Ballyhoo Motion Pictures

BALLYHOO'S LATEST NEWS!!

2011-02-11T10:12:00.000-08:00

NOT A HUMBUG, I TELL YOU!

THE DEFINITIVE EDITION OF A TIMELESS HOLIDAY CLASSIC!

INTRODUCING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF

BRIAN DESMOND HURST'S "A CHRISTMAS CAROL"

STARRING ALASTAIR SIM

NEW FROM VCI ENTERTAINMENT AND BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES

Alastair Sim's tour-de-force performance as the ultimate miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, has almost single-handedly made this beloved version of Charles Dickens's story into one of the best-loved Christmas films of all time. Some of Britain's best filmmakers united behind Sim, who was joined by a delightful cast of accomplished and acclaimed English actors; creating what many today believe to be the best and most faithful production of Dickens' immortal tale. Cranky and curmudgeonly Scrooge learns the error of his unkind ways and is taught the true meaning of the holidays when he is visited by the ghost of his late business partner and the spirits of Christmas past, present and future.

This Blu-ray edition has been digitally restored from a new 1080p, 24fps high definition transfer master produced from the 35mm negative and fine grain. Featuring over 2 hours of NEW HD bonus materials, as well as an hour of SD materials. Also Includes the Standard DVD with both 4x3 and 16x9 versions.

BONUS FEATURES:

The following are the NEW HD bonus materials produced and directed by DANIEL GRIFFITH of BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES:

1- "DEAD TO BEGIN WITH: The Darker Side of A Classic"-An all-new documentary exploring the films bleaker themes and how they rivaled London of the 1950's. Featuring British film historian and culturalist Sir Christopher Frayling. (30 mins)

2- "SCROOGE BY ANOTHER NAME: Distributing A Christmas Carol"- An all-new featurette detailing the American release of this British holiday classic. Featuring US distributor Richard Gordon, in his final on-camera interview. (15 mins)

3- "THE HUMAN BLARNEY STONE: Life and Films of Brian Desmond Hurst"-An all-new documentary chronicling the awe-inspiring life of Ireland's most prolific filmmaker. Featuring Allan Esler Smith, the great, great nephew and biographer of Hurst. (45 mins)

4- "SCROOGE: REVISITED"- An all-new featurette revisiting some of the London locations used in the film. (10 mins)

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"BUBBA DIDN'T DO IT!:

30 YEARS OF THE SCARECROW"

AN ALL-NEW DOCUMENTARY SHORT

FEATURED ON THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY BLU-RAY RELEASE OF

"DARK NIGHT OF THE SCARECROW"

An all-new documentary exploring the making of the cult television classic, DARK NIGHT OF THE SCARECROW. Featuring interviews with director FRANK DE FELITTA, screenwriter J. D. FEIGELSON, actor LARRY DRAKE, actress TONYA CROWE, actor ROBERT LYONS, unit production manager BOB KOSTER, location manager KOOL MARDER, director/fan STUART GORDON, Horrorhound co-founder AARON CROWELL, and more! Produced and directed by DANIEL GRIFFITH. A BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES production

DIRECTOR FRANK DE FELITTA

AND DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKER DANIEL GRIFFITH

NEW FROM VCI ENTERTAINMENT AND BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES

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ALSO NEW FROM BALLYHOO:

"GAMERA vs THE CHIODO BROTHERS:

A Look Back In Men-In-Suit Effects"

TO BE FEATURED ON SHOUT! FACTORY'S

"GAMERA vs MST3K" BOX SET

The infamous creature effects team (THE CHIODO BROTHERS, creators of KILLER KLOWNS FROM OUTER SPACE), face-off with the mighty turtle itself (GAMERA) in this retrospective featurette! Along with discussing topics such as GAMERA, GODZILLA, and GORGO, THE CHIODO BROTHERS also get nostalgic about their childhood experiences watching these films and how they inspired their own contributions to cult favorites such as CRITTERS, LAND OF THE LOST, and NINJA TURTLES.

Shout! Factory presents "MST3K Vs. Gamera"

In addition to the fully-riffed feature films Gamera, Gamera vs. Barugon, Gamera vs. Gaos, Gamera vs. Guiron, and Gamera vs. Zigra (all featuring host Joel Hodgson), the exclusive box set includes:

* So Happy Together: A Look Back at MST3K and Gamera

* Gamera Vs. The Chiodo Brothers

* Gamera Obscura: A Brief History by August Ragone (author of Eiji Tsuburaya: Master of Monsters)

* Original Japanese Trailers

* 5 limited edition mini-posters by artist Steve Vance

Get your copy today at shoutfactory.com!

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NOW AVAILABLE ON DVD!

"JAM HANDY TO THE RESCUE!"

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES is proud to present our latest MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 documentary, "JAM HANDY TO THE RESCUE!". The production wrapped this past July and will be included on the "MANOS: THE HANDS OF FATE" Special Edition DVD!

For more information,

visit our CURRENT PRODUCTION page!

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"THE BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH:

MAKING VAMPIRE CIRCUS"

WON THE 2011 GOLDEN COB AWARD

FOR BEST B MOVIE DOCUMENTARY!

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES is honored to receive this award. The documentary was one of several bonus features produced and directed by DANIEL GRIFFITH for the Synapse Films BLU-RAY/DVD release of VAMPIRE CIRCUS. Special thanks goes out to everyone who voted!

Visit the B-Movie Celebration website for more details!

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"NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY:

MAKING THE BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS"

GOT RUNNER-UP IN THE BEST DVD EXTRA

CATEGORY IN THE NINTH ANNUAL

RONDO HATTON CLASSIC

HORROR AWARDS!

Several Ballyhoo Motion Pictures documentaries were nominated in 2011 for a RONDO award. "NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY: Making The Beast of Yucca Flats" (featured on MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 VOLUME XVIII) got runner-up in the BEST DVD EXTRA category. The other were "THE BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH: Making Vampire Circus" (featured on Synapse's VAMPIRE CIRCUS blu-ray) for BEST DVD EXTRA, and "LET THERE BE LIGHT: The Odyssey of DARK STAR" (now available on VCI Entertainment's DARK STAR: Hyperdrive Edition) for BEST INDEPENDENT FILM!!! Likewise, VAMPIRE CIRCUS got nominated for BEST CLASSIC DVD release. Special thanks to everyone who voted!

OTHER RECENT NEWS:

CLICK HERE TO READ!

SPECIAL SCREENINGS AND APPEARANCES:

2011-02-11T10:11:00.001-08:00

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES

will be appearing/screening productions

at the following conventions:

FEBRUARY 2011

CON NOOGA 2011

Saturday, February 19th at 11:30 p.m.

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES will be screening "CITIZEN WOOD: Making the Bride, Unmaking the Legend" and "THE BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH: Making Vampire Circus" at 11:30 p.m. in the IMPERIAL BALLROOM of the CHATTANOOGA CHOO-CHOO. There will be a Q & A with director Daniel Griffith after the screening. For more information, visit the CON NOOGA website HERE!

APRIL 2011

SCI-FI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL

Saturday, April 30th at 3:00 p.m.

