Autumn is coming. So is Samhain. Are you ready?
I can suddenly smell Autumn in the air and that can only mean one thing …Halloween! I’m not talking about the Halloween with cute ghosts and clowns running through the streets trick ‘r treating, holding out pails to collect treasures of sweets. No. I’m talking about the Halloween with diabolical monsters hiding in the dark, blending in with the clothes in the closet, just waiting for you.
I grew up obsessed with horror classics. Their indelible mark now drives my own horror stories on the page. These vintage monsters make their way into your head, under your bed and into your nightmares. You might be thinking Freddy Kruger from “Nightmare on Elm Street” or Jason Voorhees from “Friday the 13th”. All well and frightening, but where did these iconic demons of death originate from?
The answer takes us back in time to a moment when films weren’t as accessible and books were a terrifying portal into a dimension of fear. Authors. Authors of the mysterious and the macabre, the scientific and the mythical. Authors who never knew their work would resonate throughout history and fuel the imagination of hundreds of other stories that chill us and make us keep the hall light on at night.
Why They Did What They Did
Authors of classic horror literature had motivations behind their timeless tales of terror. They intertwined their fears, curiosities and societal concerns into narratives that deeply resonated with their readers. Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker for instance ventured into realms of science and morality through “Frankenstein” and “Dracula.” In these works, they questioned the boundaries between life and death.
These authors skillfully delved into their anxieties crafting stories that revealed humanity’s insatiable thirst for knowledge and the unforeseen repercussions of meddling with nature. Their narratives not only offered entertainment but also explored the darker aspects of human nature provoking readers to contemplate the ethical implications of their own actions.
In today’s world, classic horror stories continue to captivate us for reasons beyond thrills. These tales tap into our instincts and deepest fears, creating a connection to our shared vulnerability in the face of the unknown. While times have changed significantly what unsettles us remains timeless. It is this enduring essence that allows classic horror narratives to transcend generations.
As we navigate a changing world, these stories offer an exploration of fear, morality and the limits of comprehension – a journey that provides a cathartic experience. They serve as a reminder that our shared, shadowy intrigue of life is not just a passing fad but an ongoing exploration, into the unexplored territories of our own inner selves.
Frankenstein and The Mummy
Bringing Home The Monsters
This year, to celebrate Autumn and the coming of Samhain, take a step into the enthralling realm of classic monsters from the golden age of literature and cinema, where mythical beings and imaginative creations have held our fascination for decades. This exploration invites us to unveil the origins that birthed these iconic figures, some rooted in folklore and mythology while others sprung from the depths of creative minds. The allure of these monsters lies not just in their frightful appearances but in the narratives that brought them to life.
Among the captivating figures, vampires and werewolves stand as timeless symbols of both horror and intrigue. Vampires, often tracing their origins to legends of blood-sucking creatures, have undergone numerous transformations in books and film. One of the most notable sources is Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” a novel that laid the foundation for the modern vampire archetype. Moving from page to screen, the character has been portrayed by actors such as Bela Lugosi, embodying the enigmatic allure of the undead.
Similarly, the werewolf legend, intertwined with stories of humans transformed under the full moon’s glow, has held a place in cultural narratives worldwide. Lon Chaney Jr.’s portrayal of “The Wolf Man” helped cement this creature’s status in classic horror cinema. The werewolf’s inner conflict between humanity and savagery has continued to captivate audiences over the years.
Shifting our focus to mummies and Frankenstein’s monster, we uncover stories of reanimation and resurrection. Mummies, rooted in ancient Egyptian mythology, found their way into films like “The Mummy” series, often characterized by cursed tombs and vengeful spirits. On the other hand, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” explored the implications of playing god by reanimating life, an ethical dilemma that resonates to this day. This tale inspired an array of adaptations, the most iconic of which features Boris Karloff as the misunderstood monster.
If these narratives beckon you, don’t miss the opportunity to delve into the original literary works that paved the way for these cinematic treasures. Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” (circa 1897) and Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” (circa 1818) provide an immersive experience into the minds that conceived these monsters, allowing readers to uncover the nuanced layers that often get lost in adaptation.
Nosferatu and The Bride of Frankenstein
Embrace The Dark
As you embark on your journey through the eerie ambiance of Autumn, what better time to indulge in a cinematic journey through the classic monsters? Whether it’s immersing yourself in the chilling portrayal of Dracula by Bela Lugosi or witnessing Lon Chaney Jr.’s transformation into The Wolf Man, these movies transport us to a bygone era of horror that remains captivating even in the modern age.
If you’re curious about where to catch these classic films, various avenues await. Many local cinemas and theaters host special screenings, offering an opportunity to relive the thrill on the big screen. Additionally, streaming platforms often curate selections of classic movies, making it easier than ever to revisit or discover these gems from the comfort of your own home.
So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights and prepare for an evening of spine-tingling delight as you traverse the golden age of classic monster cinema. These legends continue to enthrall and terrify, reminding us of the enduring power of imagination and storytelling. Below are some must-see films and essential books to dive into!
The Creature from The Black Lagoon and The Wolf Man
Explore The Past
**Classic Monster Films**
1. **”Dracula” (1931)** – Directed by Tod Browning, this film features Bela Lugosi in the iconic role of Count Dracula. (Watch “Dracula”: CLICK HERE.)
2. **”The Wolf Man” (1941)** – Lon Chaney Jr. stars as the unfortunate Larry Talbot in this film that explores the curse of lycanthropy. (Watch “The Wolf Man”: CLICK HERE.)
3. **”The Mummy” (1932)** – Boris Karloff portrays Imhotep, the cursed mummy seeking to resurrect his lost love. (Watch “The Mummy”: CLICK HERE.)
