I had seen this movie.  I didn't remember much, but knew it fit the bill for the day's viewing.  And really, to give some sort of defense to the film, it's not really a poorly made film.  It's just the dialog is silly, and just the whole idea of the movie is just laughable.  A killer bulldozer?  The ones that move about 5 miles an hour and you can hear approaching about 2 miles away?  How can that be frightening.  But they do their best to make it work.  Clint Walker is the main lead, and has about as much personality as the bulldozer they're running from.  He was a pretty big star in the "western days", back when actors didn't have to show any emotions.  He must have rocked back then!
    Next up was Amando de Ossorio's THE SEA SERPENT.  Now most fans know de Ossorio from his BLIND DEAD films.  But please don't watch this film expecting any remotely close to those stylistic films.  Once again, the dialog is a hoot.  The acting is sub-par, especially from Timothy Bottoms who was trying a little too hard, and Ray Milland, who just seemed to not give a crap about being there.  And of course, you have the wonderful puppet monster itself.  Now that, I happen to love.  As cheesy as it is, it's a perfect Turkey-Day movie.
    After that, we stayed with de Ossorio for the newly released LORELEY'S GRASP.  While I don't have happened to think this was a turkey, I wanted to watch the new print, and AC hadn't seen it.  So without going into any details here, we have our own full-blown review posted in our Review section.
    And lastly, we watched one of Rick Baker's finest career moments, OCTAMAN.  I know I would have enjoyed the film quite a bit more had the print we were watching wasn't so damn dark!  There several moments when the screen was completely black.  And the sad thing is that I really don't seen anybody putting out a nice re-mastered disc of that movie.  Which is sad, since it's a great old fashion rubber suited monster movie.  Great for Turkey Day, that is.  But none the less, I do have to give Mr. Baker credit for the creature.  I'm sure he would rather forget about the film, but I still think the creature still is cool looking after all of these years.
    So another year's Turkey Day gone and another 4 movies down the pipe.  Time to start making that list for next year!

KRYPTIC T-SHIRTS
    We do now have official Kitley's Krypt T-Shirts for a whopping $10, plus postage.  The shirt features our logo on a black T-shirt, and comes in Large, X-Large, and 2X-Large.  If you're interested, please send me an email about ordering details.

REVIEWS
    We do have a few new reviews posted.  The first one is for Amando de Ossorio's LORELEY'S GRASP, one of our favorites.  Can't go wrong with Helga Liné if you ask me.  We also have reviews of two lower budgeted fair, GONE THE WAY OF FLESH and Bill Zebub's ASS MONSTER.
    And in the Soundtrack department, we have our reviews up for a couple of recently released scores.  The first one being Hammer's CAPTAIN KRONOS: VAMPIRE HUNTER.  And secondly, one that I am still amazed got released, is MAD DOCTOR OF BLOOD ISLAND.

ENGLAND ART CONTEST WINNERS
    First of all, I want to thank everyone who sent in their entries into this contest.  We had more entries on this contest than we've ever had before, so it seems that a lot of people had fun with it.  I also would like to especially thank Don England, for not only donating 2 prints for us to give away, but also for creating such a great piece of work in the first place.
    And if you are not one of the two winners, don't think that you can not still get your own print.  Don sells them through his website (Slaughtered Lamb Studios).  Just drop him a line.  They are very reasonably priced.
    Here's the list of movies that are in the print.  Keep in mind, that some of the images, like Freddy's glove, could have been in many different movies.  So if you said any of the NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET movies, you got that one in.  So here's the list:
ZOMBIE, CREEPSHOW, THE EXORCIST, OPERA, Freddy's glove, SUSPIRIA, DAWN OF THE DEAD, THE HOWLING, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE, EVIL DEAD, PUMPKINHEAD, DR. BUTCHER M.D., Jason's mask, THE BURNING, BASKET CASE, TOMBS OF THE BLIND DEAD, CANDYMAN, SHOCK WAVES, HALLOWEEN 3: SEASON OF THE WITCH, IT'S ALIVE, HALLOWEEN, THE THING, MARTIN, PHANTASM, and the arm on the left side is from NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 3 (the puppet maker's arm).  Sorry folks, but the axe in the upper left hand corner isn't from a particular movie, but something that Don just threw in there.
    And now for the winners.....Contrats to David Prime & Robert Freese!

CONVENTION REPORTS
    We  have posted our report of the latest HorrorHound Weekend that we attended last weekend.  As always, we had a great time there.  Looking forward to March for their HELLRAISER reunion, and other great things they have planned.
    Plus, we have finally brought over the previous convention reports for the Flashback Weekend shows.  They are in our Features section.  We're still working on bringing the rest of those other show reports over.

11-22-07  HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!!
    While we are preparing for the real Turkey Day tomorrow, we wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, or if you're one that doesn't celebrate it, hopefully you can at least celebrate having a day off from work.  I know I am.  We are putting the finally touches on our Turkey Day Marathon tomorrow and have plenty of antacids on hand in case it gets too much.
    We had another great time at the HorrorHound Weekend this past weekend.  We want to say thanks to everyone who stopped by and chatted with us there.  Always nice to hear from other like-minded fans.  Hopefully we'll have our report and photos up in our next update, which SHOULD be this weekend.  SHOULD being the key term.  Depends on how we survive tomorrow.

LAST FEW DAYS FOR ART CONTEST!!!!
    In our update this weekend, we will be announcing the winners for the England Art Contest.  So you only have a couple of days left to participate if you haven't already.  So don't delay or you will miss out on the chance to win a print of this great piece of art.  Just click HERE to get started.

11-11-07  WASTELAND AND MASSACRE REPORTS
    We have FINALLY gotten around to getting our reports posted for the Cinema Wasteland show and the Music Box Massacre 3.  We took plenty of photos at both events, so check out our reviews and enjoy.  You can find them in our Features Section in the Links above.
    Plus, we have also FINALLY gotten around to transfer over all our previous reports for the Massacre and the Wasteland from the old site.  So now you can look back at all of those past shows and see what you've missed!

HORRORHOUND NEXT WEEKEND!
    And while on the subject of shows, next weekend we will be heading off to Indianapolis for the 2nd HorrorHound Weekend.  They've got a pretty good guest lineup, including John Landis!  Joining us for the trip will be our buddies Putrid (aka Matt) and Dave Kosanke from Liquid Cheese.  I know we are once again going to have a good time at the show.  If you're going, please stop by our table and say hello!

ENGLAND ART CONTEST
    We are going to let this contest go for a little while longer, since it seems a lot of people are having fun with it.  I've gotten a couple of people that had already sent in their answers, only to discover another movie that they didn't notice the first time.
    So just click on HERE to get to our Trivia section, and follow the instructions.  Come on, give it a try.  You've got nothing to lose other than a few minutes.  And you just might be one of the lucky winners.  Trust me, this piece of artwork (featured to the right) is beautiful.  I've got my own copy in a nice frame sitting in our Kryptic Theater, right below our marquee.  Yes, we have our own marquee.

NEW REVIEWS
    We have 4 more reviews posted this week.  I guess that makes up for the fact that we didn't have an update last week.  This time out, we review WITCHCRAFT with Lon Chaney Jr., THE DEADLY MANTIS with.....a giant deadly mantis, SEEDING OF A GHOST, a slick and gooey horror from Hong Kong, and the new 2-disc special edition of CREEPSHOW.  Head over to our Reviews section and check them out.
    If you are one of those that still hasn't gotten a region-free player, maybe after reading our review for CREEPSHOW you'll decide that you have to have one now.  Christmas is coming, and what a great idea for a gift, huh?

MAD DOCTOR CD
    Since we are a big fan of movie soundtracks, we are always checking out the new titles that come out.  One place that we always scope out is Screen Archives Entertainment.  They have a huge selection of titles, and always let you know what's new.  Plus, they are have stuff that you would NEVER see at a local Best Buy or the likes.  For example, I was browsing through there the other day and came close to falling out of my chair.  It seems that someone has decided that they needed to put out a CD soundtrack for Eddie Romero's MAD DOCTOR OF BLOOD ISLAND!  I couldn't get my credit card out fast enough to order this title.  Sure, some of the titles are a little pricy, but for as rare as some of these titles are, I don't mind paying the extra $$.  I'm sure once we get this title, we will be posting our review for it.  Of course, you can't order just one title, so we also picked up the recently released score for Hammer's CAPTAIN KRONOS: VAMPIRE HUNTER.  Can't go wrong with Hammer score!
    For more information about this CD or the website, click HERE.

