Calling All Hearse Fans

In the world of hearse owners there are essentially three breeds:
1) the folks who restore and honour the original vehicles;
2) the folks who customize their vehicles to create their fantasy rides; and
3) the folks who love their hearses, but can't afford to restore or customize their rides.

The first two groups are sometimes critical of each others' approach to the appreciation of professional cars. My own approach is to live and let live. We need both groups to keep up the interest in this beautiful, unique, and often misunderstood class of vehicle.

If you've ever been interested in hearses (and other professional cars) the king daddy of annual hearse events is coming up in August: The Professional Car Society (PCS) International Meet.

This year it's hosted by the fine folks of the PCS Mid Michigan chapter and will take place in and around Flint, MI from August 11-15, 2009.

I was at the Mid Michigan chapter's mini-meet in February and they sure made me feel welcome. Amazing collection of toy hearses too!

So if you're into hearses, and other professional cars (ambulances, fire trucks, etc.) Flint is the place to be to get your fix. I'm still taking apart my 1949 Henney Packard Nu-3-Way hearse in order to restore it. Otherwise, we'd be there for sure.

Here's a taste of the info from the Mid Michigan chapter's website. More info and a full schedule are available through the links at the bottom of this post.

Flint is the birthplace of General Motors Corporation and this meet will be seriously "auto centric." We will visit places like the original Durant-Dort Carriage factory and office, the Alfred P. Sloan Museum of Transportation, historic Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad. We will cruise the Flint River aboard the Genesee Belle. A trip to the Walter P Chrysler Museum and The Packard Proving Grounds as well as a visit to Jimmy Dobson's Firetruck Museum are also on tap.

During the week Flint will also be hosting the "Back to the Bricks" rolling cruise and so on Friday evening we will join THOUSANDS of other classic cars for a downtown cruise-in on Flint's old brick pavement.

Our Concours d'Elegance will be held on the grounds of the Flint Cultural Center near the home of the late GM pioneer Charles Stewart Mott.

Hope you enjoy the show, the cars, and the folks. See you down the road...

LINKS:
Mid Michigan Professional Car Society
Professional Car Society

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Original Zombie Walk Fiendraiser Announced

The planet's original Zombie Walk - the Toronto Zombie Walk - keeps getting bigger and bigger.

This year they're expecting over 2,500 undead to shamble through Toronto in October.

But with popularity comes red tape. The city is insisting on parade permits, road closures, and increased police accompaniment.

Gotta walk, gotta trek for brains - gotta abide by the rules or become a slammer ghoul. What's an undead soul to do?

Throw a Fiendraising Party! Raise some cash to pay for raising the dead.

The Toronto Zombie Walk Fiendraiser will be at The Smiling Buddha Bar (961 College St. West) on Saturday July 18, 2009. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Bands include:

The Screamagers {http://www.myspace.com/screamagers}
The Raclones {http://www.myspace.com/raclones}
Skullians {http://www.myspace.com/skullians}

Come in Zombie gear for discounted tickets, as well as a chance to win our Zombie costume contest. Raffle prizes include gift certificates from Yonge Street Tattoos, leather chokers and passes to the opening night of the Toronto After Dark Film Festival.

You don't want to miss the flesh-eating event of the summer. Come and partake in the Toronto Zombie Walk's second annual Fiendraiser and help us continue to raise the dead every October.

Tickets:
$7 for Zombies!
$10 for Non Zombies (victims)

Prize packs donated by the following sponsors:

It’s My Party
Creeped Out Canada
Darkside
Anchor Bay Entertainment
The Krafty Kreep
Yonge Street Tattoos
Toronto After Dark Film Festival
Malabar
Spiked cow
2-Mile Jewellry
Burning Effigy Books
Tightrope Books
Creepy Christine
Invader Press
Cry Wolf Clothing
Quirk Books
and, of course, Crypt Club Productions Inc's "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits"

Come, donate, and partake in some good, green fun for a ghoul cause. And bring your friends. These zombies are hungry.

LINKS:
TZW Fiendraiser
Toronto Zombie Walk
AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits

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Filmmakers: Take A Dip In the Texas Blood Bath

The Texas Blood Bath Film Festival is on the prowl for feature & short horror films for their inaugural festival running Friday November 13 through Sunday November 15 in Bellmead, TX. Let 'er rip!

The Texas Blood Bath Film Festival's mandate is to provide indie filmmakers who produce original, creative, and technically superb films an audience whose attention is focused on the screen - not on long lines to get celebrity autographs.

The Texas Blood Bath will honor the filmmakers and the fans - first and foremost.

Crypt Club Productions Inc. is proud to partner with The Texas Blood Bath Film Festival to celebrate & promote independent horror filmmaking.

Through AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits - our feature length DVD collection of great & award winning independent short horror films - we’re pleased to offer international distribution to the winner(s) of the BEST SHORT FILM AWARD.

For more information about film submissions, sponsorship & vendor opportunities, contact: Andrew Rose through the festival web site.

LINKS:
The Texas Blood Bath Film Festival
AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits

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HORRORphiles #3 Summer Scream Tonight only in NYC!

BEWARE! HORRORphiles #2 sold out, so plan to arrive early.

LATIN HORROR, in association with NEWFILMMAKERS, cordially invite you to the NewLatino Filmmakers Screening Series at Anthology Film Archives - "The HORRORphiles #3 - Summer Scream," featuring the work of emerging Latino/a directors working within the genre of horror.

NewLatino Filmmakers is the best and only independent Latino “cinematheque” showcase in New York City -- now in its 7th year! Docs, shorts & features. "Come early, stay late, pay one price."

