"Marco!” How many of you responded with, “Polo?” Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they have a nice visit with Mario Bava and Daria Nicolodi in Shock (1977), where nobody says, “Polo.”
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 133 – Shock (1977)
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A couple is terrorized in their new house haunted by the vengeful ghost of the woman's former husband, who possesses their young son.
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This one is Bill’s pick and even though he is a super Bava-fan, it slipped by him for a while due to the title change from Shock to Beyond the Door II. When he eventually viewed it, he realized it was missing Bava’s bold use of colors but still contained impressive small touches that identified the film as his, even with a minuscule budget and a small cast. Chad enjoyed Shock, especially the Bava moments, but laments it being his last film, wishing the director had gone out on a higher note. For Jeff, this is definitely Daria Nicolodi’s film and the last 15-20 minutes of bizarreness made it all worthwhile. Doc, while pointing out its unevenness, goes on to say Shock is definitely for Bava fans and fans of drive-in movies with the film playing like the third movie on a drive-in bill.
You Bava completists and 70s drive-in movie fans out there need to check out Shock. At the time of this writing, the film is available for streaming from Shudder and Amazon Prime.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (1974), chosen by Chad! Be sure to join us for some Kaiju fun.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"You come to me with a hospital I can't find and a doctor that nobody knows and a kidnapped girl who doesn't exist. Go get Aladdin's lamp and make your three wishes come true. Then we can talk.” Uhh, does that make sense to you? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they add another William Girdler notch to their belts as they take on his first movie, Asylum of Satan (1972).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 132 – Asylum of Satan (1972)
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A young woman finds herself held against her will in an eerie mental asylum by the sinister "Dr. Specter" and his masculine-looking assistant, Martine. She begins to suspect that the visions of horror she experiences are not nightmares and that she is due to be sacrificed to The Evil One.
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William Girdler’s Asylum of Satan is truly a sight to behold. When Chad finally got to the end and saw the devil, he thought it was just one of the cult leaders wearing a rubber mask. Even so, some of the effects were unsettling enough to give him the creeps despite the film’s low budget. Asylum of Satan is a really, really, rough movie that is poorly written and poorly acted according to Jeff, but you can still see the promise of an eye for creating disturbing shots. Bill confirms that it is not a good movie but he did like Charles Kissinger’s double, nay, triple role which at first, he was unable to spot. Doc is all aboard the it’s-a-bad-movie train but for him, it feels like quintessential, 70s, drive-in movie fare and he found a kind of charm to Asylum of Satan.
In the final analysis, the 70s Grue-Crew says, hey, Asylum of Satan is William Girdler’s first film!! You know you want to, even must, watch it, Grue-Believers! The Power of The Black Saint Compels You!
At the time of this writing, Asylum of Satan is available to stream on Amazon Prime so head on over and check it out. You can also check out these episodes of the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast on other William Girdler films:
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Shock (1972), Mario Bava’s last film and starring Daria Nicolodi. Be sure to join the Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew for that one!
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"Gargoyles are a scientific fact. And they're no more dangerous than a high school dropout on a motorcycle.” Well, maybe they’re a little more dangerous than a high school dropout on a motorcycle. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they learn from Uncle Willie that there were real-life models for all of those stone sculptures perched on buildings and known as Gargoyles (1972).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 131 – Gargoyles (1972)
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An anthropologist/paleontologist and his daughter, while traveling through the southwestern U.S., stumble upon a colony of living, breathing gargoyles.
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Gargoyles premiered November 21, 1972, on CBS and is one of a handful of TV-movie, horror gems that were broadcast in the 1970s. Jeff is impressed with how well laid out the story is and loves that all the gargoyles look different. Bill loves the cast and thinks the gargoyle costumes are amazing, especially considering the budget and that it’s Stan Winston’s first film credit. For Chad, the true test is that it still gives him the same feels as when he first watched it as a kid. Doc recounts how the jumping, leaping creatures made a huge impression and he is really impressed at how good Gargoyles is.
At the time of this writing, Gargoyles is available to stream on Amazon Prime and as physical media on a German import DVD. If you haven’t seen this one for a while, the time might be right for you to rectify that condition. The 1970s Grue-Crew give Gargoyles an enthusiastic thumbs up!
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Asylum of Satan (1972), directed by none other than William Girdler. Be sure to join the Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew for that one!
