THE MOST HORRIBLE FRANKENSTEIN

The May, 1964 issue of FAMOUS MONSTERS OF FILMLAND (#28) included an article that, as a Monster Kid back then, I thought highly unusual. This Frankenstein film from France, TORTIOLA CONTRE FRANKENSBERG (TWISTED NECK VS. FRANKENSBERG), starred a most peculiar monster, but was also ominous-looking and a bit frightening.

The article treats the film as if it were a serious horror movie, but in reality, French filmmakers intended it to be a parody. I found out many years later that I didn't really have to be scared at all!

View the film HERE.

MONSTER-SIZED MONSTER MEMORABILIA COLLECTION

This phenomenal collection of FAMOUS MONSTERS OF FILMLAND memorabilia is currently up at auction with a bid starting at $500.00. There are some interesting items here, including some that you don't see very often.

Lot Description:

Famous Monsters of Filmland Collection of (40) Classic Monster Memorabilia (1960s-2000s). Vintage and contemporary (40) items including (1) QMX silver and Carnelian replica of the Bela Lugosi "Dracula" Crest ring cast from the original owned by Forrest J Ackerman (limited edition 151/1931, (3) vintage (1963) Universal Monsters wallets with 1-"Dracula"/"The Mummy," 1-"The Creature"/"The Wolfman" and 1-"The Phantom"/"Frankenstein," (12) Louis Marx brand 6" x 3" x 2" classic monster figures including 2-"Frankenstein Monster," 2-"Mummy," 2-"Phantom of the Opera," 2-"Wolf Man," 2-"Hunchback," 2-"Creature from the Black Lagoon," (7) packs of "The Ackermonster's Cardic Cards," (1) deck of "Mr. Sci-Fi's Scientifiction Cards," (1) Famous Monsters of Filmland Phantom wrist watch, (14) Son of Famous Monsters of Filmland Convention items including 2-show programs, 3-pins, 3-attendee badge (two for Kevin Burns and one for Al Lewis), 2-convention printed bags and 4-ads for Forrest J Akerman's Sci-Fi magazine, (1) Famous Monsters of Filmland "Fantasticinema" 4" x 6" x 1" plaque presented to Kevin Burns.

DEAD AGAIN: FAMOUS MONSTERS MAG

Philip Kim, current publisher of FAMOUS MONSTERS OF FILMLAND magazine, announced his retirement on 6 February. He leaves the possibility of an annual 'zine in continuation of the title, but at the same time is entertaining business inquiries for its sale.

Frankly, Kim's incarnation of the monster magazine legend wasn't my favorite. I just didn't care for the content and it left little of the original vibe. I liked Ray Ferry's version better.

Here's Mr. Kim's announcement from the Famous Monsters Website:

A letter from the publisher:

Monster fans are the best fans. That has been proven over the past sixty years.

In 2007, I took Forrest J Ackerman’s blessing, and together with my publishing team, bestowed it upon a new generation of readers, connecting the latest Hollywood reboots with their classic inspirations and recreating the Captain Company store as a thriving commerce destination for horror, sci-fi, and fantasy fans. The enthusiastic response proved that Famous Monsters’ 60 year legacy was alive and well in the hearts of artists, writers, filmmakers, and enthusiasts who continue to change the world with their creations.

But alas, everything has its season, and my season is drawing to a close. I am retiring, so thank you all, sincerely, for your support over the years.

Perhaps Famous Monsters of Filmland will live on in a print annual and in the hearts and minds of Monster Kids everywhere. History will not be rewritten: FM will always be the most influential entertainment brand on the current filmmaking landscape, and as long as those whose lives were changed by Forry’s words embody his passionate spirit, our Monster World will continue to thrive.

Again, I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for being here through this journey. Onward and upward.

CHOICE CUTS: FAMOUS MONSTERS NO. 28 (PART 2)