Classics of the Horror Film

It's been over thirty years since William K.Everson's Classics of the Horror film was originally published and it's still an essential part of any horror fan's collection. Everson covers the history of the classic horror film,providing chapters on essential films and neglected gems. His critical insight was far ahead of it's time,and what's special was that Everson had actually SEEN several lost films like London After Midnight(1927) and The Wizard(1927). It's nice to see so many words on often neglected fright,particularly classics like Murders in the Zoo(1932),Island of Lost Souls(1933) and Vampyr(1932). (And what other guide has a chapter on Karloff's The Ghoul(1933)!) The book is crammed with great rare photographs and is as enjoyable a look as it is a read. This book was one of the most pivotal of my childhood,having purchased it at only six years of age,it set me on the right path of movie horror,and I've never looked back. Still constantly referenced,I implore you film buff to make Classics of the Horror film a part of your Library.

This work contains the details of classic horrors. i.e. - Phantom of the Opera - The Magician - Dr. Mabuse - Frankenstein - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - The Mummy and White Zombie - King Kong - Cat People - Hauntings and Possessions Photos by Boris Karloff, the Bride of Frankenstein and Son of Frankenstein provide an historic dimension to the overall presentation. Lesser horrors are included; such as, the Creature from the Black Lagoon , The Mole People and Monster on Campus. The photos of Fredric March and John Barrymore depict the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde characters in all their glory. A first edition rendition of this work will be treasured most by horror enthusiasts. The cost is modest for the value provided.

Having owned this book since the first printing in 1975, I have used it as a guidance tool to track down and watch over the past 29 years the excellence that is horror films outlined in this book. The late author clearly has a firm grasp of the element of a successful horror film; i.e. lighting, timing, musical score (or lack thereof), delivery, etc., and contained within this volume are critically acclaimed classics as well as little known "nuggets" worth searching out, such as "Murder in the Zoo," "Strangler in the Swamp," and the last of the great horror films, "Night of the Demon." Since the book's release, many of the titles have become increasing accessible both in video and in DVD, which allow for a greater enjoyment by the classic horror audience. You won't find any of the latter day slasher, gore-fest "movies," but you will find a careful synopsis and examination of each film contained in this volume. My recommendations to watch after reading this book are: Night of the Demon, The Uninvited, The Devil Doll, and The Man Who Laughs (silent).

Having grown up watching classic sci-fi, horror and monster movies on Saturday afternoons, I couldn't wait to read this book. It's a well-researched, enjoyable history of Classic Horror Films, from the 20s through the Exorcist. Everson does a fine job of covering the well known films, as well as pointing out a few classic sleepers (e.g., Murders in the Zoo) If you love these films, this book is a must read. Lots of great photos as well!