Backwoods Director David C. Hayes Helps Demonica Embrace Her Inner 300lbs Transvestite

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I've never really been the kind of person who gets involved with other peoples business, not my thing. Once  the woman who lives in the room directly below me let out a blood curdling scream , I chose to ignore it. Later on that evening I found out that the woman had been the victim of a brutal rape and murder. If I had called the police five minutes earlier they would have been able to save her life. I will admit that it may have been a bad judgment call on my part, however the women did dress in skimpy clothing and keep late hours at the local corner store. It was bound to happen sooner or later, calling the police would have only been delaying the inevitable. The point I'm trying to make , my dear readers is this ; If someone is a slut and dresses as such let them get physically and sexually assaulted , it bound to happen sooner or later.

On a much lighter and much more sexually alluring note I have with me today an interview with one of my idols within the underground films industry , David. C Hayes. Mr. Hayes created what I believe to be one of the best low budget sleaze films in the past 10 years , Backwoods , as well as several other juicy and eye catching titles. Below you can read about Mr. Hayes thoughts on sleaze cinema and hear him discuss some of his upcoming projects, one of which is a sequel that I am very pumped for. So sit back , unbutton that blouse , roll down those knee highs, and ENJOY !!

 Have you always had a love for the art of  " Trash Cinema " ? What are some of your early influences as a director ?

 I think I have. As a wee lad I distinctly remember watching the b-movies. I was haunted, for years, by a film I only say a part of. A man was quartered by four horses and came back as a blue-faced corpse. It was terrifying (that is what they used to show on TV in the seventies). I eventually found out it was called The Torture Chamber of Dr. Sadism with Christopher Lee and recently watched it again. So good, so moody. Things like that have had a huge affect on me. The early Universal stuff, Hammer and even some early Troma are all things I point to.

 You seem to have a genuine love for low budget cinema , for instance your film Return to Yucca Flats : Desert Man Beast is a tribute to the classic film by Coleman Francis. In all honesty I think you did a good job of capturing the style of the original without going overkill. What are some of you favorite films to emerge from that era when trash cinema was king  ( 50's -60's) ?

      

Oh geez, I love the work of Ed Wood. I even wrote a book on him, Muddled Mind: The Complete Works of Ed Wood Jr. that is still in print I think. I get check for $4 every few months, lol. I love William Castle's films, Russ Meyer, HG Lewis (especially 2000 Maniacs). I think the 70s were a high point for exploitation, but the ground work was laid here. I would even throw Alfred Hitchcock in as a master exploiter. Rear Window is one of my favorite films of all time. I eventually grew a little and became a child of the slasher era.

 Have you always had a desire to craft and create films ? Did you go to film school ?

I think I did, but I'm more of an overall storyteller. I don't care what medium (fiction, comics, films, etc.). The story is important to me. I went to film school for 2 semesters... so that may explain things.

 Tell me a little how The Rainbow Avenger developed and was eventually used in the anthology Boxer Shorts.

From those two semesters came The Rainbow Avenger. It was a student film and the first silent, black and white gay superhero epic that I know of. I was working for Spectrum Films when they were releasing Boxer Shorts and successfully lobbied for its inclusion on the DVD. We started to serialize The Rainbow Avenger in Queerbait Comics #2 but artist issues have stalled future episodes.

What are some truly "sleazy" films you have loved that have eventually inspired you to create horror films ? 

Sleazy, hmmm. The aforementioned Dr. Sadism, of course. How about: I Spit on Your Grave, Orgy of the Dead, anything Naschy, Freaks... so many out there. The Blood Trilogy from Lewis is another good example.

 Who are some of your personal favorite " sleaze " and  " trash " directors that have heavily influenced the decisions you have made with your films ?

       The one I haven't mentioned yet that had a profound affect is John Waters. I watched Desperate Living in a film course in college and have been hooked ever since.

 Within the last 5 years what's the last GREAT trash film you have seen ?

 Excluding my own? Hmmm. How about Eric Stanze's Scrapbook. I love his work.

  First off I have to let you know that hands down Backwoods is one of my favorite low budget films. EVER. It is funny, loud ,obnoxious , and nasty. Everything I like in a man. How did this project originate and develop into what it is ?

      

It started as a drunken bet between Lord Andrew Blackhawk and myself. We gathered a bunch of friends and went into a Chicago forest preserve with some cameras. The script was quickly thrown out the window and, ta da.

 It's always fun to put on a skirt and throw some fake blood around. Any Chance we might see our favorite transvestite ass baby back on the screen anytime soon ?

    I think you know the answer to that. Still hush, hush, but Back Woods 2: Mama's Beefbilly Jamboree is currently in post production.

 The special effect in Backwoods where Luther springs forth from his mama's butt always gets some GREAT reactions from friends and family. How was that scene created ?