WHEN: Thursday, July 2, 2009 ~ 6:00-9:30PM
WHERE: Anthology Film Archives, 32 Second Avenue at Second Street, Lower East Side, NYC
PRICE: $6 at box office (general seating)

6-7:00PM - Reception with complimentary RUM & COKE cocktail shots in theater lobby.

7:00PM - Director's SINema Spotlight: narrative shorts program featuring WITHOUT SIN (William Caballero), and three short films by Rue Morgue's Rodrigo Gudino: THE EYES OF EDWARD JAMES, THE DEMONOLOGY OF DESIRE, THE FACTS IN THE CASE OF MISTER HOLLOW; plus first look trailers: THE MINISTERS (Franc. Reyes) and MONSTROUS NATURE (Jason Cuadrado).

8:00PM - Narrative Feature Film: DARK MIRROR (Pablo Proenza)

Following the screenings, Series Director & Curator Edwin Pagán will hold a Q&A with filmmakers in attendance.

ABOUT LATIN HORROR
LATIN HORROR (LH) is the first English-language publication dedicated to the genre of Latin horror and will feature the leading Latin/Hispanic/international "dark creative expressionists" working in film, theater, music, photography, illustration, graphic novels, "dark art" novelas, comic books, literature, and games—from the seasoned masters—to the up-and-coming Latin horrorphile whose work is grounded in horror, the macabre, and gothic arts.

LATIN HORROR will also give you a front row seat into this exciting universe through exclusive, intimate profiles, insightful in-depth articles into the latest trends and developments taking hold in the industry, as well as behind-the-scene peeks at the horrific cutting-edge projects coming your way.

LATIN HORROR - The Official Home of Latin Horrorphiles Everywhere

LINKS:
Latin Horror

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New Distributor Means Lower Price - For June

The indie horror web grows wider... and we're as happy as a spider at a fly convention.

IndieFlix.com is offering "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1" for direct DVD purchase or 30-day streaming. If you've been holding off, now is your chance to strike.

It's now more affordable to have a scary summer - but only if you pounce before July 1, my fiend.

Until June 30, the "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1" DVD is a mere $9.95 (that's right, less than a sawbuck!) from either IndieFlix.com or our own secure site via www.aaaaah-films.com.

IndieFlix's 30-day stream is a paltry $4.95 - a great way to try before you buy.

What are you waiting for? Act now. On July 1 these prices (like the undead) will rise.

“4 of 5 stars” - GOREZONE MAGAZINE

“...every film offers something fresh and unique to the horror genre... and had me thirsting for more.” - HORROR SOCIETY

“... some of the best short films I have seen in a while. This is real film making at it's best!” - HORROR NEWS

“...consider adding this to your horror film collection. You won’t be disappointed.” - THEOFANTASTIQUE

"All Killer - No Filler!" Discover a feature length collection of great & award winning short horror films by independent filmmakers - including the Director of SAW 6.

These films caused a buzz on the festival circuit - then vanished.

If you saw them the first time you know what we mean. If you missed them then, enjoy them now.

From a dark, cautionary tale (THE CRYPT CLUB with Alison Pill) to gallows humor on the job (GHOST BUSTED); from the grotesque otherworld inspired by H.P. Lovecraft (THE VEIL) to present-day outbreak fears (THE NINTH ENTRY); from the stylishly bizarre (MY SKIN!) and the chillingly macabre (OCULUS) to the dire family survival drama (OLD FRIENDS from the Director of SAW 6).

Dim the lights & dig in for your own private horror film festival.

Act now and get warmed up for the release of "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 2". But I'm getting ahead of myself. That news is worth its own headline.

In the mean time, enjoy volume 1, and stay tuned...

LINKS:
IndieFlix
AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits

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New Indie Horror Service: DOA Management

Whether you're an actor, director, or producer, there's a new company on the horror-izon that will provide entertainment management for indie horror talent.

Andrew and Dione Rose are proud to launch a new business concept for the independent horror industry – DOA Management.

DOA Management will provide “Hollywood Style” management services, to include talent management, casting services, publicity services, production consultation, and other customized services for the independent horror actor, director, and producer.

As the producer of HorrorMovieFans.com Indie Horror Radio on
blogtalkradio.com, Andrew is in tune with the independent horror
industry. Andrew and Dione are fans of independent horror cinema and have a large network of actors, directors, writers, producers, sf/x artists, and media contacts.

Check the link to learn more about this exciting new company and what it can do for your indie horror film career.

Tell 'em Mighoul sent you...

LINKS:
DOA Management

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Panel & Screening Schedule at World Horror Convention

I'm stoked about guesting at the World Horror Convention 2009 in Winnipeg, MB. Looking forward to meeting some great local filmmakers & horror fans. The WHC runs from April 30 to May 3. I'll be there May 1-3.

In addition to wall to wall screenings of cool horror shorts & features - including past winners of the Tabloid Witch Awards - there will be a daily Filmmaker's Bloc.

The Filmmaker's Bloc will feature 3 horror films (1 feature plus 2 shorts) followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers. Topics will include horror, filmmaking, distribution, and the festival circuit.

Expect a different discussion each time, as well as a vigorous Q&A session during each bloc. Winnipeg is, after all, a top filmmaking town in Canada. So bring it on!

See you there in the dark...