TURKEY DAY MARATHON APPROACHING
    Now that Halloween is over, and we are coming to an end of our favorite season, there is still one more day of celebrating coming up.  Since 2003, we have spent the Friday after Thanksgiving in front of our TV, divulging ourselves in some of the horror cinema's less than finest features.  Some feel that it's an endurance test.  And there have been some movies on the schedule that do make it seem that.  But most of the time, we are just enjoying the hell out of these turkeys.  So far for this year's celebration, we will be watching Armando de Ossario's THE SEA SERPENT and the 70's made-for-TV movie KILLDOZER  I'm sure we'll be coming up with a couple more to watch.  Maybe this year we'll finally get to ROCK 'N' ROLL NIGHTMARE...

MYSTERY PHOTO
    It seems that we posted another tough photo this last time.  Only got three people with the correct answer.  And they would be Aaron Christensen, Will Wilson, and Mike Shields.  And the mystery title was none other than MOTHER'S DAY.  Ever hear of it?  While it's not one of my personal favorites, I know it does have it's following.
    So check out the latest photo and see if you know it.  Good luck!

10-28-07  HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!
    I'm sure we won't have another update until after the holiday.  So we wanted to wish everyone out there a happy and safe Halloween this year.  Hopefully you were able to spend time this month watching some of these great movies from our favorite genre.  New ones, old ones, as long as we're watching, it's all the same.  As our buddy Dr. AC says, Keep America Strong....Watch More Monster Movies!

NEW REVIEWS
    We have been a little busy this last week trying to get caught up on some reviews that we needed to get posted.  So with this update, we have a total of FIVE new reviews!  Can't remember the last time we had that many at once.  So head on over to our Reviews section to hear what we have to say about WRONG TURN 2, Dan Curtis' FRANKENSTEIN, THE DEVIL'S DAUGHTER, CRAWLSPACE, and Robert Kutzman's BURIED ALIVE.

WRONG TURN 2 SOUNDTRACK
    And speaking of WRONG TURN 2, we have also posted our review of the soundtrack for the film, that was just released by La-La Land Records.  You can check that out in our Review section as well.

AMICUS CONTEST
    The winner of our Amicus Collection contest is Doug Lamoreux.  Nice job Doug, as well as to all the other people that entered in with the correct answers.  It's always nice to see that many fans of Amicus films out there.  Or at least know how to do a little research if need be.  Once again, we'd like to thanks the fine folks at Dark Sky Films for donating this prize pack for us to giveaway.  You can check out their website HERE.
    The answers were as follows:

1.  What was the first anthology film produced under the Amicus moniker? - DR. TERROR'S HOUSE OF HORRORS
2.  What is the more widely known title for BRIDE OF FENGRIFFEN? - AND NOW THE SCREAMING STARTS
3.  In the last Amicus production, THE MONSTER CLUB, what famous horror author was played by John Carradine? - R. Chetwynd-Hayes

READY FOR ANOTHER CONTEST????
    Okay folks, this time out we have another great work of art that we are giving away 2 prints.  This amazing collage is from artist Don England, from Slaughtered Lamb Studios.  Just click over to our Trivia page HERE to see the print and to find out what you have to do to win one of these wonderful works of art.

OFFICIAL HORROR 101 WEBSITE ONLINE!
    There is now an official website for the Dr. AC and the Horror 101 book.  You can check it out HERE.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Last week Photo was from the cult classic SCARECROWS, which had just gotten a DVD release a couple of weeks ago.  If you haven't seen this film, we highly recommend that you seek it out.  It's a great little shocker.  Contrats to Will Wilson and Hoby Abernathy for knowing this little gem.
    So here's our latest photo.  Just click HERE to send in your email if you think you know the movie it's from.  Good Luck.

HORRORHOUND ALMOST HERE!
    In another few weeks, we'll be heading off to Indianapolis once again for the HorrorHound Weekend.  We had a great time there last July, and are expecting another great time.  They have a great guest line up again this time out, especially with John Landis being there.  Any AMERICAN WEREWOLF fan out there is not going to want to miss this one.  Hope to see you there and please make sure you stop by and introduce yourself!

10-24-07  WHAT A MONTH....
    For some reason, the computer gods out there decided it was time to throw a little computer problems at the Krypt, causing us not only being able to send any emails, it was also stopping us from uploading any updates here.  I mean, it's only our favorite time of year, so what could we have possibly wanted to post.  But it seems that we have it back working again, though we're still not sure what the problem was in the first place.  Damn...I could get a job at a computer help desk somewhere.....
    Anyway, back to reality....wait, that's too depressing.....So while we're still hoping for a career change or a winning lotto ticket, we're still working way too many hours, which is putting quite a damper on our October fun.  But we're still pushing on, trying to sneak in some fun when we can.
    We will have some new reviews posted as well, including a few new DVD releases, including one from Dark Sky Films and the newer Wild Eye DVD with their releases of THE DEVIL'S DAUGHTER and the rare CRAWLSPACE.  So keep watching for those reviews.

WASTELAND & MUSIC BOX REPORTS COMING SOON...
    As much as we love this time of year, once October rolls around, we tend to have something going on every weekend.  So when those finally end, and we actually have some free time on the weekend (aka Sunday), there's huge burden off our shoulders and we can actually try and enjoy this time of year.  Mainly by watching movies, but enjoying it none the less.
    So got plenty of photos at both the Wasteland and the Music Box Massacre and will be working on getting our full reports posted, as well as bringing back access to all the previous Wasteland shows and Massacres.  So stay tuned.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Another classic film that only our regulars knew.  And that was from MAN MADE MONSTER, starring Lon Chaney Jr. and Lionel Atwill.  It was just released on DVD in another great collection, so you have no excuse to check it out.  In the first issue of Famous Monsters that I remember buying, there was an article on this film, so it's always been a favorite of mine.  Job well done to Hoby Abernathy, Mike Shields, and Kevin Hart.
    So take a look at our new photo.  It might be a little tough, but that's the whole idea.  We want that brain to be working.  But there's enough clues in the photo to help you out.  As usual, just click on the photo to see a bigger view, and then click HERE to send us the email.  Good luck!

HATCHET WINNERS
    Sorry for the long delay in announcing our winners for the HATCHET contest, but here they finally are.  A special congratulations goes out to John Hoskins, Michael Richards, and Christine Fidance.  You will all be receiving an mini-HATCHET poster, signed by director Adam Green and actress Joleigh Fioreavanti.  Your poster prize should be going out in the mail by this weekend.  Thanks again for playing.

DARK SKY FILMS GIVEAWAY
    For our latest contest, the wonderful folks at Dark Sky Films has given us a great prize to give away for the Halloween season.  The lucky winner of this contest will be the proud owner of the Amicus Collection!  This set features the DVDs of ASYLUM, AND NOW THE SCREAMING STARTS, and THE BEAST MUST DIE.  All of this can be yours.....just by answering a few questions.  Just click HERE to go to our Trivia page.  And if you don't know the answers, remember a little homework just could get you these 3 DVDs.....
    As usual, the winner will be drawn from all the entries with the correct answers.  Good luck.

CHARLES B. GRIFFITH - REST IN PEACE
    Last April, at the Cinema Wasteland show, we had the honor to not only meet Mr. Griffith, but also sit down with him for a quick interview.  We was a fun interview, full of great stories of the "old days" of low budget filmmaking.  And right now, as I write this, my amazing poster for the not so amazing movie UP FROM THE DEPTHS, is hanging behind me in my office, with Griffith's signature sprawled across it.  And while Griffith wasn't too happy with this directorial project of his, I still love the poster.  And to know that I had the chance to meet and talk with someone who contributed some great work to the genre will be among my favorite memories.
    So it was with great sadness that I heard of his passing a few weeks ago.  His work back in the day with Roger Corman showed the talent of a real screenwriter, able to crank out movies with little or no time, and with hardly a budget.  He will be missed.  So go out and re-watch one of the many classics Griffith had something to do with.  Trust me, there's quite a few.....DEATH RACE 2000...ATTACK OF THE CRAB MONSTERS...LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS...and many, many more.

NEXT NOX ARCANA
    Talk about not taking a break...It wasn't that long ago that Nox Arcana had released there Shadow of the Raven CD.  But as we know, they are not ones to sit on their laurels, and have already started work on their next CD.  Entitled Grimm Tales, the ninth album from the band will be about what childhood nightmares come from.  According to Joseph Vargo, "The concept will center around dark fairies, wicked witches, and creatures that lurk in the deepest shadows of childhood nightmares."
    The CD should be out early next year.  And we can't wait.

