With both Terror Daves currently running amok in New England, we’re pleased to welcome the great Thomas Berdinski as our guest blogger! Mr. Berdinski directs, writes, and produces  for  The Cult of Moi and Vous Film Producioni Company LLC as well as runs a great site called The Italian Zombie Movie. If his name sounds familiar, that’s because Berdinski and his wonderful work is no stranger to TERROR FROM BETOND THE DAVES! Be sure to check out his wonderful GIANT RUBBER MONSTER MOVIE post HERE. Today, he’ll be sharing his own narrative of an exciting event that took place last weekend….

The Madison Horror Film Festival hosted by Bordello of Horror’s very own Freakshow and Sinister Seductress Stormy took place at the Market Square Cinema in Madison,Wisconsin on October 8th, 2011.

The Midnite Mausoleum gang, Freakshow, Woody the Clown, & Thomas  Berdinski!

In addition to great independent short and feature films in the horror genre, the festival featured live appearances by the lovely Marlena Midnite and Robyn Graves of Midnite Mausoleum, pitchman Doctor Ivan Cryptosis and the hilarious Woody the Clown of Atomic Age Cinema. Surprise guests included the Count and Countess Gregula of Count Gregula’s Crypt who also joined in the fun.

Midnite Mausoleum joins The Gregulas!

Movie segments were introduced live (and with lots of humor) by Doctor Ivan Cryptosis, Marlena Midnite, Freakshow and Stormy, and via hilarious videos provided by Sally the Zombie Cheerleader, Pumpkin Man of Fright Night Theater, Roxsy Tyler of Roxsy Tyler’s Carnival of Horrors and Helena Hussy of Horror. Films included Christopher Mihm’s awesome “Attack of the Moon Zombies”, Corey Udler’s gruesome “Incest Death Squad 2” and Lucky McKee’s controversial “The Woman”.

Giant Rubber Monster Movie rocks the house!

Woody performed his fiery hoola hoop routine and kept everyone laughing throughout the event. Dr. Sigmund Zoid of Alternative Realities TV also participated via video, submitting a hilarious (and entirely unexpected) roast of one of the filmmakers in attendance, Thomas Berdinski, following the screening of his horror-comedy “The Italian Zombie Movie”. (The filmmaker later offered a free DVD to anyone who could find Zoid in the Vortexx and punch him in the nose…)

The Gregulas, Marlena Midnite, and Thomas Berdinski!

Thomas Berdinski & Marlena Midnite!

The festival included a special pre-party benefit for WYOU Television. The pre-party featured a performance of Berdinski’s latest film, “The Giant Rubber Monster Movie – Sascratch Versus Afrodesious”, which features cameos by many horror hosts including Marlena Midnite, Robyn Graves, Roxsy Tyler, the cast of Count Gregula’s Crypt and Dr. Sigmund Zoid. The crowd really enjoyed the flick (especially the horror host segments) which was presented live on the web by WYOU and hosted by Freakshow, Stormy and Woody.

Robyn Graves keeps her segments “brief”

Marlena hangs out on stage!

Overall, this was an excellent event for horror hosts, indie filmmakers and horror fans alike. Everyone in attendance had a great time and the audience interacted with the filmmakers and horror hosts with appreciation and interest. We’re all looking forward to the next Madison Horror Film Festival!

Thomas Berdinski~

After a long and busy Saturday at Horrorhound Weekend, Brian and I relaxed and ordered dinner in our room. While it’s rarely a positive experience for any Chicagoan to order pizza outside of city limits, this was the perfect food choice when one planned on following it up with copious amounts of alcohol. Saturday nights at Horrorhound were notorious for their raucous all night gatherings…and this year I was determined to join their party! Afterwards, I headed outside for some air and met a guy in the lobby who pulled out a mason jar that looked as if it were half full of motor oil. “Want some moonshine?” he asked.

I smiled but hesitated. It had only been the week before on St. Patrick’s Day when I’d indulged in another home-made concoction with my fellow pod-caster, Jason, resulting in a drunken argument between us. I’m batting a 1,000 with friends these days, folks! Please check out the “Podcast” link at the top of this page to hear our first (and possibly final) eight episodes of Terror on Tequila!

Photo taken just hours before “The St. Paddy’s Day Massacre”

At the same time, it wouldn’t hurt to get the party started before heading over to the Crown Plaza where the REAL action was. I no sooner took a swig of the jar’s contents when I felt my body temperature rise and my head involuntarily convulse. Needless to say, after chasing it down with some soda, I was looking at a whole NEW Horrorhound Weekend!

A friend of Brian’s showed up at the room and the two of them took off to chat. Brian text’d that we’d leave for the party after he returned but, not wanting to lose my buzz, I decided to walk over by myself. I no sooner entered the Crown Plaza’s lobby when I saw the bright orange of Halloween Jack & Jacqueline , once again alerting me to a gathering of horror hosts (Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer ain’t got nuthin’ on these two).

I chatted a bit with Count Gore De Vol in his civilian clothes before encountering Wisconsin PA host,  Dr. Destruction.

Dr. Destruction: ”Dave, I can’t stand seeing you like this! You’ve gotta cheer up, man!”

Dave: (rolling eyes) “Dale…I’m fine.”

Moments later, orange was followed by green as yet another Wisconsin host, Freakshow Peterson from Madison, arrived at the hotel and said “hello.” He also generously shared one of his custom beers named after his favorite classic horror host, Mr. Mephisto.

No Wisconsin Host would be complete without their own beer!

My friend, Russ Wrangler, joined me soon after and immediately kicked things into high gear!  We left the hosts and hit the bar to order some potent vodka and cranberry juice (easy on the juice).

With Russ Wrangler!

As we approached the bar, Tony Todd a.k.a. Candy Man, walked past us while telling eager fans that he wouldn’t stop for photos as he was ”just looking to have a drink and relax like everyone else.” This was a request he could easily afford to turn down as he was doing so well at the event, his booth ran out of stills and his assistant had to run out and print new ones!

Trust me, the guy with the blue hat is Tony Todd…

I walked over to the other side of the bar intent on getting a picture of Russ with Tony Todd nearby (above). I’d have gotten a better shot if not for this annoying drunk guy, standing on my right, who kept tapping me on the shoulder and talking to me just as I’d be ready to snap the picture. “I’m from Texas,” he said.

“Great!” I responded. “I’m from Chicago.”

“Oh…,” he replied. “I like Chicago.”

That goofy, inebriated smile on his face, coupled with the way he enunciated, reminded me of that kid from A Christmas Story. You know, the one that Ralphie encounters while waiting in line to see Santa? I half expected him to follow things up with, “I like the Wizard of Oz…”

Russ and I finally got our drinks and schmoozed around while taking more pictures. Though the conditions were rife for seeing “pink elephants,” we started seeing gorillas instead; pink, purple, red, blue, and green ones! A group of technicolor primates casually strolled into the lobby, prompting Russ to grab my arm and ask, “Dave, are we seeing the same thing or am I drunker than I thought!?”

Russ is one of those people that talks to everyone…especially if you’re a gal. This made him the ideal scout, of sorts, as he could gain their attention while I collected costumed photos.

Unfortunately, Russ didn’t quite understand that the goal was to photograph women IN COSTUMES ONLY, and just about had some poor civilian gal grab her mace when he approached her and said, “You look like Marilyn Monroe, can I take a picture with you?” She looked frightened, but agreed.

Needless to say, I felt like the biggest pervert taking their picture and, even if this particular night I was being the biggest pervert, that’s beside the point! By the way, that Marilyn line would backfire on Russ again when he’d later ask a woman (who actually was done up like a vintage bombshell) for a picture. After telling her how much he loved Marilyn Monroe, she curtly replied, “I’m supposed to be Jane Mansfield!!!” before storming off…

Concerts were going on throughout the night and we decided to check one out. We walked in and saw Dead Dick Hammer performing (whom I’d met earlier that day) and the crowd seemed to love them. Although from Kentucky, they’d performed up in my neck of the horror woods last October during The Nightmare on Chicago Street event (covered HERE). I had to miss them that night since it interfered with my responsibilities as a Svengoolie-stalker, but they were kind enough to give me a free CD! Dr. Destruction was ripping on them all night saying he’s tired of these monster/rock acts stealing what he’s been doing for years…

…and then after they were done performing asked me if I thought they’d be willing to be guests on his radio show.

Throughout the weekend, Russ and I had a running joke concerning a couple of ladies who were staying in a room near his (#603 to his #608). When he and I first met up the day before, they walked past us and tried coaxing Russ into joining them after hours, yelling, “Hey 608! Come on over later and see us!” Whenever there was a lull in the partying (which wasn’t often) we’d say, “Well, there’s always the girls in 603!” We’d also joke that their room was to The Crown Plaza what #237 was to the hotel in the movie version of The Shining. Somehow the drunker we got, the funnier that became and the laughs would continue a couple of weeks later when they managed to find Russ on Facebook (look for a “We Love Russ Wrangler” Facebook page coming soon!).

What Happens in 603 stays in Cincinnati…

We wanted to pay a visit to the pool party taking place next door but they wanted $15 a head so we decided against it. The energy level was high (like a lot of folks at this party) and the female fans were getting lots of attention no matter what their body type was, nor how bloody they’d made themselves up to be. A few gals were even going around topless in favor of body paint, like the two women at the top of this blog (Aw, go ahead and scroll back up…I’ll be here when you get back).

Everyone was having a great time and I was feeling pretty darn good myself!

With Diva of the Dead!

I bumped back into Dr. Destruction who was conversing with Woody the Clown before seeing me and immediately using the opportunity to, yet again, address my going solo…#3,786 section C!

Dr. Destruction: “Dave! There’s no need to be so sad. I’ve got a friend named Dave who has nothing to do but sit in front of a computer all day and would be perfect for your site!”