PANEL: Thomas M. Sipos, Los Angeles-based director of the Tabloid
Witch Awards horror film contest & festival, and actor in "The Ancient Law"; Kelly L. Young, Seattle-based writer of "H.P. Lovecraft's Strange Aeons"; and Miguel Gallego, Toronto-based writer/director of "The Crypt Club".

"H.P. LOVECRAFT'S STRANGE AEONS" A Miskatonic University professor combats an evil sorcerer trying to bring back the demonic "Old Ones"to Earth. Based on H.P. Lovecraft's "The Thing on the Doorstep." Directed by Eric Morgret. Written by K.L. Young. Cast: J.D. Lloyd, Erick J. Robertson, Angela M. Grillo, Jerry Lloyd, Peter Anthony Holden. (USA, 78 minutes)

"THE ANCIENT LAW" A magical, evil king kidnaps a young man's bride and child. Thus begins the man's quest. Dark fantasy. Directed/written by Erasmo Romero III. Cast: Jesus Guevara, Anthony Scavone, Jennifer Apon, Thomas M. Sipos, James Rollyson. (USA, 23 minutes)

"THE CRYPT CLUB" Three Goth girls desecrate a cemetery on a snowy night. An old-fashioned spook tale. Directed/written by: Miguel Gallego. Cast: Alison Pill ("Milk", "Pieces of April"), Jessica Greco ("Earth: Final Conflict", "Goosebumps"), Michele Duquet ("Earth: Final Conflict", "Kaw"), Kerry Segal. (Canada, 23 minutes)

The Filmmaker's Blocs are currently scheduled:
Fri. May 1 from 8 pm to 11 pm
Sat. May 2 from 4 pm to 7 pm
Sun. May 3 from 10 am to 1 pm

WHC LOCATION:
Marlborough Hotel
331 Smith Street (downtown)
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

LINKS:
World Horror Convention 2009
Tabloid Witch Awards
The Crypt Club

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Video Piracy - Good or Bad for Indies?

I'm an anti-piracy kinda guy. I believe that creators have the right to benefit from their work and that copyright infringement is theft.

But for indie filmmakers is piracy bad for your career?

Basic copyright laws were agreed on by many nations to protect a creator's ability to earn a living from his creations so that he can keep on creating. Without that protection creators can't earn a living, stop creating and civilization goes down the dumper. So copyright (literally the right to make a copy of a work or derivatives of the work) is a good thing, in my humble opinion.

The other night I heard an interesting alternate point of view about copyright and video piracy. A filmmaker said he'd be happy to have his work pirated in China because they can't afford to pay for the films anyway - so there's no perceived revenue loss - and it means that his work gets seen by a huge audience.

Ultimately, in this filmmakers' view, he sees a Chinese immigrant coming to North America and, flush with cash, recognizes the filmmaker's name on a film and decides to buy it because he's already familiar with the filmmaker's work.

I had to marvel at this perspective. My first thought was that this is like condoning gang rape because it may lead to love & marriage.

My self-righteous self bristled at the idea that a creator would allow - or even encourage - his work to be pirated for the sake of improving his career.

I know that some artists plan for free and viral distribution of their work to build a profile or lead to potentially greater returns. But that is a planned rather than involuntary release.

What's your take on this?

Can piracy be a form of viral marketing strategy?

And what are the ramifications to the public's perception of copyright and the creators' rights to earn a living from their creations?

Is this a slippery slope for creators?

LINKS:
United States Copyright Office
Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO)
Wikipedia entry on 'Copyright'
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Guess Who's Guesting at the World Horror Convention 2009?

Sure, the World Horror Convention was founded as a mostly literary event. Once a year the scribes who create horrifying works of literature gather together to celebrate with each other and with the fans. But, over the past couple of years, the cinematic contingent of the horror universe has slowly been creeping into the party.

Since last year in Salt Lake City, Thomas Sipos, of the Hollywood Investigator and the Tabloid Witch Awards, hosts the convention's screening room where he presents the best horror films from the Tabloid Witch awards, along with a few surprises. He's lined up more than a dozen hours of scary feature and short film programming for the 4 day event.

This year, since the WHC takes place in Winnipeg there's a special Canuck bias to Thomas' screaming screen's offerings. And justifiably so. Canadian's have been shocking the world since Fay Wray went on that blind date with that tall, hairy, royal guy.

Among the films featured will be my own film, "The Crypt Club", fresh from a fantastic sold out screening at NYC's Latin Horrorphiles 2 night.

Yep. Thomas invited me to attend the Convention as his guest, and I'm thrilled to say that I'll be attending the WHC from Friday May 1 to Sunday May 3. Between screenings we'll hold panel discussions and Q&As on horror films, our own films, and filmmaking. Should be some creepy good fun and (dare I say it?) informative.

I'll be traveling light, but I will have as much Crypt Club and "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits" swag with me as my pack mule can haul. The tough part is getting the mule a coach seat on an Air Canada flight.

So there you have it. Come for the chills, stay for the thrills. Looking forward to meeting & greeting horror fans and filmmakers alike.

The World Horror Convention is an annual gathering of professionals in the horror industry; publishers, authors, artists, musicians, filmmakers, dealers and, of course, horror fans. WHC serves as both an industry insider's networking event and a chance for fans of the genre to get together, meet some of the creative talents in the field, and generally spend a weekend celebrating All Things Scary.

LINKS:
World Horror Convention 2009 site
World Horror Convention main site
Tabloid Witch Awards site

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New Film Festival Launches

There's a new film festival launching in Toronto, with a call for entries to indie filmmakers from around the world.