DEL TORO DOES LOVECRAFT
    Guillermo del Toro is one filmmaker that I would follow no matter what kind of film he would make.  I have really enjoyed all of his films (yes, even MIMIC).  I think that he is one of the most talented filmmakers working in the film business today.  Plus the fact that he's a huge horror fan and wants to continue to make genre films, gives him even more kudos from me.
    So when I heard that del Toro is finally going to start work on his on-again/off-again dream project of H.P. Lovecraft's AT THE MOUNTAINS OF MADNESS, I was more than thrilled.  I had this discussion of the weekend about Stuart Gordon and his dream Lovecraft project that never got off the ground.  As much as I love Gordon as a director, I think that del Toro's vision (not to mention the $$$ that he could get) is much more needed to bring the work of Lovecraft to the screen.
    del Toro is set to start on MOUNTAINS right after HELLBOY 2: THE GOLDEN ARMY.  Since Universal is behind it, I'm sure they are going to be throwing a lot of cash his way.  And I have complete faith in del Toro's work and know he won't put out something less than amazing.  Talk about setting your hopes up high.....geezzz...

TRIBUTE DVDs
    The one thing that I love almost as much as horror reference books is documentaries on the horror genre.  And there's two new docs coming out covering two of our favorite directors: Lucio Fulci and William Castle.
    First up is a DVD tribute to Fulci called PAURA: LUCIO FULCI REMEMBERED.  Mike Baronas of Paura Productions had been planning on a book on Fulci, but decided to use the interviews that he had gotten and go with more of a visual medium.  The feature will have interviews with Giovanni Lombardo Radice (aka John Morghen), Brett Halsey, Jared Martin, Florinda Bolkan, and many others who worked with Fulci over the years.  This is set to be released in February of next year, so we will keep you posted.
    For more information about the project, you can check out their official website HERE.
    And for a subject that has been way past due, director / producer Jeffrey Schwarz has created a feature length documentary on one of the greatest showman in the horror genre, William Castle.  The feature, called SPINE TINGLER! THE WILLIAM CASTLE STORY, features interivews with Roger Corman, John Landis, Joe Dante, Stuart Gordon, John Waters, Fred Olen Ray, and many, many others.  For those who might not know Castle or his work, he was responsible for films like 13 GHOSTS, THE TINGLER, HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL, MR. SARDONICUS and a few other classics.  And if you're not familiar with his work, you need to be.  They are a load of fun.
    The documentary is currently looking for a distributor, there will be a few screenings in California in November.  For more information about the project, check out the official site HERE.  We can't wait for this one.

OTHER DVD NEWS - SPANISH HORROR RULES!
    One of my newest favorite DVD companies is BCI.  After the incredible work they've done with some of the Paul Naschy films and other great Spanish classics like NIGHT OF THE SORCERERS and LORELI'S GRASP, they have announced two more Naschy titles that will be coming out.  Sometime next year, they will be releasing BLUE EYES OF THE BROKEN DOLL (aka HOUSE OF PSYCHOTIC WOMEN) and HUMAN BEASTS.  Now, if I remember correctly, the video release of BLUE EYES under the HOUSE title was cut.  So this should be the first time this film will be officially released here in the states uncut.  Not to mention the fact that it's a pretty damn good film!  HUMAN BEASTS did get a video release from All Seasons Entertainment, but not sure if anything was ever cut from that print.  While it's not the greatest film of Naschy's, I'm still happy to see it get released.  But I highly recommend everyone seek out BLUE EYES.  Can't wait to see what they are going to announced next!

TOOTING MY OWN HORN....
    I had sent in an essay I had written on being a horror fan to our local paper, thinking they might find it interesting enough for the upcoming Halloween season.  Well, apparently after checking out this website, they thought that I would be more interesting than what I had written.  So if you'd like to check it out, here's the LINK to the paper's website.

10-17-07  A TIME FOR REST
    After three weekends of excitement, the last being a 24-hour marathon of madness, it's going to take me a bit of time to get back to the swing of things.  I would like to hope that I will have an update at some point this week, but we'll see how the rest of the week is.
    Once we do get an update posted, we should have our reports of the last Wasteland show, as well as the Music Box Massacre (where we once again had a great time!).
    We will also be posting our winners for the signed HATCHET poster contest.  What's that?  Didn't know about our HATCHET Contest?  Well then you better scroll down through our past updates and see what we're talking about.  And when we do post the winners, we will have yet ANOTHER contest to test your movie knowledge.  If there's one month where you should be studying, this month should be the one.

10-03-07  WASTELAND THIS WEEKEND....
    Once again, in a couple of days we will be making our bi-annual trip to Ohio for the Cinema Wasteland show.  And with the way my day job has been these last few months, I can't tell you how much I am looking forward to this show.  Just being able to walk away from the real world, spend time with friends, and talk about horror movies, is a much, much needed therapy that I need right now.  So we hope to see our regulars there, and hoping to meet some new friends as well.  So if you are going, please stop by our table and introduce yourself.

KARL HARDMAN: REST IN PEACE
    We also wanted to take a moment to mention the passing of one of the most memorable characters in a horror movie.  Karl Hardman will always be known to horror fans as Harry Cooper, the asshole father from NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD.  Over the years, we had the chance to meet him at a few different conventions, and he was always fun to talk to.  He really enjoyed talking to the fans of NIGHT and never seemed to get tired of answering basically the same old questions from the fans.  While his character of Cooper might not have been the hero type, the way he talked to his fans, Karl Hardman was a hero.  And as I always say when one of our "horror actors" passes away, us horror fans will always keep his memory alive, and he will never be forgotten.
    Hardman passed away on September 22nd from pancreatic cancer.  Our thoughts and wishes go out to his friends and family.

HORROR 101
    Believe it or not, but the moment that we've been waiting for what seems like forever, has finally come to pass.  HORROR 101: The A-List of Horror Films and Monster Movies Vol. 1 is now available.  The official website for the book should be up shortly, but in the meantime you can click on the link above, under our banner, for more into.  If you are on MySpace, you can check out the MySpace page HERE.
    If you're interested in ordering a copy of it now, you can drop us an email HERE.  The cost of the book is $25, or $40 for 2 copies (don't forget, Christmas is coming....).  If you think that's a bit pricey, just figure it's cheaper than buying 3 issues of Fangoria.  And there's a hell of a lot less ads in here.
    We will have copies at our table at the Cinema Wasteland show, as well at the upcoming Music Box Massacre the following weekend.  So please stop by, pick up a book and not only show your support of the genre, but you might even learn something from that ancient art of reading.

CORALINA COMING TO THE MASSACRE!
    Speaking of the Massacre, we totally forgot to mention this in our last update, but our favorite Italian starlet Coralina Cataldi Tassoni will be attending the Music Box Massacre for a screening of DEMONS 2.  Below is a the lineup and times.  For more information about the Massacre and the Music Box Theatre itself, check out the official website HERE.
    We've always had a blast at the marathon, and really shows the true fans out there.  Don't have too many 24 hour marathons of romantic comedies out there, do they?  So if you're remotely in the area, or even if you're not, make a plan to come out and enjoy the festivities.  Hope to see you there.   

11am - Doors Open
12:10 pm The Cat and the Canary (82 mins.)
1:45pm Freaks (1932) (64 mins.)
3pm Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein (83 mins.)
4:30pm Equinox (80 mins.)
6pm - Peeping Tom (101 mins.) (1962) (Michael Powell)
8pm Monster Squad (with director Fred Dekker in person!) (82 mins.) with live Q & A.
10pm - Demons 2 (with star Coralina Cataldi Tassoni in person!) (91 mins.) with live Q & A.
12:15am - Videodrome (89 mins.)
2am - Halloween 3 (99 mins.) (1982) (dir. Tommy Lee Wallace)
3:50am - The Raven (Roger Corman) (86 mins.)
5:30am - It's Alive (Larry Cohen) (91 mins.)
7:20am - Death Dream (88 mins.) (Bob Clark)
9am - The Demonology of Desire (22 mins.)
9:30am - The Shining (146 Original Version) (1980) (dir. Stanley Kubrick)

Plus: Rusty Nails will be hosting! Count Midnight will appear!
Bring your pajamas, blankets and pillows! Table Dealers in the lobby!
Live Charity Auction! Free Prizes and Surprises!

MIDWAY DRIVE-IN - A NOSTALGIC CELEBRATION!
    Last Saturday, my son and I traveled out to Dixon, Illinois to take part in the first (of hopefully many) Dusk Til Dawn Horror shows at the Midway Drive-In. Recently purchased by Mike & Mia Kerz (who run the Flashback Weekend shows), they are bringing back the drive-ins the way they use to be. We were thrilled to see the people turn out for this all night horror fest, and we had a blast. From all the great movies we got to watch, to the great food from the snack bar, to all people that we talked to there that came out, it was a fun time.
    Many kudos to Mike and Mia for putting their heart and soul into what they believe in.  That must have been one hell of a leap of faith decide they're going to own and run a drive-in theater.  But they are doing it because of their love and passion for the drive-in.  And lucky for us fans, now we have somewhere we can go to enjoy these types of events.  So if you missed this one, make sure you make it out the next time they are doing something like this, or any screening for that matter.  I know we will be there to support them each and every time we can.
    Here's some photos from that night.  But for more photos and info, check out their website HERE.