        

With seven dollars, a plastic butt from Spencer's Gifts and no brain filter.

 Can you tell us a little about your production Company Abnormal Entertainment and how it was formed ? Do you mainly distribute your own films or do you also distribute other productions ?

       

We don't usually self-distribute. And by we I mean me and by boys Kevin Moyers and Jeff Dolniak. We're so fly by night sometimes we forget we have a company.

 You have done almost more work in front of the camera as behind. Do you prefer the work as an actor as opposed as to being behind the camera or writing screenplays ?

         I enjoy it all, but screenwriting is my love. All writing, as a matter of fact. Acting is fun and people pay me to do it, so that is cool and I think directing is a good time, but crafting the story is where it's at for me.

 Can you tell us a little bit about Sinister Visions and Crushed Velvet two of your upcoming projects ? How are you involved in these films ?

Sinister Visions I don't have much to tell yet. Crushed Velvet, though, is fun. It's a semi-futuristic take on reality television after censorhip has been removed. I co-wrote the script with director Brian Skiba and appear in the film. It is pretty bad ass, if I must say so.

 You also work very actively in the comic book field I am very , very fond of you Rotentail comics. Any chance of us seeing anymore adventures with the character ? Maybe a movie adaptation ?

       
From your mouth to the movie gods ears, please! I like Rotty. Helluva a guy. We're working on getting the trade paperback up and running right now through Creators Edge Press.

 I also hear you teach at a University as a professor. Do you ever get recognized by your students as Luther or from any of your films ?

Only once. It was horrifying. Can you imagine Luther teaching you English?

 Can you tell me a little about your role in Lance Polland's ( Slices) Crack Whore ? That one sounds especially juicy.

Not too much, but suffice it to say that Lance is as depraved as the rest of us. A good deal of the Bloody Bloody Bible Camp cast and crew were involved so that speaks volumes.

 Any advice for up and coming indie directors on how to get their sleazy visions on the screen at all costs ? 

Never give up. Oh, and if your parents think it is an awful idea, they are probably right. That just means you're on the right track.

 Since we have been under the remake craze for several years now , any chance David Hayes could remake a good ole trash classic  for a new generation ? What would be something if anything you would be interested in developing ?

Wow, what a tough question. I think I would want to remake something that failed on some level. Where the point was missed or there could be a new, modern social question answered. I really want to do a sequel to Pieces, but that isn't the question. I would go with remaking Dr. Sadism. I'm emotionally invested and the themes of loss, vengeance and a complete lack of moral terpitude would play great today.

19.) What are some of your other upcoming projects that you can tell us about ? Give us a little taste !

Right now? Not much. We've got The Cuckoo Clocks of Hell, Ron Atkins new feature, coming out on August 31 where I play John Wayne Gacy. Predatory Instinct and Little Big Boy drop on DVD on September 6. For all you Michiganders, I'll be appearing at the Flint HorrorCon on 10/29 and the Long White Box Convention in Taylor on 11/12 and 13. We're still waiting on a release date for Bloody Bloody Bible Camp. Fiction-wise I've got a story in the upcoming Help! Wanted anthology from Evil Jester Press and Tales of Terror and Mayhem from Wicked East Press.

 And since this is The Trash Compactor , what is in your opinion the " sleaziest " scene in cinema history in any genre? 

 I would have to say the cunilingus scene from Desparate Living. "Hit it Peggy! Hit it!" Depraved.

 Oh my , what a man. I must say that conversation got me all pumped up to strip down to my panties and skip around the forest covered in the blood of virgin sheep. Anyone care to join me ? Well I hope you all enjoyed this exciting bit of journalism and keep a look out for more on Backwoods 2 as it develops, as well as many of the other projects Mr. Hayes has in development. Until next time.....


What do you say , babies ?

Demonica Goes CRAZY Over Indie Director Brian Dorton

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                                           Last evening , I saw for the very first time what you may refer to as a " roughie"

film. The Film was about a young girl who was whisked away from her quiet suburban family and taken to a house of very ill repute , forced into a life of drug addiction and naked lesbian spankings. One dark and gloomy night the girl manages to escape from the wicked lifestyle she has been enslaved in , only to end up at a Piggly Wiggly stocking canned meats and medicated ointments. I , Demonica Vansant , have learned my lesson. Always trust the values and morals taught to you in sleazy movies and always take money if no one is looking or if they are blind and can't run. 

Brian Dorton is one of the most ambitious and creative talents working in  underground cinema and specifically the genre of " trash " cinema and the art that surrounds it. Mr. Dorton has been working his tight little ass off on numerous projects and assuming many roles both in front of and behind the camera. I had the pleasure recently of sitting down with Brian and got the chance to ask him about some of his wonderful short films as well as his upcoming remake of a truly sleazy little classic. Below you can read all about Brian's thoughts and view on the art of trash film production and much , much more !! ENJOY!!!

