A Space Zombie Trailer Invasion!

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: Robert Hood / Avery Guerra

Everyone knows that your deadliest zombies come from outer space as this collection of trailers from two brand-new films will illustrate.

First up is a really cool retro film from Germany of all places. Film maker Martin Faltermeier drew upon B movie craze of the 1950's as the inspiration for his latest film "Zombies From Outer Space." Though the first trailer may look like it, the film is not a remake of "The Sound of Music".





Here is the plot:

Bavaria in the late fifties. One day the life of Maria, a young girl, changes when she stumbles upon the dead body of an woman. Scientist Dr. Robert Hölzlein and the American lieutenant John Welles, stationed in Bavaria, are commissioned to solve what is obviously a murder case. But trouble seems inevitable as both are interested in the beautiful Maria.

As more and more dead women are discovered in the area, along with mysterious sightings of unidentified flying objects, fear and mistrust grows among the inhabitants.

While inspecting a crop circle Lieutenant Welles finds a dead alien, and an autopsy of the strange corpse leads Hölzlein to a terrible conclusion. Too late he discovers the connection between the dead women and the inexplicable UFO visitations. Before he can alert the population, however, undead aliens rise from their tombs beneath crop circles throughout the district, their aim to destroy humanity. Will the two rivals, Robert and John, realise in time that their only chance for survival is to work together?

Das ist gut ya?

Not quite as retro but as equally gonzo is the fourth installment of Ted V. Mikel's "Astro Zombie" franchise "Astro Zombies: Invaders from Cyberspace." It seems that the blood-thirsty zombies from another world weren't too happy that their kinsmen were thwarted by a group of buxom women so they set out to invade the Earth ... starting in Germany.

What is it with Germany?





99 Düsenjäger
Jeder war ein großer Krieger
Hielten sich für Captain Kirk
Das gab ein großes Feuerwerk
Die Nachbarn haben nichts gerafft
Und fühlten sich gleich angemacht
Dabei schoss man am Horizont
Auf 99 Luftballons

Guten Tag!

DANGER 5: THE DIAMOND GIRLS (PART TWO)

DANGER 5: THE DIAMOND GIRLS - an online series exclusive to YouTube

In their first mission together as a team, Danger 5 must stop the Nazis from stealing the world's largest holding of black diamonds, which are kept in the Swiss World Bank. Seems like a piece of cake... served with gas and punishment.

This really is a slice of fried gold!

"Yes ... wait ... I can definitely smell Germany!"

Of Pissed Off Ewoks, Killer Kong And Alien Anatomy

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Dread Central / Tumblr

Thanks to Uncle Creepy over at Dread Central I have new artist that I really dig named Brad McGinty. Not only is he a very talented artist he is quite the humorist as well. His blog on Tumblr reveals that his grandfather was driven to the bottle by a failed greeting card business that he started after WWII with a Japanese artist he shot in combat. Seems that no one likes to see Santa Claus referred to as "American Christmas Devil"... who knew?

McGinty's work ranges from pissed off ewoks and Alien anatomy cross-sections to some really great monster art.

It may not have worked for grandpa but if the younger McGinty went into the card business ... well you all would be getting his Valentine's Day cards in the mail come February.


Check out McGinty's work over at Tumblr - HERE

Two Jet Fighters Chasing A UFO?

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Youtube

Anonymous videos like this pop up on Youtube all the time and with the level of computer generated special effects available to just about anyone these days it is hard to tell if a video like this is the real McCoy or a real pile of mule muffins?

There was no description or information of any kind posted with the video but according to a few sites I found ... allegedly... a hiker was enjoying a lakeside stroll, just filming the scenery, when the silence is broken by the sound of jets overhead. What happens next speaks for itself. Two jet fighters either chasing or escorting a UFO.

If it's a fake .... well it's pretty good!

THE LAST DINOSAUR - Did You Know?

Trivia Compiled By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: IMDB / Wikipedia

If your a child of the 70s, like I am, then you may or may not remember the rubber suited monstrosity known as "The Last Dinosaur." The movie was a Japanese/American co production about a billionaire big-game hunter who discovers an area under the polar ice where time has stood still since the age when dinosaurs ruled the Earth. Needless to say the hunter, Maston Thrust (Richard Boone), gathers a rag-tag team together to hunt for the ultimate trophy i.e. the last Tyrannosaurus in existence. As you could imagine old Rex doesn't want to end up a trophy and chases the puny humans around for an hour and a half.

That pretty much sums that up. Here is what you may not know:

This was originally scheduled for theatrical release in the United States. The release was cancelled and the film premiered, in edited form, as a TV-movie on U.S. network television. This edited version became the U.S. version used for television showings and video releases.

The Tyrannosaur was said to be twenty feet high, but when Joan Van Ark is seen running between its legs evasively, the dinosaur is clearly taller.

When Francesca and Hazel are at the river and are attacked by the tyrannosaurus, Francesca's hair is wet, but when she looks up at the dinosaur, her hair is considerably dryer.

The model of the polar-borer capsule has exhaust ports on the rear, but the full-sized version does not.

From the outside, the Bore is noticeably too small to hold five people - it's bigger on the inside shots than the outside.(In other words it's a TARDIS -K)

When hit in the head by a boulder, the tyrannosaurus' head visibly dents and then pops back into shape.

Watch closely during the pre-opening airplane sequence between Maston Thrust and his current girlfriend. During the exchange, Richard Boone clearly reaches both hands forward to grope the breasts of the actress and scores "Two Doubles" (reaching "second base" twice) right before the editor is forced to cut to another shot in hopes that he can get this scene past Standards and Practices. The audacity by Richard Boone is amazing given that this was intended to be a kids popcorn movie. (Hey ... she was hot okay - K)

The score was composed, as was most of the music for all Rankin/Bass specials and series, by Maury Laws, while the title song, with lyrics by Jules Bass, was sung by Nancy Wilson(a Grammy ward winning Jazz vocalist), and arranged and conducted by Bernard Hoffer.

Unlike other bigger budgeted movies that have used state of the art effects (i.e.: Stop Motion, puppets, etc.) for the dinosaurs, this movie uses the cheaper "man in a suit" method, much like the Godzilla movies of the 1960s and 1970s. The "ceratopsian" (Uintatherium), as well as the Triceratops were done through the "two guys in a horse-suit" technique. The scale (size) of the Tyrannosaurus also changes literally from scene to scene, in some cases it appears to be over 40–50 feet tall (when it attacks the borer) and can carry it in its mouth, when the Polar Borer is easily well over 10 feet in diameter. However, they do correctly state in the beginning of the movie that a Tyrannosaurus Rex is 20 feet high and 40 feet long.