The mandate of the Toronto/GTA Night of the Living Film Festival is to showcase edgy new indie moviemakers in a chain of small independent screening spaces in our beautiful city of Toronto (and area), so their work can be seen in an arena other than the web.

You know, as much as I love watching movies in the privacy of my dark, quiet crypt, there's something about the communal experience of watching a film with a crowd in a darkened cinema that can't be replicated by a giant home theatre set up. If only the kid behind the concession stand would quit snickering at my dead bunny slippers.

For information on submission details, festival dates, venues, etc. you can send an e-mail to Chad.

I'm curious to see what will grow from this seed. Beast of luck. And keep watering it guys!

LINKS:
Night of the Living Film Festival - Toronto
Night of the Living Film Festival - Yahoo Group

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Rare screening of The Crypt Club

Thanks to the good folks at Latin Horror - especially to Edwin Pagan - "The Crypt Club" is now part of the Latin Horror Horrorphiles #2 screening in New York City.

"The Crypt Club" is an official selection of more than 45 international film festivals, winning 18 awards, including awards for Best Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography (Walter Pacifico), and Best Original Music (Nicholas Longstaff).

The film was retired from public screenings after airing in Canada on the national filmmaker showcase program "Canadian Reflections".

So don't miss this rare chance to experience "The Crypt Club" as it is meant to be seen - in a darkened theatre on a big screen.

LATIN HORROR, in association with NEWFILMMAKERS, presents the NewLatino Filmmakers Screening Series at Anthology Film Archives - "The HORRORphiles #2 - Scaring up a Revolución," featuring the work of emerging Latino/a directors working within the genre of horror.

NewLatino Filmmakers is the best and only independent Latino “cinematheque” showcase in New York City -- now in its 7th year! Docs, shorts & features. "Come early, stay late, pay one price."

So what's playing at the screening? Glad you asked.

In addition to "The Crypt Club" (starring Alison Pill from "Milk", "Dan In Real Life", and "Pieces Of April") there are several other short films including: "434" by Leonard Zelig & Javier Perez-Karam, "My Wife Is A Zombie" by Monica Winter Vigil, "3:52" starring America Ferrera ("Ugly Betty") by Shawna Baca, and "Blood Drips" by Pepper Negron.

Headlining the bill is the Spanish/Argentina co-production "El Niño De Barro" (The Mud Boy) by Jorge Algora. We screened this film to a packed house at last year's Toronto Hispano-American Film Festival.

And - as if that weren't enough creepy Hispanic goodness for ya - they also have a Trailer Spotlight to showcase teasers & trailers of upcoming works by talented Latin Horrorphiles. Que bueno!

Latin Horror Horrorphiles #2
The Crypt Club Official Web Site

Mr. Serial Killer webisodes go on-line

The first wepisode of Steven Cerritos' "Mr. Serial Killer" is now on-line. And, as Steven told me, viewer discretion is strongly advised. Sure there are cute and cuddly animated bits, but this series isn't for the kiddies. They don't call him 'Mister' for nothing.

For the bold of heart, here's what Steven says of his latest creation:

"Meet the Happy Face Killer! He’s a strange, confused but lovable little serial killer who’s always looking to cause mischief and mayhem! Along with Allegra (his secret, secret crush) and her wacky, silly friends, the Happy Face Killer will discover the importance of cathartic anarchy, love, relationships and existentialism all while having a ton of f-fu-fun!

"Mr. Serial Killer is a disturbing and psychotic web series featuring a group of serial killers, each with different variations of psychological complexities/disorder and perversions. Typical webisodes (the equivalent to television’s episode) will begin with cartoonlike storybook sequences, followed by live action. A typical webisode will run five to ten minutes long. I know that the first webisode has a running time of twenty minutes but that’s the first and last time.

"The web series is catered for the 18-34 demographic and it’s about serial killers, hence the graphic violence, dark, perverse humor, and bizarre characters.

"We’ve taken the unique approach of delivering the web series on a platform with a colorful, cartoonlike art direction because it offers the creators numerous creative possibilities and it lightens the live action’s dark, twisted themes. It also creates for effective contrast when juxtaposing the vibrant, and lighthearted cartoon sequences to the gritty, dark and violent live action.

"Our web series will combine continuing serial drama elements, such as those often found in soap operas or miniseries, while also running individual standalone webisodes that will not follow the web series’ main plot line. Due to these differing types, the web series will be divided into two categories:

“Arc” webisodes will follow the web series’ current plot line. These webisodes will usually consist of the web series’ unique ensemble of characters interacting and creating conflict with one another, while also introducing subplots and secondary characters.

“Standalone” webisodes will either introduce or further develop one of the webseries’ characters. Generally a standalone webisode will give the viewer an intimate look into a character’s bizarre life and psyche.

"Well, where’s the substance? Is this just the equivalent to torture porn? Yes. Yes it is! Hahaha! All kidding aside, there’s more to this than just violence and mere shock value. The 70’s gave us Bundy and Gacy. The 80’s had its Dahmer’s and Ramirez’, while the 90’s had its Wuornos’ and Bernardo’s. Every individual serial killer a direct reflection of what had gone wrong in their society. You see, the serial killer is a modern day cultural phenomenon. As society evolves, so does the serial killer. In many ways, they’re the byproduct of our forefathers’ sins, of their negligence, of their ineptitude, of their ignorance… Today, when greed and gluttony has run amok, when anarchy and nihilism distort our perception on progression, what kind of monster will society deliver to us? Stay tuned…"

So, there you have it. Don't say we didn't warn you.