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"What unit are you with? Why are you here? Why are you doing this to us?” That’s stuff you’d want to know if the military showed up to take over your town, right? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they take some time off from today’s world of crazies to visit the world of George A. Romero’s The Crazies (1973).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 130 – The Crazies (1973)
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The military attempts to contain a manmade combat virus that causes death and permanent insanity in those infected, as it overtakes a small Pennsylvania town.
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Though not one of Romero’s best films, The Crazies has plenty to offer. Back in the day, Chad thought it was a strange movie for Romero to make but does like some of the ideas presented and finds it interesting. Bill loves the scene with the knitting lady and thinks of The Crazies as a stopgap between Night of the Living Dead (1968) and Dawn of the Dead. For Jeff, The Crazies is one of those movies that has a lot more to offer on the second and third viewings. This is the first watch for Doc and he thinks that with all the messages and opinions within The Crazies, it must be watched with an eye on when it was made.
So, yeah, it has its faults, but your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew say, “Hey! It’s Romero! The Crazies is required viewing!” At the time of this writing, The Crazies is available to stream on The Criterion Channel and Amazon Prime and as physical media on a Blu-ray disc from Arrow Video.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be the classic 1972 CBS TV-movie Gargoyles, starring Cornell Wilde, Jennifer Salt, and Bernie Casey, featuring special effects work by Stan Winston in his first credit.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"I'm not afraid... I even left my crucifix upstairs.” Oh-oh. Big mistake. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they go vampire hunting and find one in Grave of the Vampire (1972).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 129 – Grave of the Vampire (1972)
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Kroft, a legendary vampire, returns from sleep. Kroft attacks a couple in a graveyard, raping the woman. The child born feeds only on blood from his mother's breast.
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Grave of the Vampire is a lesser-known vampire film from the 1970s with aspects that make it worth a watch. Bill identifies Michael Pataki’s character as the most sleazy and detestable vampire ever, even making the vampire in Vampire Circus look like a debonair man about town. Chad hated Grave of the Vampire when he saw it back in the day and he still hates it, wearing out the 10-second fast forward button while he was watching. Agreeing that the movie lacks execution in many areas, Jeff also points out the violence and the number of kills. Doc didn’t care much for it when he saw Grave of the Vampire in the 1970s, but the film is now one of the many 70s horror films he classifies as guilty pleasures.
If you skipped Grave of the Vampire in the past due to the poor visual quality, you might want to think about giving it another shot based on the improved look of current versions. As of this writing, the movie is available on physical media as a Blu-ray from Scream Factory and can be viewed streaming on Amazon Prime and Epix.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be George Romero’s The Crazies (1973), chosen by Chad.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"There was no body because there was no murder!" Of course, if you say it often enough, it becomes a bit hypnotizing. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they try to keep their eyes on the aforementioned body in Brian De Palma’s Sisters (1972).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 128 – Sisters (1972)
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A small-time reporter tries to convince the police she saw a murder in the apartment across from hers.
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Your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew take on their fourth film directed by Brian De Palma after having first covered The Fury (1978, Ep 35), Phantom of the Paradise (1974, Ep 40), and Carrie (1976, Ep 42). This time, their topic is De Palma's Sisters (1972). Jeff picked this one and reveals that it plays to his fear of being committed to a psychiatric facility and not being able to get out. Chad recognizes some Hitchcock influences and enjoys seeing Margot Kidder give a well-played performance. De Palma’s use of split screens catches Bill’s attention as he points out how in Sisters, the technique makes a lot of sense and adds to the telling of the story. Doc finds Sisters to be a very competent first thriller from De Palma, and even though he is not a fan of hers, he thinks she does a good job here. Of course, you can’t forget Bernard Herrmann’s score either.
If you haven’t seen Sisters, it is definitely worth your time. At this writing, it is available to stream on HBOmax and The Criterion Channel and on physical media as a Blu-ray disc from Criterion.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. The film for their next episode, chosen by Bill, is Grave of the Vampire (1972), starring William Smith and written by David Chase.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"Spewed from intergalactic space to clutch the planet earth in its ... terror tentacles!” Surely you’re speaking of a giant kisslip cuttlefish! Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they sail to a mystical atoll in the Pacific that is under attack by the Space Amoeba (1970), aka Yog: Monster of Space!