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES will be premiering the Director's Extended Edition of "LET THERE BE LIGHT: THE ODYSSEY OF DARK STAR" at the SCI-FI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL. The special screening engagement will be held at the BFI SOUTHBANK in theater NFT3 on Saturday, April 30th at 3:00 P.M. There will be a Q & A with director Daniel Griffith after the screening, as well as special DARK STAR prizes to be given away. For more information, visit the SCI-FI LONDON website HERE!

MAY 2011

WONDERFEST 2011
May 14-15th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel
Louisville, KY

JUNE 2011

MONSTER BASH 2011
JUNE 24-26, 2011

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES will be premiering an 'Un-announced' documentary at this years MONSTER BASH! There will be a Q & A with director Daniel Griffith after the screening. We will also be in the DEALER ROOM throughout the weekend, debuting ALL-NEW, EXCLUSIVE promotional items. For more information, visit the MONSTER BASH website HERE!

MORE TO COME!

SNEAK PREVIEWS OF BALLYHOO'S LATEST DOCUMENTARIES:

2011-02-11T10:09:00.000-08:00

The following video clips are excerpts from various Ballyhoo productions.

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"LET THERE BE LIGHT:

THE ODYSSEY OF DARK STAR"

FEATURE-LENGTH DOCUMENTARY

VIDEO EXCERPT # 1

VIDEO EXCERPT # 2

NOW AVAILABLE ON THE

DARK STAR: HYPERDRIVE EDITION

FROM VCI ENTERTAINMENT

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MORE TO COME!

CURRENT PROJECTS IN PRODUCTION:

2011-02-11T10:05:00.000-08:00

COMING SOON!

ABOUT THE FILMMAKER:

2011-02-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

DANIEL GRIFFITH

PRODUCER/DIRECTOR

"Filmmaking is a chance to live many lifetimes." -Robert Altman

THE MAN BEHIND BALLYHOO:

(EXCERPT FROM A TIMES-FREE PRESS ARTICLE)

Some people look at low-budget, B-movies that mix aliens, vampires and robots and see something to ridicule. Documentary filmmaker Daniel Griffith sees someone's ambition realized.

Whether or not "Bride of the Monster" and "Vampire Circus" belong in the ranks of high-brow cinema doesn't diminish that they survived the creative gauntlet, said Griffith, 34, a local filmmaker who has worked for the last three years producing documentaries of such films as extra material to accompany their releases on DVD.

"I feel like, in some way, these are people who are human beings who had dreams," he said. "While what they accomplished doesn't live up to Orson Welles or Cecil B. DeMille ... they're still human beings with a dream."

In the last few months, Griffith's filmography has swollen with the release of three projects from Ballyhoo Motion Pictures, his one-man production company.

The first, a documentary of the film "The Beast of Yucca Flats," was included in the June nationwide release of the 18th box set for the B-movie lampooning show "Mystery Science Theater 3000." In August, Griffith released a project chronicling the making of the Audie Murphy spaghetti western "Apache Rifles."

On Oct. 26, Griffith released "Let There Be Light," a two-hour behind-the-scenes look at the making of "Dark Star," a cult classic student sci-fi film that helped launch the careers of director John Carpenter ("Halloween") and writer Dan O'Bannon ("Alien").

Tuesday, three more of Griffith's documentaries will be released to accompany the 19th box set for "Mystery Science Theater," his third release with entertainment company Shout! Factory.

Jordan Fields, Shout! Factory's senior director of acquisitions, said Griffith's passion is obvious and has been crucial to his work on those projects.

"Daniel has done some extraordinary work for our box sets," Fields said. "He brings together passion for 'Mystery Science Theater 3000' and the films they are riffing on.

"He also has a very unique visual style, which I've come to appreciate. I think it gives our box sets a distinctive quality and helps them sell." (CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE)

(FILMMAKER DANIEL GRIFFITH OUTSIDE DIRECTOR JOHN HOUGH'S BUNGALOW AT PINEWOOD STUDIOS)

THE BALLYHOO "YEAR IN REVIEWS": 2010 Edition

2010-12-31T09:09:00.000-08:00

2010 turned out to be a roller-coaster year for Ballyhoo Motion Pictures, brimming with new challenges and unforeseen opportunities. A seemingly endless track which promised steep, fulfilling inclines, riddled with an occasional descent into madness (OK, so I'm being a little dramatic). By years end, I (BALLYHOO) produced/directed twelve bonus feature documentaries, two feature-length productions, and co-sponsored/co-organized one amazing screening. And I have the scars to prove it! Here's the run-down:

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On March 30th, a special screening of THE NAME OF THE GAME IS KILL! was held at the CINEFAMILY Theatre in Hollywood, CA. The sold-out affair was co-sponsored by Ballyhoo Motion Pictures, along with Chris Poggiali (THE TEMPLE OF SCHLOCK), Brian Quinn and Eric Caidin (of the GRINDHOUSE series at the New Beverly), and Hadrian Belove (THE CINEFAMILY). Folding chairs were quickly set up in the aisles to accommodate the last-minute arrivals. Special guests included award-winning cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, screenwriter Gary Crutcher, composer Stu Phillips, and filmmaker Joe Dante, who moderated the Q&A after the film.

(CINEMATOGRAPHER VILMOS ZSIGMOND AND DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKER DANIEL GRIFFITH)

(PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS GIVEN OUT AT THE SCREENING)

Very special thanks to Chris, Eric, Brian, Hadrian, Gary, Stu, Joe and Vilmos!

Days before the screening, I filmed interviews with Vilmos and Joe for "THE NAME OF THE GAME IS KILL!" documentary, which will accompany the film on a future DVD release (still pending).

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ANOTHER TRIP ON THE S.O.L.

The bonus feature documentaries included on this set are my follow-up to the featurettes produced for Volume XVI. Shout! Factory secretly sent me the titles to be included on Volume XVIII, and I immediately responded to THE BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS. There was a film in need of an explanation. A film almost completely void of cinematic structure (and logic). Its limited narrative rests upon the shoulders of a disembodied voice-over... and a withering giant.

So, why YUCCA FLATS, as opposed to the other titles included in the set ( which includes LOST CONTINENT, CRASH OF THE MOONS, and JACK FROST)? I felt that BEAST was not only the most probable, it was also the most misunderstood film of the lot. And sometimes the most misunderstood films make the most intriguing subjects for a 'making-of' documentary.

In the end, I set out to construct a documentary which mirrored the visual style of the film itself (including a narration that mimics Francis' own disembodied rambling).

The MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 Volume XVIII included:

1-NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY: MAKING THE BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS

2-COLEMAN FRANCIS: CINEMATIC POET OF PARKING

("NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY" TEASER POSTER)

("NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY" ONE-SHEET)

DVD REVIEWS:

"That making-of is typical of the go-the-extra-mile extras that Shout Factory has been including in these sets. It runs nearly 30 minutes and features Coniff, along with indie filmmaker Larry Blamire, B-movie historian Bob Burns, and “Yucca Flats” cinematographer Lee Strosnider talking about the movie, its stars, its place in movie history, and its bizarre audio choices, among other subjects."

