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The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Sphere

The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Sphere

Prepare to time warp back into the iconic madness of 1975’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show with a new experience at Sphere in Las Vegas. In special arrangement with Primary Wave Music and 20th Century Studios, Sphere Studios will use its advanced technologies to enhance the original film for a unique immersive experience. Jim Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, said in a press release, “Since The Rocky Horror Picture Show premiered in 1975, it redefined audience participation and became a cultural phenomenon. With Sphere, we have the opportunity to take that spirit of immersion to an entirely new level.” This new production is part of The Sphere Experience, Sphere’s slate of original immersive content including The Wizard of Oz at Sphere.

The company has yet to announce in what ways the original film will be enhanced. Its predecessor, The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, has drawn criticism from the use of generative AI to add extras and scenery to fit the 60,000-square-foot wraparound interior LED display, and for cutting nearly 30 minutes of runtime from the film (including some musical numbers). 

Expected to open in 2027, audiences will just have to wait in antici…pation.

Learn more about Sphere and their immersive programming at the venue’s official website. 

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a 1975 musical comedy directed by Jim Sharman, and distributed by 20th Century Fox. The film is based on the 1973 musical stage production The Rocky Horror Show, with music, book, and lyrics by Richard O’Brien.

The story concerns an engaged couple whose car breaks down in the rain near a castle, where they search for help. The castle is occupied by strangers in elaborate costumes holding a party. They meet the head of the house, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist and alien transvestite from the planet Transsexual in the galaxy of Transylvania, who creates a living muscle man named Rocky.

For over 50 years this cult movie & musical has thrilled audiences worldwide. Midnight screenings are still common around the world with shadow casts often performing alongside the film.

Yokai Shadow Box

September 29, 2026 No Comments

Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

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Halloween Scareoke

September 28, 2026 No Comments

Add some spooky fun to your next party with Halloween Scareoke. There are a many karaoke versions of Halloween classics on Youtube perfect for signing along with. Take turns covering

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The Scare Factor’s Haunt Advisor

September 27, 2026 No Comments

Since 2004, The Scare Factor has provided Halloween fans with haunted attraction reviews and directory listings. Their reviews are written by a network of professional “Scream Teams” from around the

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News

Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards 2022

Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards 2022

Since 2002, the Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards have been fandom’s only classic horror awards – decided by fans, for fans. 2022 marks the 20th anniversary of these awards! Every nominee is recognized for significant achievements in horror for 2021. 

There are many amazing films, DVDs, books, and more represented this year. I was excited to see the Screamfest alumn, “Good Head” nominated! I wish the best for all the nominees and know that whomever wins each category is certainly worthy of the honor.

How to Vote

Voting is by email only. Send an email to David Colton, at taraco@aol.com by Sunday night at midnight, April 17, 2022. Simply include in the subject: “Rondo Awards!” In the body of the message indicate your votes for this year’s awards.You do not need to submit a vote in each category. Write in as many selections as you would like.  Include your name and that’s it!
 
One vote per person, please. Every email must include your name to be counted. All votes are kept strictly confidential. The Rondo Awards promises no emails nor personal information will ever be shared with anyone.
 
See the complete ballot list below:

Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards 2022 Nominees

1) Best Film of 2021

Due to the pandemic, includes wide release, video-on-demand and streaming

  • ANTLERS
  • CANDYMAN
  • THE CONJURING: THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT
  • DON’T LOOK UP
  • DUNE
  • FREE GUY
  • GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE
  • GODZILLA VS KONG
  • HALLOWEEN KILLS
  • LAST NIGHT IN SOHO
  • MALIGNANT
  • NIGHT HOUSE
  • NIGHTMARE ALLEY
  • OLD
  • A QUIET PLACE, Part Two
  • SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME
  • ZACH SNYDER’S JUSTICE LEAGUE
  •  Or write in another choice:

2) Best TV Presentation

  • CHUCKY, Bravo. The deadly doll is back. ‘We’re gonna party like it’s 1999.’
  • CREEPSHOW, Shudder. Episodes in the EC vein.  ‘Naperville Ripper Still at Large’
  • DOCTOR WHO, BBC America. The Thirteenth Doctor battles enemies old and new. ‘Don’t blink!’
  • EVIL, CBS. Mysteries with a supernatural twist. ‘If one word is spoken within the monastery walls, the demon will be out.’
  • FEAR STREET,  Netflix. Teenagers battle a town curse in three eras. ‘Would you say he was more Dawn of the Dead, or Night of the Living Dead?’
  • SERVANT, Apple TV+. M. Night Shyamalan’s look at a family’s odd nanny.  ‘She’s not the sweet child you think she is.’
  • MIDNIGHT MASS, Netflix. A priest shakes a village’s faith. ‘God still has a plan, and death isn’t part of it anymore.’
  • THE SQUID GAME, Netflix. Players must choose self-preservation to survive. ‘You have a reason to leave this place, but I don’t.’
  • THE WALKING DEAD, AMC. Negan’s former life is tragically revealed. ‘I am starting to think that I am capable of damn near anything.’
  • WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS, FX. The vampires say farewell to one of their own. ‘How am I gonna eat if I don’t prey on people, dummy?’
  • YELLOWJACKETS, Showtime. Teen terror on an island lasts generations. ‘Hiding in the tree, she watches me at night.’
  • Or write-in another choice:

3) Best Blu-Ray OF 2021

  • THE AMAZING MR. X (1948; Film Detective)
  • AN ANGEL FOR SATAN (1966; Severin)
  • DEAD AND BURIED (1981; Blue Underground)
  • DEAD ZONE (1983; Shout!)
  • DOCTOR X (1932 Technicolor; Warners Archive)
  • FRANKENSTEIN’S DAUGHTER (1958; Film Detective)
  • THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING MAN (1957; Criterion)
  • ISLE OF THE DEAD (1945; Warners Archive
  • KING KONG (1976; Shout!)
  • MILL OF THE STONE WOMEN (1960; Arrow)
  • MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD (1935; Kino)
  • THE POSSESSION OF JOEL DELANEY (1972; Imprint)
  • SECRET OF THE BLUE ROOM (1933; Kino)
  • TOMB OF LIGEIA (1964; Kino)
  • THE VAMPIRE LOVERS (1970; Shout)
  • Or write in another choice:

4) Best Blu-Ray Collection

  • ALL THE HAUNTS BE OURS: A Compendium of Folk Horror (15 discs, Severin). 20-film collection includes numerous rarities, companion material and video extras.
  • THE DUNGEON OF ANDY MILLIGAN 1967-1982 (8 discs plus CD, Severin). 14 films, some restored for first time; numerous shorts and special features.
  • THE EUROCRYPT OF CHRISTOPHER LEE 1962-1971 (9 discs, Severin) 6 films highlighting Lee’s European horror films; numerous extras.
  • HAMMER HORROR: Four Gothic Horrors (Imprint) Countess Dracula, Twins of Evil, Hands of the Ripper, Vampire Circus.
  • HAMMER VOLUME SIX: Night Shadows (Indicator). Includes Captain Clegg, Phantom of the Opera, Nightmare, Shadow of the Cat.
  • KOLCHAK: THE NIGHSTALKER: The Complete Series (1974-1975; Kino). Twenty episodes remastered, along with 21 commentaries.
  • THE MONSTER COLLECTION (Music Box Films). Two special effects documentaries, The Frankenstein Complex, and Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams and Monsters; plus bonus disc.
  • NIGHT GALLERY: Season One (Kino) All seven episodes with commentaries.
  • SILVER SCREAMS CINEMA (Imprint) Phantom Speaks, Return of Ape Man, She Devil, Unknown Terror, Vampire’s Ghost, Valley of the Zombies
  • THE SHERLOCK HOLMES VAULT COLLECTION (1931-37; Film Detective). Fatal Hour, Triumph of Sherlock Holmes, Silver Blaze, Study in Scarlet
  • UNIVERSAL CLASSIC MONSTERS: Icons of Horror Collection in 4K: Dracula, Frankenstein, Wolf Man, Invisible Man offered in 4K.
  • Or write in another choice:

5) Best Restoration or Upgrade

  • AN ANGEL FOR SATAN (1966; Severin) First official release, including restored audio.
  • DARK EYES OF LONDON (1939; Network) Remaster from original elements.
  • DEAD & BURIED (1981; Blue Underground). 4K upgrade.
  • DEMENTIA 13 (1963; Vestron) Francis Ford Coppola’s director’s cut.
  • DOCTOR X (1932; Warner Archives) Technicolor restoration, along with B/W version.
  • ELVIRA’S HAUNTED HILLS (2001; Shout!) 4K scan from original negative.
  • EYES OF FIRE/CRYING BLUE SKY (1983; Severin) First release along with longer alternate version.
  • THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER (1928) Restoration of silent by Richard Moses, music by Jay Woelfel; streamed on Silent Film Channel.
  • FLESH FOR FRANKENSTEIN (Andy Warhol’s Frankenstein; 1973; Vinegar Syndrome). Freshly scanned and 4K; colors brighter; 3-D version included.
  • THE INVISIBLE MAN APPEARS (1949, Arrow). First U.S. release of Japanese sci-fi.
  • THE KINDRED (1987; Synapse) Restored and uncut from original negative.
  • KING KONG (1976; Shout!). Includes complete expanded TV version.
  • KRAMPUS: The Naughty Cut (2015; Shout) Restored scenes and adult language.
  • MILL OF THE STONE WOMEN (1960, Arrow). Italian, American and French cuts included.
  • NIGHT GALLERY (1969; Kino) Restored two-hour pilot episode.
  • SANTA SANGRE (1990; Severin). 4K restoration of Alejandro Jodorowsky classic.
  • SKINNED DEEP (2004; Severin) Reassembled scenes from uncut negatives.
  • TIH-MINH (1919; Gaumont) Six-hour crime serial reconstructed and restored.
  • Or write in another choice:

6) Best DVD Extras

  • THE ATTIC EXPEDITIONS (2001, Severin). Online reunion with cast including Jeffrey Combs, Wendy Robie, Alice Cooper.
  • DARK EYES OF LONDON (1939; Network). Kim Newman, Stephen Jones discuss Lugosi’s UK work.
  • DOCTOR X (1932; Warner Archives): ‘Monsters and Mystery: The Horror Films of Michael Curtiz,’ directed by Constantine Nasr.
  • F.P.1. DOESN’T ANSWER (Kino): Includes U.S. version with Conrad Veidt.
  • FRANKENSTEIN’S DAUGHTER (1958; Kino) ‘Richard E. Cunha: Filmmaker of the Unknown,’ resurrects unseen film bio Cunha sent to Tom Weaver.
  • GRIZZLY (1976; Severin). Nightmare USA author Stephen Thrower documentary on director William Girdler.
  • HAMMER HORROR: Four Gothic Horror Films (Imprint): Three visual essays by Kat Ellinger among numerous features.
  • INCREDIBLE SHRINKING MAN (1957; Criterion) ‘Auteur on Campus: Jack Arnold at Universal’ documentary directed by Daniel Griffith.
  • THE KINDRED (1987; Synapse). ‘Inhuman Experiments: The Making of The Kindred.’
  • THE MEDUSA TOUCH (1978; Imprint). Visual essay by Ian McAnally on ‘Welsh Wizard’ Richard Burton.
  • NOSFERATU IN VENICE (1988; Severin) ‘Creation is Violent – Anecdotes From Kinski’s Final Years’ directed by Josh Johnson.
  • SHE FREAK (1967; AGFA/Something Weird) Compilation of David Friedman trailers.
  • THE VAMPIRE LOVERS (1970; Shout). New commentaries video features.
  • Or write in another choice:

 7) Favorite Commentator of 2021 

  • Craig Beam (Night Gallery)
  • Paul Castiglia (Haunted House episode, Abbott & Costello Show)
  • Travis Crawford (Demons 2)
  • David DelValle (Trog, Mystery of Edwin Drood)
  • Samm Deighan (Switchblade Sisters)
  • Kat Ellinger (The Seventh Seal, An Angel for Satan)
  • Lee Gambin (Day of the Animals; Possession of Joel Delaney)
  •  Gary Gerani (Night Gallery pilot; Dark Intruder)
  • Michael Gingold (Dead Zone)
  • Troy Guinn, Rod Barnett (Black Candles)
  • Steve Haberman (Isle of the Dead, Mad Love)
  • Bruce G. Hallenbeck (Capt. Kronos, Vampire Hunter)
  • Justin Humphreys (Flight to Mars)
  • Troy Howarth (Dead & Buried)
  • Tim Lucas (Night Gallery; Mill of the Stone Women)
  • Constantine Nasr (The Vampire Lovers; Night Gallery)
  • Kim Newman, Stephen Jones (Vampire Circus; Twins of Evil)
  • Amanda Reyes (Night Gallery; Phantom of the Mall)
  • Kelly Robinson (Ingagi)
  • Jonathan Rigby & Kevin Lyons (Hands of the Ripper, Countess Dracula)
  • Alan K. Rode (Doctor X)
  • David Schecter (various soundtrack commentaries)
  • Michael Schlesinger (Secret of the Blue Room)
  • Nathaniel Thompson (Dead & Buried)
  • Richard Harland Smith (Last Man on Earth; Prophecy)
  • Tom Weaver (Incredible Shrinking Man; Frankenstein’s Daughter)
  • Emma Westwood (Prophecy)
  • Taylor White (Night Gallery)
  • Or write in another choice:

8) Best Independent Film of 2021

Includes festivals and streaming channels.
 