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 127 – Space Amoeba (1970, Yog: Monster from Space)
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A space probe is infiltrated by alien beings and then crashes on a remote Pacific atoll. A group planning to build a resort hotel land on the island and discover it to be inhabited by giant mutant monsters created by the aliens in an attempt to conquer the world.
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For your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew, the operative word for Space Amoeba is “fun!” Chad, Bill, and Doc are big Kaiju fans, while in comparison, Jeff is relatively inexperienced. Even so, their comments are pretty universal regarding Yog: Monster from Space. Chad says the sillier the better and if you want silly, you got it with Space Amoeba. According to Bill, it’s not great, but how can you not have fun with big rubber monsters slapping each other. Doc wonders aloud if it is good and then answers his own question: technically no, but it sure is a lot of fun. Jeff agrees with the rest of the crew on how fun Space Amoeba is and he manages to learn something as well as Bill schools him on the difference between amphibians and reptiles.
As long as you’re not looking for a Godzilla (1954) type kaiju film and are out for some good clean fun, your 70s Grue-Crew recommends Space Amoeba. At the time of this writing, the film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Brian De Palma’s Sisters (1988), chosen by Jeff.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"We have to convince the little housewife out there that the tomato that ate the family pet is not dangerous!” So you’re saying it’s a marketing problem? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they wade through the tomato pulp & schlock that is Attack of the Killer Tomatoes (1978).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 126 – Attack of the Killer Tomatoes! (1978)
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A group of scientists band together to save the world from mutated killer tomatoes.
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You knew your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew was going to get to Attack of the Killer Tomatoes sooner or later, and Chad made sure it was sooner. Chad was told it was a horror comedy and discovered it was neither a horror film or a comedy. Despite it being idiotic and dumb, it still holds a special place in his heart. For Jeff, Attack of the Killer Tomatoes is a dish best eaten in small servings. The theme song is the best part for Bill. Otherwise, he uses words like terrible, lame, and cringy to describe the film. Doc hated Attack of the Killer Tomatoes and still does and thinks ultimately, it can only be appreciated in its complete cult classic-ness.
The Grue-Crew is understandably divided on this episode’s film, but for lovers of Attack of the Killer Tomatoes or maybe just the cult-film-curious, as of this writing, it can be streamed on Amazon Prime or as physical media on Blu-ray fro MVD Rewind.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Pumpkinhead (1988), chosen by Crystal.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"Sleep on, my sweet Victoria, for regal claws of noble birds guard well your place of rest. For those poor fools that dare intrude, the penalty is death.” Even so, intrude they shall. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they take the resurrection train to see Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 125 – Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972)
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The vengeful doctor rises again, seeking the Scrolls of Life in an attempt to resurrect his deceased wife.
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Dr, Phibes Rises Again is director Robert Fuest’s follow-up to The Abominable Dr. Phibes and some think it is an example of that rare sequel that is better than its predecessor. Bill saw Dr. Phibes Rises Again first and favors it over the first Phibes film, saying it was Saw before Saw came along. Chad dubs himself a big Phibes Fan and points out the personal tension evident between Vincent Price and Robert Quarry in the movie. The original Phibes movie is Jeff’s favorite but he loves the comic interplay between Superintendent Waverly and Inspector Trout in this one. Doc first saw both Phibes films as a double feature and he digs Dr. Phibes Rises Again best and thinks the kills are a little more fun. In the end, he likes them best as a pair.
Of course, the 70s Grue-Crew highly recommends Dr. Phibes Rises Again. At this writing, it is available to stream on Amazon Prime and on Blu-ray disc in The Vincent Price Collection II from Scream Factory.
Be sure to check out Decades of Horror 1970s Episode 39 The Abominable Dr. Phibes.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Attack of the Killer Tomatoes (1978).
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"If you knew what was in that book, you'd turn to jelly! It's not meant for worms like you!” Doesn’t that make you want to read it even more? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they give their unforced perspective on the legendary film, Equinox (1970).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 124 – Equinox (1970)
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Four friends are attacked by a demon while on a picnic, due to possession of a tome of mystic information. Told in flashbacks by the sole survivor.