This was something I’d been getting a lot of lately. Messages from people saying, “I have a friend/cousin/neighbor named Dave” and apparently assuming that’s the only criteria for joining me on this site. I even had someone start auditioning themselves by saying, “Did you know my middle name is David?”

Dave: Dale, I do appreciate your concern but I’m not sad nor looking to find a new Dave. Anyone is welcome to contribute to my blog whether their name is Dave or Carmichael but I’m The Terror Dave from here on out and I’m cool with it.

With Dr. Destruction and a more jovial Woody the Clown

Russ rescued me from the situation by asking if I’d head up to his room so he could whip up some cocktails for us. In 2010, I attended my first Horrorhound Weekend with the aforementioned Jason. When traveling with Jason, he’s always good for bringing along a big vat of strong margaritas and an arsenal of his signature jello shots to keep us smiling throughout the weekend. Russ, it would appear, could give Jason a clear run for his money…

He not only created his own bar (with a bottle of just about every hard liquor imaginable) but had it complete with olives and celery stalks for garnishment! We downed a couple of high balls (that were so strong we may as well have been drinking them straight) before returning downstairs.  The elevator was loaded with people and some smart-ass pushed EVERY button on the console. So basically if you wanted to get to the main level (like we did) you had to stop at every floor on the way up and down.

Standing next to me was Eric Austin from the HMA who was visibly two-shades to the wind. “Da-a-a-a-ve….” he said, while putting his arm on my shoulder.” I like you a lot but you shhhaid shhhomething in your blog I didn’t like….”

Just as hammered as he was, I put my arm on his shoulder and said, “Really? Well you shhhould tell me what it issssh…I want my friendsssh to be honesssht and you can tell me anyfffing you want…”

Apparently Eric mistook one of my pre-Horrorhound posts where I mention I’m never attending another Horror Host Hall of Fame again as me saying I’d never do another Horrorhound Weekend. I assured him that I was JUST referring to the “Hall of Fame” (and, come to think of it, can we pretend I wasn’t at THIS years) but assured him that, YES, I would definitely do another Horrorhound convention.

He no sooner said he was glad to hear it when the elevator opened (for what seemed like the 50th time) on what appeared to be an abandoned floor relegated for penthouse suites. Eric grabbed his girlfriend and said, “We’re gonna check thisssh out!” and the two of them took off…ahem…as the elevator door closed behind.

After finally making it to the main floor, we found Dr. Destruction decisively more drunk and having trouble keeping balance. Apparently he’d gotten a hold of that guy’s moonshine which the man had brought over to share with his female friend, a tall model dressed in a bloody nun’s costume named “Bella Demente.” The guy later told me he was offering his brew to Bella before it got snatched away by Dr. Destruction. Dr. Destruction’s version? “That damn 7 foot nun messed me up with that moonshine of hers!!!”

Bella Demente (Photo courtesy of Brian Maze)

Whichever the case, the end result was the same and managed to transform the host from Dr. Destruction to Dr. Destroyed! Unfortunately, the alcohol did nothing to improve his disposition and as soon as he laid eyes on me, they flashed red!

Dr. Destruction: “Dave you F*CKER!!! SNAP THE F*CK out of it!!! So you lost your best friend…WHO CARES!?! Friends come and GO! Quit WHINING like a baby and GROW THE F*CK UP or I’ll knock you flat on your Svengoolie ASS!!!”

Not wanting to get knocked on my “Svengoolie Ass” (still not sure exactly what that’s supposed to mean), I immediately left the area while hearing him yell to someone behind me, “Hey! Tell Mr. Svengoolie Junior to get his ass back here!!!”

Russ is a BIG fan of the Subspecies films (he dropped over $200 at their table the night before) and was happy to see cast/crew members partying with everyone else. They were also more than happy to take photos with us…no doubt due to Russ being their “Customer of the Year!”

With Anders Hove & Denise Duff from the Subspecies series

Director of the Subspecies films and Terrorvision, Ted Nicolaou

Another great encounter was via Daniel Roebuck whom I’d been searching for since the event began. I was finally able to relay messages to him from my friend, Elizabeth Haney, as well as Count Gore De Vol. Roebuck was wearing pajama pants and seemed like he needed to relax. Good thing he was headed to the hotel restaurant bar for a refreshment…and good thing he was wearing PJ’s so he could take a nap during the time it takes those nitwits to fix a drink!

With Daniel Roebuck!

Throughout the night we saw Asia & Anders Eriksen. This latest time, they said they’d visited the pool party but it wasn’t for them and gave Russ and I their entry bracelets. Talk about luck! Russ and I wasted no time and headed over to the pool expecting it to be the party of the century.

With Asia and Anders Eriksen!

Actually it ended up being pretty lame and much less exciting than what was going on in the hotel. There were big water slides with rapids and I’m sure my kids would have loved it but, unfortunately, I was expecting Spring Break ala’ Piranha 3D with lots of boobs and fake blood. What a disappointment!

I saw my friend Aaron Christensen (who recently beat me in the Rondo category of “Best Article” which he absolutely deserved) but, since he was walking around half naked, I felt awkward in approaching him. Brian joined us in the pool area and we all sat at the cabana and had another drink. Russ and I decided to use the opportunity to get a snack so we headed over to the concession area where we met a gal that Russ had apparently talked to before (which narrows it down to 95% of the women at Horrorhound). He asked if he could take a picture with her and she demurely hesitated. Further coaxing from Russ, however, made her go from shy to downright crazy!

She liked Russ…

…she liked me more!

The whole thing was surreal and, amid the hazy cloud of alcohol, I’m pretty sure her boyfriend was watching the whole thing! Meanwhile the guy running the concession (seen in the above photo’s background) grabbed his buddies from the kitchen and wanted me to show them the pictures as they didn’t believe him when he told them what was going on (and neither did I for that matter). I was suddenly reminded of that famous Mae West line, “When women go wrong, men soon follow”…and there were LOTS to follow at Horrorhound!

Our mid-life debauchery continued as we drunkenly ran around acting like rowdy teenagers. Is this something I should have been doing or be proud of? Well, probably not. Do I have any regrets about it? Hell NO!

Even Jesus seems to appreciate my temptation

We returned to the hotel where there was a big hula-hoop contest going on and we drunkenly wooted and cheered for Midnite Mausoleum’s Robyn Graves and Sasha Mullins! “Boy, that Robyn is a great gal!” I said. “Yeah,” said Russ. “She’s so sweet I feel like a protective uncle.”

“Right!” I responded. “Just like an uncle.” (We both looked down on the floor in shame).

Rockin’ Robyn!

Sasha Mullins!

Soon I lost Russ in the crowd and never saw him again for the remainder of the weekend. To this day I’m trying to get him to admit he gave in to temptation and headed up to room 603 but, so far, he’s staying mum.

Brian and I stumbled back into the hotel room and cracked each other up with imitations of Dr. Destruction’s Kenosha accent while pretending he was having a conversation with Frances McDormand’s character in Fargo. By the time we crashed it was after 3am.

The whole night seemed a blur…but a welcome one.

Coming up…2013 Cincinnati Horrorhound Weekend concludes with Marilyn Munster & Christine!

Dave Fuentes~

I was happily surprised to run into Mr. Lobo and Dixie at the annual FRIGHT NIGHT FILM FEST in Kentucky! As mentioned in our recent Atomic Age Cinema piece, horror hosts were slated to appear at this event but Mr. Lobo wasn’t one of them. Needless to say, the sight of the spectacled host wearing his signature suit & green/black striped tie was a welcomed one at that! I found the mastermind of Cinema Insomnia chatting with Blake Powell, the guru behind Midnite Mausoleum, and wasted no time interrupting the two late night TV mavericks.

Blake Powell & Mr. Lobo at FRIGHT NIGHT 2011

Despite my intrusion, Lobo was as warm and friendly as he had been when the other Dave and I first met him this past March. Ironically, I had another opportunity to chat with him just the previous week via “Dr Destruction’s Big Top Radio Show.” I joined the Kenosha host and his co-host, Charlotte, in the WLIP studio during its debut broadcast – an event that featured phone interviews with Lobo, Stella Desire, and A. Ghastlee Ghoul. Despite my best efforts, however, I was unable to get a word in edge-wise! One thing about Mr. Lobo, he does not fumble for words and busily recited “on-air” all the work that he and Dixie had been up to this past summer. I made a couple of awkward attempts to chime in (particularly regarding his newest “Elvira” issue of HORROR HOSTS magazine) but, as it turns out, Lobo didn’t even know I was in the station. Fate, however, was prepared to give me a second chance.

Mr. Lobo was embarking on a cross-country journey back to his native California when he and his fiance’/business partner, Dixie Dellamorte, decided to make a pit stop at FRIGHT NIGHT. We stood in an entryway that connected the main dealer room to a hallway that featured the hosts – Midnite Mausoleum, Horror Dungeon, and the host friendly Thomas Berdinsky from THE ITALIAN ZOMBIE MOVIE and had a nice conversation.

Mr Lobo & Dave Fuentes  – FRIGHT NIGHT 2011

Lobo reiterated what he’d stated on Destruction’s radio show; he had just wrapped up work in Virginia on a film spin-off of PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE, worked with film-maker, Sean Kotz, on a documentary featuring classic Virginia host – The Bowman Body (see story HERE), and spent some time hanging out with fellow host pal - the incomparable Karlos Borloff from MONSTER MADHOUSE!

Karlos Borloff & Mr. Lobo – Indy Horrorhound Weekend 2011

Both David and I are great admirers of Cinema Insomnia and I mentioned to Lobo some of my favorite CI moments.  Moments such as the racially ambiguous jokes from his presentation of MONSTER FROM A PREHISTORIC PLANET,  his disgust of Peter Graves participating in BIGFOOT: MYSTERIOUS MONSTER, and the awkward yet hilarious exchanges between himself and his idol, the late Bob Wilkins, during a past Halloween Special to name but a few.