Thanks Brian for taking the time to sit and talk to this simple country virgin ! Here We go !

 Welcome to the Trash Compactor Mr. Brian Dorton. I must start by asking how you developed a love for off the wall trash cinema?  Whats your first memory of exposure to this art form ?

I would definitely have to say John Waters stuff, and although I saw films like "Hairspray" and "Serial Mom" before I ever saw his early 70's works.. I certainly dig those older trashasterpieces more! In the early 90's "Serial Mom" was one of my first memory's of good trash cinema.

  You appear to have a genuine love for obscure films Kill Cecile for instance is like a molding of early John Waters and 70's road movies on a low budget. It's like in your face anarchist trash cinema. Where did the idea concept and look of the film originate ?

We shot "Kill Cecile" in May of this year, the idea was to do another Melissa and Katrina film. Whenever you write you always know that on the set you will add things and we did that a lot with this film. Although the story of the two characters began in late 2007, people continuously ask Douglas Conner and myself "When will there be another Katrina and Melissa film?".. We originally never planned to bring these characters back over and over in the beginning. Adding the subplot with the Beth character played by Rodney Horn came towards the end of May when I felt the short film need to be longer. I think it became something bigger than any of us expected. It was semi-popular on Youtube and was an official selection at the LGBT film festival here in Louisville, KY., which is the only fest we submitted it to so far. So I am pretty proud of this little gem.

 I love the way your short films have kind of a hand held grimy vibe to them. Did you attend film school or were you self taught ?

randomFILMS was created nearly 4 years ago by Douglas Conner and myself. With the nearly 40 short films that we have made since randomFILMS began.. it's taught us more than any film school could ever dream to teach.

 You must tell me HOW you came up with the concept ( in Kill Cecile) to feed the cat via regurgitation. I must say that is a classic scene in my opinion.

I have a million odd things like that pass though my head a month.. that particular one stuck and I put it in my next script. The idea of this strange character and her adopted cat and feeding it how birds feed there young is just something that you will either be disgusted by or completely fall out laughing over.. and I hope to achieve either of those reactions with my films.

Douglas Conner has appeared in everything you have done and co stars with you in Kill Cecile and Sex , Lies , and Melissa. How did this creative team develop over the years ?

In 2005, Douglas Conner and I met. We instantly recognized each others love for film. We made our first short film, which I dare not mention but at the time we thought it was great! We continued to make short films and they got better and better. We upped the ante in 2008 with a short called "Crazy Fat Melissa" a film we did back before we knew about copyrights on music ect., so we used all kinds of music without permission. Lesson learned, but we still enjoy that little spoof.

 What are some truly trashy and " sleazy " films that have inspired both the look and direction of the films you chose to make as a director ?

Some of these aren't really trashy (some are) but here goes: Heathers, Serial Mom, Female Trouble, Desperate Living, Beetlejuice, Beyond the Valley of the Dolls, Private Parts (not the Howard Stern film, although I do like that too), and yes.. Pink Flamingo's ..even though the shit eating scene is a bit much.

 Who are some of your all time favorite " sleaze"  directors that have inspired you to make films ?

Waters (of course) are there others? Just kidding. I do find inspiration in other filmmakers that may not be considered trashy or sleazy.. like Tim Burton's earlier stuff, I love Darren Aronofsky (Black Swan / Requiem for a Dream), .. I even enjoy Woody Allen's work, and one, if not my favorite filmmaker is Scorsese.

 

 What was the last " great" trash film you have seen. Released in the past 5 years ?

I'm going to go with "Girls Will Be Girls" because it was so funny and trashy at the same time!

I must say as far as a director you are in all honesty the closest I have seen to a modern take on the John Waters formula of trash art. Do you believe that bad taste is a true art form in our society ? Does it still appeal as much today as it did in the 70's and early 80's ?

I think it is extremely appealing today! Many of John Waters fans are in their 20's and 30's so that in itself says a lot. Younger people embrace these trash-art films. I take it as a big compliment to be mentioned in the same sentence as Mr. Water's, he has paved the way for me and other filmmakers like myself.

 Are you more comfortable behind the camera directing, producing, ect. or do you prefer working as an actor i.e Kill Cecile ?

I originally only appeared in my films because I didn't have other actors. We had to do it all ourselves. I am pretty comfortable doing anything involving the film industry. If I like the project, I devote myself to it.

 Can you tell me a little about how you became involved with Tales Of Poe and your role in that film ?

All I will say is that it was a great pleasure and quite an adventure for Douglas Conner, Rodney Horn and myself to be involved in Bart Mastronardi's and Alan Rowe Kelly's amazing project. Our parts were small here but it was a great experience all the same and I know the film is going to be great!

 Can you also tell me a little about Mothers Blood and your role in that film ? The synopsis sounds awesome very excited about that one.