The suit of Tyrannosaurus was created by Tsuburaya Production, and was converted from Ururu of Tokusatsu Anime Dinosaur War Aizenborg. Also while the film featured mostly an English speaking cast a Japanese dub was created for the television release in Japan. The Japanese theatrical release as well as the Japanese laser disc used the English voice cast with Japanese subtitles.

And now you know!

The Monter Movie Fans Holiday Gift Guide - Black Friday Edition

Universal Monsters Select Creature from Black Lagoon Figure

Order Yours HERE For Only $19.99!

Universal Monsters Select Creature from Black Lagoon Figure:

Here's Gill-Man, applying lotion to those hard-to-reach areas!
Figure of The Creature and his swimsuited human crush.
Give the last of the great Universal Monsters a home!
Sculpted by Rudy Garcia with a base by Jean St. Jean.

Universal Monsters Select debuts with the renowned last of the great Universal Monsters, The Creature from the Black Lagoon. Sculpted by Rudy Garcia with a base by Jean St. Jean, this 7-inch scale depiction of the infamous Gill-Man shows the legend in perhaps its most screen-accurate detail ever! Perfect for display, the Select version includes an exclusive paint scheme, as well as a detailed base featuring a full figure of The Creature's swimsuited human crush!

Age: 8+
Size: 7-inches tall

The Creature From The Black Lagoon Film Cell

Order Yours HERE For Only $54.99!

The Creature From The Black Lagoon Film Cell:

The Creature From The Black Lagoon Film Cell. This is an 8-inch by 10-inch print of The Creature from The Creature from the Black Lagoon, alongside a series of 35mm film clips. This item comes in a beautiful black ash effect frame with a stunning sublimated plaque and certificate stating authenticity.

A scientific expedition searching for fossils along the Amazon River discover a prehistoric Gill-Man in the legendary Black Lagoon. The explorers capture the mysterious creature but it breaks free. The Gill-Man returns to kidnap the lovely Kay fiance of one of the expedition with whom it has fallen in love.

Universal Monsters Wolfman Black and White Head Knocker


Order Yours HERE For Only $17.99!

Universal Monsters Wolfman Black and White Head Knocker:

He just loves a full moon!
8-inches tall with a sculpted base.
Be sure to lock him up once a month!

He just loves a full moon! Perched ready to pounce on a sculpted base, and packaged in a 4-color window box, this 8-inch tall bobble head brings you The Wolfman… in black and white. He's a convincing rendering of the monster from the film, and he wants to come home to live with you. But you'll need to lock him up once a month!

Age: 13+

Creepy Archives Volume 2 Hardcover Graphic Novel

Order Yours HERE For Only $49.99!

Creepy Archives Volume 2 Hardcover Graphic Novel:

Vein chilling!
Don't miss a single, terrifying tale!
From the best artists ever to grace the comics medium.
288-pages.

The vein-chilling stories continue! Each Archive Volume of Creepy is packed with frightening tales. (Usually up to 8 short stories were featured in every issue!) They run the gamut of gruesome subject matter, from re-imagined horror classics like "The Cask of Amontillado" to spectacularly mind-twisting shorts such as "The Thing In The Pit" or the macabre, maritime yarn "Drink Deep." This petrifying 2nd volume showcases work by some of the best artists ever to grace the comics medium, including Alex Toth, Gray Morrow, Reed Crandall, John Severin, and others. The 288-page book collects Creepy Issues #6-10. Order yours now so you don't miss a single, terrifying tale!

Universal Monsters Select The Mummy Action Figure


Order Yours HERE For Only $19.99!

Universal Monsters Select The Mummy Action Figure:

Imhotep, at your service!
Detailed The Mummy Action Figure.
A dusty terror from a bygone era!
Classic Universal Monster.

Imhotep, at your service! Dig deep into the sands of antiquity and you, too, will discover Imhotep the Mummy! Sculpted by legendary monster-sculptor Jean St Jean, with the added artistry of Select regular Rudy Garcia (who, like a craftsman of old, sculpted the Mummy's detailed sarcophagus accessory), this is a dusty terror from a bygone era. This Select version includes an exclusive paint scheme, as well as the detailed accessory. The fans have already spoken, hailing this line as the most detailed and accurate depictions of the classic Universal Monsters ever, and this 7-inch tall rendering of the infamous Mummy is proof positive!

Age: 8+
Size: 7-inches tall

Elvira Mistress of the Dark Model Kit


Order Yours Here For $31.99!

Elvira Mistress of the Dark Model Kit:

Your favorite TV hostess and sexy seductress!
Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.
Model kit includes a sofa, base, and accessories!

Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. What more needs to be said? Your favorite TV hostess, Cassandra Peterson, is here to entertain you in this 1:8 scale model kit that includes a sofa, base, and accessories! The sexy seductress needs paint and glue for final assembly.

Age: 15+
Size: 1:8 scale
Number of Pieces: 60+

Bride of Frankenstein 2 Bride And Monster Model Kit


Order Yours HERE For Only $44.99!

Bride of Frankenstein 2 Bride And Monster Model Kit:

Together forever!
Classic pose from the Bride of Frankenstein 2 movie!
Build and admire!

This Bride of Frankenstein 2, 2-figure set shows off a classic pose from the film of both Bride and Monster. The model kit measures 1:18 scale, sculpted by fan-favorite Jeff Yagher.

Universal Monsters Select Frankenstein Action Figure


Order Yours HERE For Only $19.99!

Universal Monsters Select Frankenstein Action Figure:

One misunderstood giant… Frankenstein!
Mary Shelley's monster is brought to life!
Specialty market limited edition.
Action figure comes with a detailed lab-table accessory!

The monsters are back again! The award-winning Universal Monsters Select line expands its roster of iconic screen legends with perhaps the most sympathetic creature of them all: Frankenstein's Monster. Sculpted by legendary monster sculptor Gabriel Marquez, this 7-inch tall Frankenstein Action Figure comes with the lab table upon which the monster was given life and from which he rose for the first time. Bring Mary Shelley's monster to life in your home!

The fans have already spoken, hailing this line as the most detailed and accurate depiction of the classic Universal Monsters ever, and this 7-inch interpretation of Frankenstein's Monster is proof-positive of Diamond Select's dedication to bringing these iconic monsters to collectors. The specialty market version includes an exclusive paint scheme, as well as a detailed accessory not available to the mass market! Ages 8 and up.

Age: 8+
Size: 7-inches tall

Universal Monsters Select Dracula Action Figure


Order Yours HERE For Only $19.99!

Universal Monsters Select Dracula Action Figure:

Dracula wants to suck your blood!
Count Dracula with a wolf companion at his side.
This movie-monster action figure is sculpted by legend Gabriel Marquez!
Features a hillside gravesite base.
Comes with a detailed accessory not available in the mass market!