Mr. Serial Killer webisode
Mr. Serial Killer web site

Madison Horror Initiates Horror Happy Hours

As if the economy isn't terrifying enough, the Madison Horror Film Festival is working overtime to keep things creepy.

Event organizer Rich Peterson (a.k.a. Freakshow) tells me that starting Wednesday April 1st Madison Horror presents its first Horror Happy Hour.

This is a FREE event. How's that for recession aid?

So, what's there to be happy about? Well, they'll be screening Troma Entertainment's "Redneck Zombies" to celebrate the film's 20th anniversary. Just think of the possibilities for a drinking game during a zombie flick... Every time a zombie growls you take a swig.

In addition to the film screening they'll be playing, live on stage, the ever-popular "Your Life Is In Jeopardy" game show. Contestants can win tickets, DVDs, and lots more cool stuff (some of it from Crypt Club Productions Inc., no less). Can you say, "Alex, the answer is "What is scary good fun?"

The whole Horror Happy Hour event takes place at the Annex on Regent Street in Madison WI. Details are available at the MHFF web site.

Bottoms up! (if that's your thing) And, if not, "Cheers!"

Madison Horror web site

Edgar Allan Poe Is In Print Again!

Fans of Edgar Allan Poe, Ray Harryhausen, and Marc Lougee have another reason to celebrate. Sure, Marc's short stop-motion animated film "Ray Harryhausen presents The Pit and the Pendulum" is a hit on the festival circuit, and is also available on DVD.

But now, to mark E.A. Poe's 200th birthday (January 19) Bluewater Productions, in association with Hand Made Heroes Film & Television, Ltd, published "The Pit and the Pendulum" film as a glorious 4-colour comic! It hit shelves on February 25.

So where can you get this Poe-liscious publication? Well, you can ask/beg/plead/demand that your favourite comic book haunt order it for you. Or you can order it yourself on-line at Things From Another Planet. And there's always going direct to the publisher, Bluewater Productions.

Here's some background on the film to comic book transition from director Marc Lougee and producer Susan Ma.

Marc says, "Doing a comic was something I've always been keen to try, so we utilized the still images from the stop motion film as 'sequential art' in comic form; the result is a sort of hybrid between the film, a graphic novel and a short story comic. I think it's a very cool-looking way of telling the story with a fresh approach."

Sequential art in comics is a familiar sight for most everyone, but utilizing the images used in the film itself and re-processing them for another type of 'sequential art' made sense to both Lougee and Producer Susan Ma.

Susan adds, "A short film, being what it is, faces limitations in the sense it has much less of a chance of being screened outside of niche markets and events, such as film festivals. There are few real options to see shorts outside the festival circuit (location-based and online), unless you feel inclined to send it off through a distributor or post it online yourself. Many times we've found the film would be sold as a package with a host of other films, which I felt would lessen the impact and the viewing experience."

"As filmmakers, it was important for us to explore the broader potential for our film through comic book publishing, and sought out a smaller, indie film friendly publisher. Thankfully, we found just that combination in Darren Davis and Bluewater Productions, and now with the comic set for release in February, we feel we've got another opportunity to see a broader range of visibility for E.A. Poe's wonderful story, and another means of getting the story into the hands of fans everywhere."

"We're all about making the story of The Pit and the Pendulum accessible to students, teachers and fans of the Gothic genre." says Marc.

"The goal is to get folks to spend more time with Edgar Allan Poe's classic tale, to help see the subtleties in the story and lay groundwork for discussion in class. In the case of students studying E.A. Poe's work, I feel this sort of approach, the combination of films & comics in tandem, may help get kids interested in literature. This is especially relevant as we're in the midst of Edgar Allan Poe's 200th anniversary; what better time to get to know the man and his work than now?"

The Pit and the Pendulum short film

4 of 5 Stars from GoreZone Magazine

The fiends across the pond are showing some serious UK love for AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1.

Dean Boor of GoreZone Magazine, the 'worldwide No. 1 horror entertainment mag', had a gander at our debut short indie horror compilation DVD and rated it 4 out of 5 stars.

That's pretty cool, and not too shabby when you consider that of 30 home video releases reviewed only 6 got 5 stars (including "Batman: The Dark Knight").

Without giving it all away, Dean loves the idea behind the collection because "it provides a platform for indie filmmakers to release their prized creations." Prized and coveted they are, indeed.

To read the whole review and find out which of the 7 short films is Dean's favourite you'll have to get your claws into the February 2009 issue, #40.

Or you can ask him in person. I hear that he haunts the moors on foggy, moonless nights. Take along a slow running friend and a knapsack.

'appy reading, mates!

GoreZone Magazine

Viva the Latin Horror Revolution!

Well amigos & amigas, don't say I don't try to broaden your horror horizons. Here's something from my old stomping grounds on the salsa side of the tracks.

Latin Horror, in association with Anthology Film Archives, presents another special edition of the NewLatino Filmmakers Screening Series: "The HORRORphiles #2 - Scaring up a Revolución" -- featuring the work of emerging Latino directors working within the horror genre.

EVENT DETAILS:
Saturday, April 4, 2009
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Anthology Film Archives
32 Second Avenue @ 3rd Street (Lower East Side)
New York, NY

So what is this Latin Horror thing all about?

Glad you asked. Here's what they say about themselves.

Latin Horror - The Official Home of Latin Horrorphiles Everywhere.

Latin Horror is the first English-language publication dedicated to the emerging genre of Latin horror and will feature the leading Latin/Hispanic/international proponents working in film, theater, music, photography. illustration, graphic novels, "dark art" novelas, comic books, literature, and games -- from the seasoned masters -- to the up-and-coming Latin horrorphile whose work is grounded in horror, the macabre, and gothic arts.