I also made a point to tell him how much I enjoyed his music. Cinema Insomnia’s anthem – “I’m Watching TV” successfully captures the 1970′s “Banana Splits/Creature Feature” era I grew up in and receives year-round play in my household.

Another favorite Lobo song, “Halloween Candy,” is performed by the man himself and, despite being packed with lots of tricks, is a definite musical treat! This irreverent, seasonal favorite of mine has been featured on The Dr. Demento Halloween Show and highlights the signature, dry sense of humor that makes Lobo so “laugh out loud” funny. I was happy to have an opportunity to convey this to him personally – while encouraging him to create his own novelty CD. Lobo stated he is currently working on a seasonal music collection featuring scary sounds ala’ vintage Walt Disney.

Dr. Demento

Even more exciting is the highly anticipated next issue of the aforementioned HORROR HOSTS Magazine featuring The Mistress of the Dark! Glimpses of its cover show a skillfully crafted Elvira/mummy whose bandages in NO way detract from the physical attributes that helped make her famous. This cover, like last issue’s amazing Al Lewis portrait, was created by both Lobo and Dixie – a clear indication that this is one artistic couple who knows how to harmonize their skills. The actual painting will be given to Elvira (who participated in this issue) after the magazine’s printing. For those of us who can’t get enough of the “gal in black, who works on her back,” this will definitely be a must read!

HORROR HOSTS Magazine is prepared to go deeper than a mere expose’ by seeking the origins of Elvira’s famous look. While many will be quick to site Vampira as her direct influence (which of course she was) and Vampira’s to Morticia Addams – HORROR HOSTS Magazine will take us even further back! I was shocked to discover that our culture’s image of the archetype sinister female (svelte, macabre woman wearing a black dress) actually pre-dates The Adams Family and am eager to get my hands on the next issue to learn more!

Morticia Addams

This is the very essence as to why Mr. Lobo’s Cinema Insomnia works so well for me as an adult fan. Lobo manages to keep a respectful eye on classic horror hosts & their history, while forging ahead as a unique, modern one. This was illustrated last March at the Horror Host Hall of Fame Ceremony (conducted at Horrorhound) where Lobo gave an emotional explanation for why fans who grew up with a commercial host (such as myself) have such a deep/admiration for them as adults. “He was your guy.” said Lobo. (MORE QUOTES FROM INDUCTION). At the same time, he shows no obvious influences from previous hosts; portraying himself as both snarky and self-depreciating  – a contradiction Lobo balances well. Whether the joke is on him, the viewer, the movie, or one of his guests it is almost always funny and has me quickly seeking out another episode. And, in that regard, the future is bright…

As mandated by his recent successful telethon, Mr. Lobo will soon be filming his next full season of Cinema Insomnia in which he promises to continue his quest in presenting films less common in the hosting realm. This is a challenge to most horror hosts operating today but Mr. Lobo has already established himself as one who has no trouble overcoming odds. This was never more evident than his recent triumphant fund-raising campaign which saw him reach his goal of  $10,000 despite being conducted during an economic crises and amid the holidays! It was a risky gamble but, in the end, his devoted Cinsomniacs would not let him down and we can now all look forward to new episodes.

The next day we met up again in the dealer’s room and said our goodbyes. Just like I did when we parted at Horrorhound, I always give Dixie a big hug while singing a slow, acapella version of “Watching TV.” Sort of like having an end “theme song” like the old Carol Burnett Show or Donnie and Marie Osmond. It’s humorous and more than a bit odd I must admit.

What can I say? Being around Mr. Lobo and Dixie somehow makes me feel nostalgic….and that’s a feeling we horror host fans live for!

Dave Fuentes~

NOTE: For a more in-depth look at Mr. Lobo’s Cinema Insomnia see the other Dave’s post from last year, HERE!  Also, his great 10 question interview with Mr. Lobo, HERE!

If you are a fan of horror hosts, then unless you have been living under a rock, you should be fully aware of the show MIDNITE MAUSOLEUM, hosted by Marlena Midnite and Robyn Graves. The show, available on over 50 channels across the United States has become a favorite among fans and fellow hosts and even if it is not shown in your area, there are places online you can check it out (like on THE MONSTER CHANNEL every Friday night at 10 PM EST)! Both Marlena and Robyn were nice enough to take some time out of their busy schedule of filming new shows and convention appearances to sit down with me and answer some questions.

DAVE A:  Were you a fan of monster movies growing up? If so, what are some of your favorites?

MARLENA: When I was really young I liked GREMLINS a lot. as I got a bit older I became a fan of the Corman Poe flicks and my interest in other horror movies grew from there.

ROBYN: I was absolutely terrified of monster movies growing up. I was the kid who couldn’t go into a dark room until someone turned on the light for me. THE BIRDS, CHILD’S PLAY and CANDYMAN tormented my nightmares as a wee little lad.

DAVE A: Did you follow any horror hosts growing up? If so, who?

MARLENA: From a VERY Early age I can remember watching (Son Of) Svengoolie on cable so I saw more of his stuff than anybody elses  and about 5 years ago they did a short-lived revival of The ACRI Creature Feature who were our local hosts. The original run of that show was before my time but I have seen bits and pieces through video I have collected over the years. Of all the stuff I have collected and seen I am particularly fond of The Ghoul and Sammy Terry.

ROBYN: My dad made me watch HBO’s TALES FROM THE CRYPT with him a lot but other than that I never was exposed to any sort of horror hosting until I was older.

DAVE A: What made you decide to be a horror host?

MARLENA: Blake and I were always fans of various hosts and were in the first stages of developing our store idea (now MIDNITE’S COMICS, CARDS and COLLECTABLES) and we came up with the idea of doing our own horror host S\show to promote it and hopefully run on a local channel. The show would promote the store and the store would promote the show but the show grew into something else entirely.

ROBYN: The stars aligned at just the right moment I suppose. This whole opportunity just popped up out of no where, but I’m so happy & grateful that it did. I think the horror community is such a warm and welcoming family, it’s really comforting to find a place surrounded by such talented and fun people.

DAVE A: What was your inspiration for your character?

MARLENA: Well Blake and I had already come up with several titles for the show and all of them had the word Midnite (Midnite Hour…etc ) but I eventually thought of  Mausoleum and within an hour I had a character sketch drawn up and we had a whole premise for the show. Making the show take place inside a mausoleum I instantly became Marlena Midnite, who was a resident of the Mausoleum.

ROBYN: Robyn is a more carefree, PG rated, dumbed down version of myself. I like to think of Robyn like Gir from Invader Zim.

DAVE A: This one is directed at Marlena. Two of your characters, Wolfred and Franklin, are puppets. Were you always interested in puppetry?

MARLENA: The puppets and making them are my FAVORITE part of the whole show. I was always interested in puppetry but Wolfred and Franklin were the first 2 I ever made. We also have a newer one called Cleo she is a mummified cat. With season 4 there will be ALL NEW puppets (New Wolfred, New Franklin).

DAVE A: Will we be seeing any new puppet characters in the future?

MARLENA: Cleo will have an occasional appearance,and Thaddeous Bones returns in season 4. Soon we will have 2 new puppet characters that I want to keep under wraps for now but I can tell you that they are a plant and a snail.

DAVID A: Was it difficult getting MIDNITE MAUSOLEUM off the ground?

MARLENA: We spent a month preparing. We built sets in the basement, I built the puppets and Blake and I both scripted. We shot our original 12 web episodes over a 4 day period in March of 2009 and put a short preview video on the web. We were lucky and got a radio interview right away thanks to Beth Davis from the Dwyer and Michaels Morning Show on 97X radio. By the time our web episodes came out on a weekly basis they would have hundreds of views each week. It only expanded from there.

When we decided to go with full length episodes we added Robyn (Episode #113) as the mail girl. Corpse S. Chris from HORROR HOST GRAVEYARD got our first TV episode run on an access station in NY on September 5th 2009 and by December of that year we were running on 10 stations. That is a much simplified version, it was not easy because we did and still do nearly everything ourselves, but we also got a couple of lucky breaks. We also got tons of help from TackFu and everyone at PATV 18 in Iowa City and Leon Worden from SCVTV 20 in Santa Clarita, CA. There are too many people to list who have helped out in so many ways.

DAVE A: In an industry dominated by male hosts, did you experience any problems getting accepted?

MARLENA: We have been very fortunate, it doesn’t seem like we have had any problems being accepted. We currently run on tons of stations across the U.S. so if there IS someone out there NOT accepting us, I guess I would not know the difference. There will always be emails slamming the show, or me or Robyn occasionally but that’s what the delete button is for.. focus on the positive!

DAVE A: Do you watch any of today’s host shows regularly?

MARLENA: Dr. Gangrene, Ormsby, Eerie Shivers… anyone who sends DVD’s to the store for us to play. Outside of that we really don’t watch a lot of current hosts because of lack of time and because our show developed in a vacuum (we figured at the time that there were about 10 active hosts out there) and we want to keep it that way. There are quite a few hosts out there but we just like to continue down the road we started and so I guess we kind of keep to ourselves more
than some others because it keeps us on track.

ROBYN: . I love Uncle Eerie’s show! I try to keep up with everything that he posts online. And The Atomic Age Cinema monsters make really fun DVDs that always make me giggle. All of the horror hosts are doing a really amazing job right now. I try to take time to appreciate all of their work….but it’s hard! THERE’S SO MANY OF US!

DAVE A: Today’s hosts are usually limited to public domain films to show on their programs. If you could choose just one movie, no matter what it was to show, which movie would it be and why?

MARLENA: DUNE (the David Lynch version). I am a big David Lynch Fan and DUNE is one of my faves.

DAVE A: This past year you had an “adults only” DVD called Eurosleaze that sold really well. Do you have any other big plans for the future? Anything you can share with us?

MARLENA: The “adults only” DVDs allow us to do movies with too much nudity, etc that we could never do on television. Our bits in those feature very adult humor as well. It was a lot of fun and a change from doing our TV show which we like to keep strictly PG rated. We are always working on new items such as t-shirts and DVD releases of our seasons. You can check out what we have to offer HERE!