  • THE ADVENT CALENDAR, directed by Patrick Ridgemont. Monstrous menaces intensify, day by day. See trailer here
  • BRAIN FREEZE, directed by Julien Knafo. Horror comedy from Canada, fertilizer zombies plague a gated community. See trailer here
  • CENSOR, directed by Prano Bailey-Bond. A film censor hunts down the source of a film, with shocking results. See trailer here
  • THE CHANGED, directed by Michael Mongillo. Neighborhood finds imposters taking their place. See trailer here
  • COME TRUE, directed by Anthony Scott Burns. Sleep study goes deeper than expected. See trailer here
  • CRAWLER, directed by Joe Ripple. The late Don Dohler’s last independent film. See trailer here.
  • FRIED BARRY, directed by Ryan Kruger. Aliens take control of hard-to-control loser. See trailer here
  • HORROR NOIRE, anthology of six tales from black directors. See trailer here
  • HOWL FROM BEYOND THE FOG, directed by Daisuke Sato. From Japan, monsters battle land grabbers. See trailer here
  • IT KNOWS YOU’RE ALONE, directed by Chris Alexander. An old phone washes up on shore. See trailer here
  • JAKOB’S WIFE, directed by Travis Stevens. Starring Barbara Crampton, vampiric happenings in a small town. See trailer here
  • KANDISHA, directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury. A changeling demon stalks an abusive boyfriend. See trailer here
  • THE LOCKDOWN HAUNTINGS, directed by Howard J. Ford. Tony Todd stars as pandemic has its own special horrors. See trailer here
  • THE PHANTOM LAKE KIDS IN THE BEAST WALKS AMONG US, directed by Christopher Mihm. Neighborhood kids fight a hideous creature. See trailer here
  • RED SNOW, directed by Sean Nichols Lynch. An injured vampire offers a chance for fame to a frustrated horror writer. See trailer here
  • THE SADNESS, directed by Rob Jabbaz. A couple must escape a city filled with sadistic plague victims. See trailer here.
  • THE STYLIST, directed by Jill Gevargizian. A lonely hairdresser does more than cut hair. See trailer here
  • SAVE YOURSELVES! Directed by Alex Huston Fischer and Eleanor Wilson. Young couple shelter in the woods amidst an alien invasion. See trailer here
  • TITANE, directed by Julia Ducournau. A woman’s head injury could be linked to brutal crimes. See trailer here
  • WE NEED TO DO SOMETHING, directed by Sean King O’Grady. Family trapped by a tornado finds its own horrors. See trailer here
  • Or write in another choice:

 9) Best Short Film

  • THE BALLERINA, directed by Aaron Fradkin (8 mins). A dancer is haunted by her reflection. See film here
  • BRACKISH, directed by Christa Boarini (8 mins). A menacing spirit from the mangroves in this folktale of the Americas.  See film here
  • DAWN OF THE ATOMIC BEAST, directed by William Turner  (11 mins). Send up of 1950s 3-D, bubbles included. See film here
  • GOOD HEAD, directed by Matt Servitto (29 mins) Getting fitted for a prop movie head goes horribly wrong. See trailer here
  • THE GUEST: A Lockdown Story, directed by Andrea Lombardo (33 mins). A man finds an intruder in his house during Covid-19. See film here
  • HUNGRY JOE, directed by Paul Holbrook and Sam Dawe. About a boy who just can’t stop eating. See film here
  • KOREATOWN GHOST STORY, directed by Minsun Park, Teddy Tenenbaum (15 mins). Margaret Cho stars in tale of macabre marriage rituals. See film here
  • THE MOST HAUNTED HOUSE IN VENICE BEACH, directed by Ansel Faraj (17 mins). A haunting memory of L.A. Venice Beach. See film here
  • A NIGHTMARE IN THE SHOWER, directed by Shane and Aylward (19 mins). A disability doesn’t stop battling a radioactive menace. See film here
  • THE THREE MEN YOU MEET AT NIGHT, directed by Beck Kitsis (13 mins). A woman walks home and must decide among three different men. See film here
  • WHO GOES THERE? Directed by Astrid Thorvaldsen (23 mins). A stranger promises help, but with a price. See trailer here
  • Or write in another choice:

10) Best Documentary

  • BORIS KARLOFF: The Man Behind the Monster, directed by Thomas Hamilton. Actor’s biography includes numerous interviews, rare audio and vintage footage beyond Frankenstein. See trailer here
  • CARL LAEMMLE, directed by James L. Freedman. Exploring the founder of Universal films and his work with Jewish refugees before WW2. See trailer here
  • DARK SHADOWS AND BEYOND: The Jonathan Frid Story, directed by Mary O’Leary. Interviews and personal letters trace the story of television’s favorite vampire. See trailer here
  • PENNYWISE: The Story of IT, directed by John Campopiano, Chris Griffiths. Examining the original Tim Curry adaptation of the Stephen King novel. See trailer here
  • THE SLEEPER MUST AWAKEN: Making Dune, directed by Daniel Griffith. Tracking various attempts and the creation of David Lynch’s 1984 version. Available on Arrow Player
  • UNITED STATES OF INSANITY, directed by Tom Putnam, Brenna Sanchez. The story of horror rappers Insane Clown Posse. See trailer here
  • WOODLANDS DARK AND DAYS BEWITCHED, directed by Kier-La Janisse. (Severin) More than three hours and 50 interviews exploring the special world of folk horror. See trailer here
  • Or write in another choice:

11) Book of the Year (non-fiction)

  • ALWAYS THE BRIDE: A Biography of Elsa Lanchester, by Victoria Worsley (BearManor Media, hardcover, 276 pages, $35). Owning a nightclub, marriage to Charles Laughton and, of course, screen immortality.
  • BECOMING DRACULA: The Early Years of Bela Lugosi, Vols. 1 and 2, by Gary D. Rhodes and Bill Kaffenberger (BearManor Media, softcover, 447/436 pages, $38/$36) New revelations about Lugosi’s challenging journey to what became his signature role.
  • BEHIND THE KAIJU CURTAIN, A Journey Onto Japan’s Biggest Film Sets, by Norman England (Aiwa Books, softcover, 250 pages, $27.99). A look at the Japanese movie industry, including the sets of Godzilla and Gamera.
  • THE BODY SNATCHER: Cold-Blooded Murder, Robert Louis Stevenson, and the Making of a Horror Film Classic, by Scott Allen Nollen with Gregory William Mank (BearManor Media, softcover, 252 pages, $25). From Burke and Hare to Karloff/Lugosi.
  • BORIS KARLOFF: The Man Remembered, by Gordon B. Shriver (BearManor Media, hardcover, 234 pages, $35) Revised and expanded biography includes numerous interviews with Karloff co-stars.
  • THE BUCKEROO BANZAI COLLECTORS’ COMPENDIUM, by DeWayne Todd (Independent, softcover, 162 pages, $30). All about the marketing and promotional items surrounding the 1984 cult classic.
  • THE CAREER THAT DRIPPED WITH HORROR, by John Stanley (Independent, softcover, 254 pages, $23.99). Hundreds of photos, interviews (Stephen King, Ray Bradbury, Carrie Fisher, others), and remembrances from West Coast’s second Creature Features host.
  • CHANEY’S BABY: Lon Jr., The Wolf Man, 1948, and the End of a Dream, by Bill Fleck (Independent, softcover, 226 pages, $9.99). Triumphs, tragedy and report of a suicide attempt.
  • CREEPY BITCHES: Essays on Horror from Women in Horror, by Alyse Wax and Rebekah McKendry (BearManor Media, softcover, 204 pages, $25). Actresses, scholars and writers explore the world of the feminine fantastique.
  • DAMN DIRTY GEEKS: Talk Among Us (Independent, softcover, 264 pages, $33). Podcast veterans Jack Bennett, Frank Dietz, Rob Maynard, Scott Weitz and Frank Woodward on films that inspired them.
  • THE DARK SHADOWS DAYBOOK, by Patrick McCray (Independent, softcover, 252 pages, $12.99). A fresh tour of the key moments in the eternal saga of the Collins Family.
  • ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK: The Official Story of the Film, by John Walsh (Titan, hardcover, 160 pages, $47.99) Retrospective of 1981 film includes unseen artwork.
  • FROM THE INNER MIND … TO THE OUTER LIMITS: Scripts of Joseph Stefano, Volume 1, edited by Dave Rash (Gauntlet Press, hardcover, 529 pages, $60) Scripts for six teleplays, plus two never produced episodes.
  • THE GIALLO CANVAS: Art, Excess and Horror Cinema, by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas (McFarland, paperback, 258 pages, $45) How art and artists energize a murderous genre.
  • GLAMOUR GHOUL: The Passions and Pain of the Real Vampira, Maila Nurmi, by Sandra Niemi (Feral House, softcover, 400 pages, $21.95). A photo-filled biography by Vampira’s niece.
  • THE GREAT WAR and the Golden Age of Hollywood Horror, by R. Bruce Crelin (Midnight Marquee, softcover, 324 pages, $30). How WWI shaped the careers of James Whale, R.C. Sherriff, and J.B. Priestley and early horror cinema.
  • HERE THERE BE MONSTERS, by Bryan Senn (BearManor Media, softcover, 476 pages, $47). Interviews and essays from Universal to Hammer and beyond.
  • HOSTED HORROR ON TELEVISION: The Films and Faces of Shock Theater, Creature Features and Chiller Theater, by Bruce Markusen (McFarland, softcover, 251 pages, $39.95).Tracing the rise of late night ghoulish comforts.
  • LANDIS: The Story of a Real Man on 42nd Street, by Preston Fassel (Encyclopocalyp[se Publications, softcover, 148 pages, $9.99). The life and tragic legacy of the founder of Sleazoid Express.
  • SCRIPTS FROM THE CRYPT Vol. 11: Mr. Sardonicus, edited by Tom Weaver (BearManor Media, softcover, 290 pages, $30). Close-up look at the Ray Russell/William Castle classic.
  • SMOKE AND MIRRORS: Special Visual Effects B.C. (Before Computers), by Mark D. Wolf (BearManor Media, softcover, 272 pages, $43). A behind-the-scenes look at how movies made you believe before the days of CGI.
  • TERENCE FISHER: Master of Gothic Cinema, by Tony Dalton (Fab Press, softcover, 504 pages, $34.95). An authorized biography of the Hammer director who sparked the second wave of classic horror.
  • UNHOLY COMMUNION: Alice, Sweet Alice, From Script to Screen, by Troy Howarth (BearManor Media, hardcover, 304 pages, $39.95). The making of Brooke Shields’1976 debut.
  • UNIVERSAL ‘40s MONSTERS: A Critical Commentary, by John T. Soister (BearManor Media, hardcover, 798 pages, $52) A huge exploration of the studio’s sometimes overlooked 1940s horrors.
  • UNTOLD HORROR, by Dave Alexander (Dark Horse, hardcover, 152 pages, $39.99). Interviews with top directors about horror films that were never made.
  • WARPED & FADED: Weird Wednesday and the Birth of the American Genre Film Archive, by Lars Nilsen, edited by Kier-La Janisse (Mondo, softcover, 416 pages. $35). How Austin’s Alamo Drafthouse sparked a two-decade restoration effort of near-forgotten films.:
  • WHEN DRACULA MET FRANKENSTEIN: My Years Making Drive-In Movies with Al Adamson, by Sam Sherman (Independent, softcover, 378 pages, $29.95). Tales from the bargain side of filmmaking.
  • YOURS CRUELLY, ELVIRA Memories of the Mistress of the Dark, by Cassandra Peterson (Hachette Books, hardcover, 304 pages, $29). Horror host’s personal and newsmaking autobiography.
  • Or write in another choice:

12) Best Classic Horror Fiction (Fiction that uses horror icons as jumping off points)