-Brad Cook, FILM THREAT

"A side-splitting satirical documentary about the making of The Beast of Yucca Flats. Frank Conniff, a B-Movie filmmaker, a cult film historian, and one of the cameramen who shot the film (Lee Strosnider, friend of Coleman Francis) contribute to the dialogue about the film’s qualities (however lacking). Throughout this half-hour adventure, we are treated to a dissection of nearly every aspect of the film, from the casting (Tor Johnson ahoy), to the music (ripped from several other popular B-grade films of the time), and across numerous oddities which could only relate to a Coleman Francis production. Stuff like the uncomfortable nudity in the opening of the film (cut from the MST3K version, of course, but witnessed here in this extra) and the bizarre off-camera dialogue and action that interlace the entire movie." -Steve Schardein, DIGITAL CHUMPS

"The documentary about The Beast of Yucca Flats really illuminates the filmmaking process that went into the no budget legend. Another worthy installment in this long running series."

-Joe Corey, INSIDE PULSE

"But the best bonus features are saved for The Beast of Yucca Flats, and deservedly so. First and foremost is the new documentary featurette "No Dialogue Necessary: Making an 'Off-Camera Masterpiece." Running just shy of 30 minutes, this good-humored retrospective (written, produced, and directed by Daniel Griffith) combines narration in the style of the film and interviews with film buffs Larry Blamire and Bob Burns, director of photography Lee Strosnider, and MST's Frank Coniff. It's thorough and engaging, covering all aspects of the 1958 production, shot (shockingly!) without a script over a year's worth of weekends and assembled (as best it could be) over a lengthy editing period. "Coleman Francis: The Cinematic Poet of Parking" is an extended interview with Strosnider, who worked with Francis on The Skydivers as well, and speaks in detail of the director's, um, methodology." -Jason Bailey, DVD TALK

(WRITER/ACTOR/DIRECTOR/CULT FILM ENTHUSIAST LARRY BLAMIRE)

(BOB BURNS IN HIS WORLD RENOWNED MOVIE MUSEUM)

(MST ALUMIS FRANK CONNIFF)

The documentary premiered on June 24th, at MONSTER BASH 2010. Tom Weaver, horror film historian and Bash attendee, comments... "Hats off to doc maker Daniel Griffith, I too think he did a great job. At the most recent Monster Bash, his BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS doc was shown (also with Larry B. in the cast) and it was a big hit."

(BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS CINEMATOGRAPHER LEE STROSNIDER)

MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 Volume XVIII is now available thru SHOUT! FACTORY. Very special thanks to Jordan Fields and Brian Ward. It's great working with you guys!

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Next up are the bonus materials Ballyhoo produced/directed for VCI Entertainment's special edition DVD release of William Witney's "APACHE RIFLES", starring the legendary Audie Murphy, Linda Lawson, Michael Dante, and L. Q. Jones.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

3-PLEASE, HOLD THE SPAGHETTI: APACHE RIFLES AND THE END OF THE CONVENTIONAL WESTERN

4-CUT TO THE CHASE: MICHAEL DANTE REMEMBERS WILLIAM WHITNEY

5-MUSEUM OF LONE PINE FILM HISTORY: A RETROSPECTIVE

(SCREENWRITER/WESTERN FILM HISTORIAN C. COURTNEY JOYNER)

(HISTORIAN CHRIS LANGLEY, SHOT AT THE LONE PINE FILM MUSEUM)

DVD REVIEWS:

"There's a 23-minute making-of documentary - an effort that puts similar efforts on more major releases to shame." -Barrie Maxwell, THE DIGITAL BITS

"But where the DVD really excels is in its supplemental material. There are short pieces on Witney and the Lone Pine Museum, a still gallery and a longer documentary on Apache Rifles and the end of the conventional Western. It’s always good to see a smaller picture get this kind of attention — and I’m sure we can all come up with a list of dozens more we’d like to see treated this respectfully."

-50 WESTERNS FROM THE 50'S

Special thanks to Kit Parker, Bob Blair, Chris Rowe, Museum of Lone Pine Film History, Chris Langely, Michael Dante and especially, my good friend, Courtney Joyner. The "APACHE RIFLES" is now available at VCI ENTERTAINMENT.

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IT'S HAMMER TIME!

During the post-production phase on both the DARK STAR documentary and the MST3000 Volume XIX, Ballyhoo made a quick trip overseas to glorious London to shoot interviews and B-Roll footage for three Hammer films and two British horror TV series. The journey concluded with a visit to legendary Pinewood Studios.

(ONE OF THE MANY SOUNDSTAGES AT PINEWOOD STUDIOS)

(DANIEL GRIFFITH... OUTSIDE OF JOHN HOUGH'S STUDIO BUNGALOW)

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"LET THERE BE LIGHT: THE ODYSSEY OF DARK STAR"

An all new, feature-length documentary exploring the making of John Carpenter/Dan O'Bannon cult masterpiece-from concept, to distribution. containing EXCLUSIVE interviews with actor Brian Narelle, cinematographer Doug Knapp, art director Tommy Lee Wallace, visual effects artists Greg Jein, voice artist Cookie Knapp, distributor Jack Harris, Diane O'Bannon, USC alumni Jeff Burr, as well as archival interviews with Dan O'Bannon, John Carpenter and more!

This was an absolute joy to work on, considering the tight budget and tighter post-production schedule. It's amazing how much art would imitate life during this particular project. My own struggles regarding the K. Gordon Murray documentary would eventually mirror the struggles both Carpenter and O'Bannon faced during the production of DARK STAR.

(DANIEL GRIFFITH AND WRITER/DIRECTOR TOMMY LEE WALLACE)

DVD REVIEWS:

"...one of the best documentaries you'll get on any disc, "Let There Be Light: The Odyssey of Dark Star." The 2010 documentary is almost two hours long, divided into some nineteen chapters, and includes interviews and comments from many of the film's cast and crew. It makes for fascinating viewing." -John J. Puccio, DVD TOWN

"Be on the lookout for an impressive all new feature-length documentary entitled Let There Be Light: The Odyssey Of Dark Star (116:32, it's actually longer than the film itself)... Director Daniel Griffith has definitely gone the extra mile here to track down as many people as possible involved with the film and to let them share their side of the story of its genesis." -AV MANIACS

"It's an informative and very well-edited piece on the production of the film according to everyone from Diane O'Bannon, Dan's widow, to actor Brian Narelle. All the talking heads are very articulate and bring a lot of neat information to the table." -Simon Abrams, SLANT MAGAZINE

"The extras are plentiful and chief among them is the outstanding documentary Let There Be Light by Daniel Griffith. In addition to creating an entertaining framework, Griffith manages to round up almost everyone associated with all phases of the production including the elusive Jack H. Harris. The sordid tale of the film’s lengthy shooting schedule and the battles the filmmakers fought over ownership and distribution of the film are presented with an even hand so that all parties are allowed to tell their side of the story." -Ed Tucker, RETRORAMA

Special thanks to everyone involved with this production... a list no long to mention. My deepest thanks to Diane O'Bannon, Bob Blair, Chris Rowe, the crew at VCI Entertainment, Jeff Burr, and Brian Narelle.

The "DARK STAR: HYPERDRIVE EDITION" is now available thru VCI ENTERTAINMENT.

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For Volume XIX of SHOUT! FACTORY'S MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 box sets, Ballyhoo produced four separate documentary shorts, each one containing its own set of challenges. But working on the MST sets is always an adventure!