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A group of people with little or no experience decided to make a movie and they called it Equinox. What they did know how to do were special effects and stop motion animation. The people who worked on it became some of the most legendary special effects artists in movies and had shelves of Oscars to prove it. Bill even calls it one of the greatest movies ever made, professing it changed his life. Jeff gets into the differences between the original cut and the longer theatrical version with the additional footage that was shot. The whole idea of a book opening the door into the unknown intrigued Chad and he loves Equinox! Doc was not impressed the first time he saw the film but came to really respect the forced perspective and the stop motion animation elements.
The more the 70s Grue-Crew talks about Equinox, the more they are rendered dumbstruck by the cutting edge nature of the special and visual effects and they give it their highest recommendation. If you haven’t seen it, please do so now!
As of this writing, it is currently available to stream on HBOmax, the Criterion Channel, and Kanopy. Equinox is also currently available on physical media from Criterion.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972).
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"The hand crawls... the hand threatens... the hand LIVES!!” The next thing you’ll tell us is the hand has blood on its hands. Wait. Does that sound right? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they wander through the crawling-hand world of And Now the Screaming Starts! (1973).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 123 – And Now the Screaming Starts! (1973)
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England, 1795: the young Catherine has just married Charles Fengriffen and moves into his castle. She becomes the victim of an old curse that lays on the family. On her wedding night, she is raped by a ghost and gets pregnant.
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Despite the immortal cricket living in Jeff’s basement, chirping along throughout the episode, the 1970s Grue-Crew have fun with the Amicus Production of And Now the Screaming Starts! Bill loves the cast, especially Ian Ogilvy and Stephanie Beacham, and bemoans the late entry of Peter Cushing and the even later entry of Herbert Lom. Despite the disembodied crawling hand showing up in the first ten minutes, Chad made it all the way through the film and like Bill, thinks it’s an “okay” film. Jeff kind of likes this film; despite its inconsistencies, he does get some frights. Of course, Doc always appreciates a Peter Cushing film and swears he forgot it was a “hand” film.
Your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew thinks this is worth the watch for the cast if for nothing else. At this writing, And Now the Screaming Starts! Is available to stream on Amazon and on Blu-ray disc from Severin. (Jeff is ordering the Blu-ray.)
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be the infamous Equinox (1970).
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"I'm telling you, and I'm telling everybody at this table that that's a shark! And I know what a shark looks like because I've seen one up close. And you'd better do something about this one because I don't intend to go through that hell again!” It must not be safe to go back in the water. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they foolishly go back in the water anyway for Jaws 2 (1978).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 122 – Jaws 2 (1978)
Police chief Brody must protect the citizens of Amity after a second monstrous shark begins terrorizing the waters.
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The Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew has a mixed reaction to Jaws 2. Chad really missed the Matt Hooper character but loved Roy Schieder’s performance and enjoys the film tremendously. On the other hand, Bill thinks Jaws 2 creates the template for disappointing sequels but having said that, points out that it is the best Jaws sequel and is still entertaining. Jeff enjoyed the film but had problems with the logic of some of its stories. The urgency of the original was missing in Jaws 2, according to Doc, and he was horribly disappointed with it.
The Grue-Crew is a bit split on Jaws 2 but, hey, it’s still the best Jaws sequel. At this writing, it is available on Blu-ray in a variety of packaging and is streaming on HBO max.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be And Now the Screaming Starts! (1974), directed by Roy Ward Baker and starring Peter Cushing, Stephanie Beachem, Ian Ogilvy, Patrick Magee, and Herbert Lom.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"She eats unmarried young girls. It is the only time she can wear her wedding gown.” Cool! Sounds like a great place to spend your summer vacation. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they ride the bus to Auntie’s and try to avoid the cat with the laser eyes in House (1977).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 121 – House (Hausu, 1977)
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A schoolgirl and six of her classmates travel to her aunt's country home, which turns out to be haunted.
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Nobuhiko Ôbayashi’s House is an infamous Toho film. According to Bill, if you do an internet search for “weird Japanese movies,” House turns up number one on every list. Chad calls it the strangest movie they’ve ever removed. The 45-minute documentary on the Criterion Blu-ray edition is well worth the cost in Jeff’s opinion, especially in giving the viewer a vague idea of what House is all about. Doc, on the other hand, says don’t even bother trying to follow the narrative, but if you pay attention to what’s going on in the background, you might just see a talking watermelon puppet.
