Hellbent For Horror

(8 of 8) Thanks and congratulations to 45 years of PHANTASM, @don_coscarelli!

(7 of 8) With PHANTASM, @DonCoscarelli encouraged me to appreciate ambiguity in narrative, and showed me that horror is like Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, it pairs well with any genre and makes them even better.

(6 of 8) PHANTASM will always be one of my favorite films of all time, because it trusted me to watch something unique during the slasher craze… @DonCoscarelli

(5 of 8) I got my chance on October 26, 1979, when PHANTASM premiered on HOME BOX OFFICE. It was the first movie to ever garner the “graphic violence” parental warning in their guide.

(4 of 8) It was “Uncle” Bob Martin who wrote the great teaser opening to his interview with Coscarelli in @fangoria Issue No. 2 and cemented my need to see this film. @DonCoscarelli

(3 of 8) John Carpenter’s HALLOWEEN expanded the horror audience exponentially and brought prestige to indie filmmaking, but PHANTASM legitimized the horror/sci-fi hybrid and quietly broadened the definition of both genres.

(2 of 8) Made for a mere $300,000, the movie had car stunts, explosions, crazy special effects, multiple locations and set pieces, defying limitations and also brazenly served up a nonlinear narrative. @DonCoscarelli

(1 of 8) It was 45 years ago today, @DonCoscarelli let The Tall Man play! PHANTASM opened on March 28, 1979, and the lives of horror fans everywhere changed.

So sad to hear that Weston Ochse has died long term health battles. Wes was a great, prolific writer, a proud veteran, absolute dog lover, and just a really nice guy that seemed to let everything slide off his back. Glad I got to know him a little. WHAT IS REMEMBERED, LIVES.

New Episode! As his legend would dictate, Friedkin was a bit of a demon himself to those who worked with him and opposed him. Join me as I look at my fascination with him. Love him or hate him, Friedkin made you take notice. hellbentforhorror.libsyn.com…

The best quote about the passing of William Friedkin today goes to Terrill Lee Lankford. Love it. This needs to be a meme.

Yesterday was the cover reveal for author/poet @SWytovich's new book, ON THE SUBJECT OF BLACKBERRIES! I read an advanced copy, and it was harrowing, intense, and heartening. It is a must-read. Pre-order the book through @RDSPress: rawdogscreaming.com/cover-re…