     

HATCHET: DVD NEWS AND QUICK THOUGHTS
    They have announced the details for the DVD release of Adam Green's HATCHET, and of course, it will be unrated.  For some reason, I thought I remember hearing / reading that Green said the movie got passed by the MPAA without any cuts.  I may be wrong.  But if that's the case, then they must have cut stuff out before giving it to them.  Another thing was that at a couple of conventions that I was at over the summer, at the Anchor Bay table, they were showing a clip from HATCHET.  But when I recently seen the film, that particular scene really looked like it was slightly trimmed.  So they must have been showing a clip from the uncut version, not the theatrical version.
    But in any case, even the theatrical version was something to make any fan of 80's slasher / gore movies shout with joy.  Green said that he was trying to make a throwback to those types of movies, and I think that's exactly what he did.  It's a no-brainer.  It's gory, got annoying characters that you are waiting to die in gruesome ways, and they do.  End of story.  Plus, Green did come up with a decent folklore background for the movie.  But it is a movie that will kick start a new fad in Hollywood?  Don't think so.
    So come December 18th, fans will be able to pick up the Unrated (or R rated) version of HATCHET on DVD.  The film will feature an audio commentary by Green, cinematographer Will Barratt, and actors Tamara Feldman, Joel David Moore, and Deon Richmond.  Plus, there will be a 90 minutes of features on the making of the movie from beginning to end.  It's not the answer to us horror fans' prayers as we were led to believe, but it's still an entertaining film.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Only had 2 people send in the correct answer on this last one.  And that was even having a couple of weeks to think about it.  Well, it was kind of an obscure title, but that's why we do it.  Then maybe you'll seek it out.  The film was AXE (aka LISA, LISA, CALIFORNIA AXE MASSACRE, and about a dozen more titles), and it is available on DVD.  I would recommend you check it out.  It is worth seeing.
    Kudos go out to Will Wilson and Hoby Abernathy for knowing this movie.  Nice job guys.
    The new photo might be pretty easy, but let's just see how many people can see the light!?!?!  Send the emails HERE.

9-30-07  NEW REVIEW
    We have another new review posted, that of the new release of Jack Hill's SPIDER BABY, from Dark Sky Films.  Folks, you don't even need to read my review....just go out and buy this disc.

9-23-07  NEW REVIEWS
    Don't have that much of an update this week, other than a couple of new reviews.  First up with have the latest from Larry Fessenden, THE LAST WINTER.  And then we also take a look at Dark Sky Films 2-disc release of Tobe Hooper's EATEN ALIVE.  Check out our Reviews section to read more.

DUSK TIL DAWN HORROR SHOW
    Just to update what will be playing at the Dusk Til Dawn Horror Show at the Midway Drive-In Theater next weekend.  Along with HATCHET and RE-ANIMATOR, they will be screening EVIL DEAD 2 and ARMY OF DARKNESS.  There is still one more film that hasn't been announced yet.  The doors will be opening at 6pm, with the screening starting around 7:30pm or dusk.  There will be prize-giveaways, along with vintage trailers and concession ads.  We will be set up there as well.  So why not come out and start your October celebration a little early.
    For more information, go to the official website HERE.

9-17-07  OKAY...SO WE'RE A LITTLE LATE....
    Yea, we've been working on this update for 2 weeks now.  And just when we think we're going to be finished, something else comes up and we just don't have the time to get to it.  I guess I could just update the site with what I have done, but I keep figuring it will be done and uploaded right away.  And then like I said, something comes up and I just don't get to it.
    Sure, it would be nice to have several people working on this, to share some of the burden of the webhosting.  But I still am too much of a control freak.  Plus, I haven't been able to find any volunteers will to do all the grunt work for basically for free.  Anybody????
    So in the meantime, while we struggle through our day job, we'll keep trying to get something up here to show that we are still alive and kicking....well, more like a twitch now and then, but there is still movement. 

DVD MANIA STARTS NOW!
    I can't tell you how many DVD titles came out on the 11th that I needed to add to my collection.  How long have us fans been waiting for some of these films to finally come out (at least over here in the states on some of them).  Titles like SCARECROWS, THE BURNING, TALES FROM THE CRYPT, WITCHFINDER GENERAL....the list goes on and on.
    But now, here's what I don't understand.  I was at my local Best Buy on Tuesday when these titles got released.  And they did not have a single copy of ANY of these releases that I was looking for.  I even had one of the staff look up some of the titles and was told that they won't have in stock at the store, and that you'd have to order them online.  So basically they're telling me not to come into the store.  And guess what, if I do order them online, it's going to be with someone like Deep Discount DVD.  So with the Halloween season right around the corner, why would they not have those new titles on their New Release section?  Wonders never cease.
    Of course, as happy as we are to hear that some of these movies are coming out, there is one little note of  bad news that goes along with it.  While it was awesome to hear that TALES FROM THE CRYPT and VAULT OF HORROR were going to be released on a double-disc set, it seems that VAULT is the cut version.  I still haven't heard if TALE is the cut version or not, but if memory serves, even the cuts on that were minimal.  But we have heard reports that THE BURNING and SCARECROWS are the uncut versions, even though they are stated as being rated R.  So at least we got that going for us.
    But in any case, there are enough DVD coming out in the next few months that is damn near going to make me get a part-time job (like I have time in my life for that!?!?!) just to afford all of these purchases!
    So we definitely shouldn't be hearing from anybody that there's nothing good coming out to watch!

MORE DVD NEWS
    George Romero's CREEPSHOW is probably one of my favorite Romero films, not to mention one of my favorite films all together.  So when the original release of CREEPSHOW even came out on laserdisc, I was pretty bummed that the only extra it had was a trailer.  Then when I heard that it was getting a DVD release, I was again hoping for the best.  No luck, since it was just a bare-bones release.  But now, our dreams have come true with a new 2-disc special edition is coming out...except it's coming out in the UK.  Do we need to say something about getting  a region-free player again...
    The 2-disc set will contain a feature length documentary, called Just Desserts, that goes into everything about the movie from the origins of the EC Comics to Stephen King to interviews with the actors, make up effects with Tom Savini and much more.  There is also an audio commentary with George Romero, Tom Savini, and DVD producer Michael Felsher.  The movie will feature an all-new 5.1 Surround Sound track, in addition to the original stereo mix.  There is also some deleted scenes.  Though they are not suppose to be the greatest quality, it will be great just to see them.  And then the usual trailers and still gallery.
    We just can not wait for this disc to come out.  Kudos to Mr. Felsher for making this happen.

NEW REVIEW
    Only got one new review this week, and it's from our faithful assistant, Dr. AC.  It's for the film THE MURDER GAME.  Check it out and see what you think.
    We've got a couple of reviews in the work, including one on the new Larry Fessenden movie, THE LAST WINTER.  Stay tuned.

BAVA BOOK
    In our last update, we were giving praise for a massive new horror reference book, Nightmare USA.  And then a few days ago, a package came in the mail that re-defined that.  It was Tim Lucas' book Mario Bava: All The Colors Of The Dark.  Not to take anything away from Nightmare USA, which still is a must for fans, but even that is dwarfed by the size of the new Bava book.  Holding this book makes me feel like I'm holding some ancient tomb from some 80's Italy horror movie.  At over 1100 pages, the book is filled with great photos, awesome poster art, and much, much more.  I just can't get over the size of this thing.
    If you didn't take our advice and pre-order it, you can still get it, but at the price of $260 (postage paid).  See....you should have listened to me when I first mentioned it.  For more information, check out the Video Watchdog site HERE.

HATCHET CONTEST
    Since HATCHET opened a couple of  weekends ago, and did a pretty nice chunk of change for the limited amount of screens that it was showing on, we have a couple of items that we are going to give away this week.  We have 3 mini HATCHET posters, signed by director Adam Green and star Joleigh Fioreavanti.  So if you want to have a chance at one of these, here's what you have to do.  Since HATCHET is a homage to the good old-fashion American boogey-man / monster / slasher movie, we would like to hear your favorite movie featuring one of these types of monsters.  But wait....we are not including the main guys, like Freddy, Jason, Michael, and even Pinhead.  Let's here some of those favorites that are a little off the beaten path.  Come on now, it's not that hard.  Just put some thought into it.
    Three names will be drawn from all of the entries.  So don't put it off before you forget.  Just click HERE to send that email.