The monsters are back! What better way to expand this award-winning Specialty Market Exclusive action figure line than with the most iconic monster of them all, Count Dracula? This awesome line debuted last year with the legendary Creature from the Black Lagoon and The Mummy. What other monster could possibly match such legendary movie-monster royalty? Dracula, of course! Sculpted by legendary monster sculptor Gabriel Marquez, and featuring a hillside gravesite base, this 7-inch tall depiction of the infamous Count Dracula is ready to spread terror with a wolf companion at his side. The Select version includes an exclusive paint scheme, as well as a detailed Wolf accessory not available to the mass market!

The fans have already spoken, hailing this line as the most detailed and accurate depictions of the classic Universal Monsters ever, and this Count Dracula Action Figure is proof-positive of Diamond Select's dedication to bringing these iconic monsters to collectors. Ages 8 and up.

Age: 8+
Size: 7-inches tall

Dracula Bela Lugosi Model Kit


Order Yours HERE For $23.99!

Dracula Bela Lugosi Model Kit:

A vampire's vampire.
Bela Lugosi is Dracula!
Model kit based on the Broadway version of Dracula.
He wants to drink your blood!

A vampire's vampire. Based on the Broadway version of Dracula that starred Bela Lugosi, the iconic vampire that set the standard for all bloodsuckers who followed, this marvelous 1:8 scale model kit comes with a detailed base that replicates the stage props from the show. Fully licensed by the Lugosi estate, it's one model kit that's fun to build and also provides years of future viewing enjoyment! Ages 15 and up.

Licensed by Bela G. Lugosi. Bela Lugosi as "Broadway's Dracula" is neither owned nor licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC.

Age: 15+
Size: 1:8 scale

A Thanksgiving Movie Poster, Trivia And Trailer Extravaganza!

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: IMDB / Wikipedia / Youtube

Happy Thanksgiving monster movie lovers! I know many of you around this great country of ours are getting ready to stuff your faces until you either puke or pass out. Possibly both! I'm right there with ya, I'm looking through my closet large size shirts and elastic waistband pants as we speak ... hmmm .... maybe I should just wear a moo moo like Homer Simpson did?

Enough of my fashion crisis, it's time to get down to the meat and potatoes before we all get down to the meat and potatoes. It's Turkey Day and I've got alot of info here on two of the biggest turkeys you'll ever lay eyes on. I am of course referring to Gappa (The Triphibian Monster ... um ... Monster From A Prehistoric Planet) and the equally gonzo Giant Claw. Two titanic birds that will only rival the one on your diner table.

On Thanksgiving it's all about choices. Turkey or ham? Stuffing or potatoes? Dark meat or white? Ravens or 49ers? Well here at Monster Island News we want to give you all we can so today I have combined our popular "Monstrous Movie Poster", "Movie Trailer" and "Did You Know" features into one giant monster movie cornucopia (or horn of plenty) for you to devour.

First up is Gappa!

History:

Daikyojū Gappa (大巨獣ガッパ, "Gappa, The Colossal Beast") is a 1967 Kaiju film. The film was produced by Nikkatsu Corporation, and was their only foray into the giant monster genre. The foreign sales title for the film was Gappa: The Triphibian Monster, and was dubbed into English (considered the "International Version"). The film was picked up by American International Pictures and released directly to television in the US under their American International Television banner, and retitled Monster from a Prehistoric Planet. This version was one of many films syndicated to broadcasters nationwide by AIP-TV, and became a staple for Horror Hosts on television stations from San Francisco to New York City from the late 1960s through early 1980s.

Did You Know?

There was an urban legend that Nikkatsu's international English prints originally had a racist line, "The monsters are attacking Tokyo. Fortunately they are attacking the Negro section of town." (and that the line was changed). This was untrue.

This film was intended as a lighthearted satire of the daikaiju films of the period. This is one of the reasons the film has come under criticism by many people and kaiju fans. But some of the satire is lost in translated overseas prints.

The film's special effects were provided by Akira Watanabe, who had worked as an art director on many tokusatsu films such as the 1957 Toho sci-fi classic, The Mysterians.

In the Japanese version, the opening credits and ending were accompanied by a Rock & Roll theme song, "Gappa, The Colossal Beast" (the first and second verses, respectively), and the touching reunion scene near the end had a ballad called "Keep Trying, Baby Gappa!". In all overseas prints, the opening and ending songs were replaced with standard orchestral music, and "Keep Trying, Baby Gappa!" was instrumental.

The adult Gappas had a cameo scene in the British comedy/sci fi series Red Dwarf. In episode 6 of series 4, "Meltdown", Arnold Rimmer and Kryten arrive on a planet they will later discover is a giant Waxdroid theme park. After sending the teleporter they used to arrive back to pick up Lister and The Cat, they are forced to flee by the Gappas. Kryten later comments that he's seen more realistic dinosaurs in packets of Wheatie Flakes.

Your Turkey Of A Trailer!



Ready for seconds? Well loosen your belt some more because here comes The Giant Claw!

History:

The Giant Claw is a 1957 science fiction film about a giant bird that terrorizes the world. Produced by Clover Productions under the working title 'Mark of the Claw' and released through Columbia Pictures, it starred Jeff Morrow and Mara Corday, and was directed by Fred F. Sears. The film has been a staple of the bootleg video market with only two official VHS releases (one in the USA through Goodtimes Home Video and the other through Screamtime in the United Kingdom) to date. Columbia Pictures finally released the film officially to DVD in October 2007 as part of the two disc four film set Icons of Horror Collection - Sam Katzman.

Did You Know?

The poster artists were purportedly not shown the puppet nor any other artwork from the film's production and concluded that the monster was a giant eagle or hawk. Thus, the creature in the posters looks nothing like the beast in the film.

Screenwriter Samuel Newman re-used the character name "Dr. Karol Noyman" (here played by Edgar Barrier) for an entirely different character played by John Carradine in the 1959 film Invisible Invaders, which Newman also wrote.

In an interview, star Jeff Morrow said that neither he nor anyone on the film saw the title "monster" until they went to the film's premiere in Morrow's home town. It turned out that producer Sam Katzman had contracted with a low-budget model-maker in Mexico City to construct the "Giant Claw" and no one in the cast or crew had any idea it would come out looking as bizarre and, frankly, laughable as it did. Morrow said that the audience roared with laughter every time the "monster" made an appearance, and he wound up slinking in embarrassment out of the theater before the film was over so that no one who knew him would recognize him.

The producers originally planned to use a stop-motion model created by Ray Harryhausen for the bird. However, due to budgetary limitations they were forced to use a marionette.