  • ATTACK FROM THE ‘80s, edited by Eugene Johnson (Raw Dog Screaming Press, hardcover, 266 pages, $39.95). More than 20 gnarly tales of video monsters and more.
  • BELA LUGOSI’S DEAD, by Robert Guffey (Macabre Ink, softcover, 264 pages, $17.99). A search for the lost Lugosi test footage from Frankenstein leads to an impossible choice.
  • THE CLASSIFIED DOSSIER: SHERLOCK HOLMES & COUNT DRACULA, by Christian Klaver (Titan Books, hardcover, 432 pages, $19.99) The endless vampire and the Great Detective must join forces to defeat a fierce enemy.
  • DRACULA NEVER DIES: The Revenge of Bela Vorlock, by Christopher R. Gauthier (Independent, softcover, 297 pages, $15). Alternate take on the life of a horror star from the 1930s to the 1950s.
  • DRACULA OF TRANSYLVANIA, by Ricardo Delgado (Clover Press, hardcover, 560 pages, $45). An expansive retelling of the Bram Stoker classic, with illustrations.
  • THE FINAL GIRL SUPPORT GROUP, by Grady Hendrix (Berkley, hardcover, 352 pages, $26). A secret group of survivors must fight yet again.
  • HORSEMAN: A Tale of Sleepy Hollow, by Christina Henry (Berkley, hardcover, 315 pages, $17). Villagers wave off the legend of a headless horseman as a myth. But then …
  • THE MAMMOTH BOOK OF FOLK HORROR, edited by Stephen Jones (Skyhorse, softcover, 552 pages, $16.99). Anthology of old and new tales of what lurks in the darkness.
  • MY HEART IS A CHAINSAW, by Stephen Graham Jones (Gallery/Saga Press. Hardcover, 416 pages, $26.99). A woman’s reverence for horror films becomes so intense that she hopes a slasher will come to town.
  • THE PASSION OF THE MUMMY, by Frank J. Dello Stritto (Cult Movies Press, hardcover, 503 pages, $31). A fictional wrapping of the Mummy’s various incarnations, from Universal’s ancient Egypt to Hammer’s modern times.
  • THIS THING OF DARKNESS, by K.V. Turley and Fiorella De Maria (Ignatius, softcover, 260 pages, $16.95). A fanciful interview with Bela Lugosi in 1956 leads a reporter to dark places.
  • TURNING THE TIED, edited by Jean Rabe, Robert Greenberger (International Association Media Tie-in Writers, softcover, 453 pages, $19.99). Sherlock, Dracula, Frankenstein all figure in collection of stories by Max Allan Collins, Jonathan Maberry, Stephen D. Sullivan and others.
  • Or write in another choice:

13) Best Magazine of 2021

  • Bare*Bones
  • Cinema Retro (UK)
  • Classic Monsters of the Movies (UK)
  • The Dark Side (UK)
  • Delirium
  • Fangoria
  • Filmfax
  • Freaky Monsters
  • G-Fan
  • HorrorHound
  • Horror Scholar Journal
  • Infinity (UK)
  • Little Shoppe of Horrors
  • Monster Bash
  • Retro Fan
  • Rue Morgue
  • Scary Monsters
  • Scream (UK)
  • Screem
  • Shock Cinema
  • We Belong Dead (UK)
  • Or write in another choice:

14) Best Article (Please select two; one will win)

  • ‘Child of Dark Shadows,’ by Kathryn Leigh Scott, FANGORIA #11. The disappearance and return of her soap opera co-star.
  • ‘Christopher Lee’s Euro-Horrors,’ by John Martin, THE DARK SIDE #221. How the actor’s European projects helped define him as a horror icon.
  • ‘Dario’s Deep Designer Deaths,’ by Ian Taylor, WE BELONG DEAD #29. Argento’s murders were always in the most elegant settings.
  • ‘A Dinosaur in New York,’ by Mike Hankin, INFINITY #36. Harryhausen expert on the making of Beast From 20,000 Fathoms.
  • ‘Dracula’s House of Science,’ by Mark C. Glassy, SCARY MONSTERS #122-123. Was curing the monsters medical science or Universal quackery
  • ‘The Ferrymen (and Women) of Fright,’ by David Dastmalchian. FANGORIA #11. Why horror hosts matter.
  • ‘Filming Nemo,’ by Gregory Kulon, INFINITY #39. A deep dive into the earliest versions of Mysterious Island and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.
  • ‘Haunted Houses for Dummies,’ by George Humenik, SCARY MONSTERS #123. What makes an effective cinema haunted house.
  • ‘Horror Business,’ by Rodrigo Gudino and Andrea Subissati, RUE MORGUE #200. Retracing the history of horror journalism and Canada’s long-running magazine.
  • ‘Horror Heads: The Men Who Ran Hammer,’ by Denis Meikle, THE DARK SIDE #216-218. Profile of James Carreras, Anthony Hinds and others.
  • ‘In Search of the Elusive Monsters of Denis Gifford,’ by Alan Tromp, WE BELONG DEAD #28. A young man’s quest to see films mentioned in Gifford’s Pictorial History guide.
  • ‘I Was a Middle-Aged Werewolf,’ by Paul Davis, FANGORIA #12. Up close with the transformation in An American Werewolf in London.
  • ‘Karloff’s Monster or Lee’s Creature,’ by Nige Burton, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES ANNUAL 2021. Comparing the two classic portrayals of Mary Shelley’s creation.
  • ‘Kong ’76 at 45,’ by John Hovey, G-FAN #132. Reassessing the controversial remake.
  • ‘Legend of a Blood Countess: The Legacy of Daughters of Darkness,’ by Kat Ellinger, SCREAM #69. How The Vampire Lovers proved not only Dracula can rule the night.
  • ‘London After … No, the Remake,’ by Matthew E. Banks, WE BELONG DEAD #30. Re-examining Tod Browning’s Mark of the Vampire.
  • ‘Lugosi’s Awful Doctor Orloff,’ by Brian J. Robb, THE DARK SIDE #223. Censors just one of the challenges in the making of The Dark Eyes of London.
  • ‘Monsters on Parade,’ by Martin Arlt, MAD SCIENTIST #34. All about Toho’s kaiju celebration, Destroy All Monsters.
  • ‘More Than a Normal Person Can Endure,’ by Jon Towlson, THE DARK SIDE #222. The makings and restorations of Doctor X and Mystery of the Wax Museum.
  • ‘Of Monsters and Magic,’ by Michael Mezmer, SCARY MONSTERS #121-122. Magicians and charlatans in the horror films.
  • ‘The Overlooked Library,’ by Don D’Ammassa, bare*bones #6. Unearthing the Hammer ‘Omnibus’ collections which adapted the studio’s horror classics.
  • ‘Reflections of Fear: The Making of The Gorgon,’ by Joshua Kennedy, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #47.
  • ‘Michael Ripper: Hammer’s Most Prolific Star,’ by Alex Hopkins, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #24. Career-spanning look at Hammer’s versatile actor.
  • ‘No Death, Only Change,’ by Frank Dello Stritto, SCARY MONSTERS #121. Reincarnation in film goes far beyond the mummy films.
  • ‘Repairing Lon Chaney Jr.’s Legacy,’ by David Rosler, filmsinreview.com A director questions the drunk-on-set reputation of the horror star.
  • ‘Sam Katzman’s Cold War Creatures,’ by Stephen Bissette, SCREEM #39, An examination of the  paranoia and memorable images in Katzman’s 1950s sci-fi thrillers.
  • ‘Say Her Name,’ Natalie Erika James, FANGORIA #12. How director Nia Dacosta guided Candyman through the pandemic.
  • ‘The Secret History of Godzilla vs. Kong,’ by John LeMay, G-FAN #133. The legal and production hurdles faced by the 2021 epic.
  • ‘Storm Clouds Over Collinwood,’ by Rod Labbe, THE DARK SIDE #219. A fan’s personal encounters with the Dark Shadows phenomenon.
  • ‘Suspiria Retrospective,’ by Aaron AuBuchon, HORRORHOUND #90. Both versions of the giallo classic.
  • ‘Twisted Roots of Folk Horror,’ by Andrea Subissati, RUE MORGUE #202. Examining the enduring power of folk legends in Severin’s major box set.
  • ‘A Weekend with Barbara: A Tribute to Barbara Shelley,’ by Stephen Laws, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #46. Recalling a 25-year friendship with  late horror queen.
  • ‘Who Will Be His Bride Tonight: The Making of Horror of Dracula,’ by Bruce G. Hallenbeck, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #46. Extensive look behind the scenes of one of horror’s most important films (including more than a dozen artist interpretations).
  • ‘Willis O’Brien: Triumph, Tragedy, and the Son of Kong, Parts 1-3’ by Greg Kulon, FILMFAX #157-159. Family nightmare that haunted O’Brien and production.
  • ‘Woman Without a Soul: The Scandalous Second Life of 1914’s Lola,’ by Kelly Robinson, SCARY MONSTERS #122. One of the first film’s about a life restored.
  • Or write in another choice:

15) Best Interview

  • Axelle Carolyn (director, The Manor), by Chris Alexander. DELIRIUM #29.
  • Elvira (Cassandra Peterson), by Sam Irvin, THE DARK SIDE #222.
  • William Friedkin (The Exorcist), by Tony Earnshaw, THE DARK SIDE #223.
  • Halloween Kills (cast and crew), by Jessica Dwyer, HORRORHOUND #91
  • Brett Halsey (actor), by Paul Amundsen (FILMFAX #159-160)
  • Kier-La Janisse (director, Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched), by Jay Kay. HORROR HOUND #91.
  • Jared Krichensky (designer of latest MegaGodzilla) by Colin McMahon, G-FAN #132/
  • Lynne Lugosi Sparks (Lugosi’s granddaughter), by Don Smeraldi, SCARY MONSTERS #120.
  • Ve Neill (makeup artist), by Meredith Borders, FANGORIA #10
  • Ron Oliver (director of Prom II and III), by Michael Varrati, FANGORIA #10
  • Lara Parker (actress on Dark Shadows), by Rod Labbe, RETROFAN #17.
  • Daniel Roebuck (about The Munsters), by William Wright, ruemorgue.com
  • Martin Stephens (child in Village of Damned), by Calum Waddell,  DARK SIDE #220.
  • Oliver Stone (about his horror influences), by Michael Doyle, RUE MORGUE #200.
  • Or write in another choice:

16) Best Column

  • Asylum for the Psychotronic, by Ansel Faraj in WE BELONG DEAD
  • Emma Dark’s Dark Corner, WE BELONG DEAD
  • Deep Focus, by John-Paul Checkett, SCREEM
  • Devil’s in the Details, by Stacey Ponder, RUE MORGUE
  • Exordium, by Michael Gingold, FANGORIA
  • Files from the Black Museum, by Paul Corupe, RUE MORGUE
  • Grey Matters, by Richard J. Schellbach, Mondo Cult Online
  • It Came from Bowen’s Basement, John Bowen, RUE MORGUE
  • Kaiju Korner, by Mike Bogue, SCARY MONSTERS
  • The Nasty Files by Iain Todd, SCREAM
  • Kim Newman’s Dungeon, THE DARK SIDE
  • Overlooked in Hollywood by Laura Wagner, FILMS OF THE GOLDEN AGE
  • Ralph’s One & Only Traveling Reviews, by Richard Klemensen, LITTLE SHOPPE OF      HORRORS
  • R&D, David J. Schow, BARE*BONES
  • Rondo Remembers, by Ron Adams, MONSTER BASH
  • Scene Queen, by Barbara Crampton, FANGORIA
  • Strange Days by Jason Strangis, SCARY MONSTERS
  • Trilogy of Terror by Jim Ivers, SCARY MONSTERS
  • They Came from the Krypt, by Jon Kitley, HORRORHOUND
  • Or write in another choice:
17) Best Magazine Cover
bare*bones #6 Design by John Scoleri
Classic Monsters of the Movies #25 by Daniel Horne
The Dark Side #222 by Rick Melton
Delirium #27 by Ryan Brookhart
Fangoria #13 Design by Jason Kauzlarich
Fantastique Vintage Vol. 1 by John Capone
Filmfax #158 by Alex Schomburg in 1947
G-Fan #131 by Todd Tennant
HorrorHound #90 by Nathan Hanneman and Joel Robinson
Little Shoppe of Horrors #46 by Mark Madox
Mad Scientist #34 by Jeff Zonow
Scary Monsters #124 by Scott Jackson
Monster Bash #43 by Daniel HOrne
Rue Morgue #202 by John Pearson
Scream #64 Design by Imran Kelly
Screem #39 by Mark Maddox
We Belong Dead #30 by Brux

18) Best Website of 2021

19) Best Podcast

20) Best Events of 2021

  • AFTERNOON OF LIVING DEAD: Despite Covid and bomb scare, cast members from Night of the Living Dead appear at first CHILLER EXPO in two years.
  • AX WOUND VIRTUAL FILM FESTIVAL: Nine days of panels, short films and audience participation.
  • BOND CARS IN ATLANTA: Full-size replicas of James Bond cars on display at MONSTERAMA’s SpyCon2
  • CREEPSHOW CREATORS: The Walking Dead’s executive producer Greg Nicotero and writer Frank Dietz preview Creepshow at WONDERFEST.
  • A DARK SHADOWS CHRISTMAS CAROL: Collinsport Theatre of the Airwaves streams a reading by original cast members, including Lara Parker, Kathryn Leigh Scott, David Selby.
  • HEATHER BUCKLEY HONORED: Film producer, writer and preservationist named ‘Patron of the Cinema’ by New York City’s Winter Film Awards.
  • LIVE AT THE BASH: Authors Greg Mank (Werewolf of London), Frank Dello Stritto (Wizard of Oz), lecture at the Monster Bash.
  • MICHAEL ROOKER in Hawaiian shirt takes charge during Q&A at HORRORHOUND WEEKEND in Cincinnati.
  • MISKATONIC INSTITUTE OF HORROR STUDIES: Online studies of Hammer, voodoo, makeup and more from New York, Los Angeles and London.
  • NIGHTMARE IN HUNT VALLEY: Robert Englund heads up Nightmare on Elm Street panel at MONSTER MANIA.
  • PLAN 9 TABLE READ: SF Sketchfest/TCM present online reading with Bob Odenkirk, Bobcat Goldthwait, Dana Gould (as Criswell), Laraine Newman, David Koechner, others.
  • RAISING THE DEAD: Virtual talk from University of Pittsburgh exploring George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead archives.
  • SERLINGFEST: Daughter Anne Serling, expert Marc Zicree and others at Twilight Zone celebration in Binghamton, NY, Rod Serling’s home town.
  • TALKING KONG: Expert Steve Vertlieb appears on Classic Movies with Ron McCloskey to discuss King Kong and gorillas in cinema.
  • THE TRANSGRESSIVE URGE: Horror and Taboo in the 21st Century. An online panel from FANTASIA 2021, hosted by Heather Buckley, with Doug Winer, David J. Schow, Stephen Bissette, Christina Ward, David Kerekes and John Skipp.
  • UNIVERSAL MONSTER PARTY: Scholar David J. Skal, horror host John Stanley celebrate Dracula’s 90th anniversary at Orinda Theatre in California.
  • THE WHISPERER IN DARKNESS: Live/virtual show off-Broadway by RadiotheatreNYC.
  • WOMEN IN HORROR: Female Perspective. Online panel at Beyond Fest hosted by Clarke Wolfe, with Gigi Saul Guerrero, Axelle Carolyn, Marcella Ochoa, Lisa Bruce, Maritte Lee.
  • Or write in another choice:

21) Favorite Horror Host of 2021

  • Al Omega (Creature Features)
  • Arachna of the Spider People (Beware Theatre)
  • Baron Mondo, El Sapo and Mittens (Nightmare Theatre)
  • Big Chuck and Lil John (Cleveland)
  • Bobby Gammonster (MonsterMovieNight)
  • Bone Jangler and Nocturna (The Monster Show)
  • Count Gore DeVol (Creature Feature)
  • Deadwest (Screaming Soup)
  • Drac and Countess Carita (Transylvania Tonight)
  • Dr. Dread (John Murray)
  • Dr. Fearless (David Dastmalchian)
  • Dr. Gangrene (Cinetarium)
  • Elvira (40th Anniversary on Shudder)
  • Gruesome Graves (Haunted Hotel)
  • Halloween Jack (Haunted Theatre)
  • Igorro (The Igorro Show)
  • Ivonna Cadaver (Macabre Theatre)
  • Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy the Mail Girl (Last Drive-In on Shudder)
  • Karlos Borloff (Monster Madhouse)
  • Lamia, Queen of the Dark (Horror Hotel)
  • Lilith Von Bloodworth (Mondo Creepy TV)
  • Lord Blood-Rah (Nerve Wrackin’ Theatre)
  • Marlena Midnight (Midnight Mausoleum)
  • Miss Misery (Movie Massacre)
  • Mr. Lobo (Cinema Insomnia)
  • Penny Dreadful (Shilling Shockers)
  • The Mummy and the Monkey (Hairy Scary Hangout)
  • Ritch & Triv (The Midnight Movie)
  • Son of Ghoul (Ohio)
  • Svengoolie (Me-TV)
  • Vincent Van Dahl (Creature Features)
  • Zelda, Bird & Theo (Off-Beat Cinema)
  • Or write in another choice:

22) Best Graphic Novels/Collections of 2021

  • THE ART OF ENRIC (FPG). Collection of Enric Torres-Prat’s work in comics, paperbacks, and magazines.
  • THE AUTUMNAL: The Complete Series, by Daniel Krause and Chris Shehan (Vault). A daughter returns to the horrors of home.
  • CLAN OF THE DEVIL: The Sawney Beane Saga, by Maurice Devereaux, and various artists. (clanofthedevil.com). Scotland’s secret cannibal cabal.
  • THE COVERS OF EERIE PUBLICATION (Gwandanaland) The grisly covers of the company’s black-and-white horror magazines of the 1960s and beyond.
  • CULT OF DRACULA Collected Edition, by Rich Davis (Source Point Press). A modern take on a timeless legend.
  • DAMNED, CURSED, CHILDREN Vol. 1, by Howard Wong, Josh Stafford, Robin Simon Ng (Source Point). An unthinkable dilemma: Children on a murderous rampage.
  • A DISGUSTING SUPERMARKET OF DEATH, by James C. Harberson III (Margosia). Collected stories of comedy, horror and madness.
  • THE EPIC ART OF JOE SMITH, by Gary Gerani (Dreams and Visions). Poster artist who ranged from Dinsey to Gorgo concepts.
  • THE ICE CREAM MAN, Vol. 6: Just Desserts, by W. Maxwell Prince, Martin Morazzo (Image) A ringing bell signals tales of the bizarre and bitter sweet.
  • JOHN CARPENTER’S TALES FOR A HALLOWEEN NIGHT, VOL. 7, edited by Sandy King. (Storm King, softcover). Variety of creators offer chilling stories.
  • LUGOSI: The Rise and Fall of Hollywood’s Dracula, by Koren Shadmi (Life Drawn). Fact-based graphic novel interpolation of Lugosi’s life and challenges.
  • LUX ET UMBRA: The Monster Sketch Art of Frederick Cooper (Nitt & JibJib, softcover, 100 pages, $24.95). Black and white renditions of classic monsters, introduction by Joe Jusko.
  • MARK SPEARS MONSTER TRADING CARDS (Spears Art) Painted cards feature 72 monsters.
  • MONSTERS, by Barry Windsor-Smith (Fantagraphics). A collection of horror and grotesques, but family, too.
  • NORSE MYTHOLOGY, Vol. 1, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, Mike Mignola, Jill Thompson, Jerry Ordway (Dark Horse). Legends of northern gods brought to life.
  • AN OLD SCHOOL HALLOWEEN, by Jason Young (Oldtimes). History of Halloween costumes, toys and art.
  • SHUDDER (Warrant). The renamed Creeps magazine carries on the tradition of EC and Warren horror.
  • SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN, Vol. 3, by James Tynion IV, Werther Delledera (Boom!) Some monsters hide in plain sight.
  • THOUGHTFUL CREATURES, by Steve Bissette. A 120-page sketchbook from the artist of Swamp Thing and others.
  • Or write in another choice:

Write-In Categories

23) Writer of the Year (Whose work stood out in 2021?)

24) Best Artist of 2021

25) Best Fan Artist of 2021 (The Linda Miller Award)

SPECIAL CATEGORIES: Your votes will help determine who receives these special awards:
 

26) Monster Kid of the Year

This is Rondo’s highest honor: Who did the most in 2021 to advance the cause of classic horror scholarship, film preservation or genre creativity?
 

27) Special Recognition

Who deserves recognition for achievements that may have been overlooked or don’t fit into other categories?
 

28) The Monster Kid Hall of Fame

Name as many as six fans, pros, writers, artists, researchers, horror hosts or others who over the years have made a permanent mark on the world of classic horror appreciation.
 

Yokai Shadow Box

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Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

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Halloween Scareoke

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Emily News

In Good Health Issue #84

In Good Health Issue #84

What drives the desire for a good scare? Reporter Amanda Jowsey reached out to me and asked my opinion on why horror and Halloween are so alluring. She included my thoughts in her piece for In Good Health Issue #84, Western New York’s Healthcare Newspaper. 

Read the Ful Article Here

While the article is short, I have quite a lot more to say on the subject! With my history in the Halloween & horror industries, I have gained a wealth of insight into the horror genre and both scary and spooky sides of the autumnal holiday. 

Horror and Halloween can be very beneficial to one’s mental health. Firstly, they are both about connecting with others – as I always say, “Halloween is not a holiday you celebrate alone”. With Halloween you connect with neighbors and the people in your community as you go out into your neighborhood or welcome trick or treaters into your yard. Horror connects audiences around the world. No matter where you are from or what your background is, everyone has felt fear; we all know that feeling of the hairs on the back of our neck standing up and the uncomfortable idea that something sinister may lurk in a dark corner. We go into the theater or haunt with a group, enounter all sorts of horrors, and then survive together (even if our onscreen counterparts do not). Trauma bonding.

Secondly, horror and Halloween allow us to face our fears and explore them. Whether you are dodging larger-than-life spiders in a haunted house or getting grossed out by a body-horror film, you get the chance to confront the things that scare you in a safe and controlled environment. Our minds can process our feelings and emotions through a fantastic lens – without having to actually put ourselves in peril.  We can learn to cope and maybe see things differently. 

Lastly, horror and Halloween give us a chace to play make-believe. Horror allows us to dabble in the fantastic and monsters of our youth. Halloween encourages dress-up and becoming whatever you want to be – if only for one night. We all accept these fun, playful activities and allow others to let loose and embrace their inner demons, princesses, or Flamin’ Hot Cheeto. 

There are so many other ways that horror and Halloween can positively impact your mental health. For an in-depth analysis of this science of fear, I highly recommend the works of Dr. Margee Kerr. Her book Scream: Chilling Adventures in the Science of Fear is a fantastic read. 

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News

Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards 2021

Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards 2021

Since 2002, the Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards have been fandom’s only classic horror awards – decided by fans, for fans. Every nominee is recognized for significant achievements in horror for 2020. 

I am excited to announce that Haunter’s Tale: Volume II has been nominated in the category of “Book of the Year”! It was an honor to provide two of my short stories for this anthology and I am beyond grateful to be a part of this award-nominated compilation. 

Now it is up to you to help me and all the amazing haunters who contributed receive an award for our work. Vote for our book to help us win!

UPDATE

Thank you to everyone who voted in this year’s awards. Unfortunately, Haunters Tale: Volume II did not win, but it was still an honor to be nominated. You can view a full list of the winners HERE.

How to Vote

Voting is by email only. Send an email to David Colton, at taraco@aol.com by Sunday night at midnight, April 25, 2021. Simply include in the subject: “Rondo Awards!” In the body of the message, share that you are voting for “Book of the Year: Haunter’s Tale II!” Include your name and that’s it!
 
One vote per person, please. Every email must include your name to be counted. All votes are kept strictly confidential. No emails nor personal information will ever be shared with anyone.
 
If you would like to submit votes for more of the categories on the ballot, see the complete ballot list below:

Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards 2021 Nominees

1) BEST FILM OF 2020

  • BLACK BOX, directed by Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour Jr. (Amazon Prime)
  • COLOR OUT OF SPACE, directed by Richard Stanley (wide)
  • COME PLAY, directed by Jacob Chase (wide)
  • THE CRAFT: LEGACY, directed by Zoe Lister-Jones (VoD)
  • FREAKY, directed by Christopher Landon (wide)
  • GRETEL & HANSEL, directed by Osgood Perkins (wide)
  • HIS HOUSE, directed by Remi Weekes (Netflix)
  • THE INVISIBLE MAN, directed by Leigh Whannell (wide)
  • THE LODGE, directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala (wide)
  • LOVE AND MONSTERS, directed by Michael Matthews (VoD)
  • MIDNIGHT SKY, directed by George Clooney (Netflix)
  • POSSESSOR, directed by Brandon Cronenberg (wide)
  • RELIC, directed by Natalie Erika James (wide)
  • THE RENTAL, directed by Dave Franco (wide; VoD)
  • SHE DIES TOMORROW, directed by Amy Seimetz (VoD)
  • SYNCHRONIC, directed by Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead (wide)
  • TENET, directed by Christopher Nolan (wide)
  • UNDERWATER, directed by William Eubank (wide)
  • VAST OF NIGHT, directed by Matthew Patterson (wide; Amazon)
  • WONDER WOMAN 84, directed by Patty Jenkins (wide; HBOMax)
  • THE WRETCHED, directed by Brett and Drew T. Pierce (wide)
  • Or write in another choice:

2) BEST TV PRESENTATION

  • BRAVE NEW WORLD, ‘Everybody Happy Now,’ 7.15.20, NBC Peacock. Rebellion grows against a genetic caste system. ‘If this place is so perfect, why is it upside down?’
  • CREEPSHOW, ‘Survival Type,’ 10.30.20, Shudder. Animated adaptation of Stephen King story. ‘How badly does the patient want to survive?’
  • DOCTOR WHO, ‘The Haunting of Villa Diodati,’ 2.16.20, BBC America. The Thirteenth Doctor encounters Mary Shelley at Lake Geneva. ‘’Nobody mention Frankenstein. Nobody interfere.’
  • DRACULA, ‘The Rules of the Beast,’ 1.4.20, BBC/Netflix. At a convent, Sister Van Helsing confronts the Lord of the Undead. ‘Why does death always come as such a shock to mortals?’
  • HAUNTING OF BLY MANOR, ‘The Great Good Place,’ 10.9.20, Netflix.  Adaptation of Henry James’ Turning of the Screw. ‘You young people have no idea what you are letting yourselves in for.’
  • INTO THE DARK, ‘Good Boy,’ 6.12.20, Hulu. Woman finds her support dog offers no support at all. ‘He can tell when I get anxious.’
  • LOVECRAFT COUNTRY, ‘Sundown,’ 8.16.20. HBO. Racism of 1950s South collides with creatures from another reality. ‘I’ve heard worse. I’ve been part of worse.’
  • THE MANDALORIAN, ‘The Rescue,’ 12.18.20, Disney+. Baby Yoda finds a master. ‘I’ll see you again. I promise.’
  • SUPERNATURAL, ‘Carry On,’ 11.19.20, The CW. After 15-years, the monster hunt comes to an end. ‘You knew it was going to end like this for me.’
  • THE TRUTH SEEKERS, ‘Shadow of the Moon,’ 10.30.20, Amazon. Racing an eclipse, the team finds one member is not what they seem. ‘Never send a human to do a super-being’s job.’
  • THE TWILIGHT ZONE, ‘The Who of You,’ 6.25.20, CBS All Access. A would-be bank robber eludes a cop by jumping from body to body. ‘Charge him with criminal hypnosis.’
  • THE WALKING DEAD, ‘Walk With Us,’ 3.15.20, AMC. Negan and Alpha have a reckoning. ‘It took you long enough.’
  • WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS, ‘Nouveau Theatre Des Vampires,’ 6.10.20, FX. A gala is really a trap for the Staten Island vampires. ‘He was getting more and more sad. I could smell it on him.’
  • Or write-in another choice:
3) BEST DVD/BLU-RAY OF 2020:
  • BRIDES OF DRACULA (1960; Shout!)
  • CAT AND THE CANARY (1939)/GHOST BREAKERS (1940, separate Bob Hope films, Kino)
  • CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1957; Warners Archive)
  • THE DAY THE EARTH CAUGHT FIRE (1961; Kino)
  • THE FACE IN THE WINDOW (1939 Tod Slaughter; Kino)
  • THE FLESH AND THE FIENDS (1960; Kino)
  • FRANKENSTEIN: THE TRUE STORY (1973; Shout!)
  • KISS OF THE VAMPIRE (1963; Shout!)
  • LEGEND OF BOGGY CREEK (1971; Barcelou)
  • MYSTERY OF THE WAX MUSEUM (1933; WB Archives)
  • WAR OF THE WORLDS (1953; Criterion)
  • Or write in another choice:

4) BEST DVD/BLU-RAY COLLECTION

  • AL ADAMSON: THE MASTERPIECE COLLECTION (Severin). 32 remastered films.
  • COMPLETE LENZI BAKER GIALLO COLLECTION (Severin): Orgasmo, So Sweet…So Perverse, Quiet Place to Kill, Knife of Ice.
  • BELA LUGOSI: Murders in the Rue Morgue, Black Cat, Raven (Eureka)
  •  DEMONS/DEMONS 2 (1985/1986; Arrow)
  • FANTASTIC JOURNEYS BY KAREL ZEMAN (Criterion) Journey to Beginning of Time; Invention of Destruction; Fabulous Baron Munchausen)
  • FEAR NO EVIL/RITUAL OF EVIL (1969/1970; Kino)
  • FRIDAY THE 13TH DELUXE COLLECTION (Shout!) 12 movies and extras on 16 discs.
  • THE FU MANCHU CYCLE (1965-1969; Powerhouse). All five Christopher Lee films.
  • GAMERA THE COMPLETE COLLECTION (Arrow): All 12 films.
  • HAMMER FILMS (Mill Creek): 20 films in many genres, ranging from Revenge of Frankenstein to Scream of Fear and Creatures the World Forgot.
  • HE CAME FROM THE SWAMP: The William Grefe Collection (Arrow) Seven films.
  • INNER SANCTUM MYSTERIES (Mill Creek): All six Lon Chaney Jr. films.
  • THE OUTER LIMITS (Via Vision/Australia): Both seasons, including new features.
  • THE PUPPETOON MOVIE, Vol. 2 (Arnold Leibovit Entertainment). 18 stop-motion shorts from George Pal.
  • UNIVERSAL HORRORS COLLECTIONS Vol. 4, 5 & 6 (Shout!): House of Horrors, Night Key, Night Monster, Climax; three Jungle Womans, Monster & the Girl; Thing That Couldn’t Die, Shadow of Cat, Cult of Cobra.
  • Or write in another choice:

5) BEST RESTORATION OR UPGRADE

  • AFRICA SCREAMS (1949; 3D Film Archive) 4K scan from 35mm elements.
  • THE APE (1940; Kino) Rescued from public domain neglect.
  • THE BEAST MUST DIE (1974; Severin) Includes ‘Werewolf Break’ scene.
  • BRIDES OF DRACULA (1960; Shout!) Refreshed throughout; two aspect ratios (1:85, 1:66)
  • THE CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1957; Warner Archives) Color and details shine; eyeball closeup restored; three aspect ratios.
  • DAUGHTERS OF DARKNESS (1971; Blue Underground) From a lost 35 mm print.
  • DAWN OF THE DEAD SPECIAL EDITION (1978; Second Sight) Three versions on four discs.
  • ELVIRA, MISTRESS OF THE DARK (1988; Arrow). From a 4K scan of original film elements.
  • FRANKENSTEIN: THE TRUE STORY (1973; Shout!) Original elements of full 3-hour, 6-minute version.
  • FRIDAY THE 13TH Part 2 (Shout!) Censored gore scenes restored.
  • HORRORS OF SPIDER ISLAND (1960; Severin) Uncensored version, and U.S. release.
  • LEGEND OF BOGGY CREEK (1972; Pamula Pierce Barcelou) Eastman restoration rescues film from sub-par prints.
  • LIVING DEAD AT MANCHESTER MORGUE (1974; Synapse) From 35 mm negative.
  • LIZARD’S LEG AND OWLET’S WING (1962; Retromedia) Karloff, Chaney, Lorre in Route 66 episode.
  • MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH (1964; Shout!) Original and extended cut.
  • MYSTERY OF THE WAX MUSEUM (1933; WB Archives) Early Technicolor corrected, imperfections cleaned throughout.
  • NOSFERATU (1922; Witch’s Dungeon) New musical score and commentary by Argyle Goolsby.
  • PANIC BEATS (1982; Mondo Macabro) Complete uncut version directed by Paul Naschy.
  • PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (1964; Shout!) Restored TV version subplot.
  • TRAIL OF THE SCREAMING FOREHEAD: Director’s Cut (2007; Hydraulic) Restored footage; commentary by director Larry Blamire.
  • WAR OF THE WORLDS (1953; Criterion). Saucer wires gone; extensive visual and audio improvements throughout.
  • Or write in another choice:

6) FAVORITE COMMENTATOR

(A record number of commentaries in 2020, so the category is a bit loaded; here are examples of their work; please pick two nominees or write in others)

  • David DelValle (How to Make a Monster)
  • Samm Deighan (A Quiet Place to Kill, The Raven)
  • Kat Ellinger (Daughters of Darkness; Amazon Women on Moon; So Sweet…So Perverse)
  • Scott Gallinghouse: (House of Horrors, Jungle Captive)
  • Lee Gambin (Ghost Breakers; Cat and Canary)
  • Gary Gerani (Dark Intruder, Fear No Evil/Ritual of Evil)
  • Troy Guinn, Rod Barnett (Naschy’s Panic Beats)
  • Steve Haberman (Curse, Revenge of Frankenstein)
  • Bruce G. Hallenbeck (Capt. Kronos, Vampire Hunter)
  • Troy Howarth (Fury of the Wolfman, Orgasmo)
  • Sam Irvin (Frankenstein: The True Story)
  • C Courtney Joyner (How to Make a Monster; War of the Colossal Beast, w/ Don Glut, Eric Hoffman)
  • David Kalat (Battle in Outer Space, H-Man, Mothra)
  • Tim Lucas (Play Misty for Me; Danger Diabolik, Lost Highway)
  • Kevin Lyons (Brides, Vengeance of Fu Manchu)
  • Gregory Mank (Jungle Woman)
  • Scott MacQueen (Mystery of the Wax Museum)
  • Jean-Claude Michel (as translated by Bret Wood, Face at the Window)
  • Constantine Nasr (Curse, Evil of Frankenstein; Brides of Dracula)
  • Kim Newman, Barry Forshaw (Masque of the Red Death, When Worlds Collide)
  • Amanda Reyes, Bill Ackerman (Fade to Black, Pray for the Wildcats)
  • Gary Rhodes (Night Monster)
  • Jonathan Rigby (Brides, Vengeance of Fu Manchu)
  • Alan K. Rode (Mystery of Wax Museum)
  • Yvonne Romain, Leslie Bricusse, Mike Hill (Curse of Werewolf)
  • Steve Ryfle, Ed Godziszewski (H-Man, Battle in Outer Space)
  • Richard Harland Smith (Day the Earth Caught Fire, The Ape)
  • Tom Weaver (How to Make a Monster, The Ape, Monster & the Girl)
  • Or write in another choice:

7) BEST DVD EXTRAS

  • AFRICA SCREAMS (1949; 3D Film Archive) Vintage Abbott and Costello film, radio features.
  • AMAZON WOMEN ON THE MOON (1987; Kino) ‘The True Story of Amazon Women on the Moon’ featurette with Landis, Dante.
  • THE BEAST MUST DIE (Severin; 1974) ‘And Then There Were Werewolves’ feature by Troy Howarth.
  • BELA LUGOSI: Murders in Rue Morgue, Black Cat, Raven (Eureka): Videos by Kim Newman, Kat Ellinger, Lee Gambin.
  • CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1957; WB Archives): Four new features, including Dick Klemensen’s ‘The Resurrection Men: Hammer, Frankenstein and the Rebirth of the Horror Film’
  • DAWN OF THE DEAD SPECIAL EDITON (1978; Second Sight). Four feature length documentaries; new interviews.
  • FADE TO BLACK (1980; Vinegar Syndrome): Numerous extras, including commentary by actor Dennis Christopher.
  • FRANKENSTEIN THE TRUE STORY (1973; Shout!): New Jane Seymour, Leonard Whiting, Don Bachardy interviews.
  • FRIDAY THE 13th COLLECTION: ‘Back to Camp,’ revisiting the campsites by Michael Gingold, Glen Baisley.
  • FU MANCHU CYCLE (Powerhouse): ‘Tall, Lean and Feline,’ Christopher Lee feature by Jonathan Rigby.
  • THE HILLS RUN RED (2009; Shout!) More than a dozen interviews and new features,
  • HOW TO MAKE A MONSTER: Q&A with co-stars Gary Clark and Gary Conway at Monster Bash; Herman Cohen bio.
  • MAD MAX (1979; Kino): Director George Miller interviewed by Heather Buckley.
  • MURDERS IN THE RUE MORGUE (1932; Eureka): Hidden re-edit of the Universal film based on work by Tim Lucas, Gary Prange.
  • MYSTERY OF THE WAX MUSEUM: Interview with Fay Wray’s daughter; Alan Rode commentary on director Michael Curtiz.
  • NIGHT TIDE (1963; Indicator). Eight experimental short films by director Curtis Harrington.
  • THE OUTER LIMITS (Via Vision/Australia). TV promos, new commentaries by David J. Schow, Tim Lucas, Craig Beam.
  • SILENT MADNESS (Vinegar Syndrome): ‘Method to the Madness’ documentary.
  • TALES OF THE UNCANNY (2020; Severin): Eerie Tales (German; 1919), and Unusual Tales (French; 1949)
  • WAR OF THE COLOSSAL BEAST (1958, Shout!): ‘Size Matters: Bert I Gordon at AIP,’ directed by Daniel Griffith.
  • WAR OF THE WORLDS (1953; Criterion): ‘Movie Archaeologists,’ Craig Barron hosts unseen production stills and clips.
  • Or write in another choice:

8) BEST INDEPENDENT FILM OF 2020

  • AMULET, directed by Romola Garai. A homeless soldier is taken in by a mysterious duo. 
  • BAD HAIR, directed by Justin Simien. A new weave has a mind of its own. 
  • THE BEACH HOUSE, directed by Jeffrey A. Brown. Ocean holds a deep secret. 
  • BLOOD QUANTUM, directed by Jeff Barnaby. Canadian tribes are somehow immune to zombie invasion. 
  • THE BRAIN THAT WOULDN’T DIE, directed by Derek Carl. A parody remake of the 1962 classic. In color! 
  • THE DARK AND THE WICKED, directed by Bryan Bertino. Dying man’s visions shake a small town. 
  • DARKNESS IN TENEMENT 45, directed by Nicole Groton. Families struggle to survive a grim quarantine. 
  • EVIL EYE, directed by Elan & Rajeev Dassani. A mother suspects daughter’s boyfriend is a killer reincarnated. 
  • HOST, directed by Rob Savage. A séance on zoom has an unexpected visitor. 
  • M.O.M. MOTHERS OF MONSTERS, directed by Tucia Lyman. A battle against feared school shootings. 
  • THE MORTUARY COLLECTION, directed by Ryan Spindell. Anthology film based at a funeral home. 
  • NECROPOLIS LEGION, directed by Chris Alexander. Writer inadvertently awakens the soul of a vampiress. 
  • NOCTURNE, directed by Zu Quirke. A pianist is not alone at the keyboard. 
  • PELICAN BLOOD, directed by Katrin Gebbe. A mother’s struggle with a frightful child.
  • THE RECKONING, directed by Neil Marshall. Fear grows as a widow is accused of being a witch by her landlord.
  • SEA FEVER, directed by Neasa Hardiman. Monsters threaten a trawler West of Ireland.
  • SEEDS, directed by Skip Shea. A pagan cult takes hold in New England.
  • SCARE ME, directed by Josh Ruben. Storytelling in the Catskills gets far too real.
  • SPUTNIK, directed by Egor Abramenko. Russian cosmonaut returns with a strange visitor.
  • TALES FROM PARTS UNKNOWN, directed by Cameron McCasland. Four horrors, hosted by Dr. Gangrene.
  • 12 HOUR SHIFT, directed by Brea Grant. Search for a donor kidney turns deadly.
  • THE WOLF OF SNOW HOLLOW, directed by Jim Cummings. Utah shaken by killings during every full moon.
  • Or write in another choice:

9) BEST SHORT FILM

  • CLEAN, directed by Frank H. Woodward (12 mins). Self-quarantine isn’t enough for a germaphobe. 
  • HANGNAIL, directed by Colin MacDonald (3 mins.) A hanging piece of skin becomes a nightmare. 
  • THE MANNEQUIN, directed by Kevin Mendiboure (4:40 mins). Terrorized by an armless figure.
  • MANTIS, directed by Kourtnea Hogan (9 mins). A pick-up line delivers more than expected.
  • ONCE UPON A TYPEWRITER, directed by Levi Morgan (13 mins). A screenwriter finds a typewriter with keys of its own.
  • REBOOTED, directed by Michael Shanks (12:46 mins.) A stop-motion skeleton struggles in a CGI film world.
  • THE REMNANT, directed by Navin Ramaswaran (17 mins.) Con artists unleash a protective creature.
  • REPTILE HOUSE, directed by Tristan Risk (5 mins). Owning a snake is no picnic.
  • RITES OF VENGEANCE, directed by Izzy Lee (4:07 mins). Three nuns end a priest’s evil ways.
  • THE THOUSAND AND ONE LIVES OF DR. MABUSE, directed by Ansel Faraj (17:23 mins). Third installment of modern take on Mabuse.
  • Or write in another choice:

10) BEST DOCUMENTARY

  • CURSED FILMS, five-part Shudder documentary on mishaps and deaths surrounding Exorcist, Omen, Poltergeist, Crow, Twilight Zone.
  • HELL IN THE HALLWAYS: Making of Massacre at Central High (1976, Synapse), directed by Michael Felsher.
  • IN LOVE WITH TOYS, directed by Raymond Castile. Restored exploration of vintage monster toys and collectibles.
  • LUGOSI: THE FORGOTTEN KING (Expanded). 1985 documentary revised with an hour of new materials and interviews.
  • MEN WHO MADE HAMMER: 10-part series of profiles on Hammer creators by Dick Klemensen, Tony Dalton, produced by Constantine Nasr, spread over Shout Blu-Rays.
  • MONSTERS! MARTIANS! HORROR IN THE ATOMIC AGE, directed by Laura McCullough. Three-part oral history with nearly 50 interviews.
  • PHANTOM OF THE OPERA: Unmasking the Masterpiece, Special Edition, directed by Cortlandt Hull. Expanded look at 1925 film and those that followed, with 100 new photos, new bonuses.
  • RONDO AND BOB, directed by Joe O’Connell. How an art director’s obsession crossed paths with Rondo Hatton’s legacy.
  • TALES FROM THE DARKSIDE: The Making of Four Ghoulish Fables, directed by Michael Felsher.
  • TALES OF THE UNCANNY, directed by David Gregory. Dozens of interviews in overview of anthology films.
  • TOO MACABRE, revised making-of Elvira Mistress of the Dark, produced by Tony Timpone, creative supervisor Sven Webber.
  • TOTAL EXCESS: How Carolco Changed Hollywood, directed by Daniel Griffith, narrated by Larry Blamire (Total Recall, 1979, Lionsgate)
  • Or write in another choice:

11) BOOK OF THE YEAR

  • ALIEN INVASIONS: The History of Aliens in Pop Culture, by Michael Stein (IDW, hardcover, 176 pages, $34.99). Photos and commentaries on those hidden among us.
  • THE ANIMATED PETER LORRE, by Matthew Hahn (BearManorMedia, softcover, 414 pages, $30). Tracing the actor’s appearances in cartoons from Bugs Bunny to The Simpsons.
  • ASSAULT ON THE SYSTEM: The Nonconformist Cinema of John Carpenter, by Troy Howarth (Independent, softcover, 463 pages, $64.95). How director’s work confronts authority at every level.
  • THE BROOD, by Stephen Bissette (PS Publishing, hardcover, 690 pages, $43). Mammoth examination of David Cronenberg’s 1979 film.
  • CAROL LYNLEY: Her Career in Thrillers, Fantasy and Suspense, by Tom Lisanti (BearManorMedia, softcover, 770 pages, $39). The actress braved menaces on TV and in movies.
  • CHRONOLOGY OF CLASSIC HORROR FILMS: The 1930s, by Donald C. Willis (Midnight Marquee, softcover, 348 pages, $30). Horror’s cauldron, as it happened.
  • THE CURSE OF SHERLOCK HOLMES: The Basil Rathbone Story, by David Clayton (History Press, hardcover, 192 pages, $27.95) Actor’s struggle to go beyond the Great Detective’s image.
  • DRACULA A.D. 1931: Bela, Browning and the Birth of the American Horror Film, by Matthew Coniam (Hemlock, softcover, 182 pages, $45). Tracing the origins of film horror.
  • FLASH GORDON: The Official Story of the Film, by John Walsh (Titan, hardcover, 192 pages, $50). Inside look at the 1980 space opera, which was often improvised on set.
  • FRIGHT FAVORITES: 31 Movies To Haunt Your Halloween and Beyond, by David J. Skal (Running Press, hardcover, 216 pages, $24). Selections from a master fright historian.
  • HAUNTER’S TALE II, edited by J. Michael Roddy (Harker Press, softcover, 504 pages, $19.95). Stories, interviews and remembrances of haunts, ghosts and creators.
  • HOLLYWOOD’S HARD-LUCK LADIES, by Laura Wagner (McFarland, softcover, 233 pages, $39.95). Chronicling 23 actresses who suffered early deaths, accidents and other setbacks.
  • ITALIAN HORRORS, edited by Allan Bryce (Ghoulish, softcover, 200 pages, $38). Dark Side staff traces impact from 1950s to 1980s.
  • IT CAME FROM … The Stories and Novels Behind Classic Horror, Fantasy and Science Fiction Films, by Jim Nemeth and Bob Madison (Midnight Marquee, softcover, 340 pages, $30). The tales that gave birth to modern retellings.
  • MAKING OF THE MOVIE JAWS (revised edition), by Edith Blake (BearManorMedia, softcover, 228 pages, $24). Expanded edition, new photos.
  • MAX STEINER: The Epic Life of Hollywood’s Most Influential Composer, by Steven C. Smith (Oxford University, hardcover, 496 pages, $34.95). How the music for King Kong and other films changed storytelling on film.
  • MONSTER MOVIES, by David J. Schow (Cimarron Street, softcover, 279 pages, $14.95). Watching horror movies can shatter the boundaries of late night TV.
  • MUSINGS ON MONSTERS: Observations on the World of Classic Horror, edited by Rich Handley and Lou Tambone (Sequart, softcover, 310 pages, $19.99). Twenty essays explore the power of our favorite monster myths.
  • NO SYMPATHY FOR THE VAMPIRE: The Film World of Bela Lugosi, by Peter H. Brothers (CreateSpace, softcover, 272 pages, $18) Going beyond Dracula, analyzing 70 Lugosi film roles.
  • 1,000 WOMEN OF HORROR, 1895-2018, by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas (BearManorMedia, softcover, 600 pages, $44). Spotlighting women on camera and behind the scenes, many too often overlooked. Includes extended interviews.
  • POE PICTURES, by Bruce G. Hallenbeck (Tomahawk Press, hardcover, 256 pages, $35). Every Poe adaptation, from silent to today.
  • RAY HARRYHAUSEN, Titan of Cinema, by Vanessa Harryhausen (National Galleries of Scotland, softcover, 208 pages, $37.50). Stories behind models and effects in a planned exhibition.
  • ROGER CORMAN’S NEW WORLD PICTURES: An Oral History (1970-1983), Vols. 1 and 2, by Stephen B. Armstrong (BearManorMedia, softcovers, 232 pages/176 pages, $25 each). Covers more than 100 films including 37 interviews.
  • SCIENCE OF WOMEN IN HORROR, by Meg Hafdahl and Kelly Florence (Skyhorse, softcover, 264 pages, $14.99). From stunts to special effects, the stories behind female monsters and heroes.
  • SCORED TO DEATH 2: More Conversations with Some of Horror’s Greatest Composers, by J. Blake Fichera (Silman-James Press, softcover, 492 pages, $24.95). Talking with Bear McCreary, Holly Amber Church, Richard Band, 13 others.
  • SPOTLIGHT ON HORROR, edited by Eric McNaughton and Darrell Buxton (We Belong Dead, softcover, 408 pages, $56). The impact of 160 classic films.
  • WOMEN MAKE HORROR, edited by Alison Peirse (Rutgers University, softcover, 270 pages, $29.95). Collected essays on horror’s female perspectives.
  • Or write in another choice:

12) BEST HORROR ART BOOKS (new category)

  • THE ART OF PULP HORROR: An Illustrated History, by Stephen Jones (Applause, hardcover, 256 pages, $40). Cheap pulp magazines carried some of the century’s most horrific fantasies.
  • FANTASTIC PAINTINGS OF FRAZETTA, by J. David Spurlock (Vanguard, hardcover, 120 pages, $34). Jumbo-sized collection of the master of fantasy art.
  • THE HISTORY OF EC COMICS, by Grant Geissman (Taschen, hardcover, 592 pages, $200). Thousands of illustrations, complete cover gallery and text.
  • HUNG, DRAWN AND EXECUTED: The Horror Art of Graham Humphreys (Korero Press, hardcover, 176 pages, $45). Forty years of posters and chilling images.
  • PETE VON SHOLLY’S LOVECRAFT ILLUSTRATED, (Clover Press, softcover, 208 pages, $29.99). The artist reimagines Old Ones, Cthulhu and other unthinkables.
  • ROD SERLING’S NIGHT GALLERY: THE ART OF DARKNESS, by Scott Skelton and Jim Benson (Creature Features, hardcover/softcover, 316 pages, $75/$95). Commentary and reproductions of every painting used in the series.
  • THE SKETCHY THINGS COLORING BOOK, by Frank Dietz (Independent, softcover, 123 pages, $25). For Monster Kids of all ages, the artist’s latest captures beasts and beauties.
  • VEREOR NOX: THE MONSTER ART OF FREDERICK COOPER (Softcover, 152 pages, $29.95). Collecting classic images of classic favorites.
  • Or write in another choice:

13) BEST MAGAZINE OF 2020

  • Bare*Bones
  • Cinema Retro (UK)
  • Classic Monsters of the Movies (UK)
  • The Dark Side (UK)
  • Delirium
  • Fangoria
  • Filmfax
  • Freaky Monsters
  • G-Fan
  • HorrorHound
  • Infinity (UK)
  • Little Shoppe of Horrors
  • Monster Bash
  • Monster Maniacs
  • Phantom of the Movies Videoscope
  • Retro Fan
  • Rue Morgue
  • Scary Monsters
  • Scream (UK)
  • Screem
  • Shock
  • We Belong Dead (UK)
  • Or write in another choice:

14) BEST ARTICLE (Please select two; one will win)