I am excited to see Rodney Horn as the gypsy in the film, Rodney takes on the toughest role in the film and takes on many faces which required a lot of costume changes, hair and make-up. There is a fan page on facebook for the film where you can get more info. As far as my role in the film, I am one of the executive producers and I believe I have like two brief scenes.

 From a director and producer standpoint how difficult is it to get an independent film financed in these times of economic decline ?

My advice is find talented people, network and get a camera! You gotta just do it! No one is gonna do it for you.. If you get fun and talented people in the beginning that love to do this shit, they will do it for free to get out there! I have worked extremely hard to even get this far, which isn't very far at all but I am doing what I love. I don't care about popularity, I care about the work.. if you produce good work popularity will come automatically.

 It has become a trend ( which I like ) to remake obscure as well as well known horror films . What is your take on this trend ?

There have been good and bad remakes so I'm all for it. I mean people that say the remake ruined the original for them are idiots. I mean does the original now take a different form because there is a reboot? If you hate a certain remake I think you should love the original even more!

What are some films which you think could use a good ole fashioned kick in the ass reboot ?

Private Parts (1972)
Criminally Insane (1975)

..which brings me to an upcoming film of mine.     

What are some upcoming projects that you have going on first as a director and also as part of the creative production process ?

I recently got the rights to remake "Criminally Insane" aka "Crazy Fat Ethel" ..we will be using the "Crazy Fat Ethel" title.. I honestly like that title better. It has more of a grindhouse sound to it! We are in early pre-production now, casting and developing crew. Alan Rowe Kelly, Kim Sonderholm, Shawn C. Phillips are amongst the cast so far. I have approached some others and we are still looking for the right fit for Ethel. The facebook fan page has more details.

What are some acting roles that you have upcoming ?

Well, this allows me to talk about another upcoming film that is nearly 50% complete. It's called "Trashology", its stars myself, Rodney Horn, Douglas Conner and Angie Keeling who played Cecile in "Kill Cecile". Many of us play multiple roles in the film and it is a huge tribute to John Waters! I think people are going to enjoy it. We did a scene the other day where Angie was so funny that Douglas and I kept busting out laughing so hard we ended up doing like 6 takes. There is a fan page on facebook that is loaded with pictures and info.

Is there any advice you can give actors who strive to make it primarily in the obscure film industry as opposed to mainstream ?

Start making short films where ever you are and keep putting them out there. Submit to film festivals.. we live in different times, you don't have to be mainstream to show what you got.

1 Any advice you can give indie directors on promoting or gathering awareness about projects both completed and upcoming ?

If it's good people with notice.

 And of course since this IS The Trash Compactor , What is your favorite " trashy " scene in film history thus far in any genre ?

I'm going to just say what came to mind and that is the scene in "Female Trouble" when Divine births her own baby on a dirty old couch and bites the umbilical cord. Wow!

 Maybe not the actual scene. But it's the fucking theme song !!

Just Fucking Fabulous It's VON U KUF Baby !!!

                    I haven't been getting a lot of sleep as of lately. Truth is I am trying my hardest to not drink so much even if it is part of my road to recovery from pain killers and black tar heroine. Now as part of my on going physical therapy my doctor Sleazy Pete behind the now defunct Dollar Hut has recommended that I listen to soothing music and immerse myself in bath salts and oils...........

          FUCK THAT NOISE !!!! So I've picked up both the bottle and needle once again and have decided to listen to some good ole fashioned BEATS MOTHERFUCKER !!! I think I may have found just the man who is both outlandish enough and groovy enough to make me shake my hips but not shake my needle. DJ VON U KUF baby !!!


 Here is a little info about the man himself courtesy of my good friend James Cullen

Von U-KUF started out playing drums as a child, Thus began his love for HARD HITTING BEATS, and Von U-KUF found inspiration in House Music. From the moment he got behind his first mixing board, Von U-KUF knew that he was destined to become one of the great Electro/Progressive House DJs of our time.

Over the last several years, Von U-KUF has honed his skills on the decks. Von U-KUF prides himself on his unique style. He is obsessed by always adding new releases, and crowds that follow Von U-KUF know that he never plays the same set twice. Working with DJs from around the world, Von U-KUF receives tracks that are not available to anyone else. Anything can happen when he gets up to spin because the crowd dictates the action.

Even with the element of change, Von U-KUF always delivers “A HARD BANGING, FLOOR SHAKING SOUND.” He is a DJ unwilling to compromise his craft. Von has an uncanny ability to watch what the crowd moves to and sense what makes them crazy.

Von remains a student of his craft. “I am always willing to share deck time with another DJ. I believe in giving respect to the creators of this industry. I watch and learn from every DJ I have seen.”