BONUS MATERIALS INCLUDE:

6-CITIZEN WOOD: MAKING THE BRIDE, UNMAKING THE LEGEND

7-THE PUPPET MASTER: RICHARD GORDON ON DEVIL DOLL

8-LARRY BLAMIRE GEEKS OUT!: ROBOT MONSTER

9-INVENTING THE INVENTION EXCHANGE

(MST3000 CREATOR JOEL HODGSON)

(RICHARD GORDON ON HAND FOR THE BRIDE OF THE MONSTER DOCUMENTARY)

(CONTEMPORARY HORROR HOST MR. LOBO HAMMERS THE ISSUES)

(GEORGE "THE ANIMAL" STEELE CHANNELS HIS INNER TOR)

DVD REVIEWS:

"The main extra for Bride of the Monster is the 27-minute documentary "Citizen Wood: Making the Bride, Unmaking the 'Legend'"—an epic look at this B-movie classic, featuring interviews with Joel Hodgson, Larry Blamire, producer Richard Gordon, Richard Sheffield (a friend of Lugosi's), and George "the Animal" Steele, who played Tor Johnson in Tim Burton's Ed Wood biopic. Frankly, it's more exhaustive than the movie deserves." -Erich Asperschiager, DVD VERDICT

REGARDING THE BRIDE OF THE MONSTER DOCUMENTARY... "This is a much more honest portrait of Ed and Bela’s relationship than Tim Burton’s film." -Joe Corey, INSIDE PULSE

"This set’s best are bunched on Ed Wood’s Bride of the Monster, including another superbly crafted featurette (“documentary” seems too high-falutin’) called Citizen Wood: Making The Bride, Unmaking the Legend (well, speaking of pretentious and high-falutin’)." -TRIPPING THE LIGHT

"Volume XIX boasts one of the most robust selections of extras on an MST3K set to date."

-Steve Schardein, DIGITAL CHUMPS

Special thanks to Tom Weaver, Larry Blamire, Richard Gordon, George Steele, Joel Hodgson, Mr. Lobo, Jordan Fields, and Brian Ward.

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Ballyhoo was very proud to work with SYNAPSE FILMS on their 100th film release, as well as their first Blu-ray release. The bloodcurdling bonus features produced exclusively for this release are:

10-THE BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH: MAKING VAMPIRE CIRCUS

11-GALLERY OF GROTESQUERIES: A BRIEF HISTORY OF CIRCUS HORRORS

12-VISITING THE HOUSE OF HAMMER: BRITIAN'S LEGENDARY HORROR MAGAZINE

("THE BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH" ONE-SHEET)

DVD REVIEWS:

"The set boasts several handsome extras beginning with The Bloodiest Show on Earth: Making 'Vampire Circus'. Directed by Daniel Griffith, the short makes superb high-def use of behind-the-scenes stills and promotional art, while historian-director Joe Dante, writers Tim Lucas and Philip Nutman and especially Ted Newsom discuss the film's troubled production in great detail, praising its qualities while acknowledging its shortcomings." -Stuart Galbraith IV, DVD TALK

"Hammer fans should be pleased by simply having the film in their hands, but Synapse goes the distance, providing a wealth of bonus material including a smashing documentary called “The Bloodiest Show on Earth.” It features Hammer experts Tim Lucas and Ted Newsom, filmmaker Joe Dante and co-star David Prowse (Darth Vader himself)—along with Fango contributor Phil Nutman—jawing about the special place VAMPIRE CIRCUS holds not only in horror history, but the hearts of the Hammer faithful." -Chris Alexander, FANGORIA

"What really sets the Ballyhoo extras apart is their art direction. The circus theme is expressed in handsome background and transition artwork, and the color for some of the interviews has also been tweaked to interesting effect -- Hammer expert Newsom's shots look hand-tinted."

-Glenn Erickson, DVD SAVANT

Special thanks to Don May, Jr., Jerry Chandler, Ted Newsom, Phil Nutman, Joe Dante, Tim Lucas, and many, many more for making all of this possible.

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THE PASSING OF STAGE AND SCREEN ACTRESS DOMINI BLYTHE, STAR OF VAMPIRE CIRCUS:

December 15. Shortly before the release of the VAMPIRE CIRCUS blu-ray, famed Canadian stage and screen actress Domini Blythe, died in Montreal after a long battle with cancer. The British born Blythe would star in VAMPIRE CIRCUS, before moving to Canada in 1972 to pursue a career in theater. She will be missed.

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COMING IN 2011:

In 2011, Ballyhoo will be producing documentaries on TWINS OF EVIL, HANDS OF THE RIPPER, RACE WITH THE DEVIL, as well as wrapping up THE WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY, THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP: THE FILMS OF WILLIAM GREFÉ, and beginning production on CUT TO THE CHASE: THE SERIAL LIFE OF WILLIAM WITNEY. There's much more to come. Stay turned for more exciting announcements in the near future!!!!

IN SUMMARY....

TWELVE FEATURETTES:

1-NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY: MAKING THE BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS

2-COLEMAN FRANCIS: CINEMATIC POET OF PARKING

3-PLEASE, HOLD THE SPAGHETTI: APACHE RIFLES AND THE END OF THE CONVENTIONAL WESTERN

4-CUT TO THE CHASE: MICHAEL DANTE REMEMBERS WILLIAM WHITNEY

5-MUSEUM OF LONE PINE FILM HISTORY: A RETROSPECTIVE

6-CITIZEN WOOD: MAKING THE BRIDE, UNMAKING THE LEGEND

7-THE PUPPET MASTER: RICHARD GORDON ON DEVIL DOLL

8-LARRY BLAMIRE GEEKS OUT!: ROBOT MONSTER

9-INVENTING THE INVENTION EXCHANGE

10-THE BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH: MAKING VAMPIRE CIRCUS

11-GALLERY OF GROTESQUERIES: A BRIEF HISTORY OF CIRCUS HORRORS

12-VISITING THE HOUSE OF HAMMER: BRITIAN'S LEGENDARY HORROR MAGAZINE

TWO DOCUMENTARIES:

1-LET THERE BE LIGHT: THE ODYSSEY OF DARK STAR

2-THE WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY

ONE SCREENING:

1-NAME OF THE GAME IS KILL- CINEFAMILY SCREENING

2010-12-06T07:41:00.000-08:00

INTRODUCING... BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES OFFICIAL DOCUMENTARY PROMOTIONAL MERCHANDISE!!!! Attention obscure movie fans!!!! If your browsing the net for a great companion piece to the newest MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 box set... or just interested in a unique gift item for the cult film enthusiasts in your family, check out the BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES ebay store! New for 2010: the "YOUNG AMERICA HORROR CLUB" gift set and the "MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 BALLYHOO" gift set! Visit the link below for more information and pricing!

CLICK HERE VISIT THE BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES EBAY STORE!

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE FROM DANIEL GRIFFITH, DIRECTOR AND PRODUCER OF "THE WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY":

2010-12-04T11:11:00.000-08:00

After several weeks of frantic editorial adjustments based on a few emerging rights issues with some of the clips used within the body of the K. Gordon Murray documentary, I have regretfully decided to postpone the films official premiere. There's not enough time to negotiate the rights, nor find a suitable replacement for these clips.