Latin Horror will also give you a front row seat into this exciting universe through exclusive, intimate profiles, insightful in-depth articles into the latest trends and developments taking hold in the industry, as well as behind-the-scene peeks at the horrific cutting-edge projects coming your way.

Basta ya. I'm sold, señoras & señores. Viva Latin Horror!

Latin Horror

Can Films From AAAAAH!! Survive Dai's Dissection?

Dai Green, the Dark Doyenne of DVD Delights at www.HorrorNews.net, dissects the films of "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1".

In the 02/19/09 entry of her "What's the Bloody Deal?" column she selects Christopher Alan Broadstone's "My Skin!" and my own "The Crypt Club" for closer inspection.

So, after honing her verbal blades, what does Dai have to say? Well, now that you ask, here's a self-serving sample:

Christopher did a great job of making this film something that you can watch more than once and enjoy each time you do. With a great script, beautiful camera shots, and a wonderful actor at the helm, this short proves that short horror films are an important, and sometimes even more worth watching, part of the horror film industry!

Can you see me blushing in the dark? That's the kind of praise we're looking for when we select films for "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits".

Thanks Dai for agreeing that what we're doing is worth watching. And I'll never, ever forget that the correct pronunciation of your first name rhymes with 'Day', not 'Die'. (Fifty lashes with a wet cat 'o nine tails)

And what does Lady Dai have to say about "The Crypt Club"? I'll let you enjoy that read on your own. Suffice to say that vivid memories of teen angst play a key role.

Volume two is in the works. Send in your short indie horror films before it's too late...

HorrorNews.net

Double-Dip Raves for AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1

Okay. I'll admit it. I'm blushing - and that's not easy for someone with no circulation. Master blogger Rob Sullivan liked our "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1" DVD enough to post a great positive review.

In fact, he posted it twice!

First on the Haunted Report site, which features the latest in horror news. Their motto: "If it tries to scare the crap out of you - we cover it."

The second post is on the Behind the Big Screen site, which covers a wider selection filmed entertainment.

Wow! Genre AND mainstream coverage. That's a two-fer I can sink my pearlies into.

In addition to spotlighting several of the compilation's films, Rob points out:

"Just because these are short films - some only a few minutes long - doesn't mean they couldn't be full length features. A couple of them have so much packed into them you'll think you've seen an entire movie in the time it takes to watch the shorter version."

On a cold winter's night it warms both of my cockles to know that we're living up to our own motto: "All Killer - No Filler".

Thank you Rob for noticing that our 7-film DVD packs a whack of value into 110 minutes. And thanks for telling folks - twice.

Haunted Report Review
Behind the Big Screen

Winner Announced in AAAAAH!! DVD Contest

On February 2 (a.k.a. Groundhog Day in North America) our very own trusty, undead meteorological wonder rodent, Cemetery Sammy, poked his snout from his burrow, sniffed the frozen air and declared a winner in our latest DVD contest giveaway.

Crypt Club Productions Inc., in cooperation with www.obscurehorror.com, sponsored a giveaway of our debut DVD: "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1". Obscure Horror posted an interview with yours cruelly and the contest required entrants to correctly answer a question based on the content of the interview.

Millions of entrants (okay, not exactly millions, but way more than a groggy, chilled groundhog could handle) flooded the contest in-box. From among all the qualified entrants Cemetery Sammy selected a winner: Michele Pineda of Waterville, ME in the US of A. As our dear, departed Uncle Forry would say, "Kong-gratulations!"

The DVD is on its way via Groundhog Express and should arrive in plenty of time for St. Valentine's Day. So dim the lights Michele and cuddle up with your boo-loved for a good night's creep.

In the mean time, Cemetery Sammy's learning to read so he can review his labor contract.

Obscure Horror Interview

AAAAAH!! featured in Toronto Sun

At last!

I did an interview in September of 2008 for Roger Pierce of BizLaunch for the Toronto Sun's career section on new entrepreneurs. The idea was that, since I deal in spooky stuff, the newspaper would run the article during October to tie into the whole Halloween vibe.

However, the Sun's editors kept bumping the article in favour of stories about single-moms and daycare services. Yawn. Real spooky-like.

But enough bitching and moaning.

The article, entitled Scary Small Business, saw the light of day on Wednesday January 28, 2009. Wish I'd known in advance so I could've salvaged some print copies for my parental units. (Okay, just a bit more bitching and moaning.)

The article is currently available on-line - but I'm not sure for how long. So click to it ASAP before they change the link to something about a dog walking service for the left-handed.

If you've ever considered starting a small business be sure to check out BizLaunch. They provide loads of free information, seminars, links, etc. for anyone seriously considering the entrepreneurial life.

Toronto Sun's "Scary Small Business" Article
BizLaunch

Contest Winner Announced & Contest Reminder

We have a winner for our December DVD giveaway contest through www.DeadHarvey.com. The lucky stiff is Judson Scott of Los Angeles, Karloffornia! Congratulations Judson!

As I type this our trusty international letter carriers are relaying their way across the continent to deliver Judson's prize in a timely manner. Dim the lights & enjoy!

If you missed out on the December contest, fear not. Check out our January contest at www.ObscureHorror.com.

This contest's prize draw happens on Monday February 2. So enter soon.

Just send your answer to the skill testing question to "contest@aaaaah-films.com" and be sure to put 'OBSCURE' in your e-mail's subject line so the web-monster doesn't pitch it into the junk mail pile.