Below you can sample some of his badass music and move to his outrageous beats: 



http://soundcloud.com/von-ukuf/von-ukuf-1edn-com-live-mix


Enjoy!!!




What do you say , babies ?

DEMONICA CHATS WITH ALAN ROWE KELLY DUCHESS OF THE INDIE SCENE

               Usually this is the point of where I make some sort of offensive of color joke about aids or a minority but today I think I shall refrain from my usual banter because I am in the presence of grace and extreme talent. Yours truly had the pleasure as of recently of sitting down with indie horror goddess Alan Rowe Kelly of I"LL BURY YOU TOMORROW and THE BLOODSHED fame and I can't tell you enough time what a genuine and nice person Mr. Rowe Kelly is. Below you can read the interview and I suggest this time you little fuckers really read this. Alan really knows what he is talking about and has a genuine love for sleazy films and just the art of film production in general. ENJOY !!!

Have you always had a love for obscure cinema or fringe entertainment as I call it ? What are some of your early influences?


Oh yes!! The weirder the better. My early influences were always B-Movies, in horror, sci-fi and drama. I always seemed to embrace their feel more. They seemed more attainable in their simplicity- which I 
learned later was simply a low-budget. 









  You have an amazing eye for film composition. Did You attend Film School or was it all self taught?

I was completely self-taught. I had many years experience behind the scenes as a make up artist and stylist for commercials, TV and fashion shoots. I received the very best education by watching some of the most talented people at work; directors, producers, cameraman, photographers, grips, art directors, lighting technicians, sound men, models and actors.  Everyone’s job was of equal importance and the goal was time management to bring the project in on time and on budget. Through art directors and photographers I learned how important it was to fill a frame, create a gorgeous picture and set a stylized mood for the viewer.

I thought being a stylist was what I would be doing for the rest of my life. But as I got into my early 30s, I started to see the writing on the walls. I was on a set once in the early 90s doing hair for a famous TV actress and they brought in a famous make up artist whom she requested for make up. The artiste’ had been known for his innovated style in the 70’s, but not much had evolved for him since his heyday. So, with his lapdog Yorkie in tow, he took 2.5 hours to paint her face lightly and literally left me 15 minutes to do her hair. He had to ‘perform’ because of who he was. Then in his 60’s, he was still known for his name but the work was no longer there and it was evident that he needed this gig and the cash just as much as I did. The parade has passed him by. That is when I saw my possible future standing in front of me - talking about the glory days of stars and fashion with no concept of change and resting on the laurels of a past fame no one else remembered. It actually frightened me and got my wheels spinning quickly to “what else can I do?” The fashion and beauty industry can be a very cruel business. So as the years passed I discovered a hidden talent for writing and became more involved in productions doing wardrobe, script supervising and working as a production assistant in any way I could. Make up was still my mainstay, but I wanted to know about everything that went on behind the scenes. I was taught well and I watched, listened and absorbed from everyone on those sets. So when the opportunity knocked to actually make a feature horror film, I grabbed at the chance in hopes of making my hidden dream come true. I haven’t stopped since. And I’m still always learning.

  What are some " sleazy " films that you have loved that have also inspired you to make horror films?

It all depends on what you consider Sleaze. That can range anywhere from Ed Wood to Andy Milligan (THE GHASTLY ONES) to Doris Wishman, Bunny Yeager and John Waters. What some folk consider Sleaze, I would consider Schlock, Exploitation or Grindhouse.
Basically everything under the ‘Something Weird’ label has a great amount of sleaze content (which I love) from David F. Friedman’s ACID EATERS, Herschell Gordon Lewis’ BLOOD FEAST & 2000 MANIACS (Also produced by Friedman), Larry Buchanan’s COMMON LAW WIFE, The ‘MONDO’ film series, Joy Houck Jr’s NIGHT OF BLOODY HORROR, MA BARKER’S KILLER BROOD, Richard Galbreath’s NIGHT OF EVIL, SHANTY TRAMP –
I could go on for pages with this one!


  Who are some of you personal favorite " sleaze" directors of any genre that have inspired you to make films?
 
Al Adamsom always come to mind first! His films were very popular on the Saturday double feature horror bill at the Drive-in when I was a young kid. I always thought his leading lady/wife Regina Carroll was a sight to behold! lol!  Terrible but GREAT movies and she was terrible but GREAT in them! Lol! I adore Russ Meyers. I consider him more of a cult director though many categorize his storylines as sleazy. And I loved Alan Ormsby’s CHILDREN SHOULDN’T PLAY WITH DEAD THINGS. It may not be exactly sleaze, but there’s an underlying current there that really hit home to me, especially in the dialogue and innuendo. And of course, John Waters would have to be on top as far as leaving audiences agape! I can’t get enough of his films and his amazing troupe of actors. Much like Woody Allen, Waters directs his performers to act in a particular style (probably because most of them couldn’t act), so there is continuity and purposeful pacing throughout his films. I think he’s a genius and he still makes me laugh out loud. Mink Stole’s opening scene as the paranoid hysteric Peggy Gravel in DESPERATE LIVING is truly one of the funniest damn things I’ve ever viewed! 