A character in the film mistakes the bird for La Carcagne which is alleged in the film to be a monster from French Canadian folklore that resembles a giant woman with a wolf's head and bat-like black wings and which, like the Banshee, is a harbinger of death.

Yes, boys and girls, the monster in this film is a puppet. I know that throughout the history of monster films, puppets have been used very effectively as a cheap alternative to expensive, and time consuming, stop-motion models. Two examples of this are, "The Land That Time Forgot, and the early, "Godzilla" movies. This puppet, however, was not of that quality. This was actually a marionette that looked like it belonged in a "Punch and Judy" show at a carnival.

READ MORE

If you can stomach it ... here is the trailer.



And now if you haven't passed out from titanic trictifan here are some more posters and photos ... sorry no pumpkin pie though:





With these giant turkeys you will have enough left over for sandwiches for a year ... maybe two!

Danger 5: The Diamond Girls (Part One)

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Avery Guerra

I'm certain that "Danger 5" will quickly become one of my weekly guilty pleasures. This series has everything including hot chicks, action, a guy with the head of a bald eagle with a British accent, camp, exploding miniature sets and Nazi dinosaurs. What more could you ask for right? Check out the first episode of the series entitled "The Diamond Girls" above!

What is "Danger 5"? Seriously ... where have you been?

Grumble ... here is a brief synopsis to get ya caught up:

Set in a bizarre, 1960’s inspired version of World War II, action comedy series DANGER 5 follows a team of five spies on a mission to kill Hitler. Danger 5 is the finest group of special operatives the allies have to offer; Jackson from the USA, Tucker from Australia, Ilsa from Russia, Claire from Britain and Pierre from Europe. Each episode Danger 5 unravels another of Hitler’s diabolic schemes and travels across a myriad of exotic locations spanning the globe. The action and offbeat humour never relents as Danger 5 mounts a series of thrilling missions which include discovering Josef Mengele’s perverted Antarctic death circus, busting down Erwin Rommel’s golden murder casino and posing as exotic dancers in an attempt to take out Hitler at his own birthday party.

Did I forget to mention Nazi dinosaurs?

KINGDOM OF THE SPIDERS - Did You Know?

Trivia Compiled By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: IMDB / Wikipedia

Movie trivia can be fun and here at Monster Island News we think of ourselves as fun ... and trivial.

Here are a few little items that you may or may not know about the 1977 creepy crawly movie "Kingdom of the Spiders" which starred William Shatner (post Star Trek).

$50,000 of the movie's budget went towards spiders. The producers offered to pay $10 each for live tarantulas, and handlers collected 5,000 of them.

Tiffany Bolling was cast in the female lead role because she was the only actress who auditioned who had no trouble working with spiders.

Donna Mills auditioned for the female lead, but couldn't do it because she was uncomfortable with spiders.

When Rack Hansen and Diane Ashley arrive at Terry's farm, they get out of Rack's truck and close the doors. A moment later when they rush back with Rack's niece, Linda, the truck doors are open.

At Colby's accident site, the deputy tells the sheriff that an eyewitness was a quarter of a mile behind Colby's truck and saw the accident. However, during earlier wide shots of Colby driving, there was nobody as far as the eye could see on the straight highway.

The stunt driver who hits Mayor Conner misjudged his speed and hit the brakes just as he made contact. Instead of the car taking out the mayor and then careening into the water tower, you can see it stop briefly and then accelerate again to get enough speed to take out the water tower.

The large amount of tarantulas kept on-hand led to some unusual production difficulties. Not only did each spider have to be kept warm, but because of the creatures' cannibalistic tendencies, all 5,000 spiders had to be kept in separate containers. Additionally, tarantulas are usually shy around people, so fans and air tubes often had to be used to get the spiders to walk towards their "victims". Indeed, in a number of the scenes where the tarantulas are "attacking" people, it is obvious to the viewer that the spiders are merely moving around, usually away from their intended victims.

Due to the film's low budget, most of the music used in the film (particularly the "startle cues") was taken from the logs of stock music used on suspense TV series. For example, most of the music used in the film during the scenes with the spiders can also be heard in notable episodes of The Twilight Zone, including "To Serve Man" and "The Invaders", as well as in at least one episode of The Fugitive. The country music songs heard on the radio in the movie, as well as over the opening and closing credits, were performed by country singer Dorsey Burnette.

Although Shatner and Bolling were ostensibly the "stars" of the film, many who have seen it (along with the producers) have said that the movie's "great performances" came from the extras (according to Kantor, usually friends and family of the crew) who were required to stay motionless (since they were supposed to be dead) as several live tarantulas crawled all over them.

It is always entertaining to see how the cast from the original "Star Trek" television series tried to move on after the show got the ax. Many of the cast members continued to look for jobs in the industry. DeForest Kelley starred in the giant rabbit flick "Night of the Lepus" and Walter Koenig actually began writing episodes for TV series, including the "The Stranger", which introduced Enik on "Land of the Lost". Nichelle Nichols, Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner all attempted singing careers, the less said about that the better.

William Shatner, who is the star of today's film, continued to get sporadic work, post Trek, most of which were bit parts in made for TV movies and cult films, like "The Devil's Rain". Probably the most notable of all of these, is the 1977 John "Bud" Cardos horror, "Kingdom of the Spiders."

American horror film makers have always had an attraction to insects, both huge and regular sized. While the Japanese were focusing on dinosaurs, there North American counterparts were playing with bugs. Films like "Them!", "The Deadly Mantis" and "Tarantula" did very well in the 1950s and though the trend ebbed somewhat in the 1960s, by the early 1970s things were back in full swing. "The Giant Spider Invasion" and "Food of the Gods" are two examples of how Hollywood tried to recapture the magic of the prior decades.....and failed.

READ MORE

And now you know!

Heavy Metal Meets Cryptozoology In Troglodyte's "Welcome To Boggy Creek"

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Neandercore Music

It looks as if the Sasquatch movie craze has crossed over into music! Last week I posted an article featuring Kate Bush's new single "Wild Man" which is about the legendary Yeti, today however I can do you one better. The Kansas City, MO based band Troglodyte not only sing songs about Bigfoot but model their look after the monster as well. Their latest CD, entitled "Welcome To Boggy Creek" as an homage to Charles B. Pierces cult film "The Legend of Boggy Creek", features such tracks as "Symphonies of Sasquatch", "Mummified Yeti Hand", "Bring Me the Head of Bigfoot" and "Skunk Ape Rape."

If you ever wondered what Ministry would sound like with Sasquatch as a front man? ... well that kinda sums up Troglodyte.