Beast of Luck!

Obscure Horror's AAAAAH!! Contest

AAAAAH!! Filmmaker's Debut Feature DVD Now Available

We are proud as hell that one of our own filmmakers, Anthony Falcon, has just released his debut feature-length film, "99 Pieces".

It seems like only yesterday we saw little Anthony's short film, "The Ninth Entry", on volume 1 of AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits. And now he's grown up and gone all Orson Welles on a feature film. He's the writer, producer, director, actor... Such a talented boy. Brings a tear to my bloodshot eye.

The "99 Pieces" DVD is stacked full of goodies, including: 

Director Commentary
How 99 Pieces Got Made 
Teaser Trailer
Theatrical Trailer
Bonus short film: "Quin's Run"

The DVD is available right now to own or rent through a gazillion outlets, including Amazon, Best Buy, Blockbuster, Netflix, Sam Goody...

Visit the 99 Pieces page on MySpace for details on how to get your grubbies on a copy.

Ah, they grow up so fast...

"99 Pieces" on MySpace

Contest for (Horror) Lovers

We're barely into the new year and already looking ahead to St. Valentine's Day. Yes, that special day when you get to curl up with your favourite other and think monstrous thoughts.

But what to do on that magical evening to get in the mood?

Well, for horror lovers this year it's easy. You can turn down the lights, get close and watch a free copy of AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1, thanks to the fearsome folks at ObscureHorror.com. They've got more reviews on obscure and hard to find horror films than you can shake a stick insect at.

For your chance to win the free DVD visit their contest page. You'll find the answer to the skill testing question in plain site within the interview with yours cruelly.

Then send an e-mail with the answer to contest@aaaaah-films.com. Be sure to include the word 'OBSCURE' in the subject line so the web-monster knows no to trash your response.

The contest draw takes place during the Winter Feast of the Rodent Shadow - I mean, Groundhog Day, February 2, 2009. That way the DVD will arrive in plenty of time for a happy St. Valentine's Day. Awwww, so romantic...

Enjoy the interview & the horror reviews - and beast of luck.

ObscureHorror.com

Madison's Bordello of Horror Live/Dead Podcast

The Madison mad-caps Freakshow and the Harlots of Horror are at it again, with wild revels in the middle of January. Don't they know how freaking cold it gets in January in the Mid-West?

If you're in the frigid vicinity, the Bordello of Horror launch party will take place at The Annex in Madison, Wisconsin on Friday January 23rd @ 8 PM CST. If you can't be there - or don't want to brave the sub-zero - you can catch it from the comfort of your internet console via live broadcast on the Bordello of Horror Video Channel.

The live/dead webcast will feature the world premiere of the new mocumentary "The Zombeatles: All You Need Is Brains". I wonder if Yoko Oh-NO will make a guest appearance?

There's also live music and the Mid-West premiere of "Jessica Rabid", starring Elske McCain.

Good time? Sounds like a starving zombie (no-brainer) to me.

You can get more details at the Madison Horror Film Festival's web site.

Bordello of Horror

New GoreZone Forum

Happy Grue Year!

Still got the sugar jitters & nausea from too many holiday sweets? Good news. The official GoreZone on-line Forum is up and running and is THE place to spill your guts on all things horror!

So put that rusty bucket away and and check out the growing community of like-minded horror fans at the GoreZone Forum. (Shades of zombie group think!)

Remember to contribute responsibly. Don't drink and post.

GoreZone Forum

Horror Society presents B-Movie Madness

If you're in Chicago on Saturday January 17 you'll want to check out the Horror Society's B-Movie Madness.

They've done the indie film festival thing before, and they're doing it again. Bigger, badder, and bolder. Hey, it's a B-movie festival. I think a little alliteration is allowed. At least all the film titles don't start with a 'b'. That would be just too much fromage.

Anyway, here's what they have to say:

We are back with a new Indie Film Festival. This time it’s… B-Movie Madness!!

Our first festival was to shock and awe Chicago with some of the best underground, extreme horror you can imagine. Well I think we shocked a few people, but this time its a bit different. On Saturday, January 17th at the Portage Theater we will be showcasing some of the best Indie B-Movies and Horror Comedies around. Our lineup includes….

Better Off Undead
The Driller Killer
The Stalking Hand
It’s My Party, and I’ll Die If I Want To

Four of the best and most original horror comedies. Each with a little special something… The feature film, It’s My Party and I’ll Die If I Want To, will feature a “Choose your own adventure” version of the film in which you the audience will be able to participate and choose how you want the movie to play. Not just the ending, but the whole movie. Its truly an original idea for a horror movie, and hell any movie for that matter. We will be having giveaways and trailers throughout the festival!

Vendors and sponsors are invited to contact the Horror Society for details.

Sure to be a blast and a half. What better way to spend a frosty night in the windy city?

Horror Society's B-Movie Madness

Fiendly Contest Reminder

Just a fiendly reminder to enter Dead Harvey's DVD giveaway contest before the end of December.

The holidays and the weather are surely foremost on your mind, but take a quick second to visit Dead Harvey and enter the contest. Then you can enjoy the holidays and ignore the weather.

And, who knows, you might come away with a cool prize to kick start 2009. How swell would that be?

Beast of luck.

Dead Harvey

Horror Society wants more AAAAAH!!

The Horror Society has just posted a review of "AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1" - and it's another severed thumb up!

In addition to talking about several of the films on the collection the reviewer writes:

I tell it like it is and I will say this, Miguel Gallego of Crypt Club Productions Inc. and producer of this compilation sure picked some winners! I watched all 7 shorts, varying in running times and themes, and was extremely satisfied with every one.