DAVE A: Recently you and Robyn had hilarious parts in Thomas Berdinski’s GIANT RUBBER MONSTER MOVIE. How did this come about?

MARLENA: We have kept involved with Thom Berdinski ever since we met him at HorrorHound Indianapolis 2010. We shot the summer camp episodes with him plus he’s in 2 other MM episodes. He wrote a part for us in the script and we shot it in December of last year. We actually will be much more involved with Thom in the future with MANY crossover and stand alone projects.

DAVE A: Do you plan on making any other cameos in similar projects in the future?

MARLENA: We are in another short film that he is doing that will be out soon, but can’t really give any details about it.

DAVE A: Let’s talk about you being a comic book store owner. What made you do this and how is the business venture going?

MARLENA: The store is a lot of fun and business is doing fine actually, especially lately. It does create a problem we didn’t foresee though. We are gone a LOT of weekends (take October for example , EVERY weekend we are at some other event) so in my opinion, we are simply GONE too much to run a store so we might see if another local wants to take it over or something similar.

If you haven’t checked out MIDNITE MAUSOLEUM, definitely give it a try…you will not be disappointed!

~David Albaugh

One thing the Daves have always had fun doing is interviewing as many of the great horror hosts as we can. The interviews have all been very popular on Terror From Beyond The Daves and we always try to ask questions that you don’t normally see in interviews. This time out, we present the one and only Roxsy Tyler, from Roxsy Tyler’s Carnival Of Horrors!

DAVID A: Were you a fan of horror movies growing up? If yes, what are some of your favorites?

ROXSY: Yes, I think 50 percent of the movies I watched as a child were all horror movies. I loved the HALLOWEEN movies, I couldn’t get enough of the NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET series, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE, CHILD’S PLAY, and when I got a little bit older a lot of Bela Lugosi and Vincent Price films were added to the my mix of horror interest. My parents absolutely did not monitor the things I watched on television. They didn’t believe in doing that.

DAVID A: Did you have a local horror host when you were growing up? If yes, who was it?

ROXSY: I did, but I knew nothing about her at the time because I was a baby in diapers. We had Stella, the Maneater from Manayunk. I met Stella at MonsterMania in Cherry Hill, NJ last March and she’s one of the most wonderful people I ever had the pleasure of talking to. Her and Hives have been really supportive of me and my show. I want her to come back to TV so I can make up for lost time and actually watch her. Very wonderful woman and from what I have seen of her show Saturday Night Dead she was really talented and still is.

DAVID A: What made you become a horror host? Is it something you always wanted to do?

ROXSY: I actually decided at four years old that I wanted to be a writer. I went to three different writing schools, I published a book at 19, and I always intended to stay on course with that. I mean, you guys here at the Daves site know that because you let me write for your site sometimes (thank you!). I never intended to be a horror host. I flew out to Iowa to spend time and create some fun with Midnite Mausoleum and it took off from there. People started suggesting that I do my own show and I had the resources to do it so I gave it a try. Now it’s a big part of my life and it’s fun!

DAVID A: How did you come up with the character of Roxsy Tyler?

ROXSY: She’s been in my head since I was a little girl and then I wrote the three stories about her in my book. She’s a combination of my love of carnivals, top hats, rock and roll, super heroes and super villains. I combined every little thing I liked and Roxsy Tyler formed from it. Roxsy Tyler’s actual look is a different story. I’m a huge Aerosmith fan. In fact, I’m a third generation Aerosmith fan. I named my character after Steven Tyler and Aerosmith did a music video called “Sunshine” where Steven Tyler is dressed as the Mad Hatter. It’s a really cool video. Some people might think it’s weird but I think everything about that music video is so beautiful, including Steven Tyler’s clothes! I saw him in that video and said, “I really want to dress like that!” Other than that, I think of Roxsy as comparable to that clown at the dunk tank. The clown will antagonize you until you hit the bullseye and falls into the water. I wanted Roxsy to be that fun antagonist.

DAVID A: Using a carnival theme for the background of your show is pretty original. What made you decide to go with that?

ROXSY: My love of carnivals and my wanting something from my stories to carry on into the show. My second Roxsy Tyler story I wrote is called “House of Mirrors” and it takes place entirely at a carnival. Amongst the readers that second story was the favorite and it was my favorite as well. A carnival is the perfect combination of fun and fear. Some people are afraid of clowns whereas others find them joyful. Some people are scared of fast rides and upside down rides while others find thrill in them. The carnival is the perfect combo of fun and fear. I wanted that as a premise for my show.

DAVID A: If someone was unaware of ROXSY TYLER’S CARNIVAL OF HORRORS, what episode would you recommend as an introduction to your show?

ROXSY: Wow! What a great question! I would suggest starting with our very first episode but I think to get the best feel for our show the second episode is where you should start. We hosted BLUEBEARD and had a serial strangler on the carnival grounds whom we couldn’t identify. The writing was funny, the performances we gave were all top notch, it was the episode I had the most fun doing. I would even suggest for Carnival of Horrors fans who never saw our first four episodes to watch them. We had Tom Detrik and Bonnie Loev as part of our cast playing clowns. Tom and Bonnie are professional actors and they are actors that I very much look up to. Watch episode two and you’ll see why. For two people just doing it for fun they really brought it.

DAVID A: You have branched out into other acting avenues as of late, including Thomas Berdinski’s GIANT RUBBER MONSTER MOVIE, BOOLEY and the yet-to-be-released DEER CROSSING. Can we expect to see you in other similar projects in the future? If yes, is there anything you can share with us?

ROXSY: I really love acting. I really do. I hope to get more opportunities to be in more films. I’ll also be meeting up with the Zombie Hunters again to work on Season two of Zombie Hunters: City of the Dead with them. My character’s name is Cassandra Marx and they have me playing this character in my Roxsy Tyler garb which I think is very cool. I can’t say enough good things about those guys. I have a lot of love the group of people who make Zombie hunters possible. I’m also going to have a lead role next year in a movie called “White Balance”. I’ll be playing a demon. I’m very excited about it. If anyone else wants me in their movie… I’m available! Or I will make myself available! My entire cast love being involved in making movies.

DAVID A: Can you describe BOOLEY for us?

ROXSY: The story for BOOLEY is very fun. It stars Tom Detrik (who I previously mentioned played a clown on my show) as Angus Booley. He’s a normal guy who’s being pushed around in his life: He just got laid off, he suspects his wife (Raine Brown) is cheating on him, and his daughter is following in his passive footsteps as she is getting bullied by the most popular girl in school. He finds salvation in this motivational DVD but he starts taking its teachings way too far and starts killing people. The film is a very low budget. We had less resources than we do now but it’s a very entertaining film and the performances are great. I play Rose Booley, Angus’s daughter and I’m being bullied by Gina Lynn who’s actually an adult film star. Just to tell you right now… I’m not really acting in that film. I didn’t have to. I was Rose Booley back when I went to school. That’s why I don’t understand why some people who reviewed the film bashed my acting. The jokes on them because I wasn’t acting at all. It’s a fun film and you can really relate to Angus Booley. He’s doing what we only imagine we could do when life gets tough on us.

DAVID A: While filming DEER CROSSING, you got to work with Ernie Hudson (of THE CROW and GHOSTBUSTERS). What was that like?

ROXSY: Oh man. Michael Madsen was supposed to play Ernie’s role in DEER CROSSING but Madsen disappeared and didn’t honor his commitment to the film. We were supposed to go on Radio shows with him that weekend and appear with him at the MonsterMania convention. Mr. Potent asked me who we could approach about playing the part that would be at MonsterMania. I immediately said Ernie Hudson. He accepted the role that weekend because he liked the script and we shot his scenes a week later. I was really nervous before Ernie came into the picture and then when he did I was very excited. THE CROW is one of my all-time favorite films and I grew up on GHOSTBUSTERS. I introduced myself to him after he expressed interest in doing the film and to my surprise I was shaking the entire time because I was so star-struck. Ernie Hudson is a great, down to earth guy. He’s extremely comfortable to be around. He does not at all act like he’s Hollywood and at the same time he’s extremely professional. I got to share screen time with someone I’ve admired since I was a child. To have that happen so early in my acting career is just amazing.

DAVID A: Who are some of your favorite horror hosts of today?

ROXSY: There’s so many I like. I love Midnite Mausoleum. I think Penny Dreadful is the best thing since sliced bread. Victor Von Scary I really admire and enjoy watching. The hosts I boast about the most are the guys in Atomic Age Cinema. I wish they put out a lot more stuff because I can’t get enough of them. Their show is hilarious! I haven’t really come across a horror host I don’t like. I like and respect all of them. They’re my peers through and through. One of my goals is to work with the Bone Jangler. I think that would be epic and the guy is so damn smooth how can you not want to work with him?

DAVID A: I remember first seeing your character in pictures with Marlena Midnite from MIDNITE MAUSOLEUM. Were you on an actual episode? How did that come about and can we expect to see other host cross-overs with you in the future?

ROXSY: I was in episode #116 I believe it was. We hosted Carnival of Souls. I had been friends with Blake Powell for many years before he started producing the show with Marlena Midnite. Blake’s read my book and he was familiar with the Roxsy Tyler stories. I said to him one day that it would be funny to see Roxsy Tyler on the show and he thought that wasn’t a bad idea. So, I flew out to Iowa and I did the show. Plus, I finally got to meet Blake in person. Before that we were only myspace buddies. It was very cool. I think we all worked together very well. Blake, Marlena, and Robyn were all very good to me and I have much love and respect for them. Of course none of us, including myself, expected that I would start doing my own show. It’s really cool that a door opened for me when I least expected it to and it’s way cool to see how successful Midnite Mausoleum is getting as time goes on. I do have a crossover show coming up with Victor Von Scary from Fright Night Cinema. It should be out by early October.

