“Dr. AC Presents Horror 101” (2007 – Midnight Marquee Press). Book Review by Brian Kirst.
www.horror101withdrac.com www.myspace.com/horror101_thebook
This rambunctiously heartfelt horror film review book is not only for the fans – but is actually written by them. Editor Aaron Christensen has assembled 78 terror lovers from 12 different countries to passionately give witness to their favorite celluloid horrors. Subtitled “The A-List of Horror Films and Monster Movies” this volume mostly bears witness to the tried and true scare and cult classics. Yet, from the independents to the mainstream all are seen anew with the loving explorations given them here. Every horror fan can identify with each writer’s emotional connection to not only the profiled film, but to the horror genre itself. More importantly, this collection establishes horror film fans as intelligent and wide ranging in background and age. This is the book one can hand to a dubious relative or friend to explain the wide appeal and cultural validity of everything heart stopping and grue strewn. It is, also, just plain fun! Joel R. Warren’s assessment of the original “House on Haunted Hill” (1959) is honest in it’s criticism and praise and provides a variety of extremely interesting factoids about the film and its participants. David White’s exploration of “Eyes without a Face” (1959) is intriguing for his exploration of his gradual appreciation for the film and for his knowledge on cinematic technique and style. Don Bapst provides a wonderful set-up for his “Friday the 13th” (1980) remembrances and Wendy K. Bodine celebrates all that is Ripley with her powerful “Alien” (1979) and “Aliens” (1986) profiles. From the original “The Mummy” (1932) to “The Blair Witch Project” (1999) every style of the genre is nicely explored here. There is also a balls-out introduction from Tom Savini, terrific testimonials from Joe Dante and Scream Queen Tiffany Shepis and a nice selection of film stills to accompany each assessment. (For all of you who have longed for a permanent reminder of P.J. Soles’ breast shot in “Halloween” – this is the volume for you!) With this detailed, exuberantly loving collection Christensen establishes himself as not only the true Doctor of Horror, but also as the coolest defender of this long maligned genre to date!
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