ALL NIGHT DRIVE-IN HORROR-THON
    And speaking of HATCHET, coming up on September 29th, at the Midway Drive-In, they are having an Horror Dusk Til Dawn Event.  So far, they will be screening HATCHET and RE-ANIMATOR, with a few more classic films to be announced soon.  I know we are going to do our best to be able to be there.  As soon as they announce more titles, we'll list them here as well.  Anytime there is a theater that is having an all-night horror marathon, especially if it's a drive-in theater, we're going to do our best to take advantage of that.
    For more details, check out the theater's official site HERE.

MUSIC BOX MASSACRE
     While they still haven't announced the complete lineup for this year's Massacre, what they have listed is still more than enough to get you to come out and enjoy the fun.  Once again, promoter Rusty Nails and the Music Box Theatre have come up with some great titles this year.  For the last 2 years, we've been there and had a great time.  And this time will be no different.  There's going to be great movies, some dealers in the lobby (including us!!!), and special guest stars, including Fred Dekker, director of MONSTER SQUAD and NIGHT OF THE CREEPS.  Where else are you going to have the chance to see great classics like ABBOTT & COSTELLO MEET FRANKENSTEIN, or EQUINOX, or the Roger Corman classic THE RAVEN on the big screen!
    You can get advance tickets for only $24 by clicking HERE.  Tickets at the door will be $29.  And don't forget, the last two Massacres have sold out.  So you might not want to wait until the last minute to get those tickets.  And if you're going to get your ticket at the door, make sure you get there early!
    And if you are coming, make sure you stop by our table and chat a few...especially during the wee hours of the morning, since we'll need something to keep us awake!

OTHER MUSIC BOX SHOWS TO WATCH FOR
    While the number of films playing in the next season is a little light for my tastes, there are a couple of films that we need to mention that will be showing there.
    At the weekend matinee on October 27th & 28th, they are showing the original NOSFERATU, with a live organ accompaniment.  We've seen this there before with the live organ and it's great.  Highly recommended.
    Here's some titles that might peak your interests at the midnight screenings:
    SHAUN OF THE DEAD - October 5th & 6th
    FIDO - Ocotber 19th & 20th
    LAST HOUSE ON DEAD END STREET - Oct. 26th & 27th.

ROMERO DOCUMENTARY
    And while on the subject of Rusty Nails, there is an official site now for his documentary on horror legend George Romero, called DEAD ON: The Life and Cinema of George A. Romero.  Rusty has been working on this for years, and once it's finally finished, it's going to be something special.  He has gotten interviews with tons of people who has worked with Romero or been influenced by his work.  People like Stephen King, John Carpenter, Dennis Hopper, John Waters, Quentin Tarentino, and many, many more.  Still not sure when this will finally come out, but when it does it will be a must for horror fans to see.
    For more information, click HERE to get to the official site.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Since it's been a few weeks since our last update, I figured more emails would be coming in for our last mystery photo, but apparently not.  So the only ones to get this one was Mike Shields and Hoby Abernathy.  This either means that these guys just have WAY too much time on their hands, or the rest of you need to get spend more time on some more Euro-horror films.  The last pic was the main vamp-chick from VAMPIRE'S NIGHT ORGY (aka ORGY OF THE VAMPIRES, aka many other titles).  This is basically a Paul Naschy movie...that doesn't star Paul Naschy has the same usual great look and feeling to it.  Even stars Euro-horror faves Jack Taylor and Helga Liné, as well as a few other familiar faces.  So nice job, guys.
    Here's another old classic one, but this time from the good ol' US of A.  Give it a whirl and see what you can come up with.  Click HERE to send in your email.

9-02-07  NIGHTMARE USA - A MUST FOR HORROR FANS
    Now everyone who knows me, knows that I'm a sucker for horror reference books.  I collect them.  I sell them.  And I promote them.  We recently picked up the latest book from FAB Press, Nightmare USA by Stephen Thrower.  This massive tomb also comes with a massive price of $80.  But don't fret book lovers, you can still grab these on Amazon for only $50.  Now sure you still say that $50 is way too much.  There is where you are wrong.  This book is huge and heavy.  With over 500 pages, and weighing 5 1/2 pounds, this is what a reference book should be.
    Of course, if that doesn't convince you, the subject matter of this book should.  As the subtitle says, "The Untold Story of Exploitation Independents", this book covers films that I would have thought no one else had ever heard of, let alone cover it in much detail like this one does.  Movies like THE STRANGENESS, HEADLESS EYES, SCREAM BLOODY MURDER, and many more.  If you are a fan of those types of films from the 70's and early 80's, then you need to add this to your collection.  Trust me, you will not regret it.
    And lastly, I'd like to quote something from the introduction of this book, since it kind of goes along with our mission statement of Discovering the Horror.
    Author Stephen Thrower says, "Years after one has seen the major contenders, the TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRES and HALLOWEENS, one can still discover unexpected marvels: maybe whole films, like VICTIMS or DEATH BED; or maybe just amazing scenes or images, in movies largely unremarked-upon before.  In the attics and cellars of American cinema, under its floorboards, behind the weighty furniture and between the layers of linoleum, strange cine-life forms still lurk, and if sometimes your passion for the obscure gives you the mien of a deranged entomologist, holding aloft a weird insect and trying to convince others of its beauty while they wrinkle their noses in distaste, well, that's obsession: it's not for everyone."
    See....it's not just us preaching that.  But honest to goodness authors too!

MYSTERY PHOTO
    I was happy to see all the emails for our last Photo.  Shows that they are still some classic fans out there.  Contrats to Hoby Abernathy, Kevin Hart, Kevin Thoms,  Mike Shields, Will Wilson, Steve Bejma.  Looks like were getting some new names along with the usual suspects.  The photo is that of the mighty Tor Johnson battling it out with Lon Chaney Jr., from the film THE BLACK SLEEP.  This is one the reference books all said was utter trash, but I found pretty entertaining.  Just read our review for it, which we just posted.
    So here's the latest photo for your entertainment.  It's a tough one, unless you're up on your Spanish horror.  Now that we've giving you a nice clue, let's see if we can't get some more new faces....or names that is.  Good luck.

NEW REVIEWS
    We have a couple of new reviews posted.  The first being for the much criticized THE BLACK SLEEP, which we hope to change.  And then also our review for ISOLATION, a film that everyone should seek out.  It one of the best horror films I've seen this year.
    We also have posted our review of the latest release from Nox Arcana, SHADOW OF THE RAVEN.  Fans of Edgar Allan Poe will especially enjoy this new release.  Check it out in our Soundtrack Reviews.  Just click on our Review Section to get there.

DARK SKY FILMS TO UNLEASH CURTIS' FRANKENSTEIN
    Dark Sky Films will be releasing Dan Curtis' made-for-TV version of Mary Shelly's Frankenstein this Halloween.  The movie stars 70's favorite Robert Foxworth as Victor Frankenstein and Bo Svenson as the creature.  It also Susan Strasberg and John Karlen.  The DVD will feature a new audio commentary by actors Foxworth and Karlen, plus the 1973 FRANKENSTEIN promo, recap and preview from the original broadcast on ABC-TV's WIDE WORLD OF MYSTERY, which was aired on January 16th-17th.  Unfortunately, this is the edited home video release version, which runs approximately 126 minutes, and not the full 180-minute broadcast version.
    At least we'll be able to see one version, since the video is long out-of-print.  Plus, it will nice to hear Foxworth talk about his work on this film.

8-27-07  FALL IS APPROACHING FAST....
    I don't know about anybody else, but I am so waiting for this summer to be over.  Sure, the heat and the rain this month has made it pretty rough for us in the midwest.  But with the end of the summer, that means we have a couple of things to look forward to.  First and foremost, that means that October is going to be here before we know it.  And as usual, we are planning to have a very busy month.  Within the first two weekends of October, we are traveling to Ohio for our bi-annual trip to the Cinema Wasteland show.  This will be the 8th year that they have been holding these great conventions.  Who would have ever believed it?  Check out their website HERE for more information.
    Then the following week, we will be set up at the 3rd annual Music Box Massacre in Chicago, all really for another 24-hours of great horror movies and special guest stars.  For more details, check out the Music Box site HERE, or the MySpace page for the Massacre HERE.  We hope to see you there at both of these shows!
    And if we survive those, then we are going to try and spend the rest of the month getting ready for our annual Halloween Party, and watching as many horror movies as we can!  Let's just hope that the hours at work have let up a little by then to give me time for all of this celebrating.  Maybe next year, I'll just take all my vacation during October.......hhmmmmm.
    And then to make these next two months even more enjoyable, are the tons of great movies that are going to be coming out on DVD!  There are tons of classic films hitting DVD, some for the very first time.  Who would have thought the day would come that you would be able to get a double feature DVD of TALES FROM THE CRYPT and VAULT OF HORROR (though we're hoping they are the uncut prints on both).  So for us fans, not only is it a great time to be a horror fan, it's even better since you will have the opportunity to see these great films without all the hard searching that we use to do years ago.  So start saving your pennies....you're going to need them.