House (Hausu, original title) is without a doubt a unique and stunning film, one everyone should see at least once. Jeff has already recommended the Blu-ray from Criterion and currently, House is available to stream on HBOmax and the Criterion Channel. Your loyal Grue-Crew says check it out!
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 2-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be And Now the Screaming Starts! (1973), another Amicus Productions film starring Peter Cushing, Stephanie Beacham, Ian Ogilvy, Herbert Lom, and Patrick Magee.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
"One of our guests is a werewolf, I know it.” Maybe they need a “werewolf break” to figure it out? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they play “werewolf, werewolf, who can the werewolf be?” in The Beast Must Die (1974).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 120 – The Beast Must Die (1974)
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Eight people have been invited to an island estate for the weekend. One of them is a werewolf. Can you guess which one?
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The Beast Must Die, the last horror film produced by Amicus Productions, is famous for it’s “werewolf break,” a gimmick in which the film is paused just prior to the werewolf reveal, giving the audience time to guess which character is the werewolf.
Chad has fun trying to find clues that aren’t there and is thankful for the 10-second advance button on Amazon Prime to help get him through the car chase. Jeff again notices the prevalence of a 1970s, detective-series, funk score and admits The Beast Must Die is kind of a fun movie. The TV-movie feel of The Beast Must Die is a little much for Bill, signaling the beginning of the end for Amicus. Doc points out the pedigree of the actors appearing in the film (and of course, Peter Cushing} and bemoans the complete lack of clues to the identity of the werewolf.
Though the 70s Grue-Crew admits this isn’t one of the best Amicus films, they still have fun with it. As of this posting, The Beast Must Die is available on Blu-ray from Severin and can be streamed on Amazon Prime.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 2-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be House (1977), aka Hausu (original title).
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror: 190s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
"Don't you know this house is cursed? You are cursed, and Edward's cursed, and everybody's cursed.” Sounds like Oprah’s curse-giveaway show. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they try to find the banshee (or is it a sidhe?) in Cry of the Banshee (1970).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 119 – Cry of the Banshee (1970)
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A team of researchers discovers a strange mutation of man and octopus who proceeds to terrorize them.
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None of the 70s Grue-Crew had seen Cry of the Banshee until now, but American International Pictures and Vincent Price! What could go wrong? Well, Bill can’t find anyone to root for and he is not a fan of director Gordon Hessler with the exception of The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973). Jeff points out there is no banshee in Cry of the Banshee. Doc is disappointed in the overall meanness of the movie and Chad can’t find any redemption or satisfaction with the ending. On the other hand, they can all agree on Vincent Price’s all-in performance and Terry Gilliam’s introduction credits animation sequence.
If for any reason, after hearing or watching the Grue-Crew’s discussion, you still find it necessary to watch Cry of the Banshee, either again or for the first time, at this writing it’s available to stream on Amazon Prime and on Blu-ray in Scream Factory’s Vincent Price Collection III.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 2-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be The Beast Must Die (1974), the film with a Werewolf Break when viewers are asked to answer the question, “Who is the Werewolf?”
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
"The octopus is the most intelligent species in the ocean.” And yet, an anthropomorphic version of an octopus saw fit to appear in this film. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they try to figure out exactly what the filmmakers were going for in Octaman (1971).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 118 – Octaman (1971)
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Synopsis: A team of researchers discovers a strange mutation of man and octopus who proceeds to terrorize them.
IMDb
What does Octaman have going for it, you might ask? It is special effects maestro Rick Baker’s first film credit and it is written, directed, and produced by Harry Essex.
Jeff points out that Essex also wrote The Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954), It Came from Outer Space (1953), Man Made Monster (1941), and even The Sons of Katie Elder (1965) but he can’t figure out where things went off the rails with Octaman. Doc sees an obvious connection to The Creature from the Black Lagoon and Bill affirms that the suit is the best part of Octaman but with some strong caveats. Doug Beswick’s involvement is emphasized by Chad. And they all wonder, what were they thinking?
Your decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew gives a cautious recommendation to Octaman for lovers of schlocky horror films and possibly to Rick Baker or Doug Beswick completists.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 2-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Cry of the Banshee (1970) with the great Vincent Price.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"I prefer ghosts to vampires, though. They're so much more human; they have a tradition to live up to. Somehow they manage to keep all the horror in without spilling any blood." So much easier to clean up; that is if you’re worried about that kind of thing. Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they try to figure out exactly what is going on in Mario Bava’s Lisa and the Devil (1973).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 117 – Lisa and the Devil (1973)
A tourist spends the night in a derelict Spanish villa seemingly held in the supernatural grip of an eccentric butler, who resembles a depiction of the Devil she had seen on an ancient fresco.