DAVID A: It was great to finally meet you this past March at HorrorHound in Indianapolis. Do you have more convention appearances scheduled where fans can meet you?

ROXSY: None unfortunately. I’m so busy with the filming of Deer Crossing ad everything else that I don’t think I’ll be around until MonsterMania next March. I do love conventions though. If I had the time and money I would visit every horror convention in the country.

DAVID A: Since most modern horror hosts are limited to showing public domain films, is there on non PD film you would absolutely love to show on CARNIVAL OF HORRORS?

ROXSY: There’s so many I would love to host! TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE, A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET, THEATRE OF BLOOD, and I don’t know if it was considered a horror but I would love to host ERNEST SCARED STUPID!

I would like to thank Roxsy Tyler for taking time to participate in this interview. The Daves would also like to thank her for being a guest blogger here! Here most recent piece was “Three Horror Hosts and a Zombie Hunter Invade New Potent Media Flick!” and it can be seen HERE! Prior to that she contributed with “Roxsy’s Recap Of Monster Mania 17″. Check out part 1 HERE and part 2 HERE!

If you would like to check out Roxsy Tyler online there are many ways you can! Check her out on Facebook HERE! You can watch her videos via Vimeo HERE and their YouTube channel is HERE! The main website is HERE and their Livestream channel is HERE! You can watch episodes of Carnival Of Horrors HERE!

~David Albaugh

Like every other red-blooded male horror host fan out there, I am a fan of Marlena Midnite and Robyn Graves. I have enjoyed their show a lot from the beginning and spending time with them at the Horror Hound conventions is always a highlight. If you are reading this post then chances are you are fans of Midnite Mausoleum as well.

I just had the pleasure of watching their latest DVD release entitled AMERISLEAZE VOLUME 1. Since this is not one of their regular broadcast shows, and was released direct to DVD, it features lots of adult humor and nudity (sorry guys, Marlena and Robyn stay clothed throughout). The movie being shown is one from 1979 called SAVAGE WEEKEND, starring David Gale in a pre-RE-ANIMATOR appearance. Though it is not the best movie in the world, it does offer a very cool drinking game thanks to Midnite Mausoleum. Basically, every time you see a nipple, you take a shot. It’s that easy and can actually make for a fun evening.

The Daves are certainly no stranger to horror hosts and have watched many hundreds of shows. Unfortunately, most of today’s hosts are limited to showing a handful of public domain films. This means that oftentimes I fast forward through the movie to get to the host parts (seriously, regardless of how great THE GIANT GILA MONSTER is, how many times can you actually watch it). It was a welcome relief to watch this disc featuring a movie not shown by other hosts. Even though the film is less than stellar, it did keep my interest throughout and the host segments were a lot of fun.

Also on this collection is a fun short by Thomas Berdinski, another favorite of the Daves. If you have not seen any of his short films, I highly recommend them! His humor is quick and the way he puts his films together works so well. I have also become a big fan of the music he scores for these films! Another friend of the Daves also appears…Son Of Froggy! The segment after the end credits with Marlena, Robyn and Son Of Froggy in a bathtub is hilarious.

This DVD is definitely for adults only and if you ever wanted to hear Marlena talk about anal sex, then buy this disc today! Like EUROSLEAZE VOLUME 1 before it, I highly recommend this disc. You can order your own copy by going HERE! While you’re at it, order yourself a copy of EUROSLEAZE VOLUME 1 as well by going HERE! These two discs would make a great double feature! Keep in mind that both releases are limited editions so get them before they sell out!

If you can’t get enough of Midnite Mausoleum, you can also check out James Downing’s interview with Marlena and Robyn in the newest issue of SCARY MONSTERS MAGAZINE, number 83. It’s a great read and highly recommended! Make sure to also check out James’ website Monsters From The Basement!

~David Albaugh

Special thanks to John Bonior from “Scares that Care” for sharing these shots from last weekend’s event!

John Bonior with some familiar faces

A Werepuppy finds its way to HH!

One of favorites from the last HH!

Greetings, and welcome to the FINAL Horror Host Report featured on “Terror from Beyond the Daves.” Both of us Daves want to thank all the hosts who participated and, of course, everyone who’s faithfully tuned in to read it. It’s been an amazing 2 years but also a lot of work. We will always be grateful for it as it was instrumental in helping us win a Rondo and, even more importantly, forging friendships between us and many of those we featured. While certainly the “labor of love,” both David and I have been pretty busy with other facets of our lives and the hours it takes each week to put a single report together just isn’t there for us anymore. After several weeks of deep discussions, we decided it was time to call it a day. We debated keeping it going through the 1st of the year but, then again, what better finale then the last weekend before Halloween? To save space, our usual practice is to delete our reports after a few weeks but, for novelty’s sake, we will be leaving this one in our archives.

Other than the disappearance of the report, the site will continue going and always remain Horror Host friendly place. There are no plans to stop stalking our childhood horror host, Svengoolie, attending conventions, and partaking in horror host activities. In fact, I’ll be attending THREE of Svengoolie’s four appearances (not bad) this weekend alone. ANYONE who wants to share their pictures and narrative of events that we’re unable to attend are absolutely welcome to submit. Just shoot us a message at terrordaves@ymail.com and we can get that going.

Again, thanks to everyone who assisted us in this weekly post that no blog was ever really designed to support (WordPress, we apologize for all the times we swore at you on Thursday nights).  I guess it would be cliche’ for us to end with “Stay Scary,” so we will simply say, “See you at the next event!”

The Terror Daves

Svengoolie ends his month long tour of appearances with a veritable “Grand Finale!”

TONIGHT! Friday October 26th Svengoolie will join Chicago radio legend, Gary Meier on WGN Radio  for a LIVE broadcast at the Odeum in Villa Park, Illinois from 4-5pm! The event is FREE but you do need to register. Details will be shared Gary on his afternoon show or you can get info from the WGN Webiste by clickingHERE!

On Saturday October 27th Svengoolie makes his annual appearance at Parker’s “Bark-o-ween” celebration! Doggie lovers get to strut their canines in the costume costume where their prized pet can win great prizes! BTW both you and your pet are encouraged to dress up as there’s a category for owners too! This event is located at 13 42 E. 55th St in Hyde Park, Illinois!

Later that same night (October 27th)  it’s back to the zombie-filled “Nightmare on Chicago Street” in Elgin! While zombies have taken over downtown Elgin, you can party in the zombie-free “safe zone”- get a Sven autograph and take a photo- plus- see Sven’s all-new coffin unveiled for the first time! And- Sven will crown the winner of the “Miss Zombie” pageant! Last year was an incredible event- so, suit up in your costume and join the crowd for an even greater party-with music, food,vendors, and- zombie preparedness!Sven arrives at 9 pm- for more info- go to http://www.nightmareonchicagostreet.com!

Finally….on October 28th, Svengoolie will be appearing at the Muvico Theater in Rosemont, Illinois to sign from 2-4pm! Sven will not only be signing, he’ll be introducing the feature film CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON in 3D!!! We know that the stars of that Universal classic are ever so grateful…

This weekend, Svengoolie airs WEREWOLF OF LONDON! Check your National MeTV listings for show times!

At 11am, Chicago’s WCIU will be showing a re-airing of THIS ISLAND EARTH!

For show information, Svengoolie merchandise, and Sven’s daily blog check out svengoolie.com!

Greetings!

This is THE week. The week where mere mortals take on the trappings of various monsters and undead in an effort to satisfy their quest for candy…or sometimes something a bit stronger in liquid form! Yes. this is the week of Halloween!

To help you get into the spirit of things, I bring you another thrilling short film from the warped minds at Bloody Cuts Films. This one is entitled “Dead Man’s Lake” and it is another Halloween treat…just for YOU!  You can watch it in my New Blood Showcase!

My other Halloween treat is still up for it’s final week and I’m talking about our feature film: William Winckler’s “Frankenstein vs. the Creature From Blood Cove.”  You can watch it in The Lab!

The TombKeeper doesn’t normally give out treats….she’s more into tricks.  But she is obviously making an exception this week by bringing you two graphic novels that you won’t want to miss. She starts by reviewing a collection of seasonal scares illustrated in full color by Tom Pomplun entitled “Halloween Classics: Graphic Classics Vol. Twenty Three!”  Then she reviews the new updated version of an original Bram Stoker collection, edited by Tom Pomplun.  This one is called, “Graphic Classics: Bram Stoker: Vol. Seven (Second Edition).”  You’ll find both in The Tomb!

Dita Dirt Nap never fails to please for Halloween and she has another entertaining culty DVD review in Dita’s Den!

And that’s just a sample of Halloween offerings beginning Saturday night at www.countgore.com

FRIDAY OCTOBER 26th – STELLA ON THE PRESTON AND STEVE SHOW TOMORROW (FRIDAY) AT 9AM!!!!! AND SHE’S BRINGING HER SECURITY GUARD (JULIAN PALERMO) AND THE SASSY NURSE HONEY BUNNY (CHIYA STONEHILL) WITH HER!!! www.facebook.com/PrestonAndSteve!

I NEED YOUR BLOOD!!! Literally. I NEED blood! Join me for the RED CROSS/ STELLA’S HALLOWEEN BLOOD DRIVE on SATURDAY OCTOBER 27TH at 790 HADODN AVE. (The Cloud Lodge) IN COLLINGSWOOD NJ.!!!!! So come on down from 9am until 2pm and join in the dripping fun!!!!

So after you donate blood on Saturday in Collingswood NJ, go home and take a nap then JOIN ME SATURDAY NIGHT IN MANAYUNK!! THAT’S RIGHT, MEET ME ON MY OWN TURF!!

Son of Ghoul will be appearing at Ghoulardifest next weekend!

The Daves would like to congratulate Morgus the Magnificent on his induction into the Rondo Monster Kid Hall of Fame!You can now own DVD copies of both the movie THE WACKY WORLD OF DOCTOR MORGUS as well as MORGUS PRESENTS VOLUME 1! The full-length movie can be ordered HERE and volume 1 can be ordered HERE! For all things Morgus make sure to check out his official website, MORGUS PRESENTS! ONLINE!