This compilation truly was enjoyable to watch, each film covering different themes and styles eloquently, and had me thirsting for more. I do hope that Crypt Club Productions Inc. continue this trend and put out more quality compilations and let these shorts see the light of day (or should I be saying the dark of night???) for fans of the horror genre to enjoy.

Gosh! I'm blushing crimson. Well, at least it helps to keep me in the holiday color scheme of things.

I'm happy they love the collection and that they're already looking forward to the next volume. Who am I to disappoint? Fortunately, we're already working on volume 2. If you haven't already sent in your short horror, thriller, or dark fantasy film... go to AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits for details.

In the mean time, pick up a copy of this great collection of short indie horror films to make the long cold winter nights just a bit... chillier.

And to all a good fright!

Horror Society site
AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits site

Three Severed Thumbs Up

When it rains it pours. And I'm thanking my personal deity for that.

Within a week I've received links to three top-knotch reviewers praising AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, Volume 1. Each of these three worthwhile sites post some heavy duty articles about horror and the fantastic.

From the wilds of Utah, John Morehead at TheoFantastique gave AAAAAH!! a solid recommendation, and he touched the soft spot in my corroded heart by setting the review next to his remembrance of Forrest J Ackerman. Coming from a member of the venerable League of Tana Tea Drinkers his review carries a lot of Nile water for me.

Also today, Jill Cooper from Killer-Works.com in Chicago & Toronto posted her review of AAAAAH!! Indie Horror Hits, along with a trailer and links. I appreciate that she touched on each of the collection's seven films to demonstrate the variety of horror films that we're showcasing.

Dead Harvey from Vancouver weighed in last week with a review and a lengthy interview with yours cruelly. And they're running a contest giveaway with the answer found in the text of the interview. Check it out ASAP to get your entry in on time.

Happy reading.

TheoFantastique review
Killer-Works review
Dead Harvey review, interview, and contest

Forrest J Ackerman - R.I.P. Monster Man

Although I'd known for a while that he wasn't well, it still came as a shock when I read on-line (thanks Joe Moe) that Forrest J Ackerman died at age 92 this past Thursday night.

For those who don't know, Forry (4e, Uncle Forry, Dr. Acula) was the ultimate horror/sci-fi fanboy collector, an inspiration to thousands, and an influence upon... millions(?). He claimed to have coined the term 'sci-fi', and, as a literary agent, represented some of the genres greats, including Ray Bradbury.

Probably Forry's greatest influence came as the amiable, enthusiastic, and pun-prone editor of Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine (1958-1983). That's where I got to know of him. His writing was direct and engaging. He knew that kids of all ages would be reading the magazine, and he never talked down to his readers. As noted in one of Forry's obituaries FM was the first serious but not solemn genre magazine. The punning made it charming and gave it an air of innocence - despite the illustrated monstrosities between the covers. And, oh what covers! Those Basil Gogos paintings have become icons themselves.

FM #101 was my first issue, the one with Captain Marvel on the cover. We were on a summer vacation driving to Northern Ontario. I was already a rabid fan of the Universal Studios' monsters, and here was a magazine that featured them. Horror heaven. Standing at the magazine rack, looking at the Fang Mail page with a photo of a kid in monster make-up under the banner "Wanted" More Readers Like (kid's name here)" I realized that I wasn't alone in my obsession. There were more of us out there. All of us united by our fascination with monsters and horror films, and linked together through this magazine, whose beating heart was Forrest J Ackerman.

Many years would pass, with FM threading its way in and out of my awareness. After Star Wars all the genre magazines focused on sci-fi much more than horror. Can't say that I blamed them, although I did resent it.

Many of Forry's fans got to meet him at a horror or science fiction convention, or at his home (the Ackermansion and, later, the Acker-mini-mansion). His house, filled with his immense collection of sci-fi & horror literature and memorabilia, was regularly open to the public for personal guided tours & Q&A sessions. I wish I had met Forry in person and experienced that fabled collection. I had several opportunities to visit him while I studied in L.A., just a few blocks from the Ackermansion, but Forry was never at home when I came calling. During several trips back to L.A. I would check in and learn that Uncle Forry was away at a convention. So, several near misses and no cigar. The best I could do was leave a note or card.

I do have an autographed 8x10 photo of Forry sporting his Dracula cape and ring. He mailed it to me on request. The inscription reads, "Here's lurking at you, Miguel!" It's framed next to a photo of me standing at his Ackermansion gate beside the sign: "4SJ of KARLOFFORNIA". That's as close as we ever got.

During one unsuccessful visit I left a DVD copy of The Crypt Club in a bag hanging from his front door knob. Tribute to a man who I never met, but whose contagious enthusiasm for the monsters affected the course of my life.

So, on one hand, I'm sad that I never got to ask Forry about Bela, Boris, or Vincent, or that I'll never see Forry's wondrous collection of film memorabilia. On the other hand, I'm glad that he and his collection will live vividly in my imagination. Can the dream of heaven ever measure up to the reality of heaven?

I thought it might be cool to post this missive in Esperanto, which Forry knew. I don't know Esperanto, so the translation would be a fair chunk of work. It could be our final private communication. But then I remembered how Forry's writing in FM made me feel part of a community, part of the joke being shared. So I'll limit my Esperanto salute to Forry by saying, "Dankon, Uncle 4e!" You'll be missed, but not forgotten.

Forrest J Ackerman on Wikipedia