IMDb
Of course, Lisa and the Devil was chosen by Bill, the Grue-Crew’s very own, registered, Bava fanatic. Even Bill admits to not knowing exactly what the story is about, but Bava! And Elke Sommer! And Telly Savalas! Your 1980s Grue-Crew universally agrees with Bill regarding Bava, Sommer, and Savalas. Chad is a little more hesitant but plans to watch the film again. The beauty of Bava’s imagery is what captures Jeff’s attention, but he is obviously just as confused by the story as everyone else.
The crewmates even get into The House of Exorcism (1975), a later version of Lisa and the Devil, recut with additional footage in a marketing ploy intended to take advantage of the success of The Exorcist (1973). Bill screams, “No, no, no, no, no!” On the other hand, Doc kind of likes The House of Exorcism, much to Bill’s dismay.
Your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew recommend Lisa and the Devil. It can be viewed, as of this writing, VOD and as a Kino Lorber Blu-ray double feature which includes Lisa and the Devil and The House of Exorcism.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"Ay, customers, come in, come in. I'm sure I have the very thing to tempt you. Lots of bargains. All tastes catered to. Oh... and a big novelty surprise goes with every purchase. Do come in... any time. I'm always open." Oh boy! A novelty surprise? Wait. Is this a trick? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they meet the proprietor of Temptations Ltd., the sinister shop found in From Beyond the Grave (1974).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 116 – From Beyond the Grave (1974)
An anthology of four short horror stories revolving around a British antique shop and its mysterious owner.
IMDb
From Beyond the Grave is the last of the Amicus horror anthologies, or portmanteaus if you will, and Decades of Horror has covered six of seven such films. Jeff is predisposed to like From Beyond the Grave because it is directed by Kevin Conner, the same man that directed Motel Hell, one of his favorite films. Doc is impressed by cinematographer Alan Hume’s work and goes into some of his other credits. The penalties doled out by the proprietor of Temptations Ltd. seem a bit severe for the sins committed in Bill’s view, but he still has fun with From Beyond the Grave. Chad loves Margaret Leighton’s portrayal of Madame Orloff and the other members of the Grue-Crew adamantly agree.
Possibly the least familiar of the Amicus horror portmanteaus, From Beyond the Grave still receives a high recommendation from the Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew. It might be the last, but in their opinion, it is not the least.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Lisa and the Devil (1973), a Mario Bava film.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"Who is this irresistible creature who has an insatiable love for the dead?" Wait. Do you have to be dead for the insatiable love part? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they meet the insatiable creature with the insatiable love for the dead known as Lady Frankenstein (1971).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 115 – Lady Frankenstein (1971)
When Dr. Frankenstein is killed by a monster he created, his daughter and his lab assistant Marshall continue his experiments. The two fall in love and attempt to transplant Marshall's brain into the muscular body of the servant Stephen in order to prolong the aging Marshall's life. Meanwhile, the first monster seeks revenge on the grave robbers who sold the body parts used in its creation to Dr. Frankenstein. Soon it comes after Marshall and the doctor's daughter.
IMDb
The first thing the Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew discovered is the plethora of different cuts of Lady Frankenstein that exist in the stream-o-verse. The second thing they discovered is they had no idea who the “Stephen” in the synopsis is. Oh well. Forging ahead, Lady Frankenstein is Doc’s pick; he loves him some Frankenstein flicks. Chad favors Karloff’s monster to the one depicted in this film but thinks Joseph Cotten performs admirably in this low-budget Italian fare. Bill marvels at Cotten’s career and the number of highly regarded films in which he played. The ending seems abrupt to Jeff and, of course, they all get in on a discussion about Lady Frankenstein’s director, Mel Welles.