Here is the bands bio from their Facebook page:

Formed in 2006, TROGLODYTE draws musical influences from the likes of CARCASS, OBITUARY and ORIGIN also finding inspiration from 70's drive-in horror fare such as THE LEGEND OF BOGGY CREEK, THE PIT and NIGHT OF THE DEMON. The band has craved/slashed out it's own niche as the world's first (and only) Bigfoot death-metal band.

Want to find out more? Visit - http://neandercore.com/ or http://www.facebook.com/troglodyteband

The Day the Earth Stood Still Classic Gort Bobble Head

Source: Entertainment Earth

The Day the Earth Stood Still Classic Gort Bobble Head:

Sci-fi classics come to head-bobbling life!
Klaatu barada nikto!
Makes a great gift!

This The Day the Earth Stood Still Classic Gort Bobble Head stands approximately 6-inches tall, not including base, shiny arms outstretched and green eye glowing when his head bobbles! Order yours today!

Age: 5+
Size: 6-inches tall

Order Yours From Entertainment Earth For Only $8.00 - HERE

Holiday Sale For Monster Japan Travel Guide

by Armand Vaquer



Ho! Ho! Ho!

The 2011 holiday season is now upon us. As soon as Halloween ended (maybe even before), the department stores became decked out in Christmas decorations.

Since we are now in the holiday season, I am discounting The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan 20% off the cover price, making the cost of the book $12.00. This special offer is direct from me, not from ComiXpress. So if you want the discount, you'll need to order directly from me.

It is the world's only Japan travel guide tailored to fans of Japanese science-fiction and fantasy films.

Additionally, to even make your holiday dollars go even further, the $12.00 price includes shipping & handling! How's that for getting into the Santa spirit?

From today to December 24 (Christmas Eve), you can get The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan for $12.00 total! Orders postmarked within (and including) those dates will get the discount!

The mailing address can be found here (ignore the price listed on the page).

The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan makes the perfect stocking stuffer for that kaiju fan in your life (or for yourself)!

None of that "politically correct" "Happy Holidays" stuff around here! Here, we say Merry Christmas!

Godzilla Loves Karaoke?

Written By: Ken Hulsey

Remember last week when I talked about movie monster astrological signs and deep emotional feelings?

Well if you really want to see what a typical day in Godzilla's life is like just watch the clip above. It's a classic Japanese TV commercial for a Hitachi VCR.

Who knew Godzilla road the train, shopped at an outdoor market and loves the karaoke? Gosh, he really is just like one of us!

I gotta stop finding this stuff and go to bed.

PEACE!

RODAN - Did You Know?

Trivia Compiled By: Ken Hulsey
Sources: IMDB / Wikipedia

Here is some trivia about one of my all-time favorite monster movies "Rodan":

The original Japanese film's climactic monster invasion was filmed around, and set in, Fukuoka, the largest city on Japan's southernmost island of Kyushu. However, the American version relocated the action in the dubbing to another city in Kyushu, Sasebo, perhaps concerned that their dubbing actors would sorely mispronounce the word "Fukuoka" at inappropriate moments.

Name of the monster in Japan was "Radon". However, because there was a soap by that name in the United States, when dubbed for the US market, they transposed letters and changed the monster's name to "Rodan".

Veteran writer Ken Kuronuma, who wrote the original story for this film, was inspired by an incident in Kentucky in 1948, when Captain Thomas F. Mantell, a pilot for the Kentucky Air National Guard, died in a crash while allegedly pursuing a UFO. (If you want to know more about that read "Classic UFO Case - UFO Shoots Down Air Force Fighter Over Kentucky?")

When Shigeru and Kashiwagi are in the helicopter searching for Rodan, Kashiwagi is wearing a tie and his head isn't bandaged, but when they go to see the planes bombard Rodan's lair Kashiwagi is no longer wearing a tie and the bandage mysteriously reappears. However, the scene of Kashiwagi and Shigeru in the helicopter was actually from later in the picture and was rearranged by the producers of the American version so that it would make it look as if they were starting the search.

In one scene in the control tower at the Japanese AF Base, background footage of planes on the ground can be seen to pause, then run in reverse.

Among the people doing the voice over work for this film are Paul Frees, Keye Luke and a young George Takei.

While shooting the scene in which Rodan flies over the bridge in Saikai Village in Kyushu, the pulley from which Haruo Nakajima (who played the monster) was suspended broke. He fell from a height of twenty-five feet, but the wings and the water, which was about one and a half feet deep, absorbed much of the impact.

Rodan's original Japanese name, Radon, is actually short for the Japanese word for Pteranodon ("Puteranodon").

The King Brothers' theatrical release of Rodan was quite successful in its first run in the United States. It was the first Japanese movie to receive general release on the West Coast to make a strong showing at the box-office. It later received the biggest TV advertising campaign given to a film to that date on New York's NBC flagship station WRCA-TV, where a series of commercials running 10 to 60 seconds were shown for a week before the film's opening.

It grossed an estimated $450,000 to $500,000 during its opening weekend at 79 theaters in the New York City metropolitan area. Several theatrical circuits, including RKO, announced that Rodan broke the records for a science-fiction film.

And now you know!

UFO Earth Base - Video Update 11/19/11

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Youtube

It has been a very long time since I posted anything about UFOs so I decided to go trolling through Youtube to see if I could find any decent video evidence. After about an hour or so I found two that seemed legit in a sea of obvious hoaxes and amateur CGI effects work.

The first is of a group of three lights shot during the daytime. Who shot the video? I don't know. Where was it filmed? I don't know.

Looks pretty legit though ...



This second video again comes from anonymous source but from the title of the clip I can ascertain that it was shot over Sacramento, Ca sometime this month (November 2011). I really like the movement of the object being filmed. I doubt that a plane would attempt such maneuvers over a town and helicopters don't fly like that.

What is it? Your guess is as good as mine.

Oh and since you've been very patient in regards to posts about UFOs I have another mysterious vid for you to think about. Bigfoot's head or another fake?

New Line Cinema Is About To Go On A RAMPAGE

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Fused Film

There are two relatively new trends in Hollywood that are starting to gain some steam, one the reemergence of the giant monster genre and second the development of classic video games into movies. That being said it was only natural that New Line Cinema would opt to combine both with the development of the 80s video game "Rampage" into a feature film.

For those of you too young to remember "Rampage" is a rather simple video game where the player controls one of three giant monsters, one a Godzilla-like dinosaur, another a giant Kong inspired gorilla and lastly a werewolf who begin as normal humans that mutate. The three giant creatures can smash the crap out of buildings, stomp on tanks and swat planes out of the sky for points. The more you smash the higher the score. Need more energy ... just munch on some screaming townspeople.

Not really much there, except possibly conceptually, for a movie plot. Then again you could get the same inspiration from any of a hundred monster movies made from 1930 on.