Click HEREfor a list of Sammy Terry’s upcoming appearances!

And don’t miss Sammy Terry’s upcoming Halloween TV Special on Indiana’s WTTV!

ELVIRA, Mistress of the Dark, is excited to announce a new series of Elvira comic books set to debut in 2013.  Working with author R.H. Stavis (“Daniel’s Veil,” Activision’s ” Transformers: War for Cybertron”) and artist Jeff Zarnow (“Godzilla, “68,” “Battle Beasts” ), the stories will focus on the Elvira’s MISS-adventures centered around a backstory about Halloween. The collaboration was teased to audiences at the recent “Stan Lee’s Comikaze” event in September in Los Angeles.   “Unlike a typical licensing deal, we are bringing together the power of the Elvira brand, a top-notch female writer and a rising artist to develop a new line of comic books independently,” says Cassandra Peterson aka Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. “We will then find a publishing/distribution partner that shares our vision to unleash these stories to the world.”

Not surprisingly, Elvira: Mistress of the Dark has been pretty busy this Halloween Season too with a recent appearance at Knox Berry Farm! Her latest DVD was released late September (click on image below to order) and a new one is on the way!

TONIGHT! Friday October 26th, Zomboo heads over to Diamond’s Casino and will judge a costume contest at 7pm. The winner gets $300!

The next day on Saturday October 27th, Zomboo will host his “Made in Nevada” Scaaary movie at the Nevada Historical Society  – 11:30am & 1pm! This year’s feature is HORRORS OF THE RED PLANET! This event is FREE!

I’ll be at THE YELLOW HOUSE Consignment Shop Open House Saturday, October 27 from NOON til 2pm! Bring your camera and say HI! It’s located at 4990 South Virginia Street, right near BIG 5 Sporting Goods and the freeway overpass!

Hello Everybody! It’s your old pal, Zomboo reminding you that this week’s movie is one of the scaaariest movies ever made, “Eegah!!” Saturday at 11:35pm on KOLO TV Channel 8 in Reno. Be there and be scared!

And in other Zomboo news….

Well here’s the last report from the Dr….

This weeks show will be filmed at the s.w. libraries zombie homecoming. with video footage shot with classic host, Mr. Mephisto, at the Jerry Smith Pumpkin farm! Its sad news that the Daves are ending the weekly report but I understand the work that goes into it. keeping this going for as long as they did deserves all of our respect. with new hosts popping up all the time one does wonder if its getting a little mundane. I’m not knocking anyone out here but I do get the feeling hosting has become something anyone can do, and although they can, do they do it well??? I guess is doesn’t not matter…

In any case I can only think of the words of My favorite Bozo..( Its nice to be important, but more important to be nice). Thanks again DAVES!!!!  This is sad news out-shined only by  KENOSHA HAVING TRICK OR TREAT ON THE 28th in the day time!!!! UGGGH!!!!

FRIDAY OCTOBER 26th – TINEY’S COMICS (516 south 2nd street – Clinton, IA). TRICK OR TREAT TIME!! from 3 to 5 pm. Drop by for free candy, and some special giveaway comics while supplies last. ALSO all comics are 20% off during trick or treat time ! a fun time will be had by all!!

Halloween is here!

Well, almost here.

Time for trick or treat and we have a real treat for you.

This coming weekend, on Movie Madness with Dr. Praxis, we will be featuring the movie, Horror Hotel starring Sir Christopher Lee.

On the recommendation of her professor (Christopher Lee), a young female student (Venetia Stevenson) travels to the fictional Massachusetts town of Whitewood to do
some research into witchcraft. She finds the town occupied by the reincarnation of an infamous witch (Patricia Jessel) burned at the stake in the 17th century; in order
to sustain her immortality, virgins must be sacrificed to her every year – and this year, the student has been the chosen victim.

This film has been compared to Psycho due to structural similarities. Both films begin by establishing an attractive blonde woman as the viewpoint character, leading
the audience to assume she will be the protagonist through the rest of the story. In both films, the blonde travels to a remote location and checks into a hotel or
motel run by an eccentric manager. In both cases, the audience’s expectations are shattered before the midpoint of the story when the blonde is abruptly stabbed to
death. In both films, the blond’s sibling is involved in the search for her; both films include a “shock” scene in which a corpse is revealed, and both films were
released in the same year (1960).

Horror Hotel for your Halloween viewing pleasure.

Plus, homages to two great programs from the past.  See if you can guess what programs…

All this and more will be available from Movie Madness with Dr. Praxis starting this weekend.

Get ready for Halloween and book a room at “Horror Hotel” starring Christoper Lee as shown on wwwmonstermovienight.com starring Bobby Gammonster – Internet Horror Host , Get on your black robes and lets all do some chants at Gargoyle Manor -the monster museum for some real trick or treating!!!

Look for an upcoming appearance of New England’s Hex-cellent Penny Dreadful at New England Comicsin New Bedford, MA!

Both her and the lovable Garou will then return to the same venue to help  judge a costume contest on Halloween Night!

For more on Penny Dreadful and the talented gang at Shilling Shocker’s, click HERE!

Check out Mr. Lobo on his ALL-NEW “Zomb-Bee TV!”

LOBOVISION GLASSES can be worn on face or to be even more geeky–leave in the package and display! What better way is there to enjoy the free movies on http://www.lobovision.tv/ guilt free and to show support for Cinema Insomnia, Mr. Lobo, and Misunderstood Movies? LOBOVISION GLASSES! Contact mrlobo@cinemainsomnia.com!

ALSO CINEMA INSOMNIA has an ALL NEW FAN CLUB!

Finally! The NEW 10 Year Anniversary Fan Club Kit is here! Lifetime Membership includes:

NEW PLASTIC Decoder Member Card signed and numbered on the front by Mr. Lobo and the entire “Alpha-Numeric” Secret Code on Back.

NEW–the world’s fanciest and most detailed Certificate of Membership. Drawn by Mr. and Mrs. Lobo–weaving dozens and dozens of hidden elements for you to find. Printed on parchment paper! Posthumous signature by Cinema Insomnia Senior Consultant Bob Wilkins and freshly numbered and signed by his disciple Mr. Lobo.

NEW Larger 2.25 inch “Cinema Insomnia Fan Club” Pin-back Button by Button-Lab.

NEW randomly selected Signed Large 8X10 Photo.

CLASSIC Signed 4X6 Black and White Photo of Mr. Lobo,This is the very same photo offered to insomniacs from day one of the original fan club.

AND you still get the FREE plastic November Fire Decoder ring and bunch of other random surprise goodies (not described or pictured here (while supplies last).

Best of all you will be an official CINSOMNIAC…or a SLEEPLESS KNIGHT OF INSOMNIA. This is more than a fan club reboot. We want to reach out and unite all of the many fans who have supported Mr. Lobo and Cinema Insomnia and create the best fan club on the planet! We will make the world safe for misunderstood movies!

Discounts on selected merchandise and film events.

MEMBER ONLY Updates from Mr. Lobo.

Access to the secret SLEEPLESS KNIGHTS screening group on LOBOVISION.TV

And there will even be MEMBERS ONLY episodes of CINEMA INSOMNIA produced.

Also, Cinema Insomnia Fan Only Events and activities, parties and Regional Officers Elected!

MR. LOBO’S CINEMA INSOMNIA FAN CLUB KIT 22.50 (Plus $2.50)

Contact Mr. Lobo with any concerns mrlobo@cinemainsomina.com 1-317-4-LOBOTV!

The Basement Sublet of Horror is working on several Halloween broadcasts this month. The main event will be an all night broadcast of both BSOH and Evelle LeChat’s Night Fright episodes on our local Lawrence TV channel 6 on Oct. 31st (BSOH normally broadcasts on public access), the show will also include footage from the Lawrence, Kansas 2012 Zombie Walk.

Here’s the schedule:
CHANNEL 6, ALL NIGHT HALLOWEEN Marathon
Featuring:
- The 2012 Lawrence Zombie Walk
- “Dr. Jekyll Vs. The Werewolf” (BSOH, NEW EPISODE)
- NIGHT FRIGHTS with Evelle LeChat
“Night of the Living Dead”
- “Don’t Look in the Basement (BSOH, NEW EPISODE)

On the Lawrence, KS public access channel 99 BSOH is showing a special Halloween show on Oct. 26th, with horror animations and films by artist Jason Willis.

BSOH will also take part in Halloween broadcasts on CATS Community Access Television in Bloomington, IN and White Rose Community Television St. York, Pennsylvania Community Access Channel 18. Check the station web sites for further info.

Greetings, friends!

It’s hard to believe, but it’s already THAT TIME… your friends at the MANOR are gearing up for their annual HALLOWEEN SPECIAL…

…but before WE can think about trick-or-treating, we’ve got a bit of a mess to clean up.

Remember when Zelnak sent us on a wild goose chase to the Crystal Rose Gallery (where we encountered the giant god Chuku, among other things)? Our shenanigans DID cause quite a bit of damage, and proprietor Jorge Rodriguez has finally caught up with us… to make up for the disaster we caused, we’ve got to work at the gallery for Halloween… and every exhibit has a story to tell… and every story is presented uncut and uncensored… will any of us make it out at all?

This is OUR Halloween… what about YOURS? We hope you’ll spend a couple of hours with us this weekend… after all, ’tis the season!

Meanwhile, the MANOR salutes KAT HORDERN and COREY JONES on the occasion of their marriage on Friday, October 26th… ceremony to be performed by… YOURS TRULY!

It’s an extra-special Halloween weekend… and it’s all yours at the MANOR!

Friday 10PM Pacific
Saturday 5AM and 10PM Pacific
Monterey cable channel 24 (AMP)
or on-line at www.ampmedia.org
Choose “Programs” and then “Web Stream” for Channel 24!