The Grue-Crew’s general consensus is that Lady Frankenstein is a bad film but can be a bad-film fun-watch. Various cuts are currently available for streaming from several sources. There is also a region B, Blu ray out there that includes a diverse set of extras.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be From Beyond the Grave (1974), the last of the seven Amicus portmanteau horror films.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"If you and daddy die in a plane crash, could I have a cat then?" It seems like a fair trade, right? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they get a dose of feline terror in The Uncanny (1977), an anthology film starring Peter Cushing.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 114 – The Uncanny (1977)
Wilbur Gray has stumbled upon a terrible secret, that cats are supernatural creatures who really call the shots. In a desperate attempt to get others to believe him, Wilbur spews three tales of feline horror.
IMDb
The Uncanny, a lesser-known Canadian anthology film, is not an Amicus production, even though it is produced by Amicus co-founder Milton Subotsky. The Decades of Horror Grue-Crews love portmanteaus and this one is no exception. Driven by Peter Cushing’s powerful performance opposite Ray Milland in the connecting story, The Uncanny is a worthy, if flawed, addition. Three fairly strong stories of feline mayhem are topped off with the final tale starring Donald Pleasance, Samantha Eggar, and John Vernon obviously having great fun with their roles.
The 1970s Grue-Crew wander through this episode’s discussion like cats looking for something to push off the table. Doc tries to keep them on track but you know what they say about herding cats. The discussion frequently strays off-topic and inevitably goes to the familiar “cats vs. dogs” argument. In case you’re interested, Doc and Bill are cat-people while Chad and Jeff are dog-men.
At any rate, The Uncanny is currently streaming on Amazon Prime and is recommended by your faithful Grue-Crew. Peter After all, with Cushing, Ray Milland, Donald Pleasance, Samantha Eggar, John Vernon, conspiratorial cats, an incredible shrinking girl, and consumption of human flesh, what’s not to like?
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Lady Frankenstein (1971), an Italian film starring Joseph Cotten.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"If the devil is to exist in this world, it cannot look like a devil." I don’t know. How will we recognize it? Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they polish off the Bloodthirsty Trilogy with Toho’s Evil of Dracula(1974).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 113 – Evil of Dracula (1974)
A teacher assumes a position at a school that's run by a vampire.
IMDb
After covering The Vampire Doll (1970) and Lake of Dracula (1971), it is only natural that the Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew would complete the hat trick with Evil of Dracula, the final film in the Bloodthirsty Trilogy. The Grue-Crewmates have differing opinions on where Evil of Dracula fits in the hierarchy within the loosely connected trilogy, but they universally appreciate the film.
Bill points out that the setting in the girl’s school bears a certain resemblance to Lust for a Vampire (1971), while Doc was fired up to finally complete the trilogy, loving it all the way. Chad always loves a good vampire dissolve and melt and Jeff goes for the hand deflation that’s used in all three of the films.
What used to be a holy grail for horror fans, nearly impossible to find, is now readily available. Your loyal 70s Grue-Crew all say check these out! At this writing, The Vampire Doll (1970), Lake of Dracula (1971), and Evil of Dracula (1974) are all available streaming on Amazon Prime and are available on Blu ray in Arrow’s The Bloodthirsty Trilogy. And don’t forget to check out their podcasts on the first two of the trilogy:
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Lady Frankenstein (1971), an Italian film starring Joseph Cotten.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"It was a small Louisiana town where people live and love and die and no one ever thought of locking their doors... except in the Monroe house." Hey, everybody! Let’s buy the Monroe house! Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they find out why they have to lock their doors in the Monroe house in Charles B. Pierce’s The Evictors (1979).
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 112 – The Evictors (1979)
A young couple, just married, rents a house in a village in Louisiana. But they are not welcome because the inhabitants of the village look upon them with distrust. Meanwhile, in the house they rented, were happening strange things from the past...
IMDb
After seeing The Legend of Boggy Creek (1972) and The Town that Dreaded Sundown (1976), Jeff thought it would be fun to check out another film from Charles B. Pierce so he chose The Evictors as the subject of this episode. With a cast that includes Jessica Harper, Vic Morrow, Michael Parks, and Sue Ane Langdon, how could he go wrong? It turns out that fine acting and excellent production design do not offset a lackluster story.
Doc and Jeff love the feel of the 1940s created in this production, especially the abundance of automobiles from the era. Bill once again professes his love for Jessica Harper and Chad goes on about Michael Parks and Vic Morrow. The general consensus is great acting and the feel of the 40s, but the languid pacing makes The Evictors an unexciting horror film. If you haven’t seen this entry from Charles B. Pierce and you’re hankering for some 40s nostalgia and some Vic Morrow, Jessica Harper, Michael Parks, or Sue Ane Langdon, check it out. As of this writing, The Evictors is streaming on Amazon Prime and a Blu ray is available from Scream Factory.