OHIO MOVIE MARATHON
    For those out there that consider Chicago too long of a trip for a movie marathon, if you're in the Columbus Ohio area, then you still might be in luck.  At the Drexel Theater, they are having their own all-night marathon on October 21st-22nd.  While that marathon isn't a full 24-hours, they are still giving you plenty of entertainment for your money.  The movies they have listed are: BLACK CHRISTMAS, Dario Argento's BIRD WITH THE CRYSTAL PLUMAGE, BURIAL GROUND (aka ZOMBI 3: NIGHT OF TERROR), FROM DUSK TIL DAWN, EVIL ALIENS, and David Cronenberg's RABID.  Not a bad lineup if you ask me.  For more info, check out the official website HERE.

NEW NOX ARCANA
    For fans of music for a darkened room, stormy nights, or just wanting to bring your creep-level up, the latest release from Nox Arcana, Shadow of the Raven is now out.  This release is inspired by the great literary master Edgar Allan Poe.  While we've only heard the sample tracks on the website, we have faith in Nox Arcana's ability to continue to create wonderfully dark and beautiful soundscapes with each release.
    You can order your copy from their WEBSITE for only $10.  What a great way to get ready for the upcoming Halloween season!

PUTRID CONTEST MOVIE NAMES
    In our rush last week to get our update done, we forgot to list the names of the movies from the Putrid Art Contest.  So before we forget again, the names of the movies from the illustration are as follows: THE HEADLESS EYES, GARDEN OF THE DEAD, the Manson girl from THE HELTER SKELTER MURDERS, FRIGHTMARE, BEAST OF BLOOD, THE BEYOND, ILSA: TIGRESS OF SIBERIA, SHE FREAK, and DON'T GO IN THE WOODS ALONE.
    Once again, nice job to everyone who sent in their answers.  Even if you didn't get them all right, at least you're putting that trivial knowledge to good work.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Last week's photo was an easy one.  It was from the uber-classic CURSE OF THE DEMON.  If you haven't seen this film, that should be moved to the top of your "must watch" list.  It's one that defines what "classic" is.
    Job well done to Kevin Hart, Mike Dudly, Hoby Abernathey, Kevin Thoms, Steve Bejma, Richard Steet, and Jerry Carmichael.
    So here's this week photo.  It's a little tougher than last week, but let's see if you can do a little research to find out the title.  Good luck.

CAMPBELL HAS LEFT THE BUILDING
    I know that Bruce Campbell is a horror icon and considered a god in some crowds.  I was there once myself.  So don't start with the hate mail after these comments.  They are just my opinion.
    So here goes.  A few years ago, when horror icon Bruce Campbell was trying to break away from his horror fame and having TV series after series (though they were just on one of the lesser networks), and doing Disney movies, and whatever else he could get his hands on, he seemed to stay away from the horror cons and horror spotlight.  Then after a while, when those series got cancelled one after the other, and his attempts to make into the 'big time' of Hollywood just didn't happen, it seemed to me that all of a sudden Mr. Campbell finally came to an understanding that he probably wasn't going to be known more than a b-actor, and seemed to embrace it.  He wrote a great book on his life as a b-actor, and made probably one of the best movies of his career, BUBBA HO-TEP.
    But now, it seems that the chance of Hollywood beckoning again has reared it's ugly head, he's got a new non-genre series that was just picked up for a second season, he has decided not to do the sequel to BUBBA.  But here's the weird part.  It's not because of a scheduling conflict, but according to Fangoria's website “[BUBBA NOSFERATU] is dead to me,” Campbell said flatly.  “It sleeps with the fishes.  Don Coscarelli is a very passionate filmmaker.  We got to a few points [developing the screenplay] that we couldn’t reconcile.  I want to keep our friendship, so we parted ways.  So I’m not part of that project.”
    And just when I was starting to give the guy credit for accepting his destiny and embracing it, he does something like that.  Don't worry folks, before too long, when all those other chances slip away, he'll be fighting at the chance to do one of those many rumored ASH VS WHOEVER titles.  Trust me. 

LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #19
    The latest issue of the best Hammer magazine around, Little Shoppe of Horrors will be coming out next month.  This issue is totally devoted to the great Terence Fisher.  Without him, there might not have even been the Hammer that we know today.  And this new issue will be packed full with information about Fisher and the films that he made.  If you've never heard of this magazine and are a fan of Hammer Films, then you definitely want to pick up this issue, and quickly order any back issues they still have, since they go out-of-print very quickly.  You won't regret it.  And you'll learn tons of great info about the Studio That Dripped Blood!

HALLOWEEN CONTEST
    With the release of Rob Zombie's HALLOWEEN less than a week away, we'll finally get to see if Rob really can make Michael Myers scary again.  It will also be interesting to see the fan reaction as well.
    But in the meantime, we have a winner in our latest contest.  And that would be.....Michelle Hudecek!
    Thanks to everyone who sent in emails with their HALLOWEEN favorites.  Made me want to break out at least the original and re-watch it.  Maybe I'll save that for a little closer to October.

A LITTLE SELF PROMOTION....
    While we were out at the Horrorfind Weekend show, our friends from Mutantville Productions wanted to do a quick interview with yours truly for their coverage of the show.  So if you're interested, you can click HERE to be taken to it.

8-19-07  HORRORFIND WEEKEND
    We survived our weekend trip out to Baltimore for the Horrorfind Weekend, and more importantly to hook up with some other horror buddies out there, some of which are participates in the Horror 101 book that will be out soon.  We did had some ups and downs, but had a good time for the most part.  For the full report and some photos, head over to our Convention section for all the juicy details.
    We have also retrieved our convention reports from the past 2 Horrorfind shows that we were at, and have them in the Convention Reports section as well.  We're hoping to get the rest over shortly, but it is a time consuming process.  Something that we don't seem to have too much of lately.

HORROR 101: THE A-LIST OF HORROR FILMS AND MONSTER MOVIES
    And while on the subject of the Horror 101 book, it looks like the release date is going to be a little closer to the middle of October.  While we were really hoping for a pre-October date, we want it "good than fast" as Dr. AC says.  And as much as I'd like to see this thing finally come to light, I agree 100%.  But that doesn't mean you can't start planning on it for an early Christmas present, right?
    So what we've done is started a new page here at the Krypt to give you as much information about the book as we can.  Also, if you are really interested in pre-orders, we will be posting information about that very soon as well.  Of course, if you want to just send us an email to let us know you're interested, we will send you more info when we know it.
    As our banner says, Discover the Horror, and as Dr. AC says, Keep American Strong....Watch More Monster Movies, this book will help you do both.  So click on the graphic to the right to be taken to the book information page.

NEW REVIEWS
We have a couple of new reviews posted.  The first one is a cool little documentary about the Italian horror genre called HANGING SHADOWS.  It features interviews with a bunch of the people behind these great movies.  Also, we have a review for the low-budget short film simply called TREE.  I must say that due to this film and BETTER OFF UNDEAD that we reviews a couple of weeks ago, they have given me hope for low-budget independent horror films.  Check out the reviews, then check out the movies!

MUSIC BOX MASSACRE 3
    Once again, this October 13th-14th, we will be attending the 3rd annual 24-hour marathon of madness, known as the Music Box Massacre.  For the last 2 years, our wonderful promoter/filmmaker/host Rusty Nails and the Music Box Theatre have joined forces to give us Chicago area horror fans a day to remember.  Tons of great movies and some cool special guests, they are always a good time.  And this year looks no different.
    So make sure you mark your calendar and come out to join the fun.  We will once again be set up there in the lobby.  So make sure you stop by and keep us awake!  For more details on this, you can check out the official site of the Music Box Theatre, or check out the MySpace page for the Massacre.
    While this list is not finalized, here is what they have planned so far.  Understand that these possibly could change, but so far they have some amazing titles in there.  Who ever thought that you could have the chance to see some of these titles on the big screen?
CAT AND THE CANARY
ABBOTT & COSTELLO MEET FRANKENSTEIN
EQUINOX
PEEPING TOM
VIDEODROME
HALLOWEEN 3
THE RAVEN (1963)
IT'S ALIVE
THE SHINING
THE MONSTER SQUAD - With appearance by director Fred Dekker.

PUTRID CONTEST
    Sorry for the long delay in ending this contest, but as you can tell since we've missed an update or two, we've been pretty busy.  But we do have 2 lucky winners in our Putrid Art Contest.  And they are Robert Freese and Hoby Abernathy.  The correct answers are as below.  Congrats to the winners, as well as to everyone who participated.  Now keep reading to hear about our latest contest!