  • ‘Assisting Brian DePalma: Working on Dressed to Kill,’ by Sam Irvin,
    B–BS AND BLOOD #4. Personal memories, photos of working with the director on several films.
  • ‘Black Horror; History on the Big Screen,’ by Ernie Rockelman, HORRORHOUND #84. Tracking black horror milestones.
  • ‘The Brains of Hammer,’ by Mark C. Glassy, Ph.D, SCARY MONSTERS #116. When grey matter went beyond Frankenstein.
  • ‘The Carl Laemmles: The Birth of Hollywood Horror,’ by Alex Hopkins, CLASSIC MONSTERS ANNUAL 2020. The father and son who popularized the horror film.
  • ‘Carnival of Souls: Haunting Viewers for Six Decades,’ by Jason Strangis, SCARY MONSTERS #118. Some films are unforgettable.
  • ‘The Cat Creeps While the Canary Sleeps,’ by Gary D. Rhodes, WE BELONG DEAD #24. Early horrors examined.
  • ‘Dee Dennings,’ daughter of Richard Dennings & Evelyn Ankers, by Tom Weaver, an interview with exclusive family photos, CLASSIC IMAGES #545
  • ‘Dynamation Man of the Century,’ by Mark Mawston, SCARY MONSTERS #119. Celebrating Ray Harryhausen’s 100th Birthday.
  • ‘The Fabulous Worlds of Karel Zeman,’ by Woodson Hughes, FILMFAX #157. The surreal animations of the Czech filmmaker.
  • ‘Fears of a Clown,’ by Doug Young, THE DARK SIDE #212. The grinning madman of The Man Who Laughs.
  • ‘Growing Up with Al Adamson’s Dracula vs. Frankenstein,’ by Howard S. Berger, DELIRIUM #23. Celebrating a too often reviled film.
  • ‘Horror Comics, National Lampoon Style,’ by Tom Tesarek, MONSTER MANIACS #1. The magazine’s surprisingly horrific parodies.
  • ‘Horror Fan for Life,’ by BJ Colangelo, FANGORIA #7. How horror movies help fan Kelly Barlow fight through illness.
  • ‘The House of the Long Shadows,’ by Mark A. Miller and David J. Hogan, FILMFAX #156. Was Price-Cushing-Lee-Carradine film doomed to failure, or simply misunderstood.
  • ‘The Hyman Horrors,’ by Dennis Meikle and Bruce G. Hallenbeck, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #44. Producer Kenneth Hyman’s Hounds of Baskervilles, Strangler of Bombay and Terror of Tongs.
  • ‘The Invisible Man: A HorrorHound Retrospective,’ by Jon Kitley, HORRORHOUND #86. Tracks in the cinema snow.
  • ‘Is Godzilla a She?’, by Lucas Diano, G-FAN #129. Different theories on how Godzilla identifies.
  • ‘I Survived a Night in the House on Haunted Hill,’ by Rod Labbe, SCARY MONSTERS #117. The scare of a childhood.
  • ‘Lewton vs. Breen,’ by Clive Dawson, THE DARK SIDE #210. The close but tense relationship between Val Lewton and Hollywood censor Joseph Breen.
  • ‘Lost, Found, and Finally Unbound: The Strange History of the 1910 Edison Frankenstein,’ by Kelly Robinson, RUE MORGUE #194.
  • ‘The Making of Revenge of Frankenstein,’ by Bruce G. Hallenbeck, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #45. The most sophisticated of the Hammer Frankensteins.
  • ‘Monsters of Oz: Is the Wizard of Oz a Monster Movie?’ by Frank J. Dello Stritto, MONSTER BASH #40. Witches and monkeys and danger, oh my.
  • ‘The Old Dark House,’ by Nige Burton, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #18. Inside James Whale’s gothic comedy.
  • ‘Plague,’ by Rodrigo Gudino, RUE MORGUE #395. Pandemics and horror have a long history.
  • ‘Red Planet Hollywood: The Martian Chronicles on Screen,’ by Matthew R. Bradley, BARE*BONES #1. The NBC miniseries and what followed.
  • ‘Return of the Giant Monsters: Musings on the 21st Century’s Remarkable Kaiju Comeback,’ by Bill Bussone, G-FAN #127. Why giant monsters are bigger than ever.
  • ‘Roddy McDowell’s IT,’ by Matthew Banks, SCARY MONSTERS #118. The strange ‘Golem’ movie from 1967.
  • ‘Sick! Savage! Sensual! The Life and Ghastly Death of Al Adamson,’ by Michael Gingold, RUE MORGUE #193.
  • ‘Ten Years of the Miskatonic Institute of Horror Studies: An Oral History,’ by Meredith Borders, FANGORIA #7. Inside horror’s house of learning.
  • ‘Transformation: How Godzilla Became Godzilla King of the Monsters,’ by J.D. Lees, G-FAN #127. The business deals behind the American version of Gojira.
  • ‘Trilogy of Terror,’ by Jim Ivers, SCARY MONSTERS #117. Incubus, Equinox and Season of the Witch make an odd trio indeed.
  • ‘When Clothes Made the Monster,’ by George Humenik, SCARY MONSTERS #119. Who were they wearing on the Universal sets? With a sidebar on Vera West.
  • ‘When the Phantom Crashed My Life: A Universal Monsters Awakening,’ by Ansel H. Faraj, WE BELONG DEAD #24. Beginnings of a Monster Kid.
  • ‘Wild Women with Steak Knives: The Weird World of Women’s Horror Filmmaking,’ by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas, FANGORIA #8.
  • Or write in another choice:

15) Best Interview (award goes to interviewer)

  • Bruce Campbell by Dr. Gangrene, SCARY PRESENTS MONSTER MEMORIES (#116)
  • Nia Dacosta (Candyman director) by Andrea Subissati, RUE MORGUE #194
  • Sybil Danning by Chris Alexander and Lee Gambin, DELIRIUM #22.
  • Donnie Dunagan (Son of Frankenstein, Bambi), by Steven Turek, DieCast Movie Podcast, Ep. 12.
  • Dave Franco (director of The Rental), by Seth Rogen, FANGORIA #8.
  • Massimo Antonello Geleng, art director on Italian horrors, by Callum Waddell, THE DARK SIDE #213.
  • Rose Glass, director of Saint Maud by Danny Boyle, FANGORIA #7.
  • Gary Kent, stuntman, by Terry & Tiffany DuFoe, VIDEOSCOPE #113.
  • Jonathan Miller and Lawrence Gordon Clark (directors of adaptations of M.R. James stories), by Tony Earnshaw, THE DARK SIDE #213
  • Greg Nicotero (Creepshow TV), by Drew Tinnin, Dread Central
  • Julie Ann Ream (niece of Glenn Strange), by Dan Johnson, RETROFAN #11.
  • David J. Schow, author, by Frank H. Woodward, FILM SENSE podcast.
  • David Selby (Dark Shadows), by Rod Labbe, RETROFAN #11.
  • Richard Stanley, Color Out of Space director, by Jay Kay, HORRORHOUND #81.
  • Barbara Steele, career interview by David Cairns and Daniel Riccuito, SIGHT & SOUND, Nov., 2020.
  • Tony Todd by Jessica Dwyer, HORRORHOUND #84
  • Joe Zito/Barney Cohen (Friday the 13th Part 4), by Preston Fassel. Dread Central online.
  • Or write in another choice:

16) Best Column

  • Corrupt Signals, by Preston Fassel, FANGORIA
  • Exordium, by Michael Gingold, FANGORIA
  • Files from the Black Museum, by Paul Corupe, RUE MORGUE
  • Grey Matters, by Richard J. Schellbach, Mondo Cult Online
  • It Came from Bowen’s Basement, John Bowen, RUE MORGUE
  • Kaiju Korner, by Mike Bogue, SCARY MONSTERS
  • Kim Newman’s Dungeon, THE DARK SIDE
  • Ralph’s One & Only Traveling Reviews, by Richard Klemensen, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS
  • R&D, David J. Schow, BARE*BONES
  • Rondo Remembers, by Ron Adams, MONSTER BASH
  • Scene Queen, by Barbara Crampton, FANGORIA
  • Strange Days by Jason Strangis, SCARY MONSTERS
  • They Came from the Krypt, by Jon Kitley, HORRORHOUND
  • Or write in another choice:

17) BEST MAGAZINE COVER

bare*bones #4
Design by John Scoleri
Classic Monsters
of the Movies #21
by Daniel Horne
The Dark Side #211
by Rick Melton
Delirium #25
by Ryan Brookhart
Fangoria Vol, 2, #8 by Nathan Milliner
Filmfax #156
Unused publicity shot for LIFE magazine
Freaky Monsters #33
by Arliss
G-Fan #128 by Mark Dos Santos
HorrorHound #86 by Jason Edmiston
Little Shoppe of Horrors #44 by Mark Maddox
MAD #16
by Bob Lizarraga
Monster Bash #39 by Basil Gogos
Monster Maniacs #1 by Bill Cunningham
 Scary Monsters #118 (Glow in the Dark) by Scott Jackson
Rue Morgue #193
by Graham Humphreys
 
Scream #58
Design by Imran Kelly
We Belong Dead #24
by Daryl Joyce

18) BEST WEBSITE OF 2020

  • Anatomy of a Scream Horror from an inclusive perspective.
  • Attack From Planet B A horror and sci-fi news wire.
  • BlackHorrorMovies Too long ignored, revelations abound.
  • Bloody Disgusting Tracking horror across all platforms.
  • Bloody Pit of Rod Musings on monsters and horror.
  • Collinsport Historical Society Barnabas shall never die.
  • Confessions of a Cineslut Kat Ellinger’s savvy reviews.
  • Daily Dead An all-service horror site.
  • Daily Grindhouse News and interview from horror’s edges.
  • David’s Basement of the Bizarre Just about every horror need.
  • Diabolique Online magazine includes Daughters of Darkness.
  • Dread Central Horror’s front page.
  • Dr. Gangrene’s Mad Blog Deep dives into old horrors.
  • Final Girl Stacie Ponder’s cinema survival guide.
  • The Frankenstein Lens Monster scholarship, unseen photos.
  • The Homicidal Homemaker Home economics meets horror!
  • Horror and Sons Classics to modern horror, reviews and more.
  • It Came From … Musings from nostalgia curator David Weiner.
  • Kaiju Battle Latest news from the world of giant monsters.
  • Kindertrauma Your childhood ends here.
  • Latarnia Fantastique Euro and world horrors.
  • Mondo Cult Horror is just the beginning.
  • Monster Kid Clubhouse A gathering place for classics.
  • Monster Pieces George ‘E-Gor’ Chastain’s gallery of illustrations.
  • Monsters After Midnight A monster magazine approach.
  • Ravenous Monster Devouring all things monstrous.
  • Scared Silly Paul Castiglia’s tribute to classic horror comedies.
  • Sin Street Sleaze John Harrison walks the backstreets of horror.
  • Universal Horror & Classic Creatures A Facebook page with rare photos and more.
  • Universal Monster Army Ultimate destination for models, toys, collectibles.
  • Video WatchBlog Tim Lucas on the magic of cinema and life.
  • World of Monsters Formerly Monster Magazine World.
  • Or write in another choice:

19) BEST MULTI-MEDIA SITE (Podcasts, video)

  • Bill Makes Podcasts William Mize talks the fantastic.
  • Bloodbath and Beyond Reviews, interviews, unboxings.
  • B-Movie Cast Long-running podcast still going strong.
  • Colors of the Dark Rebekah McKendry and Elric Kane return.
  • Count Gore De Vol’s Creature Feature Dungeon offers films, interviews, contests and rarities.
  • Cult Radio a Go-Go Pioneers of the horror-talk genre.
  • Dinosaur Dracula A wild take on monsters and mayhem.
  • Eerie Late Night Radio Home of THE MONSTER CHANNEL.
  • The Evolution of Horror Podcasts trace roots of horror.
  • Frankenstein Minute Podcast now dissecting BRIDE (1935) minute by minute.
  • Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast Lots of talk about monsters and creepy Hollywood.
  • Hellbent for Horror Smart podcasts with authors and talents.
  • Last Podcast on the Left All things horrific.
  • Literary License Podcast Tracing journeys from book to screen.
  • Made for TV Mayhem Amanda Reyes tunes in television terror.
  • Mobile Horror Companion Horror podcast to take with you.
  • Monster Attack Jim Adams’s podcast focuses on classic monster movies.
  • Monster Kid Radio Derek Koch dissects classic horrors.
  • The Movie Crypt Adam Green, Joe Lynch talk artist-to-artist.
  • Movie Meltdown Geeks talk cinema old and new.
  • Naschycast Troy Guinn, Rod Barnett know their Naschy.
  • Night of the Living Podcast Long-running horror podcast.
  • Nightmare on Film Street Provocative takes on horror.
  • Octoberpod Thanksgiving Road Trip Edward October’s chilling audio drama.
  • The Online Movie Show Phil Hall’s takes on Hollywood.
  • OSI74 Homebase for horror hosts old and new.
  • Planet 8 Podcast of the fantastic.
  • Post Mortem with Mick Garris Interviews with top fantasy creators.
  • The Projection Booth Horror from high above the balcony.
  • Ray Harryhausen Podcast Latest from the Ray Harryhausen Foundation.
  • Record All Monsters Family doesn’t run from giant monsters.
  • Redfield Arts Audio Poe, Lovecraft, Sinbad and more.
  • Spooky Dudes Podcast The edgier side of horror films.
  • Trailers from Hell Joe Dante and friends host vintage trailers.
  • Twilight Zone Podcast There’s the podcast up ahead.
  • Vid-O-Rama Arfon Jones paints tributes to VHS era.
  • The Vortexx A gathering of horror hosts.
  • Or write in another choice:

20) BEST VIRTUAL EVENTS OF 2020

  • BIRTH OF THE AMERICAN HORROR FILM. Virtual lecture from Orange County Library by Gary D. Rhodes, discussing his book.
  • BLOBFEST: Virtual events included Best Theatre Runouts of the past, Blob screenings, Miss Blobfest contest, online vendors.
  • CELEBRATING RAY HARRYHAUSEN AT 100: Online events included global chat during Jason & Argonauts, fan survey of his top creatures, panel discussions.
  • ETHERIA FILM FESTIVAL: Usually held in Hollywood, nine short films aired on Shudder, and digital discussions later.
  • HAUNTED BARN LIVE: Joey Vento’s films and prop displays streamed live.
  • HORROR HOST LIVE (DEAD) PANEL: Streaming discussion of hosts past and present with Doctor Fearless, Marlena Midnight, Ormon Grimsby and Prof. Griffin.
  • KAIJU CONLINE: From King Kong Escapes to Ultraman panels, kaiju fans had free access to an online experience.
  • MISKATONIC INSTITUTE OF HORROR STUDIES: Online presentations of sessions on Lovecraft, Women and Made-for-TV movies, Pete Walker and more.
  • MONSTERAMA VIRTUAL CON: Three days of panels and interviews with Masters of the Outer Limits, Dracula historians, filmmakers, comic book legends and more.
  • MONSTERS: The Life and Afterlife of Monstrous Creatures: Anderson University (SC), multimedia course by Dr. Candace Weddle Livingston introduces vintage horror to students.
  • NYC HORROR FILM FESTIVAL: Instead of theaters, 61 films plus panels offered on Eventive, Roku and Apple TV.
  • THE SCREAMING SKULL: Made-for-TV movie with David McCallum streamed free by UCLA Library Film and TV Archive.
  • SCRIPTS GONE WILD: All-star table readings online of Star Trek, Bride of Frankenstein, Gremlins and Stripes. Beer, too.
  • TRANSYLVANIA TONIGHT: Cabinet of Dr. Caligari streamed with newly assembled soundtrack and title cards by Countess Carita (Stefanie Kokai).
  • Or write in another choice:

21) FAVORITE HORROR HOSTS OF 2020

  • Al Omega (Creature Features)
  • Arachna of the Spider People (Beware Theatre)
  • Baron Mondo, El Sapo and Mittens (Nightmare Theatre)
  • Big Chuck and Lil John (Cleveland)
  • Bobby Gammonster (MonsterMovieNight)
  • Bone Jangler and Nocturna (The Monster Show)
  • Count Gore DeVol (Creature Feature)
  • Deadwest (animated host of Screaming Soup)
  • Drac and Countess Carita (Transylvania Tonight)
  • Dr. Gangrene (Cinetarium)
  • Dr. Paul Bearer (Tombstone Tales)
  • Elvira (Mistress of the Dark)
  • Fritz the Nite Owl (Channel Z)
  • Gruesome Graves (Haunted Hotel)
  • Halloween Jack (Haunted Theatre)
  • Ivonna Cadaver (Macabre Theatre)
  • Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy the Mail Girl (Last Drive-In)
  • Karlos Borloff (Monster Madhouse)
  • Keymaster Slasher Poe (Dead Vault Horror Show)
  • Lamia, Queen of the Dark (Horror Hotel)
  • Lilith Von Bloodworth (Mondo Creepy TV)
  • Lord Blood-Rah (Nerve Wrackin’ Theatre)
  • Marlena Midnight (Midnight Mausoleum)
  • Miss Misery (Movie Massacre)
  • Mr. Lobo (Cinema Insomnia)
  • Nigel Honeybone (Schlocky Horror Picture Show, Australia)
  • Octavian Hallow (Haven Falls Horror Fixx)
  • Penny Dreadful (Shilling Shockers)
  • The Mummy and the Monkey (Hairy Scary Hangout)
  • Ritchie & Triv (The Midnight Movie)
  • Son of Ghoul (Ohio)
  • Svengoolie (Me-TV)
  • Vincent Van Dahl (Creature Features)
  • Zelda, Bird & Theo (Off-Beat Cinema)
  • Or write in another choice:

22) BEST GRAPHIC NOVELS OR COLLECTIONS

  • BASKETFUL OF HEADS, by Joe Hill and Leomacs (DC hardcover) A woman on a bridge in the rain, with a basket.
  • BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA STARRING BELA LUGOSI, by El Garing, Kerry Gammill, Richard Starkings, Robert Napton (Legendary Comics hardcover). Authorized by the Lugosi estate, he stars in a retelling of the classic tale.
  • COUNT CROWLEY: Reluctant Midnight Monster Hunter, by David Dastmalchian and Lukas Ketner. (Dark Horse, softcover). A horror host finds part of her job is not a joke.
  • THE CREEPS SPOOKTACULAR (Warrant). Annual collection of best stories from Warren-like magazine.
  • EDGAR ALLAN POE’S SNIFTER OF BLOOD Vol. 5, by Paul Cornell, Kek and Alan Robinson (Ahoy, softcover). Original takes on Poe’s grim library.
  • FRIGHTMARE CITY, by AC Turner and variety of artists. Web comic explores the fearful secrets of New York City.
  • HELLBOY: The Return of Effie Kolb (Dark Horse softcover), by Mike Mignola and Zach Howard. A visit to Appalachia.
  • THE ICE CREAM MAN, Vol. 5: Other Confections, by W. Maxwell Prince, Martin Morazzo (Image softcover) Strange flavors indeed on his neighborhood rounds.
  • JOHN CARPENTER’S TALES FOR A HALLOWEEN NIGHT, VOL. 6, edited by Sandy King. (Storm King, softcover). Variety of creators offer chilling stories.
  • KILLADELPHIA: Sins of the Father, Vol. 1, by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander (Image softcover). Hunting vampires in the birthplace of liberty.
  • LON CHANEY SPEAKS, by Pat Dorian (Pantheon, hardcover). Recounting the true life of the Man of a Thousand Faces.
  • STAY ALIVE, by James C. Harberson III, Mackie Wildwood, Stephen Baskerville (Markosia softcover). A struggling actress is target of a deadly reality show.
  • STOKER AND WELLS, by Steven Peros and Barry Orkin (Our Gal Pictures, softcover, 96 pages, $19.99). In 1894, lives are changed when the two authors meet in London.
  • Or write in another choice:

23) WRITER OF THE YEAR (Whose work stood out in 2020?) (Write-In Category)

24) BEST ARTIST OF 2020 (Write-In Category)

25) BEST FAN ARTIST OF 2020 (The Linda Miller Award)(Write-In Category)

26) MONSTER KID OF THE YEAR

This is Rondo’s highest honor: Who did the most in 2020 to advance the cause of classic horror scholarship, film preservation or genre creativity?

27) SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Who deserves special recognition for achievements that may have been overlooked or don’t fit into other categories?

28) THE MONSTER KID HALL OF FAME

Name as many as six fans, pros, writers, artists, researchers, horror hosts or others who over the years have made a permanent mark on the world of classic horror appreciation. 

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September 29, 2026 No Comments

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Emily News

Don’s World of Horror & Exploitation Interview with Emily Louise Rua

Don’s World of Horror & Exploitation Interview with Emily Louise Rua

In February we celebrated Women in Horror Month. Blogger Don Anelli reached out to dozens of female filmmakers to interview for his blog – including The Horror of Being Emily’s very own, Emily Louise Rua! Don’s World of Horror & Exploitation is a blog that features news and interviews relating to horror & exploitation films. It was an honor to be featured! Women In Horror Month Interview. In this interview I discuss how my love for horror began and many of my current horror & Halloween endeavors.

Here is an excerpt from the article:

An upcoming filmmaker and novelist, Emily Louise Rua is making a mark on the industry as she manages to work between the various fields of writing, directing or being involved in various genre-related projects. Now, in honor of Women in Horror Month, I talk with her about getting into the industry, the filming of 9 Ways to Hell and her other projects.
 
Don: Hello and thank you for taking the time to do this. First off, when did you get into horror in general?
 
Emily Louise Rua: I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love horror! My life has revolved around horror and Halloween from the start. My dad enjoyed the old Universal monster movies and he passed on that love to me pretty early on. I learned to read from Alvin Schwartz folklore books (initially Ghosts! and In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories and eventually the Scary Stories trilogy) then by third grade I was onto Stephen King. My poor teachers had to endure me injecting horror into every single school project (from English papers to science projects to essays on Amish economies), and I spent my free time writing horror stories, making short films, and doing Halloween craft projects. 
 
…..
Read the Full Article Here

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September 29, 2026 No Comments

Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

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Add some spooky fun to your next party with Halloween Scareoke. There are a many karaoke versions of Halloween classics on Youtube perfect for signing along with. Take turns covering

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Movies News

9 Ways to Hell Festival Updates

9 Ways to Hell Festival Updates

9 Ways to Hell has exciting film festival updates to share! Although the current pandemic situation around the globe has put a momentary halt to theater screenings, our film has still been making waves in the festival circuit.

As of May 2020, we have been chosen for the following festivals:

HAUS Film Festival

The HAUS Film Festival celebrates genre films from Horror, Action, Underground, and Sci-fi/Fantasy (thus, HAUS). 9 Ways to Hell screened during their online festival in mid-May. Fans tuned in via Zoom to watch the new horror movie from the comfort of their homes.

Independent Horror Movie Awards

The Independent Horror Movie Awards is an online competition that does not screen films to the public, but has a panel of judges that decide upon quarterly awards to submitted films in the horror genre.

For the Spring Awards, 9 Ways to Hell received multiple nominations and one win in the various categories:

  • Best Gore: Winner
  • Best Feature: Nominee
  • Original Concept: Nominee
  • Special Effects: Nominee

The Independent Horror Movie Awards will be hosting a film festival in 2021 and 9 Ways to Hell is an official selection! More details – including screening date and time – will be posted closer to the event.

Thank you to everyone for your support of our film and the amazing talent that created it. I will keep you updated on all new screenings, festivals, and (fingers crossed) distribution news as soon as it is announced.

9 Ways to Hell

An original feature film inspired by the Nine Circles of Dante’s Inferno. Nine linked stories. A mix of blood and violence, comedy and carnage, demonic creatures and real world terrors, social commentary and WTF madness.

9 Ways to Hell is a micro-budget production of enormous ambition that showcases the work of a diverse and incredibly talented cast and crew, and is a unique experience in horror cinema.

Written, Produced, and Directed by Nick Dragon, Tai-Lynia Jones, Scott Alan Richards, Emily Louise Rua, Shelly Skandrani, Dillon Wilson, Alejandra Díaz Dominguez, Deven Spencer, Derek Silvers

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Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

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Events News

Fears & Beers: Leprechaun 5: In the Hood

Fears & Beers: Leprechaun 5: In the Hood

Uniting horror lovers year-round, Screamfest presents Leprechaun 5: In The Hood for their latest Fears & Beers event on Tuesday, March 17th, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. The event takes place at the TCL Chinese 6 Theaters (6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028). Tickets are $16.00 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

This fifth installment in the Leprechaun series gets gritty. When three rappers want to get even with a pimp, they accidentally unleash a leprechaun who goes on a killing rampage in tha ‘hood. Starring Warwick Davis, Ice-T, and Anthony Montgomery, this film is going to be fun to see in theaters for this St. Patrick’s Day celebration!

Fears & Beers events include a screening, Q&A, trivia, prizes, and more. They are wonderful events that bring together horror fans from around the area for an evening of socializing and fun. Each ticket includes a free beer for all guests over 21. Also, be on the lookout for a special Leprechaun-themed cocktail at the theater bar.

Check in begins at 6:15 p.m. and doors open at 7:00 p.m. Seating is general admission – first come, first served.

Bring your friends and join us for some St. Patrick’s day fun!

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Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

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Events News

Monsterpalooza 2019

Monsterpalooza 2019

Monsterpalooza returns to the Pasadena Convention Center April 12th – 14th, 2019.

With over 250 exhibitors, a monster museum display area, makeup demos, celebrity signings, film screenings, and panels, there is something for everyone at this beloved horror convention.

Headlining this year’s event are icons Bruce Campbell (The Evil Dead I & II, Army of Darkness, Ash vs. Evil Dead) and Paul Reubens (Pee Wee Herman). Other participating celebrities include Jason Patric (The Lost Boys, Wayward Pines), Ken Page (The Nightmare Before Christmas, All Dogs Go to Heaven), Dee Wallace (E.T., The Howling, Critters), and Linda Blair (The Exorcist). The full guest list can be found on Monsterpalooza’s website.

Presentations occur on all three days of the event, with panels on topics such as “Godz and Monsters – The Men Behind Hollywood’s Newest Creature Characters”, “Memory – The Origins of Alien”, and “Halloween Horror Nights – Behind the Screams”.

Their show floor features some of the best artists, makeup vendors, and collectibles dealers in SoCal. A full listing of exhibitors is available here.

Tickets are $30 for Friday & Sunday, $35 for Saturday. Advanced tickets can be purchased at:
http://monsterpalooza.com/spring/tickets.html.

I hope to see you there!

Yokai Shadow Box

September 29, 2026 No Comments

Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

Read More »

Halloween Scareoke

September 28, 2026 No Comments

Add some spooky fun to your next party with Halloween Scareoke. There are a many karaoke versions of Halloween classics on Youtube perfect for signing along with. Take turns covering

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Attractions Destinations News Theme Parks

Hatbox Ghost Returns to Disneyland

Hatbox Ghost Returns to Disneyland

In an April 10th, 2015 press release Disney Parks Blog announced that a long-lost member of the 999 happy haunts at Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion would be reappearing this spring – the Hatbox Ghost!

The “Hatbox Ghost” was an original member of the Haunted Mansion’s grim grinning ghosts when the attraction opened in 1969. Appearing in the attic scene near the Bride, he was dressed in a cloak and top hat and held a hatbox in his hand. As the Bride’s heart beat, the Hatbox Ghost’s head would disappear from his shoulders and reappear in the hatbox.

The Hatbox Ghost was removed shortly after the mansion’s opening due to issues with the effect. The illusion of his head changing locations relied solely on lighting effects, and because of its proximity to the Doom Buggies, guests could see the two locations of the head even when one was supposed to have disappeared.

Disney Imagineer Yale Gracey Posing with the Hatbox Ghost

With advancements in technology, Disney is now ready to give this ghost a second chance at (after)life in May 2015. There have not yet been pictures released of the new figure or details on whether the effect will be practical or digital in nature.

All fans can do is speculate while we count down the days until the Hatbox Ghost’s reappearance!

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September 29, 2026 No Comments

Every day is Halloween in my home, but the spooky season really unleashes my creativity. I love to do Halloween crafts to add beauty and whimsy to my home. A

Read More »

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September 28, 2026 No Comments

Add some spooky fun to your next party with Halloween Scareoke. There are a many karaoke versions of Halloween classics on Youtube perfect for signing along with. Take turns covering

Read More »

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About My Blog

Welcome to my home of all things horror & Halloween! The Horror of Being Emily showcases resources, creative projects, small businesses, and more related to my weird and wonderful Halloween & horror obsession.

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