Your 70s Grue-Crew also catches up on listener feedback from several episodes and has a ball doing it! They are even chastised a bit by the lovely and talented Judy Matheson (Twins of Evil, Lust for a Vampire) and they attempt to make amends to her, as well as to Luan Peters (Twins of Evil, Lust for a Vampire) and Kirsten Lindholm (Twins of Evil, Lust for a Vampire, The Vampire Lovers) .
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Evil of Dracula (1974), the third film in Toho’s Bloodthirsty Trilogy.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"Forgive me, but you are an endless source of amusement to me." I amuse you? I make you laugh? I'm here to fuckin' amuse you? … Wait. Wrong movie. Anyway, join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they determine exactly what is so damn endlessly amusing in The Evil (1978) from New World Pictures.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 111 – The Evil (1978)
A doctor buys a Civil War era dilapidated mansion and hires a few friends to fix it up, but the mansion hides a deadly secret.
IMDb
The Evil is Doc’s pick. He does love his haunted house films and this one has it’s share of violent deaths. The 70s Grue-Crew all love Victor Buono’s gleeful turn as the devil! Chad, of course, points out the Batman TV-series connection and Jeff, equally predictably, links Richard Crenna to The Real McCoys (1959-1963) TV-series. Andrew Prine seemed to be everywhere according to Doc as he reminisces about Prine’s career. Bill warns everyone not to try these fire gags in their own low budget, indie horror flicks. The discussion goes astray more often than usual as the Grue-Crew seems to be easily sidetracked on this episode. Though not a great film, your Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew consider this a “good” film … at least in parts, and Victor Buono as the devil is to die for.
At this writing, The Evil is available to stream on Prime and as a Blu-ray from Scream Factory.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be The Evictors (1979), starring Jessica Harper, Michael Parks, and Vic Morrow.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"Touch it! Go on, touch it!" Get your mind out of the gutter. The speaker isn’t talking about that “it.” Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they uncover the true story of Frankenstein in Frankenstein: The True Story (1973) … or not.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 109 – Frankenstein: The True Story (1973)
When the brilliant but unorthodox scientist Dr. Victor Frankenstein rejects the artificial man that he has created, the Creature escapes and later swears revenge.
IMDb
Yet again, the Decades of Horror 1970s Grue-Crew delves into the realm of television mini-series with Frankenstein: The True Story, broadcast in two parts in 1973. Bill points out exactly why the title is one of the biggest misnomers in film history. Chad had a problem with the creature (Michael Sarrazin) being so handsome in the beginning but enjoyed its deterioration as the film progressed. Doc opines that the 2-hour edited version available on Amazon Prime is a hot mess of bad editing and should probably be avoided. Jeff once again goes a bit fan-boy, this time for David McCallum.
Your Grue-Crew universally enjoyed the cast and some of the set pieces and are withholding judgment until the March 24, 2020 Scream Factory release. Maybe a quality copy of the unedited version will restore the film they remembered.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Hammer’s Twins of Evil (1971).
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
"-- Zuni doll gibberish --" You might not know what he’s saying, but you’re definitely not hanging around to find out! Join your faithful Grue Crew - Doc Rotten, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr - as they relive the impact they experienced when they first watched Trilogy of Terror (1975) from Dan Curtis.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 108 – Trilogy of Terror (1975)
Three bizarre horror stories all of which star Karen Black in four different roles playing tormented women.
IMDB
Each of the members of the Grue-Crew for this episode viewed Trilogy of Terror during its television premiere in 1975 and it made an indelible mark on each of their psyches. Of course, that mark, the one that created nightmares and lost sleep, is left by the final segment in which the Zuni doll runs amok. The Grue-Crew also has a heightened appreciation for Karen Black’s acting abilities after rewatching the film and her four performances therein. They also all agree that the terror in the final segment is just as strong and effective as it was in 1975. If you haven’t seen Dan Curtis’ Trilogy of Terror recently, you owe yourself a rewatch. It’s that good. At least, the Zuni-warrior doll piece is that good!
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror 3-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In three weeks, the next episode in their very flexible schedule will be Frankenstein: The True Story (1973).
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.