All the best,
Remo D.

Saturday at 10 pm EST on RTV: Tune in for our Halloween Special – “Attack of The Monsters!”

Boney Bob has taken over the show and he’s showing movies he wants to see! Gamera the Flying Turtle feels the need to protect a couple of annoying kids on an alien planet, and battles Guiron ñ the ginsu-steak knife monster! Will Gamera save the kids and get back to Earth? Tune in and find out!

Monday at 8 pm EST on The Monster Channel <http://www.100ymm.com> : Tune in for “The Devil’s Hand.”

A man is haunted by visions of a hot blond, so he dumps his frumpy brunette girlfriend and joins a Satanic cult… Yeah, who hasn’t had this happen to them? It stars Neil Hamilton who is probably best remembered for playing Commissioner Gordon on the 1960’s Batman TV show.

And speaking of Night of The Living Dead, please visit our friends at the Fix The Chapel site and make a donation to help restore the Evans City Cemetery Chapel. Join the Facebook group  <http://http://www.facebook.com/#%21/groups/savethechapel/&gt; or visit their site for more info! <http://http://www.fixthechapel.com/&gt;

And for all you brave souls looking for a fright, The Erebus Haunted Attraction <http://www.hauntedpontiac.com>  is open for the 2012 haunt season! Find out for yourself why they’re voted year after year as one of America’s Best Haunted Attractions!

A school district in Skokie, Illinois (UPDATE: and now another in Seattle) is banning  Halloween. We here at Ormsby’s Cinema Insane are upset over school officials forcing their PC zaniness on little kids,who should be allowed to have a childhood and enjoy holidays like Halloween. Please share the video and get the word out. Soon, there may not be a Halloween for children anymore if we don’t fight this.

On October 19-21 Ormsby was be a featured guest at The Macabre Fair Grim Gathering, held at the Best Western in Rockville Centre New York!

Scarevania’s Freakhouse Flicks

Airs Friday October 26 @ 11pm and Saturday October 27 @ 11:30 pm on Comcast channel 60 in Muncie, IN.

Join Francis D. Pickles,  Punkin the Pinhead, and the rest of the Freakhouse creeps for a viewing of ‘Night of the Living Dead’. Also in this episode, the gang interviews “Zombie Wrangler” Eugene Jackson and a few of his “pets”. Join the fun, and “get your freak on!”

Happy New Year and welcome to The Return of The Horror Host Report! First off, we’d like to thank all the hosts who not only participated in this month’s edition but who’d been there with us from the very beginning. It’s great seeing you all back together in a single venue where fans (and potential fans) can see what you’ve been up to and what your show’s all about. We’d also like to welcome some new hosts to the report such as The Daughter of the Ghoul and Misty Brew!

As many of you know, the report is now a monthly feature thereby making this the first of 12 updates slated for 2014 (published the first of every month). Any hosts reading this that would like to be a part of future reports please scroll to the bottom of this post for details on how you can make that happen. Any questions, comments, or suggestion pertaining to the report can be sent to horrorhostreport@gmail.com.

The Daves would also like to wish the following hosts a very Happy Birthday during the month of January:

January 6: Fright Night Theater’s Pumpkin Man, January 8: Ghoulguy Drive-In, January 12: Penny Dreadful, January 17: Roger Froilan Jr, January 27: John Dimes

Now on to the report…

It was shortly after the former report was cancelled in 2012 that national horror host, Svengoolie, experienced a heart attack (no, I’m not suggesting the incidents were related). 2013 saw him not only recover but return with a vengeance as his show continued to spread via MeTV while garnering new fans along the way. He also saw a new Scary Monsters Magazine tribute issue, won the Rondo Award for “Favorite Horror Host,” received a brand new coffin (fortunately for entertainment purposes only), was inducted into the Horror Host Hall of Fame, and even had a hamburger named after him at The Squared Circle Restaurant in Chicago!

This month Sven wants to “ROCK in the New Year” by presenting films featuring rocks – radioactive and otherwise!

On Saturday January 4th at 9pm Central/10 Eastern he’ll be airing King Kong Escapes!

On Saturday January 11th it’s The Monolith Monsters!

On Saturday January 18th it’s The Mole People!

And on Saturday January 25th it’s The Invisible Ray!

Chicagoans who miss the MeTV airings can catch a repeat of the show the following Saturdays at 11am on WCIU Chicago! This weekend will be The Black Cat!

Remember for all your Svengoolie needs to go to svengoolie.com where you can read his blog, track future appearances, sign up for his monthly newsletters, and order Svengoolie merchandise such as his “Chicken Thrower” T-shirts and collector buttons!

The month of January brings four of the scaariest movies ever made to Zomboo’s House Of Horror Movies!

JAN. 4: THE SLIME PEOPLE

JAN. 11: THE FLYING SAUCER

JAN. 18: OASIS OF THE ZOMBIES

JAN. 25: MESA OF LOST WOMEN

All shows start at 11:35 PM PST on Saturday nights on KOLO Channel 8, Reno, Nevada.

For more information on Zomboo please visit his website HERE and if you would like to buy his hilarious DVDs and other items, visit his store HERE!

There’s an Indiegogo Campaign drive happening to help make season 9 of Penny Dreadful’s Shilling Shockers happen! Donations are greatly appreciated and there are ghoulishly cool incentives for participating. Just go HERE to help out! Production of season 9 is underway!

The new DVD special, “A Hex-Mas Miracle” featuring the original Roger Corman cult classic, “Little Shop of Horrors” is now available at the ‘Shilling Shockers’ online store!

Also available online for the first time is the “S.T.A.K.E.S. Monster Hunting Kit.” A favorite at conventions, the kit is now available at www.shillingshockers.com.

Terror from Beyond the Daves is sad to report that Penny’s feral sidekick, Garou, has been battling cancer this past year. He’s been fighting the good fight silently before it became known to the general public recently including a blurb in the latest issue of Scary Monsters Magazine. Penny assures us that only silver can best her furry companion but that doesn’t mean the past year hasn’t carried a heavy cost – not the least of which concerning medical expenses. Please go to the link HERE and give some support to our Horror Host friends!

2013 was a great year for Dr. Destruction’s Crimson Theatre! We attended and greeted horror fans at several conventions and started the Milwaukee branch of the TV show ,Crimson Theatre Milwaukee, which allows us to get many more guests while visiting notable Milwaukee destinations. The Big Top Radio Broadcast re-launches in 2014 with guests Patricia Quinn, Butch Patrick, Ivonna Cadaver, and Nina Antonia author of In Cold Blood a biography on Johnny Thunders that’s being adapted to a feature film. 2014 will be brought in with my NEW band, The Roosevelt Dolls, that will perform their first show at Hattrix in Kenosha.

The best part of 2013 skeleton hands down was working on the Film KILLING POE. It was a horror host dream come true to have My character written into film. The film set to premier in 2014 was incredible to work on . Director Nathan Jacobs was amazing to work with. The project floored Me with professionalism. Crimson Theatre was also blessed with a fantastic new co-hostess Rebecca Pectorious. 2014 looks like a great year!

SPOTLIGHT ON: Misty Brew!

SHOW: “Friday Night Frights with Misty Brew”

WHERE: On KBSI Cannel 23 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri

WHEN: 1986-1990 (though promising something new in the near future!)

This hostess was Missouri’s answer to Elvira and still remembered by many of the locals today. Currently has a Facebook persona (though it’s unknown whether or not it’s actually her behind the reigns). And speaking of  Elvira…

Elvira: Mistress of the Dark will be appearing this month at the Portland Comic Con on January 24-26th! Be sure to visit her official website by clicking HERE where you can order all kinds of official Elvira apparel and merchandise, such as her new “Bouncin’ Babe Double Bobble” figure which quickly sold it (though they are promising to re-stock so put your order in as soon as you can!

Ms Monster has returned and has joined The Ghouligans via The Monster Channel on ROKTV!

Look for ALL-NEW shows for the blue beauty and her sidekick melons, Tit & Tat!

Gunther Dedmund recently completed the 200th Basement Sublet of Horror show!

The show has also spawned its own comic book which you can download the first issue by clicking HERE!

BSOH has started production on a second comic book, due out in 2014, with the cover art being done by an artist from Dark Horse comics. More information will be made available as the project gets closer to publication.

BSOH has begun production on a BSOH Magazine with a tribute to Wichita Movie Host Ol’ Flick and cover art by a member of an 80′s alt rock band from Boston. Due out in the Fall of 2014. More information will be made available as the project gets closer to publication.

BSOH continues working on a history of Kansas Horror hosts, now expanded to include Missouri. Once research began the amount of information and media grew to an almost overwhelming amount. We’re currently editing the content into a manageable form, with the hope of shooting the episode soon!

Many of you got a ROKU box for Holiday gifts-a converter for connected television that has created another avenue for classic horror and horror hosts. 2013 was an exciting one for horror host MR. LOBO, producer Mrs. Lobo AKA Dixie Dellamorto, and CInsomniacs everywhere.

Besides the release of the spoken word/sound-effects recording HORRIBLE NOISES OF MR. LOBO’S VERY BAD MANOR on iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon–We also saw the release of the most ambitious CINEMA INSOMNIA TV special ever.

Shot in a “real” haunted house, and featuring 5 horror hosts, a national sponsor, and even the return of MISS MITTENS–PINE BROS. Presents CINEMA INSOMNIA HAUNTED HOUSE SPECIAL was the most watched program on ZOM-BEE TV since it’s premiere at 8:09 October 31st. Lobo fever has swept the channel and its new sponsor and ZOM-BEE TV has asked Lobo to produce a talk show and supply 5 complete episodes for January.

If these pilot shows do well on ROKU–we can expect a lot more added to the schedule. Dick Dyszel (COUNT GORE), Jerry Moore (KARLOS BORLOFF), John Dimes (DR. SARCOFIGUY), and Rich Koz (SVENGOOLIE), who rocked the house in the Halloween Special, will all be asked back as guests.