John Rickard (Horrible Bosses and Final Destination 5) is in line to produce the film which New Line wants to be something like "Ghostbusters and Independence Day". In other words a comedy about three people who mutate into giant monsters and blow up the White House ... or something along those lines.

History:

Rampage is a 1986 arcade game by Bally Midway. Players take control of gigantic monsters trying to survive against onslaughts of military forces. Each round is completed when a particular city is completely reduced to rubble.

Up to three simultaneous players control the monsters George (a King Kong-like gorilla), Lizzie (a Godzilla-like dinosaur/lizard), or Ralph (a giant werewolf), created from mutated humans. When they were humans, George was a normal middle aged man, Lizzie was a young woman, and Ralph was an elderly man. They were experimented on at Scumlabs. As monsters, they need to raze all buildings in a high-rise city to advance to the next level, eating people and destroying helicopters, tanks, taxis, police cars, boats, and trolleys along the way.

Monsters can jump and climb buildings, and punch enemies and buildings. Buildings also take damage when jumped on by a monster. The player's monster receives damage from enemy bullets, grenades, shells and so forth, and from falls. Damage is recovered by eating appropriate food such as fruit, roast chicken, or soldiers. If a monster takes too much damage, it reverts back into a naked human and starts walking off the screen sideways, covering its genitals with its hands. While in this state, the player can be eaten by another player. If the player continues, the human mutates back into the monster, or flies in on a blimp if off-screen, with a full life bar.

Smashing open windows generally reveals an item or person of interest, which may be helpful or harmful. Helpful items include food or money. Dangerous ones include bombs, electrical appliances, and cigarettes. Some items can be both; for example, a toaster is dangerous until the toast pops up, and a photographer must be eaten quickly before he dazzles the player's monster with his flash, causing it to fall. When a civilian is present waving their hands out a window signaling for help, a player's points meter rapidly increments when the civilian is grabbed. Each player can hold only one type of person: George can hold women, Lizzy can hold men, and Ralph can hold businessmen.

Rampage is set over the course of 128 days in cities across North America. The game starts in Peoria, Illinois and ends in Plano, Illinois. In Plano, players receive a "mega vitamin bonus" which heals all the monsters and provides a large point bonus. After this, the cycle of cities repeats five times. After 768 days, the game resets back to Day 1. - From Wikipedia

Godzilla by any other name ...

Munsters Select Herman, Lily And Grandpa Munster Action Figures

Source: Entertainment Earth

Munsters Select Lily Munster Action Figure:

Classic Munsters for your collection!
Everyone's favorite TV family of comedy-horror: The Munsters.
Lily Munster comes with a Build-an-Electric-Chair piece!

TV's first family of comedy-horror: The Munsters. Sculpted by the legendary Jean St. Jean, this 7-inch tall Lily Munster Action Figure features a selection of accessories, as well as a piece of the specialty-market exclusive Build-an-Electric-Chair not available to the mass market! Ages 8 and up.

Whether you're an old codger who remembers when TV shows weren't always broadcast in color or you're a recent convert thanks to reruns on Nick at Night, who doesn't laugh out loud at the frighteningly funny exploits of Herman and Lily Munster, and Lily's father, Grandpa "Sam" Dracula?

Age: 8+
Size: 7-inches tall



Munsters Select Grandpa Munster Action Figure:

Classic Munsters for your collection!
Everyone's favorite TV family of comedy-horror: The Munsters.
Grandpa Munster comes with a Build-an-Electric-Chair piece!

TV's first family of comedy-horror: The Munsters. Sculpted by the legendary Jean St. Jean, this 7-inch tall Grandpa Munster Action Figure features a selection of accessories, as well as a piece of the specialty-market exclusive Build-an-Electric-Chair not available to the mass market! Ages 8 and up.

Whether you're an old codger who remembers when TV shows weren't always broadcast in color or you're a recent convert thanks to reruns on Nick at Night, who doesn't laugh out loud at the frighteningly funny exploits of Herman and Lily Munster, and Lily's father, Grandpa "Sam" Dracula?

Age: 8+
Size: 7-inches tall



Munsters Select Herman Munster Action Figure:

Classic Munsters for your collection!
Everyone's favorite TV family of comedy-horror: The Munsters.

TV's first family of comedy-horror: The Munsters. Sculpted by the legendary Jean St. Jean, this 8 1/2-inch tall Herman Munster Action Figure features a selection of accessories, as well as a piece of the specialty-market exclusive Build-an-Electric-Chair not available to the mass market! Ages 8 and up.

Whether you're an old codger who remembers when TV shows weren't always broadcast in color or you're a recent convert thanks to reruns on Nick at Night, who doesn't laugh out loud at the frighteningly funny exploits of Herman and Lily Munster, and Lily's father, Grandpa "Sam" Dracula?

Age: 8+
Size: 8 1/2-inches tall

Order From Entertainment Earth For $19.99 Each:

Munsters Select Herman Munster Action Figure
Munsters Select Lily Munster Action Figure
Munsters Select Grandpa Munster Action Figure

Godzilla 6 1/2-Inch Action Figure Wave 2 Set

Source: Entertainment Earth

Godzilla 6 1/2-Inch Action Figure Wave 2 Set:

Collectible Godzilla!
Godzilla with articulation!
Godzilla invades your collection!

This Godzilla action figure wave 2 set contains 6 individually packaged figures (subject to change):
1x Gigan
1x Godzilla 1968
1x Mecha Godzilla 1st
1x Gigan Clear Version
1x Godzilla 1968 Clear Version
1x Mecha Godzilla 1st Clear Version

Each figure measures approximately 6 1/2-inches tall. Ages 4 and up.

Order The Whole Set From Entertainment Earth For $64.99 - HERE

Compelling New Bigfoot Video AWOL For Now

Written By: Ken Hulsey
Source: Bigfoot Evidence

I was hoping to begin today's postings with a brand new video of Bigfoot that reportedly is quite compelling, however that video has now been taken down.

As the story goes a life-long Bigfoot researcher named Larry Surface has been setting up his video camera in strategic locations where he believed the elusive creature had been lurking. Last week he got his money shot when allegedly the beast walked right in front of the camera. Here is a description of what happened from Larry's website "Bigfoot Evidence":

"Success at last!! After many months of patient waiting, I caught a Bigfoot on Video! Those who have followed my blog may remember that I said it would be necessary to use moon light without any infrared lighting, well that has been the case.

The star of the video however, did not follow the script. I expected him to come from the woods in the background, and had the focus set for about 50 yards. But he/she appeared suddenly right in front of the camera at 2 or 3 feet, and backlighted by the moon, both of which prevented a clear view of the face. And the resolution of this video is reduced to make a more manageable upload.