This news may disappoint film fans who have been eagerly anticipating this documentary since I began production on it three years ago. For those of you who have stuck by the project, I am indebted to your patience. The K. Gordon Murray documentary is, and has always been, a fully independent venture. It is a passion project that has taken more time and detective work than I will ever admit. It has been a long journey and I assure all of you, I did not come to this decision lightly.

I have given Turner Classic Movies the option of airing the revised documentary in the near future, but as of now, the TCM network premiere is officially canceled. The staff at TCM has been very helpful and understanding regarding this decision. This will not effect the network airing of K. Gordon Murray's SANTA CLAUS, which is now slated for December 10th at 2:00 a.m.

But I assure all of you, the complete, unedited documentary will be released this spring, as intended. Look for news in the upcoming months regarding special 'ROADSHOW' screenings of the film in select theaters, as well as official news on its DVD release. Again, thank you for your patience and support. And have a very Murray christmas!

"LET THERE BE LIGHT: The Odyssey of Dark Star"- Feature-length Documentary Now Available!

2010-10-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

"LET THERE BE LIGHT:

THE ODYSSEY OF DARK STAR"
FEATURE LENGHT DOCUMENTARY FILM

NOMINATED FOR A 2011 RONDO HATTON AWARD
FOR BEST INDEPENDENT FILM!

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES, in association with VCI Entertainment, is proud to present... "LET THERE BE LIGHT: The Odyssey of Dark Star", an all new, feature-length documentary chronicling the controversial making of DARK STAR.

The motion picture debut of director John Carpenter (HALLOWEEN & THE THING) and writer Dan O'Bannon (ALIEN & RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD) began as a cinematic partnership between to budding artisans. A union that would be tested, time and again, during the process of creating one of the most ambitious student films ever made. A space parody that would eventually form a lifelong rift between the two genre giants... both of which would eventually change the way horror films are made.

Featuring interviews with actor Brian Narelle (Doolittle), cinematographer Doug Knapp (cinematographer on STAR TREK: VOYAGER), art director Tommy Lee Wallace (director of HALLOWEEN III & Stephen King's IT), visual effects artists Ron Cobb (ALIEN & BACK TO THE FUTURE), visual effects supervisor Bill Taylor (BLADE RUNNER & CAPE FEAR), voice artist Cookie Knapp, film distributor Jack Harris (producer of THE BLOB), Diane O'Bannon, USC alumni/director Jeff Burr (director of TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE III), and director John Carpenter.

It also features the final interview of writer/producer/effects supervisor Dan O'Bannon (who passed away before this documentary was completed).

Produced by Ballyhoo Motion Pictures and directed by Daniel Griffith (BLOODIEST SHOW ON EARTH: MAKING VAMPIRE CIRCUS and THE WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY). Running Time: 118 Minutes B/W,Color

"LET THERE BE LIGHT: The Odyssey of Dark Star"
Documentary Poster
Artwork by MARK RITCH Poster Design by DANIEL GRIFFITH

The director's extended edition premiered at the 2011 SCI-FI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL. The screening was held at the BFI SOUTHBANK Theater on Saturday, April 30th at 3:00 P.M. Here's an excerpt from the Q & A with director/producer DANIEL GRIFFITH, courtesy of the BFI.

DOCUMENTARY EXCERPTS:

"PLEASE, HOLD THE SPAGHETTI!"... IS COMING IN AUGUST!

2010-07-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES just wrapped up a whole slate of EXCLUSIVE bonus features for VCI Entertainment's Special Edition DVD release of William Witney's 1964 film, "APACHE RIFLES"(which streets Aug. 31st, 2010). This action-packed 'B-Western' stars the legendary Audie Murphy, as well as Linda Lawson, L. Q. Jones, and Michael Dante.

In the Arizona Territory in 1879, Apaches leave their reservation to wreak vengeance on the farmers and gold miners who have invaded their homeland. Captain Stanton of the U. S. Cavalry captures Red Hawk, son of Apache chief Victorio, and uses him to bargain for a truce, agreeing to see that greedy miners are kept off Indian territory. The unscrupulous white men murder the new Indian agent, however, and the Apaches are blamed. Stanton is replaced by Colonel Perry, who uses the opportunity to ambush Red Hawk and move him to a new reservation in Texas. Stanton feels that he has broken his word to the chief's son and offers to resign. Red Hawk, however, offers his friendship; and Stanton, with his half-breed fiancée, Dawn, decides to remain in the Cavalry.

And, like the resounding bugle calls heard throughout the film, "Apache Rifles" unknowingly heralded the end of an era within the genre. Shortly after it's theatrical release, Sergio Leone's masterful FISTFUL OF DOLLARS debuted in the United States, changing the American western landscape for generations to come.

This was the first of a four film collaboration between Murphy and Witney, the second being ARIZONA RAIDERS (1965), followed by 40 GUNS TO APACHE PASS (1967). Murphy died in a tragic plane crash during the preproduction phase of the forth film.

THE BONUS FEATURES (ALL PRODUCED BY DANIEL GRIFFITH/BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES) INCLUDE:

"PLEASE, HOLD THE SPAGHETTI!: Apache Rifles and the End of the Conventional Western"- An all-new documentary featuring exclusive interviews with actor Michael Dante, western film historian/screenwriter C. Courtney Joyner and Lone Pine Museum historian Chris Langley.

"CUT TO THE CHASE: The Serial Life of WILLIAM WITNEY"- A documentary excerpt featuring actor Michael Dante.

"MUSEUM OF LONE PINE FILM HISTORY: A Retrospective"- A discussion with historian Chris Langley regarding the museums history.

GET READY FOR... 'FULL FRONTAL TOR!!!!!'

2010-05-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES PRESENTS

'VERSION A' ONE-SHEET

From the direcTOR of the critically acclaimed documentary short, "SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE DEVIL: A 50 Year Retrospective", comes the shocking true sTORy behind one of American cinema's most misunderstood pieces of celluloid. Ballyhoo Motion Pictures and Shout! Factory present... "NO DIALOGUE NECESSARY: Making The Beast of Yucca Flats"- an all-new, 30 minute documentary short featuring exclusive interviews with cult filmmaker LARRY BLAMIRE ('Lost Skeleton' Series'), b-movie historian BOB BURNS, 'Mystery Science Theater 3000' alumnus FRANK CONNIFF, and 'Yucca Flats' cinematographer/editor LEE STROSNIDER.

(PICTURE: CULT FILMMAKER... LARRY BLAMIRE)

And, as an added bonus, Ballyhoo Motion Pictures produced an additional featurette... entitled, "COLEMAN FRANCIS: The Cinematic Poet of Parking", with LEE STROSNIDER (cinematographer/editor of 'Beast of Yucca Flats' and 'Skydivers'). In this candid documentary short, STROSNIDER recalls his experiences with the enigmatic actor/director... from their first discussions regarding 'Yucca Flats' to shooting 'Skydivers'. Both documentaries are produced and directed by DANIEL GRIFFITH.

'TEASER' ONE-SHEET

Available only on the MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 VOLUME XVIII DVD box set, coming July 13th, 2010... from SHOUT! FACTORY!