  Do you prefer straight up slow burn horror or " sleaze " films such as those by Joe D' Amato , Jesus Franco , Doris Wishman, etc.
 
That’s a very hard call because I like both. I haven’t a favorite sub-genre in horror- I love ‘A Pictures’ to ‘Grade Z Schlock’. 

Doris Wishman films are a riot (Double Agent 73- my god!) - especially her commentaries that have her croaking out insults between a good heavy smoker’s cough!  And movies like Thomas Casey’s SOMETIMES AUNT MARTHA DOES DREADFUL THINGS, Nick Millards CRIMINALLY INSANE, Andy Warhol’s HEAT, William Girdler’s ASYLUM OF SATAN,  Michael Armstrong’s MARK OF THE DEVIL (I still have the free vomit bag!) and Ted Post’s THE BABY with my all time favorite, Ruth Roman.

On the other side of the scale I love films like Richard Wise’s THE HAUNTING, Jack Clayton’s THE INNOCENTS, Curtis Harrington’s GAMES, and Robert Aldrich’s HUSH, HUSH, SWEET CHARLOTTE that take their time and really build on the viewer’s imagination.

Movies have filled my life as far back as I can remember. It seems like they were always there for me to disappear into. It’s virtually impossible for me to have a favorite because I have seen so very, very many films and continue to watch them voraciously.

  What was the last GREAT underground or sleaze film you recall seeing ?
 
Just watched Desperate Living the other night- laughed till I cried! Edith Massey, Liz Renay and Susan Lowe- too much insane fun!


  Any directors working currently in the genre that you admire a lot?
 
Bart Mastronardi and Anthony Sumner. I have been working and collaborating with them for years. They just make filmmaking so painless and easy. There is no stress, everyone knows their jobs, no egos loosing control on set + a lot of laughs and boatloads of artistic creativity. They LOVE and live for what they do. Most recently I worked with Mike Watt and Amy Lynn Best on their film RAZOR DAYS - again, a super smooth shoot that went off without a hitch!  Other directors I’d be very interested in working with are Eric Stanze, Mel House, Jeff Dylan Graham, Richard Griffin, Justin Alvarez, Peaches Christ, Billy Clift & Ivan Zuccon. These artists put so much energy and passion into their work. You can see it in every frame and their actors rave about them as directors and human beings. I would love to be in any of their films! (HA! Talk about shameless self-campaigning!)

  Can you tell me a little about your production companies Southpaw Pictures and Tiny Core Pictures and some of the projects you maybe or wish to be developing at both?

I developed SouthPaw Pictures in 2006 while doing THE BLOOD SHED because I realized we needed an umbrella to work under, legally and professionally. So far we have produced 3 features and co-produced quite a few shorts for other production companies. TinyCore Pictures is Anthony Sumner’s company in Chicago. We’re lucky enough to work on each other’s projects because we share the same work ethic and think only of the picture and it’s outcome. It doesn’t matter to either of us who has the stronger picture at the moment or who’s name goes above the title. Bottom line is we just love to work together and create.

  Is it extremely difficult in these times of financial crisis to get an Indie film funded and distributed? How does it compare to when you first started doing I'll Bury You Tomorrow?

It hasn’t changed at all since I'll Bury You Tomorrow…lol! After 12 years we still scrimp for money and push ahead to create regardless of our financial state. If you sit still waiting for that big budget to come, you’re dead in the water. There are definitely scripts I love and want to see on the big screen- but they demand a lot more money than my present projects. So while we wait and campaign for those to happen, we continue to create smaller films that are character driven, edgy and different. Distribution has come easier because we are developing a name. It’s a new learning experience with each film in regards to getting the best deal to fit an individual project. The business is constantly evolving and we try to keep up with all the latest info on companies, regions, demographics and placement. It’s truly the final and most important step in getting your film out there. You could have the most creative film ever, but if a solid deal isn’t made, it will just disappear and become part of another company’s catalogue. You really have to work just as hard as your distributor – even more - to get your film noticed and seen. This is where the real work begins!





  Do you prefer to work mainly behind the camera as opposed to playing dual roles (Actor - Director )? Is it a more difficult process to pull double duty on your films?
 
Not at all. This is how I began, so it seems normal for me to pull off the duties of writer/director/producer/actor at the same time. I’m involved in all aspects of my films, especially post-production. I just can’t hand a film over to someone else and let them at it. I have to be 100% involved in order to get my style across. 