HALLOWEEN CONTEST
    We have 1 copy of the new soundtrack for Rob Zombie's HALLOWEEN that we are giving away.  All you need to do is click HERE and send us an email telling us about your favorite moment from any of the HALLOWEEN films.  We will be drawing one lucky winner next weekend.  So you don't have time to wait.  Send us that email right away and get it done.
    And don't forget to make your plans to catch this in the theater when it hits August 31st.  Then we'll know if for sure if Zombie could make Michael scary again.

NEW HUNCHBACK RELEASE
    Lon Chaney Sr. fans will be very happy to hear that this October, Image Entertainment will be releasing the "Ulitmate Edition" of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. The film has been newly mastered from an original multi-tinted print, and has a new score compiled by Donald Hunsberger, adapted and conducted by Robert Esrael. The disc will have essays by Chaney Sr. expert Michael F. Blake, behind-the-scenes footage of Chaney on the set, facsimile reproduction of the original souvenir program, gallery of original 3D stills (3D glasses included), and an extensive 2D photo gallery. The disc will be released on October 9th, and have a retail price of $24.99.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Yea, we know it's been a while for a new Mystery Photo.  Of course, it was from the great Toho film THE GREEN SLIME.  Can't tell you how much this movie scared me when I was a kid.  Don't think it was the monsters as much as their shrieking whine that they had.  Kudos for meager 3 who knew this film....or ones that just bothered to send in their answers.  Those honors go to Hoby Abernathy, Kevin Hart, and Mike Shields.  Come on  people, is it that hard?  Or are the pictures too hard possibly?  Or is it that I just forgot to include the email link?  Could be.....
    In any case....here's the new photo to the right.  And here is the EMAIL LINK.  Check it out and see what you think.  It's not that hard is it?

8-09-07  MISSED UPDATE
    Sorry about the missing update from last week.  Just didn't get around to it.  And even this week is going to be a little light.  We're trying to get ready to be heading out tomorrow to the Horrorfind Weekend, plus with the 12-hour days we've been putting in, it's just be tough to get anything done.  But we are looking forward to hanging out this weekend and talking shop and networking at the show.  It'll be strange not working the show, but then will give me plenty of free time to do whatever.  So it should be a good time in any case.
    We won't be having an update this weekend, since we will be at the Horrorfind show.  But expect one next weekend, with the usual stuff, including some trivia contest winners, and maybe even another contest!?!?!?!  Stay tuned!

JOHN LANDIS AT HORRORHOUND
    And while on the subject of conventions, John Landis has been added to the already growing guest lineup.  He will be joined by WEREWOLF star David Naughton, as well as Gunnar Hansen, Shawnee Smith, Roddy Piper, and many more.  Go to the official website for all the glorious details.

REVIEWS
    We have 1 review this week, this time out a documentaries.  It's for John Borowski's newest film, ALBERT FISH.  Fair warning people, this has to be the most disturbing films that I've seen.  And that's not due to any graphic visual content, but only in description.
    We also did just get in a new documentary called HANGING SHADOWS, which is about the Italian horror film industry.  It features interviews with just about who's who in that sub-genre.  So look for a review for that coming shortly.
    So head on over to our Reviews section and check them out. 

7-29-07  CONVENTION REPORTS...FINALLY HERE!
    Not only do we finally have our report done for the HorrorHound Weekend, but we also have the Flashback Weekend done as well.  Hopefully both of them will be worth the wait.  To get there, click on the Features link above, then Convention Reports.
    We're hoping to start transferring over our past Convention Reports from the old site in the very near future.  We'll let you know when we do.

ARCHIVES TRANSFERRED
    We have also transferred over our Update Archives and our Review Archives to the new site, so they are accessible in our Review Section.  We will be having a couple new reviews coming up shortly, including one on the new documentary by John Borowski, ALBERT FISH.

KRYPTIC BLOG
    We are working on some full blown reviews, but in the meantime, we've posted our thoughts on a few of the other movies that we've seen over the last couple of weeks.  Just click on the Blog link above.

HATCHET AT FLASHBACK
    While we are working on our official report for the recent Flashback show, I wanted to say a quick remark about this new movie coming out.  Since this movie is getting a lot of underground hype, it makes me nervous.  Even though the film is suppose to be a serious throwback, an old-fashion American horror movie, there has also been a few reports that it has the same silly humor that fills the more recent American horror fare.  During the HATCHET Q&A at the Flashback, director Green was even making remarks as far as how long Rob Zombie's HALLOWEEN will last in theaters.  Not sure what was up with that.
    But all I know, from the clips that I seen at the Anchor Bay table, all I can say is....man, it is gory.  When you have woman getting the top half of her head ripped off, all on camera, and is not a quick mili-second shot, this has to be one of the most over-the-top gore sequences that I've seen in quite some time.  I am amazed that scene got by the MPAA.
    So whatever you might read or hear about this movie, at least from what I seen, you can bet it's going to be gory.  And I know that I will be making sure that I catch this one in the theater as well.
    Also, stay tuned to the Krypt, for in the next week or so, we will be having another contest with the winners getting a HATCHET mini-poster, signed by director Green and star Joleigh Fioreavanti.  So keep watching....

HORRORFIND WEEKEND
    We will be heading out to Baltimore in a few weeks for the Horrorfind Weekend.  We won't be set up there as a dealer, but are going with Dr. AC to help promote the book.  Midnight Marquee, the publisher, were hoping to have it done by the show, but that's probably not going to happen.  Better right, than soon, as the Doc likes to say.  But we will be hanging out at the show most of the weekend.  I'm sure you'll be able to spot us, just look for the bald guy with the Krypt shirt on.  Since the guest list isn't anything special for me, we plan on spending more time just networking and meeting other fans.  So if you see us walking around, stop us and say hello!

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Okay, so we used a photo from a made-for-TV movie from the 70's.  Pretty tough, huh?  But we still have a few people that knew what it was.  A "Job Well Done" goes to Hoby Abernathy, Kevin Hart, and Mike Shields.  The shot is from the 1977 TV movie IT HAPPENED AT LAKEWOOD MANOR (aka ANTS).  I fondly remember the big box video release that just had a shot of Suzanne Somers' cleavage covered with ants.  Nice marketing job there.
    Now for the ones that were stumped, I want you to take a lesson from one of the ones that did get it, Mr. Hoby Abernathy.  This shows the kind of dedicated fan that he is.  Or maybe that he just has a lot of time on his hands.  In  either case, he's what Hoby sent in with his answer:
    "The photo looks to me like some chick was killed by ants.  So I thought of all the movies I knew that had regular sized (as opposed to giant mutated) ants, like PHASE IV, but it didn't look like that one to me.  When I started investigating ant movies on the Internet, this one seemed the most likely.  So even if I'm not right, I did get a pretty good education on ant movies.  See, your website works...it makes me do my horror homework!"
    See folks, this is the kind of fans that we like to see.  Ones that go that little extra mile and do their research.  We can all learn something from Mr. Abernathy.  And just think, now everyone reading this will always remember this little killer ant movie.  See, we are changing the world.
    So let's take a look at the latest pic and see what you can come up with.

PUTRID TRIVIA
    We are giving one more week for entries in the Putrid Trivia contest.  Just scroll down to our last update to see the details.  You can also click HERE to get to the Trivia page for the details as well.  For fans of the Blind Dead, you will love having this print.  It really is awesome.

DVD NEWS
    And just when you thought there couldn't be any more DVDs to plan on buying this fall, here's some more that are going to be tempting your money from your wallet.
    Probably 2 of the most popular are going to be the duel releases of the GRINDHOUSE films, DEATH PROOF and PLANET TERROR.  DEATH PROOF is coming out Sept. 18th, and will be the full cut of the movie, featuring the scenes that were part of the "lost reel" footage that wasn't shown in the US release.  The DVD will also feature man different featurettes covering everything from Kurt Russell as Stuntman Mike, to Stuntwoman Zoe Bell, trailers, international poster gallery, and more.  PLANET TERROR, for some reason comes out a month later on Oct. 16th.  It will also feature the missing reel footage, along with audio commentary by director Rodriquez, trailers, deleted scenes, and featurettes on the makeup, the stunts, production design, costumes and much more.  Can't think of too many of us out there not planning on buying these.  Even though I though DEATH PROOF was WAY too talky, the car stunts is worth the cost of the DVD.

    Another news bit that must have slipped by me that made me very happy, was the announcement of an new DVD release of Francis Ford Coppola's BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA.  This release, hitting the streets on Oct. 2nd, will be a 2-disc edition (finally) that will be a newly re-mastered anamorphic 1.85:1 widescreen transfer.  Even with all it's flaws, we still love this movie.  The look and style of it is just amazing, making me forget the weak acting that is in it.  The new release will have audio commentary by Coppola, making of documentary and deleted scenes.  Since this is suppose to be a 2-disc edition, I'm hoping that they are using all of the material from the Criteron laserdisc that was put out years ago.  Got my fingers crossed.