COMING SOON TO THE BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES STORE-

Exclusive "BEAST OF YUCCA FLATS" documentary mini-posters and button-sets.

Visit: http://stores.ebay.com/Ballyhoo-Motion-Pictures-Store

R.I.P. JOHN DAVIS CHANDLER 1/28/35 - 2/16/10

2010-04-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

(PHOTO: RARE STILL FROM "WHISKEY MOUNTAIN")

Very little has been said about the talented (and under-appreciated) character actor, John Davis Chandler, within in own lifetime. I find it even more tragic that next-to-nothing has been posted about his passing.

Born on January 28, 1935, in Hinton, West Virginia, John Davis Chandler was always short... with fair hair, a fairer complexion, piercing blue eyes, and a rough, seasoned voice. Because of these stark physical attributes, Chandler was often typecast as ruthless, neurotic villains. From his impressive film debut as a homicidal gang lord in Mad Dog Coll (1961) to his astounding work with the iconic director Sam Peckinpah ("Ride the High Country" 1962, "Major Dundee" 1965, and "Pat Garret & Billy the Kid" 1973).

Beside working with cinematic masters such as John Frankenheimer, Ralph Nelson, John Hough, and Clint Eastwood... Chandler also appeared in three highly entertaining drive-in exploitation films by regional cult director William Grefé. In "HOOKED GENERATION" (1968), he was in top form playing a crazed, doped-up flunky named Acid. In "Mako: The Jaws of Death", Chandler portrayed a menacing shark poacher (alongside James Bond henchman Harold Sakata). And finally, in "Whiskey Mountain", Chandler plays a delusional marijuana farmer.

In 2008, I interviewed Chandler in the home of Jimmy Maslin (the Herschell Gordon Lewis biographer) for the William Grefé documentary. Even then, almost two full years from this date, Chandler was very ill. But his memory was sharp and his 'behind the scene' recollections were priceless. This interview will be featured in "THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP: The Films of William Grefé".

(PHOTO: JOHN CHANDLER IN "THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP")

I am thankful for the brief time I got to know this legendary character actor. From our conversations about the various new trends in health foods and herbal supplements (he was an avid nutritionist and a yoga practitioner), to our debates on whether or not people would 'give a damn' about any of the documentaries I am working on (he felt that everyone lives in the moment and are not concerned about history... especially his own). Thankfully, his legacy continues in the monumental body of work he leaves behind. He will be missed, indeed.

Special thanks to Chris Poggiali at TEMPLE OF SCHLOCK for bringing this to my attention.

OFFICIAL OBITUARY:

Character actor John Davis Chandler passed away on 2/16/10. John was born in West Virginia and moved to Southern California at an early age. He made his home in Toluca Lake. He was an avid practitioner of yoga. Short and thin, with fair hair, piercing blue eyes, he specialized in portraying mean, neurotic and dangerous villains. He made an impressive film debut in his sole starring part as the titular sniveling, psychotic, homicidal weasel gangster in Mad Dog Coll. He acted in a trio of Westerns for director Sam Peckinpah and is especially memorable as the creepy Jimmy Hammond in the magnificent Ride in the High County. He was excellent as vicious punk Arthur Reardon in The Young Savages. He made an effectively loathsome appearance as a vile bushwhacker in the supremely spooky horror-western The Shadow of Chikara. He had a nice bit as a bounty hunter in Clint Eastwood’s terrific The Outlaw Josey Wales. He played a foul shark poacher in Jaws. Over the years, John did many television guest spots on such shows as: Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Walker, Texas Ranger, Chicago Hope, ER, Simon & Simon, Hunter, Murder, She Wrote, Hill Street Blues, T.J. Hooker, Fantasy Island, The Incredible Hulk, Police Woman, Gunsmoke, Adam-12, The Fugitive, Combat, The Rifleman, Triumphs of a Man Called Horse, The Little Dragons, Whiskey Mountain, Colombo, High Chaparral, The Treasure Seekers, Route 66 and The Men from Shiloh. He is survived by a brother, Arthur Chandler, and the many friends that he made along his journey here on earth. He will be greatly missed.

IT'S HAMMER TIME!!! HAMMER STUDIO'S, THAT IS....

2010-04-13T06:07:00.000-07:00

THE SECRET IS OUT!!! SYNAPSE FILMS will be releasing four HAMMER STUDIO horror films this year! The titles include... "TWINS OF EVIL", "HANDS OF THE RIPPER", and "VAMPIRE CIRCUS"! BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES/Daniel Griffith is producing the DVD bonus materials for each title... which will include three separate 'making-of' documentaries and more! So far, the I have filmed interviews with HAMMER documentarian TED NEWSOM and director/HAMMER fan JOE DANTE! I am very excited about working with SYNAPSE on these highly-anticipated releases! Check out the FANGORIA article... HERE!

"SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE DEVIL" Nominated For A RONDO!!!

2010-02-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

"SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE DEVIL: A 50 Year Retrospective" was nominated for a 2009 RONDO HATTON AWARD in the Best DVD Extra Category. Thank you everyone at RONDO and the Classic Horror Film Board! BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES and SHOUT! FACTORY are very proud! And special thanks to all who participated in this featurette! Without your assistance and support, this particular documentary short would not have made it past the opening credits.

To cast a vote for your favorite monster media released this past year, visit: http://www.rondoaward.com Voting ends at midnight, April 3rd, 2010. The winners in each category will be announced on Sunday, April 4th.

CULT FILMMAKER FRANK HENENLOTTER DIVES INTO GREFÉS "SWAMP"!

2010-02-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

I just returned from a weekend excursion to 'historic' Anniston, Alabama. Why is it historic? Because it is the home of the world's greatest living exploiteer, DAVID F. FRIEDMAN. Not only does FRIEDMAN have an encyclopedic knowledge of exploitation film that would leave most scholars baffled, he also has a make-shift museum (converted garage) dedicated to his rich life in show business.

There, surrounded by framed stills and wallpapered one-sheets, I shot an interview with "Basket Case" writer/director, FRANK HENENLOTTER. Together, we discussed the films of WILLIAM GREFÉ, as well as his experiences working with MIKE VRANEY and Something Weird Video (who released several Grefé films, including DEATH CURSE OF TARTU and HOOKED GENERATION).

Once inside the house, we (HENENLOTTER, VRANEY, and myself) captured an extensive interview with DAVE at his desk. I also asked DAVE a few final questions for both the K. GORDON MURRAY and WILLIAM GREFÉ documentary. Almost three years ago, I filmed my first interview for the MURRAY documentary with FRIEDMAN. Since then, he has remained a true friend.

Special thanks to MIKE VRANEY and FRANK HENENLOTTER.

SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE MARTIANS... Holiday Treat!

2009-12-20T18:49:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES!!! Enjoy this EXCLUSIVE "Santa Claus Conquers The Martians" TV spot with a commentary by MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000's very own... KEVIN MURPHY! First, watch the TV spot without the commentary,... then, listen to Kevin Murphy's comments regarding the making of the infamous MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 episode.

Produced by BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES/DANIEL GRIFFITH

INTRODUCING THE "SANTA CLAUS 50th ANNIVERSARY GIFT SET"... NOW ON SALE!!