One of my pieces in the upcoming GALLERY OF FEAR titled DOWN THE DRAIN is actually the first time where I only directed and produced. It was a totally new experience that threw me off a bit because I wasn’t in front of the camera. But breaking that ice made me more involved in the actor’s performances and the production. I realized that playing supporting roles in my films are much easier than starring. I get to shine a bit and then go back to focus on the project as a whole. At my age and with whatever camera presence I may have, I’m realizing I’m better in smaller doses or as part of an ensemble cast (unless it’s a short or an anthology piece). I do have some scripts in mind for myself in leading roles, but they are tailor-made for me and will only happen when the time and budget is correct. You just have to be sensible and realistic about these things and do what’s right for the film. The last thing I would ever want is to cast myself in a role I should NOT be playing. You have to know your limits and abilities. And I don’t mean that negatively. You just have to use common sense.


  Can you tell us a little bit about THE TALES OF POE?
 
Oh YES! TALES OF POE is an anthology and the current brainchild of Bart Mastronardi. It is one of the most creative experiences I have had to date. Bart has already wrapped his first segment, THE TELL TALE HEART with the gorgeous Debbie Rochon, Lelsleh Donaldson, David Marancik, Joe Quick and a truly amazing performance by Desiree Gould. Bart gave me a great role in the vein of a very ghoulish Nora Desmond! The beauty of the POE tales are that they are open to so many interpretations. Bart has brilliantly readapted the story by placing it in the 1950s and switching the genders of the main characters to female. It’s a great twist and with Dominick Sivilli’s fantastic cinematography, they have brought a unique new storyline to this ageless tale. The segment we are now working on is THE CASQUE – based on The Cask of Amontillado. Bart gave me the green light to write and direct a new version of this classic and we put quite a new stamp on the theme; Gay Marriage - gone very, very 
 wrong! 

It stars Randy Jones (of The Village People and he’s magnificent!), the very handsome Brewster McCall and myself in a deadly love triangle of greed, deception, murder and revenge. Bart is lensing the production and with great help from producers Robert Kuiper, Amy Lynn Best, Mike Watt and David Marancik, it has become it’s own animal in the vein of a 70’s Italian Giallo/Film Noir ala’ Double Indemnity. It’s been too much fun to shoot! In addition, I have the remarkable talents of Jerry Murdock, Zoë Daelman Chlanda, Douglas Rowan, Susan Adriensen, Amy Lynn Best and Carl Burrows. As an added bonus we have maestro Tom Burns lending his fabulous scoring and sound design to the entire film.
Bart also has some more great surprises in store for his third segment. He is collaborating with the uber talented Michael Varrati and has an amazing cast lined up of classic Final Girls that include Friday the 13th Part II’s  Amy Steel and TCM II’s Caroline Williams! 

  How is it working with Bart Mastronardi on that film? He did a stunning job with VINDICATION I must say, a very haunting nerve wracking film.
 
Working with Bart Mastronardi is truly the very best experience. We met when I was assembling the creative team for THE BLOOD SHED and we have been working together ever since. What he brought to that little film was a world all of it’s own. It’s stunning to look at.
I worked with him on his debut film VINDICATION as an actor and behind the camera. He was a caring and very meticulous director, always even keeled and a most gracious host.

As cinematographer on THE BLOOD SHED, A FAR CRY FROM HOME, CRITIC’S CHOICE, BY HER HAND SHE DRAWS YOU DOWN, RAZOR DAYS and TALES OF POE, you get a film style that is innately ‘Bart’, but at the same time he creates something separate and unique to the storyline itself. He always raises the bar with each new film with inventiveness, art, color and style. I can’t imagine doing a film without him and I must admit to a little postpartum when we are on separate film shoots. So any opportunity we do get to work together is a much anticipated event for me.

  It has become a trend in the past several years to remake horror films. What is your take on this trend??
I’m all for it if the stars align correctly. Some remakes have been fabulous while others just become the product of cheap Hollywood cashing in. But some that I have seen (Dawn Of The Dead, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, My Bloody Valentine, Halloween) I think are terrific. Remakes are a natural progression in films and always have been since the advent of The Talkies in 1929.

Actually, Anthony Sumner and I were set to do a remake of a famous 70’s Grind House film a short time back until I foolishly involved myself with the wrong people and had it swiped out from under me. Bad Drama - bad Karma - and an all-around hideous experience. It really opened my eyes to this business and those who will do anything to grab onto you to move ahead. 2 years of pre-production, legal research and gathering funds were just flushed down the drain because ‘I’ did one very wrong thing. I released my script and business proposal to this interested party without having them sign a confidentially agreement. So 6 months later and no word from that party resulted in my discovering their intention to proceed with their own version of the same film. The most pitiful part about it was that I read it in the press and was never once contacted or notified. It was a very big blow, but at the same time my own fault for not knowing better. That’s when I learned there is just as much bad business in the independent industry as there is in Hollywood because so many are desperate for attention and fame, no matter the cost. But I quickly moved ahead with my own original material. I realized the more attention I give to negativity and those who bring it is one less day I have creating and developing my own material. And that I WON’T be robbed of. And one day we may still make this particular film, but presently we have much more interesting and creative projects in production. C’est La vie!