LUCAS' BAVA BOOK FINALLY COMING OUT!
    Tim Lucas of Video Watchdog has been working on his book on Mario Bava for as long as I can remember.  The book, Mario Bava - All The Colors Of The Dark, is finally done and will be coming out in the next couple of months.  With it being 1,128 glossy, full color pages, full color French-fold laminated dust jacket, being almost 11" x 12" in size, this is one muther of a book!  So if you have any interests in the great Mario Bava, this book is going to be THE book to have.
    Now here's the special deal.  This book is going to be for a retail price of $250 (plus another $10 for postage) once the shipment comes in, in late August.  But if you place a pre-order now, you can get this book for only $130, which includes postage.  Now you must be thinking that $130 seems like a lot of money for a simple book.  But when you think that just about anything and everything you're going to want to know about Mario Bava is going to be in this book.  And if you are hesitant, and don't pre-order it, if you ever decide that you do want to get one, you are going to pay a hell of a lot more for it.  And I have a feeling that these might go out-of-print pretty damn fast.  Which is going to make that $250 price even seem cheap.  So do yourself a favor and make a small investment into what is going to be a great edition to any horror book collection.
    For ordering information, click HERE to be taken to the Video Watchdog website.

DEPP SHADOWS?
    Didn't see this one coming.  But according to Fangoria, Johnny Depp's production company will be co-producing a new feature film based on the early 70's gothic soap opera DARK SHADOWS.  Of course, Depp will be starring as the famous vampire, Barnabas Collins.  Being a fan of Depp, I think this could turn out to be pretty good, depending on who else is involved.  I would hope that they keep the gothic look and feel of the series.  Guess we'll have to wait and see.

7-15-07  HORRORHOUND REPORT....COMING VERY SOON.....
    We really hoped to have our write done before the weekend was over, but just didn't happen.  But we are putting up the finishing touches up, so I'm hoping in the next day or two.  Definitely before this weekend, since we will be at the Flashback Weekend.  If you're going as well, make sure you stop by and say hello!

CD REVIEWS
    We now have our Soundtrack Review page up and have even got 3 more reviews  posted.  This time out, we take a listen to the scores from DEAD SILENCE, ISLAND OF THE FISHMAN, and MAY and other selected works from Jaye Barnes Luckett.  To get there, just click on the Reviews link at the top and then go to Soundtrack Reviews.

BLOG MINI-REVIEWS
    Since there are so many movies that we watch but don't write up full reviews on, I felt that I still should at least comment on them.  And since I am making a goal for myself to watch at least 3 movies a week, I should have new blog posted each week about the movies that I've seen.  All you have to do is click the Blog link above to be taken to it.  Feel free to leave your comments as well.

PUTRID ART CONTEST
    Regular visitors to this site have probably heard me mention our artist buddy Putrid.  Not only is this guy one hell of a talent artist, but he really knows he movies.  Not bad for someone in their mid 20's, huh?  One of Putrid's favorite creatures are Amando de Ossorio's Blind Dead.  He has created this incredible montage of artwork, celebrating these Templar Knights.  And we have 2 prints (approx. 12x20) of this artwork that are signed and numbered that we are giving away to two lucky winners.
    So here's the deal.  First of all, click HERE to open the Trivia Page.  Directly under our Trivia Banner, you will see the cover artwork for the new issue of Liquid Cheese.  Under that is a link to open an email to send in your answers.  Below that is the Blind Dead artwork that you are trying to win.  You can also see that artwork by clicking the thumbnail to the right.
    So here's what you need to do:  There are figures from 8 different movies.  Your job is to name as many as you can.  Even if you don't know all of them, send it what you know.  You never know, you might have the most correct answers.  The ones with the most correct answers will win.  If there are more than 2, then there will be a drawing to decide who wins.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    Was it only because I had it up for a few days that we only got 3 correct answers for this week's Photo?  The pic was everyone's favorite B-actor, Clint Howard from EVILSPEAK, one of my favorites of Howard's work, not to mention a great film from the 80's.  That's my story and I'm sticking to it.  So a hearty "Job Well Done" goes to Matt Black, Hoby Abernathy, & Mike Dudley.  Nice job, people.  Now let's try it again.
    Click HERE to send in your guesses.

7-11-07  WELCOME TO THE NEW KRYPT
    We know that it's been some time since our last update, but we've been trying to get this re-design thing going and it's been a tough road.  We still have a lot more learning to do before we can really get this the way we want.  Or find someone that knows what they're doing and would be willing to help out....hint, hint.

    But in the meantime, we have made quite a bit of changes around here.  Not to many other sections (if any) are open right now, but we hope to add them back in a few at a time, very soon.  Regular visitors to this this site will notice that our Navigational Bar on the left is gone.  Those links are now located on the top and bottom of each page, hopefully making it a little easier and less cluttered.  I'm sure there's going to be some tweaking here and there.

    One thing that hasn't changed with our site is that you still won't see any advertisements on this site, unless it is something we personally stand by or want to promote.  We want to give you a place where can come and not be bombarded with pop-up ads and side banners everywhere, drawing your attention away from the content.  Sure, it may not look as flashy and fancy as some of the other sites out there.  But we're hoping that the content here will keep you coming back, and not the flashy bits.

    But with all of these changes that we're going through here, our mission for this site still remains the same as it always has: To Educate, Expand, and Entertain.  We still want to use this space as a learning ground for all horror fans, young and old, newbies and old-timers.  There is much we all can still learn.  We just have to take that chance.  The horror genre in one of oldest out there and is filled with rich and entertaining offerings to all that are willing to take a bite.  So come on.  Grab hold.  Mouth wide open and bite down hard.  Tasty, isn't it?

HORRORHOUND WEEKEND
    We have returned from the first HorrorHound Weekend and had one hell of a time.  Mucho congrats and thanks to Aaron and Nathan of Horror Hound for putting on a great show.  Even if it was their first show, they had a real nice turn out.  We didn't get as many photos as we wanted, but we did get a few interesting ones....though most of them were taken in the bar for some reason....

    Hopefully by the end of this week, we can have our full report done and posted.  Hopefully.

ATTENTION FREDDY FANS
    And while on the subject of conventions, this year's Flashback Weekend is a must for any fans of the NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET series.  They have a total of 8 cast members from the original NIGHTMARE, including most of the major cast.  Plus, they also have 3 cast members from NIGHTMARE Part 3: Ken Sagoes, Rodney Eastman, and Ira Heiden.  So if you add in Englund, Saxon, and Langenkamp, that's 6 cast members from Part 3.  And then from Part 4, they have Lisa Wilcox.

    But even if you're not a big NIGHTMARE fan, they still have plenty of other guests.  They have recently announced that Adam Green, writer/director of HATCHET will be appearing, along with the star of the movie, Joleigh Fioreavanti.  HATCHET has been getting a lot o buzz on the net as of late.  We're hoping that it's going to live up to all that hype.

    Other guests at the show include Ashley Laurence, Charles Band, Ken Kirzinger, Michael Berryman, Warrington Gillette, Bud Davis, Conrad Brooks, Svengoolie, John Dugan, Melissa Bacelar, and Jason Paul Collum.  For more information, check out the site HERE.

    Don't forget people, but this show is less than 2 weeks away.  We've been to everyone of the Flashback shows and have had a great time each and every time.  We'll be set up there as usual, so make sure you stop by and introduce yourself.  Check out the Flashback Weekend website HERE.

MYSTERY PHOTO
    It's been so long since I've updated this photo, that I actually had to go back and take a look to see what it was myself.  Of course, it was from WAR OF THE COLOSSAL BEAST.  Definitely a favorite of mine.  Job well done for Michelle, Mike Shields, Hoby Abernathy, Kevin Hart, Cary Conley, and Steve Bejma.  So take a stab at this new photo and see what you can do.

    Just click on the photo to the right and it will expand.  Then click HERE to send us the email.  Good Luck.

BOOK NEWS
    At the HorrorHound Weekend, we had the chance to meet author Christopher Wayne Curry.  Curry is the author of A Taste of Blood: The Films of Herschell Gordon Lewis.  This title was the first book I read on the wonderful world of H.G. Lewis.  It was a great and informative read, and still is today.  If you're a fan of Lewis, then you do need to check out this book.

    But the real reason for this mention, is not only to say that Mr. Curry was a great guy, but he also told us that he has a new book coming out.  This time, he tackles another filmmaker that definitely deserves more attention than