2009-12-03T06:40:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays!!! Introducing the "SANTA CLAUS 50th ANNIVERSARY GIFT SET", a great holiday companion to the MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 VOLUME XVI dvd box set (which includes the infamous SANTA CLAUS episode)! Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the K. Gordon Murray matinee classic, "SANTA CLAUS", with this unique set... available exclusively at BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES EBAY STORE!!! The GIFT SET includes one (1) 11x17 inch "SANTA CLAUS: 50th Anniversary Poster" printed on medium/glossy paper stock, three (3) 4x6 inch "SANTA CLAUS" postcards (three separate artworks), one (1) "SANTA CLAUS" button set (two 1.5 inch buttons) with packaging, one (1) collectable "YOUNG AMERICA HORROR CLUB" 2.25 inch button, one (1) "WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY" 2.25 inch button, and a SURPRISE "RETRO" GIFT! It could be anything! Cult film DVD's, magic kits,... you name it! All this for only $16.99 (plus shipping and handling)! But hurry, this offer won't last long!

While you are at our BALLYHOO store, check out some of our other EXCLUSIVE items... including a "ROBOT vs. THE AZTEC MUMMY" T-shirt, a K. GORDON MURRAY POSTER SET, and MORE!!!

Making "THE CHRISTMAS THAT ALMOST WASN'T" (PART ONE)

2009-11-30T19:14:00.000-08:00

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES Presents

"Making of THE CHRISTMAS THAT ALMOST WASN'T"

An Interview with Producer/Childhood Productions President BARRY YELLEN

It is the week before Christmas, and Santa Claus visits attorney Sam Whipple, asking for his help. It turns out that the evil businessman Phineas T. Prune holds the lease on the North Pole, and is about to kick Santa out for nonpayment of rent! As such, there will be no more Christmas! Santa and Sam try various means to placate Prune, first by reasoning with him, then by attempting to earn money at a local department store. All their plans fail, and it appears that all hope is lost. But a small boy hears of Santa's dilemma, and rallies all the village children to come forth with their savings. At the last minute, Santa hands over the rent in full to Prune. Also, Santa gives Prune a toy sailboat, which is all he ever wanted since he was a small, lonely child, and Prune turns into the philanthropist he was always meant to be.

Stayed tuned to BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES Official YOUTUBE channel for PART TWO and THREE... premiering this DECEMBER!

Produced by BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES
Special Thanks to BARRY YELLEN & ROB CRAIG

CHILDHOOD PRODUCTIONS Presents

"THE CHRISTMAS THAT ALMOST WASN'T"

Starring Paul Tripp, Rosanno Brazzi, and Sonny Fox

Musical Score by Bruno Nicolai

Produced by Barry B. Yellen and A.J. Piccolo

Directed by Rosanno Brazzi

BALLYHOO and SATELLITE NEWS present... the K. GORDON MURRAY HOLIDAY PRIZE PACK!

2009-11-29T06:18:00.000-08:00

BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES and SATELLITE NEWS presents a special holiday contest... in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of K. Gordon Murray's "SANTA CLAUS, as well as the up-coming release of "MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000: Volume XVI". Visit SATELLITE NEWS for more details.

The prize pack (SEE ABOVE) contains several EXCLUSIVE Wonder World of K. Gordon Murray items... a perfect holiday companion to the MST3000 box set! But act quickly... the contest ends on Dec. 2nd!

"Have A Murray Christmas" from THE WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY!

2009-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

"SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE DEVIL" DOCUMENTARY SHORT!

2009-11-12T12:07:00.000-08:00

SANTA CLAUS MATCHES WITS WITH THE DEVIL'S CHIEF DEMON IN THIS NO-HOLDS-BARRED HOLIDAY CLASSIC (WELL... THAT'S WHAT THE POSTER INDICATED)!

TO CELEBRATE THE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF K. GORDON MURRAY'S "SANTA CLAUS", BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES HAS TEAMED UP WITH SHOUT! FACTORY TO PRODUCE THE ULTIMATE DOCUMENTARY SHORT EXPLORING THE HISTORY OF THIS CHILDREN'S MATINEE ODDITY... FROM ITS CONCEPTION... TO ITS LEGENDARY STATUS AS ONE OF THE MOST REQUESTED AND DISCUSSED MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 EPISODES!

"SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE DEVIL: A 50 YEAR RETROSPECTIVE" FEATURES EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH KEVIN MURPHY (CO-WRITER AND VOICE OF 'TOM SERVO'), PAUL CHAPLIN (CO-WRITER AND 'PITCH' IN THE "SANTA CLAUS" SKETCH), DAVID WILT (MEXICAN FILM HISTORIAN), CHARLES KILGORE (EXPLOITATION FILM HISTORIAN), CHRIS CORNELL (SATELLITE NEWS), BRIAN HENRY (SATELLITE NEWS), AND MORE!

THE DOCUMENTARY SHORT IS ONLY AVAILABLE ON SHOUT! FACTORY'S "MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000: VOLUME XVI" BOX SET... COMING TO DVD DECEMBER 1st, 2009! PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!

ALSO, CHECK OUT THE NEWLY REMASTERED "SANTA CLAUS" T.V. SPOT ON OUR BALLYHOO YOUTUBE CHANNEL. MORE TO COME!

BEHIND THE SCENES GALLERY:

"WONDER WORLD OF K. GORDON MURRAY in COLORSCOPE"- AN ALL-NEW, FEATURE LENGTH DOCUMENTARY FILM... COMING 2010!

VISIT THE WONDER WORLD AT: WWW.KGORDONMURRAYMOVIE.COM

BOX SET AD

"EVERYBODIES DOIN' THE SHANTY TRAMP" Documentary Short

2009-11-11T04:35:00.000-08:00

That's right, folks! Everybody, and we mean EVERYBODY, is doing the SHANTY TRAMP! It's our nations latest and greatest dance craze! And now, thanks to the marvels of modern technology, you can do the SHANTY TRAMP in your own home! Look for this all-new documentary short to premiere on DVD this holiday season. It's SWINGIN'! It what's HAPPENING! Check back here for further details.

Featuring interviews with actor LAWRENCE TOBIN (who played 'Savage') and cult film historian, CHARLES KILGORE (ECCO Magazine & FilmFax).

For more information about this... and other K. Gordon Murray releases, visit the WONDER WORLD at: www.kgordonmurraymovie.com.

THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP: The William Grefé Trailer Collection!

2009-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Here comes the most shocking collection of film trailers this side of the Mason-Dixon line! Journey into director WILLIAM GREFÉS wild world of badass bikers, maniacal mountain men, diabolical drug dealers, and monstrous hell-beasts from the darkest depths of the Florida everglades!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL THE TRAILERS!!!!

"THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP: The Films of William Grefé"- An all new, feature-length documentary film... coming 2010! Visit the swamp at: www.theycamefromtheswamp.com

"DARK SIDE OF EDEN-THE EXTENDED VERSION" Screening at CINEMA WASTELAND This Weekend!