The subject passed in front of the camera and apparently peered around the corner where the cats are fed, either looking for cat food or a cat, then turned and went back the way it came.

The color of the body fur appears white in the video, but it may be a light brown or tan
highlighted by the moon light. I will attempt to do some follow up testing to determine what colors look like in the green night vision. Also will do some follow up photos to determine the size.But I get the impression that it is not very large.

Skeptics, don't bother to send me your claims of fakery, I won't waste my time arguing, if you don't believe, that is your problem. But I want to present this to the ones who have followed me and been supportive."

Apparently Sasquatch was ready for his closeup.

It was soon after that initial post that Surface took down the video in hopes of cleaning it up a bit:

"Sorry, I have to pull the video for now. But have patience, I will in the meantime get it enhanced as much as possible and it will come back better than ever."

Immediately after the video was pulled down the skeptics went on the war path posting remarks accusing Surface of trying to pull off a hoax. Apparently the comments really were very mean spirited, so much so in fact that the researcher has opted to keep his video to himself until the heat dies down:

"The critics have beaten me down. I guess they can celebrate now. But one of my lifetime goals has been achieved, I have gathered enough evidence to prove to myself that the "Wild Man"exists. That is in the form of track casts, audio files, dna, and a video sighting. My mistake was in trying to share it with everyone. Although the comments were 90% enthusiastically supportive, that changed when I pulled the video for reasons which will have to remain unspecified. After that, the pack used it as amunition to support their claims of fakery.

To one who has spent his life truthfully, and now in weak health, it is just too much to put up with. Life is too short.

The video will come out again when the time is right. I won't post anything else here. I may post on facebook where I can block out the ignorant.

Thanks again to all the supporters."

If Surface's video shows what he claims than the researcher may have the best video evidence of Sasquatch to surface since the famous Patterson footage was shot way back in 1967. It's too bad that he has let the words of a few skeptics influence his thinking and prevent the rest of us from getting a chance to view this new evidence and draw our own conclusions.

Is this new footage really Bigfoot? It will be impossible to know for sure and I'm not saying that it is or isn't. It could either be great new evidence or another of a long line of hoaxes. Hopefully someday Surface will change his mind and release his video so that we can forge our own opinion on it's validity.

ARMY OF DARKNESS To Return To Comics In February 2012!

Source: Dynamite Entertainment Press Release

Written by Elliot Serrano and drawn by Marat Mychaels, with covers by Tim Seeley and Marat Mychaels, Army of Darkness returns to comics with a new #1 next February 2012! In issue #1, A new chapter in the Army of Darkness saga begins! As the evil of the Necronomicon spreads across the cosmos, a new ally in the war against the Deadites emerges. Who is the woman named "Ash" and what relation does she have to "The Chosen One" Ashley J. Williams? And who is the alien Deadite creature who follows her across time and space? The answers lie deep within the pyramids of ancient Egypt...in a parallel universe! The adventures of everyone's favorite chainsaw swinging, boom-stick wielding hero continue! Be sure to get Army of Darkness in February, 2012!

"With the relaunch of the Army of Darkness series, we're hoping to take the story of Ashley J. Williams' struggle against the forces of the Necronomicon in interesting new directions, while remaining faithful to the spirit of the original film," says writer Elliot Serrano. "We're going to meet new characters, face bigger baddies and explore what it truly means to be the 'Chosen One' in the AOD universe. Starting with Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell, so many talented people have contributed to the AOD mythos - not only in the movies but also in comics and video games - and living up to their efforts has been a real challenge. But I'm also drawing inspiration from those creators who've gone before me. As a HUGE AOD fan myself, I'm trying to tell a story that I would love to read myself!"

"I have had a chance to work on a lot of very cool projects through the years, but working on Army of Darkness with Elliot Serrano has been one of the best," adds artist Marat Mychaels. "Having a chance to add to the AOD mythology is very creatively satisfying."

The Evil Dead is a trilogy of horror films created by Sam Raimi. The films focus on the protagonist, Ashley "Ash" J. Williams, played by Bruce Campbell, who deals with "deadites", which are undead antagonists created by the Necronomicon Ex-Mortis. Released in 1992, Army of Darkness is the last film in the franchise so far, taking Ash back in time to England in 1300 AD.

Join the conversation on Twitter with #ArmyOfDarkness

More On Upcoming Issues Of GODZILLA LEGENDS From IDW

Source: IDW

Here is the latest on the upcoming issues of "Godzilla Legends" from IDW Publishing:

IDW Publishing is proud to launch the first issue in a new mini-series, GODZILLA LEGENDS. The series features five self-contained stories, each centering on one of Godzilla's fearsome foes. Beginning with Anguirus in issue #1, each issue focuses on a Toho monster that has never been closely examined in comics—ever! Through its action-packed run, GODZILLA LEGENDS will treat readers to all-new stories of Anguirus, Rodan, Titanosaurus, Hedorah and Kumonga, each spotlighting in their own issue. This miniseries will also offer stunning interconnected covers by Arthur Adams.

In GODZILLA LEGENDS #1, drawn and co-written by Matt Frank, Anguirus, the perpetual underdog, goes toe-to-toe with one of the most devastating monsters of all time-Destoroyah! This is a classic tale of David vs. Goliath... monster style! Writers Jeff Prezenkowski and Matt Frank keep readers on the edge of their seats throughout the entire issue. Readers are encouraged to ask their retailers about a variant Matt Frank cover, as well as a unique hand-sketched Matt Frank cover.

The action continues with GODZILLA LEGENDS #2, coming in December. Writer Jonathan Vankin and artist Simon Gane create a sure-fire hit featuring the master of the skies—the mighty Rodan!

Godzilla: Legends #2
Jonathin Vankin (w) • Simon Gane (a) • Chris Scalf, Arthur Adams (c)

The spotlights on Godzilla’s greatest foes and allies continue! This issue focuses on the master of the skies— the mighty Rodan! When Rodan's egg is stolen and kept at military research facility, the winged beast is tireless in its attempts to retrieve it. However, the human intrigue and betrayal inside the facility will ultimately hold the key to whether Rodan and child will be reunited again!

In January, Titanosaurus headlines his very own comic, courtesy of writer Mike Raicht and artist Tony Parker for GODZILLA LEGENDS #3. February brings GODZILLA LEGENDS #4 and the first-ever fight between Hedorah and Mechagodzilla, with writer Chris Mowry and artist E.J. Su. This epic series closes in March when the government asks renowned, retired adventurer Bryson Allworth to do the impossible – climb Godzilla! Helmed by writer Bobby Curnow with artist Dean Haspiel, GODZILLA LEGENDS #5 is a fittingly thrilling end to this must-have series.