4. **”Frankenstein” (1931)** – Boris Karloff takes on the role of the misunderstood creature brought to life by Dr. Frankenstein. (Watch “Frankenstein”: CLICK HERE.)
5. **”Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954)** – This underwater adventure introduces the Gill-man, a unique creature captured in stunning black and white. (Watch “Creature from the Black Lagoon”: CLICK HERE.)
6. **”The Invisible Man” (1933)** – Claude Rains stars as the scientist who discovers a way to become invisible, with tragic consequences. (Watch “The Invisible Man”: CLICK HERE.)
**Classic Monster Books**
1. **”Dracula” by Bram Stoker (1897)** – The original vampire tale that set the foundation for modern vampire mythology. (Read “Dracula”: [Wordsworth Classics] CLICK HERE.)
2. **”Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley (1818)** – A cautionary tale of scientific ambition and the consequences of playing with life and death. (Read “Frankenstein”: [Mary Shelley’s 1831 Edition] CLICK HERE.)
3. **”The Werewolf of Paris” by Guy Endore (1933)** – A novel that delves into the life of a cursed man struggling with his inner beast. (Read “The Werewolf of Paris”: CLICK HERE.)
4. **”The Jewel of Seven Stars” by Bram Stoker (1903)** – Another Stoker creation, this book explores ancient Egyptian curses and mysteries. (Read “The Jewel of Seven Stars”: [The Most Complete Version Ever Published] CLICK HERE.)
5. **”The Phantom of the Opera” by Gaston Leroux (1910)** – While not a traditional monster, this novel introduces a masked figure haunting the Paris Opera House. (Read “The Phantom of the Opera: [The 1910 Gothic Horror Romance Classic] CLICK HERE.)
6. **”The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson (1886)** – A story of duality and transformation that delves into the darker aspects of human nature. [Read “Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”: [The Original 1886 Classic] CLICK HERE.)
Enjoy your exploration of classic monsters, both on screen and within the pages of these captivating books. These resources will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and enduring appeal of these legendary creatures.
The Phantom of The Opera and The Invisible Man
Fun Monster Trivia
**”Dracula” (1931)**
1. While Bela Lugosi’s portrayal of Dracula is iconic, the role almost went to another actor. In early production, the studio considered casting actor Paul Muni for the part before eventually selecting Lugosi.
2. To save on costs, the Spanish-language version of “Dracula” was filmed at night on the same sets as the English version. It’s often regarded as more visually dynamic due to the creative freedom afforded by filming after the main production had wrapped for the day.
3. To maintain a chilling atmosphere on set, director Tod Browning allegedly requested that Lugosi stay in character as Dracula even during breaks. This contributed to the actor’s reputation as a method performer.
**”The Wolf Man” (1941)**
1. Actor Lon Chaney Jr. originally auditioned for the role of Frankenstein’s monster in the 1931 film, but lost the part to Boris Karloff. A decade later, he would find his iconic role as Larry Talbot, the Wolf Man.
2. Jack Pierce, the makeup artist responsible for the distinctive Wolf Man makeup, used yak hair to create the character’s facial hair. This choice was made to ensure a realistic and eerie appearance on screen.
3. “The Wolf Man” marked the first time that different Universal monster characters appeared together in a single film. This crossover paved the way for later ensemble monster movies.
**”The Mummy” (1932)**
1. Actor Boris Karloff, renowned for his portrayal of Frankenstein’s monster, took on the role of Imhotep in “The Mummy.” The role allowed him to demonstrate his versatility beyond the confines of heavy makeup.
2. The makeup for the mummy Imhotep took approximately eight hours to apply, making it one of the most time-consuming makeup processes of its time.
3. The film’s eerie and captivating opening sequence was shot backwards, with the camera moving away from the scroll rather than zooming in. When played in reverse, it gave the illusion of the scroll unrolling.
**”Frankenstein” (1931)**
1. Boris Karloff’s portrayal of the monster required extensive makeup, including a neck bolt. Surprisingly, Karloff’s neck bolt was made from wood rather than metal, as metal would have been too heavy and uncomfortable.
2. To achieve the character’s lumbering movements, Karloff walked with his knees bent and his arms outstretched, giving the monster its distinctive and memorable gait.
3. The film’s original ending differed from the one audiences are familiar with. In the original version, Henry Frankenstein survives the explosion and reunites with his fiancée Elizabeth, while the monster perishes in the burning windmill.
**”Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954)**
1. The Creature’s iconic design was inspired by a mix of various aquatic animals, including the alligator, eel, and amphibians. The unique combination contributed to the creature’s otherworldly appearance.
2. The underwater scenes were shot in Wakulla Springs, Florida. Due to the clear water and the need to hide air hoses, the actor inside the Creature suit had to hold his breath for extended periods during filming.
3. The Creature’s distinctive sound was achieved by combining animal noises, including the calls of swans and other birds, to create its eerie vocalizations.
**”The Invisible Man” (1933)**
1. To achieve the effect of a person becoming invisible, actor Claude Rains had to wear a specially designed suit made of black velvet, which absorbed all the light, while he was filmed against a black velvet background.
2. The film’s groundbreaking special effects, such as the appearance of clothes floating in the air as the Invisible Man moved, were achieved using a combination of wires and stop-motion animation.
3. Claude Rains provided the voice for the Invisible Man, but he was not initially credited for the role. His vocal performance was so compelling that the studio decided to add his name to the credits.
Dracula and The Mummy
I hope you have fun exploring these fascinating horror classics and gain a deeper appreciation for the classic monster literature and films that have left an indelible mark on our pop culture history.
Happy Nightmares,
Scott A. Cook 🎃