2009-10-01T04:24:00.000-07:00

Join documentary filmmaker DANIEL GRIFFITH and cult film director WILLIAM GREFÉ at the CINEMA WASTELAND convention this weekend (Oct. 2nd-4th) for a special screening of "DARK SIDE OF EDEN: The Making of STANLEY"-The Extended Edition. As an added bonus... we will be premiering the theatrical trailer for "THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP" The Films of William Grefé"! The screening will be at 1:15 p.m. on Saturday in Movie Room 2. Also, visit the BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES table throughout the weekend... and pick up EXCLUSIVE merchandise for the documentary... including t-shirts, button sets, and posters. William Grefé will available for autographs all weekend!

SCHEDULE:

11:00pm - Join director William Grefe following the screening of STANLEY for a Q&A with attending fans, in MOVIE ROOM 1.

1:15pm - MOVIE: The uncut version of THE DARK SIDE OF EDEN, Daniel Griffith’s documentary on the making of William Grefe’s cult horror film, STANLEY, begins in MOVIE ROOM 2.

For more information, visit: http://www.cinemawasteland.com

R.I.P. "Sssssorry To See You Go, STANLEY"

2009-08-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

The BCI Eclipse Special Edition DVD of STANLEY is now history. Mill Creek picked up the Crown library from the now defunct BCI, and is releasing the titles in multiple budget packs (without extras)... starting with the one pictured above. I urge fans of the film, STANLEY, to pick up a copy of the BCI Edition while you still can, since it is the only version that contains the extra's.

WONDER WORLD GOES TO MONSTER BASH 2009!!!

2009-07-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

Ballyhoo Motion Pictures had a blast at this years MONSTER BASH! We took the opportunity of being at the BASH to introduce the official (and EXCLUSIVE) "Wonder World of K. Gordon Murray In Colorscope" merchandise! The items included two unique T-Shirt designs, Santa Claus 50th Anniversary Button Sets, mini-posters, 'Pitch, The Demon' illuminated horns, resin model kits, and MUCH MORE! Oh, and we had a little help from 'STINKY THE SKUNK', making his first LIVE appearance in over 30 years!

PICTURE: Director Daniel Griffith and STINKY THE SKUNK

PICTURE: THE BRAINIAC loves Moonpies... when he is not dining on brains, of course!

PICTURE: FREE Blood Cocktails, anyone?

PICTURE: STINKY and Jennifer, his personal costume mistress.

PICTURE: Director Daniel Griffith and STINKY THE SKUNK

SPECIAL THANKS TO RON ADAMS AND THE GANG AT CREEPY CLASSICS! And a very special thanks to Mark, Jennifer, and Layne!

"HOBGOBLINS: REVISITED"-Documentary Short Invades The Ballyhoo Blog!

2009-07-15T05:28:00.000-07:00

PICTURE: Director Daniel Griffith & 'THE CLAW'

1989. The cold war ends. The Berlin wall tumbles. The Exxon Valdez spills its oil. And Hobgoblins are unleashed upon the unknowing public. Now, for the first time ever, you are invited back to the actual locations used in the film. SEE... where Daphne rolled with the HOBGOBLIN! SEE... the mysterious 'film vault' that protected the world from their wraith! Join director Rick Sloane on this nostalgic journey... 20 years in the making!

Produced by Ballyhoo Motion Pictures

Directed by Daniel Griffith

Running Time: 7 Minutes

Special Thanks to Rick Sloane, Jordan Fields, MicroWerks, Shout! Factory, and of course... the Hobgoblins (Frankie, Sniffles, Bounce-Bounce, & 'THE CLAW').

"HOBGOBLINS: The 20th Anniversary Edition" and "HOBGOBLINS 2" DVD's are now available at AMAZON.COM... From MicroWerks.

The Official "THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP" One-sheet Surfaces!

2009-07-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

"THEY CAME FROM THE SWAMP: The Films of William Grefé"- An exciting, feature-length documentary from BALLYHOO MOTION PICTURES!

From the darkest depths of the Florida everglades... comes the shocking true story of William Grefé, one of the most renegade 'independent' filmmakers in American history. His credits include many drive-in era classics, such as "DEATH CURSE OF TARTU" (1966), "WILD REBELS" (1967), "THE HOOKED GENERATION" (1968), "STANLEY" (1972), "IMPULSE" starring William Shatner (1974), and "MAKO: JAWS OF DEATH" (1976).

Featuring interviews with William Grefé, Gary Crutcher, Chris Robinson, Steve Alaimo, H. G. Lewis, John Davis Chandler, David Friedman, William Shatner, and many MORE! Directed and Produced by DANIEL GRIFFITH.

Look for more information about this, and other BALLYHOO releases, on this blogsite.

STATUS: In Post-production.

RELEASE: Winter 2010

WEBSITE: Coming Soon

Poster Art by Stephen Romano

www.shockfestival.net

THE ROBOT vs. MONSTER BASH 2009!

2009-06-01T05:04:00.000-07:00

Join THE ROBOT from the 1958 cult film classic, "THE ROBOT vs. THE AZTEC MUMMY"... LIVE and IN PERSON... at Pittsburgh's very own MONSTER BASH 2009 (June 26-28)! There will also be a special appearance by the lovable, "STINKY the SKUNK", star of such films as "LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD", "THE QUEENS SWORDSMAN" and "LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD and THE MONSTERS"! See below for more details, or visit: www.creepyclassics.com !

"DARK SIDE OF EDEN" Extended Version Documentary Premiere!

2009-02-09T06:19:00.000-08:00

An article highlighting the premiere of the "DARK SIDE OF EDEN: The Making of STANLEY"- The Extended Version is NOW ONLINE at www.fangoria.com!

CLICK HERE to read the article!

Screenwriter GARY CRUTCHER Goes Deep Inside "SUPERCHICK" (1973)

2009-02-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

Ballyhoo Motion Pictures is still moving forward with a documentary short subject covering the 'ins & outs' of the 1973 Crown International production, "SUPERCHICK", which was slated to premiere on BCI Eclipse's planned DRIVE-IN CULT CLASSICS VOL. 5 (BCI unfortunately closed its doors this past December). This featurette will include an EXCLUSIVE interview with screenwriter GARY CRUTCHER, as well as rare 'behind the scenes' photos and stills.

ORIGINAL THEATRICAL TRAILER:

DARK SIDE OF EDEN: The Making of STANLEY-The Extended Version

2009-02-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Journey back over 35 years ago, to treacherous swamps of the Florida Everglades in, "DARK SIDE OF EDEN: The Making of Stanley", a 65 minute retrospective documentary featuring ALL-NEW interviews with director William Grefé, screenwriter Gary Crutcher, star Chris Robinson, and co-star Steve Alaimo. Using over 100 rare "behind the scenes" photographs and EXCLUSIVE 16mm film footage (from the director personal archives), this exciting film reveals the shocking story behind the making of the 1970's drive-in classic... told by the filmmakers who experienced it first hand.

Originally debuting on the BCI Eclipse special edition DVD, this 'extended' version of the documentary reinstates over 15 minutes of 'behind the scenes' footage and on location mayhem not seen on the DVD, as well as detailed information regarding the unfilmed sequel, "STANLEY IN MIAMI". This extended version of the documentary makes it's premiere at the LA Fangoria's Weekend Of Horrors Convention to help promote the SPECIAL EDITION DVD. The documentary was produced by Ballyhoo Motion Pictures and directed by Daniel Griffith.