Each issue will feature covers by renowned Godzilla artists. In addition to the interconnecting, series-long covers by Adams, Bob Eggleton will create covers for issues 1, 3 and 5, with covers from Chris Scalf for issues 2 and 4.


Godzilla Legends #1 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is available in stores on November 16th. Diamond order code: SEP11 0286.

Godzilla Legends #2 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is available in stores in December. Diamond order code: OCT11 0349.

Godzilla Legends #3 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is available in stores in January. Diamond order code: NOV11 0310.

Godzilla Legends #4 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is available in stores in February 2012.

Godzilla Legends #5 ($3.99, 32 pages, full color) is available in stores in March 2012.

Hey There Monster What's Your Sign?

Written By: Ken Hulsey

Yesterday I wrote a very well received article about a humorous new book called "Sad Monsters: Growling on the Outside, Crying on the Inside" which deals with depression in movie monsters and cryptids. Upon reading said article one of my true-blue fans (yes, I'm talking about you Hollie Heimbecker Ransom) suggested that I look a little deeper into why monsters are ... are ... monsters. Depressed ones at that. Hollie suggested that astrology may hold the answers to just why these creatures act and feel as they do.

Interesting idea!

Just one problem, to accurately get a reading from the stars you need to use a birthday. Do movie monsters have a birthday? No, not as such.

I then began to ponder just how to get around that tiny little detail. Ideally the day that a monster was first conceived, that is to say, first imagined, sketched, or brought to a movie studios attention would be ideal, but who the hell knows when that was. Instead I have opted to use the release date from the first movie any given monster appeared in.

There is a lot that goes into astrology in regards to personality and behavior, way too much for me to post about here. To get right to the point I'm only going to list the attributes on the darker side. The stuff that makes monsters monstrous.

I know that there are hundreds if not thousands of cinematic creatures out there so I'm only going to touch on the six most popular.

Godzilla (November 3, 1954) - Scorpio

"...charismatic "twice-born" characters such as they can sink into the extremes of depravity if they take the wrong path, and the intensity of their nature exaggerates their harmful tendencies into vices far greater than the normal.

Rebelliousness against all conventions, political extremism to the point where hatred of the Establishment makes them utterly unscrupulous terrorists. Brooding resentment, aggressive and sadistic brutality, total arrogance, morbid jealousy, extreme volatility of temperament, these are some of their vices.."

Duh...um he loves to stomp cities flat and kicks the crap out of any other critter who wanders into his turf!

King Kong (April 7, 1933) - Aries

"...Mentally Arians are intellectual and objective, but can be in rare situations bigoted and extremist in religion and politics. They are good champions of lost causes and last-ditch resistance. They are quick-witted but sometimes foolhardy and over optimistic, lacking thoroughness and the ability to evaluate difficulties in the undertakings into which they often rush impulsively. The great need of Aries natives is to exercise an iron self-control, to discipline the qualities and tendencies of their character to the advantage, not the detriment, of the society in which they move."

Kong .... impulsive? Nah, he just grabbed a girl and shimmied up the first building he could find.

Ah, but Kong is also a lover!

"..In your personal relationships Arians are frank, direct and candid, and make enthusiastic and generous friends. You are liable to have a high sex drive and make passionate but fastidious lovers. There is, however, a negative side to your associations with other people. You can easily be irritated by slowness or moderation in your companions..."

Ann Darrow was taking too long so he kidnapped her!

Creature From The Black Lagoon (March 5, 1954) - Pisces

The sign of the fish ... are you kidding me?

"... Their natures tend to be too otherworldly for the practical purposes of living in this world as it is. They sometimes exist emotionally rather than rationally, instinctively more than intellectually (depending on how they are aspected). They long to be recognized as greatly creative. They also dislike disciple and confinement. The nine-to-five life is not for them. Any rebellion they make against convention is personal, however, as they often times do not have the energy or motivation to battle against the Establishment."

Hence the reason why he lived alone in the swamp.

The Wolf Man (December 12, 1941) - Sagittarius

"...The vices to which Sagittarians are prone are anger they tend to flare up over trifles; impatience - they want to rush every new project through immediately and demand too much of colleagues who cannot work at the pace they require; and scorn of the inadequacies of others while expecting fulsome recognition of their own efforts. They may in one sense deserve recognition, because in completing a major project they will sacrifice their health and family relationships; in their family's eyes they may merit condemnation.

They can be exacting, domineering and inconsiderate in the work place; and boastful, vulgar and extravagant in their private lives. Their restlessness, if excessive, can jeopardize more than their own stability. some Sagittarians risk becoming playboys, wasting their lives away in frivolous pursuits. Others can develop a moralizing, religious fanaticism or else turn into hypocrites, their inner prudishness disguised by an outward appearance of joviality. Another side of the religiosity which is a danger in Sagittarians is superstition."

Every full moon he turns into an animal chasing chicks and killing gypsies. Superstitious ... oh yeah! If he sees a pentagram in someone's palm he goes nuts!

Frankenstein (November 21, 1931) - Scorpio

"...Scorpios are the most intense, profound, powerful characters in the zodiac. Even when they appear self-controlled and calm there is a seething intensity of emotional energy under the placid exterior. They are like the volcano not far under the surface of a calm sea, it may burst into eruption at any moment. But those of us who are particularly perceptive will be aware of the harnessed aggression, the immense forcefulness, magnetic intensity, and often strangely hypnotic personality under the tranquil, but watchful composure of Scorpio. In conventional social gatherings they are pleasant to be with, thoughtful in conversation, dignified, and reserved, yet affable and courteous; they sometimes possess penetrating eyes which make their shyer companions feel naked and defenseless before them."

Yep good old Frankie was always calm on the outside but ya always knew something was brewing under the surface.

Dracula (February 14, 1931) - Aquarius

"...the faults to which they are liable are fanatical eccentricity, wayward egotism, excessive detachment and an inclination to retreat from life and society, and a tendency to be extremely dogmatic in their opinions. Aquarians can be a threat to all they survey or a great boon for humanity in general. Circumstances - for example, continuous opposition to a cause they hold dear - may cause the atrophy of the openness of mind that is one of the Aquarian's most attractive traits. They may express a lack of integrity in broken promises, secretiveness or cunning. Simmering anger and resentment, rudeness or, worse, a tense, threatening silence which may suddenly burst out in eruptions of extreme temper, these are all part of the negative side of the Aquarian. This can also reveal itself in a sustained hatred for enemies that is capable of enlarging itself into a misanthropy toward the whole of mankind."

An eccentric egomaniac that shuns society that only emerges to feast on the living. Sounds like a vampire to me!

Information on astrological signs provide by Astrology Online!