Dixie will be a producer and art director. The working title is SLEEPLESS KNIGHTS WITH MR. LOBO and ZOM-BEE TV hopes it will be a cornerstone for their relaunch of the channel in a brand new format. 2014 will also be the year of MR. LOBO’s GAME THAT WOULDN’T DIE-a hilarious card game for fans of Horror. True Blue CInsomniacs fear not–More new episodes of CINEMA INSOMNIA than ever before on ZOM-BEE TV will be rolling out in the new year as well. Mr. Lobo will also be producing more shows for the channel involving other great horror hosts…stay tuned!

The Daves would like to welcome Janet Decay, aka the Daughter of the Ghoul, to the report! The Yummy Mummy, back from the dead, is Cleveland’s newest horror hostess for the Daughter of the Ghoul Show. Janet Decay and her motley crew will shlock your brains out! If you love cheesy B movies, skits, and talented performers than you don’t want to miss this!

Her shows can be seen on channels WCTV (late nights on Fridays and Saturdays), BAT TV (Saturdays at 10 PM) 196 Time Warner Cable (Thursdays at 9 PM in Cleveland, OH) and HCTV (times to be determined as this is a new station). Check local listings for days and times! Online you can check her out on the WCTV website by clicking HERE and the BAT TV website HERE and  then clicking on the Daughter Of The Ghoul folders. Indie Horror TV and Underground TV are two other sites where her show can be seen (check times and listings).

If you would like to order a Janet Decay, Daughter of the Ghoul t-shirt, please go HERE!

 DAWN OF DRACULA in the BLURAY (Standard Edition) – contains the complete movie in stunning 1080P HiDef with an upgraded Dolby Digital soundmix, but… wait!  there’s more !

* Alternate audio commentary track exclusive to the BluRay version featuring director Blake Powell and stars Marlena Midnite and Robyn Graves recorded 3 days after the first theatrical showing

*Collection of outtakes , bloopers and behind the scenes footage.

*Theatrical Trailer version 1

*Theatrical Trailer version 2

You can order this, and many other Midnite Mausoleum by going HERE!

Watch Midnite Mausoleum on their Livestream Channel by clicking HERE!

What happens when a guy is down on his luck and decides that the best way to reclaim his happiness is to emulate his childhood horror host? Find out in the Independent film, Son of Ghostman! Inspired by the Son of Svengoolie this feature is highly entertaining and a must have for those who love horror hosts or anyone who enjoys a good story! Terror Dave Albaugh recently featured it in a post (which you can check out HERE in case you missed it) and there will be an upcoming interview with the film’s creator in the coming days!

And now let’s rock in the New Year with Karlos Borloff & The Monster Madhouse!

Are you a horror host performing on TV, Internet, or LIVE on stage? Then help gain more exposure for your show by joining our monthly Horror Host Report! Drop us a line about what your show’s about and after receiving our Terror Dave Welcome start sending us your updates, show times & channels, photos, and YouTube clips to horrorhostreport@gmail.com! Participation is FREE but must be sent to us by the 15th of every month in order to ensure your place in the next report (1st of every month).

Special thanks to artist Brian Maze for his great Horror Host pogs! Mr. Maze has been busy this past year with his photography and, among his many beautiful models, featured former Crimson Theatre hottie, Krystle Street! 

Now you can follow us on your phone!

I was happily surprised to run into Mr. Lobo and Dixie at the annual FRIGHT NIGHT FILM FEST in Kentucky! As mentioned in our recent Atomic Age Cinema piece, horror hosts were slated to appear at this event but Mr. Lobo wasn’t one of them. Needless to say, the sight of the spectacled host wearing his signature suit & green/black striped tie was a welcomed one at that! I found the mastermind of Cinema Insomnia chatting with Blake Powell, the guru behind Midnite Mausoleum, and wasted no time interrupting the two late night TV mavericks.

Blake Powell & Mr. Lobo at FRIGHT NIGHT 2011

Despite my intrusion, Lobo was as warm and friendly as he had been when the other Dave and I first met him this past March. Ironically, I had another opportunity to chat with him just the previous week via “Dr Destruction’s Big Top Radio Show.” I joined the Kenosha host and his co-host, Charlotte, in the WLIP studio during its debut broadcast – an event that featured phone interviews with Lobo, Stella Desire, and A. Ghastlee Ghoul. Despite my best efforts, however, I was unable to get a word in edge-wise! One thing about Mr. Lobo, he does not fumble for words and busily recited “on-air” all the work that he and Dixie had been up to this past summer. I made a couple of awkward attempts to chime in (particularly regarding his newest “Elvira” issue of HORROR HOSTS magazine) but, as it turns out, Lobo didn’t even know I was in the station. Fate, however, was prepared to give me a second chance.

Mr. Lobo was embarking on a cross-country journey back to his native California when he and his fiance’/business partner, Dixie Dellamorte, decided to make a pit stop at FRIGHT NIGHT. We stood in an entryway that connected the main dealer room to a hallway that featured the hosts – Midnite Mausoleum, Horror Dungeon, and the host friendly Thomas Berdinsky from THE ITALIAN ZOMBIE MOVIE and had a nice conversation.

Mr Lobo & Dave Fuentes  – FRIGHT NIGHT 2011

Lobo reiterated what he’d stated on Destruction’s radio show; he had just wrapped up work in Virginia on a film spin-off of PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE, worked with film-maker, Sean Kotz, on a documentary featuring classic Virginia host – The Bowman Body (see story HERE), and spent some time hanging out with fellow host pal - the incomparable Karlos Borloff from MONSTER MADHOUSE!

Karlos Borloff & Mr. Lobo – Indy Horrorhound Weekend 2011

Both David and I are great admirers of Cinema Insomnia and I mentioned to Lobo some of my favorite CI moments.  Moments such as the racially ambiguous jokes from his presentation of MONSTER FROM A PREHISTORIC PLANET,  his disgust of Peter Graves participating in BIGFOOT: MYSTERIOUS MONSTER, and the awkward yet hilarious exchanges between himself and his idol, the late Bob Wilkins, during a past Halloween Special to name but a few.

I also made a point to tell him how much I enjoyed his music. Cinema Insomnia’s anthem – “I’m Watching TV” successfully captures the 1970′s “Banana Splits/Creature Feature” era I grew up in and receives year-round play in my household.

Another favorite Lobo song, “Halloween Candy,” is performed by the man himself and, despite being packed with lots of tricks, is a definite musical treat! This irreverent, seasonal favorite of mine has been featured on The Dr. Demento Halloween Show and highlights the signature, dry sense of humor that makes Lobo so “laugh out loud” funny. I was happy to have an opportunity to convey this to him personally – while encouraging him to create his own novelty CD. Lobo stated he is currently working on a seasonal music collection featuring scary sounds ala’ vintage Walt Disney.

Dr. Demento

Even more exciting is the highly anticipated next issue of the aforementioned HORROR HOSTS Magazine featuring The Mistress of the Dark! Glimpses of its cover show a skillfully crafted Elvira/mummy whose bandages in NO way detract from the physical attributes that helped make her famous. This cover, like last issue’s amazing Al Lewis portrait, was created by both Lobo and Dixie – a clear indication that this is one artistic couple who knows how to harmonize their skills. The actual painting will be given to Elvira (who participated in this issue) after the magazine’s printing. For those of us who can’t get enough of the “gal in black, who works on her back,” this will definitely be a must read!

HORROR HOSTS Magazine is prepared to go deeper than a mere expose’ by seeking the origins of Elvira’s famous look. While many will be quick to site Vampira as her direct influence (which of course she was) and Vampira’s to Morticia Addams – HORROR HOSTS Magazine will take us even further back! I was shocked to discover that our culture’s image of the archetype sinister female (svelte, macabre woman wearing a black dress) actually pre-dates The Adams Family and am eager to get my hands on the next issue to learn more!

Morticia Addams

This is the very essence as to why Mr. Lobo’s Cinema Insomnia works so well for me as an adult fan. Lobo manages to keep a respectful eye on classic horror hosts & their history, while forging ahead as a unique, modern one. This was illustrated last March at the Horror Host Hall of Fame Ceremony (conducted at Horrorhound) where Lobo gave an emotional explanation for why fans who grew up with a commercial host (such as myself) have such a deep/admiration for them as adults. “He was your guy.” said Lobo. (MORE QUOTES FROM INDUCTION). At the same time, he shows no obvious influences from previous hosts; portraying himself as both snarky and self-depreciating  – a contradiction Lobo balances well. Whether the joke is on him, the viewer, the movie, or one of his guests it is almost always funny and has me quickly seeking out another episode. And, in that regard, the future is bright…

As mandated by his recent successful telethon, Mr. Lobo will soon be filming his next full season of Cinema Insomnia in which he promises to continue his quest in presenting films less common in the hosting realm. This is a challenge to most horror hosts operating today but Mr. Lobo has already established himself as one who has no trouble overcoming odds. This was never more evident than his recent triumphant fund-raising campaign which saw him reach his goal of  $10,000 despite being conducted during an economic crises and amid the holidays! It was a risky gamble but, in the end, his devoted Cinsomniacs would not let him down and we can now all look forward to new episodes.

The next day we met up again in the dealer’s room and said our goodbyes. Just like I did when we parted at Horrorhound, I always give Dixie a big hug while singing a slow, acapella version of “Watching TV.” Sort of like having an end “theme song” like the old Carol Burnett Show or Donnie and Marie Osmond. It’s humorous and more than a bit odd I must admit.

What can I say? Being around Mr. Lobo and Dixie somehow makes me feel nostalgic….and that’s a feeling we horror host fans live for!

Dave Fuentes~

NOTE: For a more in-depth look at Mr. Lobo’s Cinema Insomnia see the other Dave’s post from last year, HERE!  Also, his great 10 question interview with Mr. Lobo, HERE!