  What are some films you feel could use a good ole fashioned restart?

 
I like the more obscure ones that had great storylines and characters.
Remaking so-called classics is a very big responsibility to take on. If I had my choices it would be great to re-imagine films like FROGS, MUTINY IN OUTER SPACE, VOODOO ISLAND, THE WITCHES (AKA THE DEVIL’S OWN), THE DAY THE EARTH CAUGHT FIRE, BLOOD ON SATAN’S CLAW, CRIMINALLY INSANE – Oops, did I just spill the beans on that because I’m going to be in it? lol!). 

I finally saw a mesmerizing art film for the first very time called THE BALLAD OF TAM LIN 1969 (AKA THE DEVIL’S WIDOW). This was Roddy McDowall’s only directorial outing starring the still breathtaking Ava Gardner, Ian McShane, Stephanie Beacham and Joanna Lumley. It’s gorgeously filmed, mod, deep and quite psychedelic. Just a stunning film that could have a whole new life of it’s own in the right hands.




  As a filmmaker how do you feel about digital cinema in general? What kinds of camera do you use to film most of your productions?
 
What’s there NOT to love about digital? We have been working with the Canon 7D and it is a fabulous piece of equipment. You can do SO much in post with the picture. My last film GALLERY OF FEAR, which took 3.5 years to produce, is our final film in standard definition. I loved that format as well when it was popular because I had the very best cinematographers in Bart Mastronardi, Dominick Sivilli and Anthony Sumner. I feel it is not about the camera as much as it is the cinematographer. Today anyone can pick up a camera, point, shoot, and call it a film. But if don’t have an artist behind the lens utilizing the equipment to it’s fullest capacity, then you have a very boring and ordinary looking movie. Independent film is all about taking chances, expanding, creating and developing something unique and different.

  Even in your most " insane " roles your wardrobe and make-up is immaculately in unison with your character. Do you get to select the look of your characters and what they wear?
 
Thank you for noticing! Again, my early years in fashion design school and working as a stylist has been a great education for me on set. Directors trust my instincts and that gives me a lot of freedom when developing my characters. I do insist on doing my own hair and make up for a character unless it involves heavy prosthetics – then I leave that to the artists on set. On my own films I always dress my cast, whether from their own wardrobe or bought. Wardrobe and make up are so important. My goal when dressing actors is to put them in clothing that not only fits their character, but also reads well with the cinematographer’s color palette. I never use anything ‘trendy’ or too fashion forward because I don’t want a film to look dated 20 years later. So I restrain myself by using more classic and non-descript wardrobes that won’t overtake the actor – unless their character demands a particular sense of outrageousness. This goes for hair and make up too. Unless you’re producing VALLEY OF THE DOLLS or STAR TREK, make up and hair should be seen and not heard! Lol!

  Is it hard work to sell and promote a film once it is completed or while the film is in production? Is it more difficult to promote domestically or internationally?

This final chapter of a film is just as hard as the first chapter of financing a film. You may be lucky enough to have a distribution deal already set, but for most of us it is off to the marketplace as soon as the film is complete. A lot of filmmakers can become very frustrated with this process, and understandably so. You’ve worked so hard to get to this point and are physically and emotionally exhausted by the time you say ‘it’s finished’. 

One thing I have learned is that sales always plummet in June, July and August because the average viewer is out doing other things and spending money elsewhere. So allow yourself time and plan out your strategy.

Fortunately with our respected genre comes unlimited resources, both foreign and domestic, to get your film known by simple word of mouth. Film festivals run abundant in the horror industry and it doesn’t hurt to take your movie ‘on the road’ for special screenings in key cities. It’s always wise to have some budget money set aside just for promotion. You can do a lot with very little if your creative. 









  What are some important tools or suggestions you can give on promoting an independent or no budget film?

Be completely involved, but also be HUMBLE and not a pompous jerk.

Promote on movie review pages, Internet sites, Blogs, forums, social networks and magazines. Screen at conventions, film festivals and make yourself and your cast members available to any interested party that wish to speak with you. It always helps to accumulate some good review quotes from noted critics/reviewers to set the tone for an upcoming release. Be persistent, have great visuals, artwork and trailers to represent the film properly, and excite the viewer. But you also have to learn balance on how not to over saturate your film and when to pull back a bit. Your timing and pacing has to be right. If you over promote your film when it’s unavailable for sale for another 8 months or has yet to find a distributor, then viewer’s may loose interest and their buying wanders to the next film that is available.
Promotion is just as much hard work as making the film itself.
And if YOU don’t believe your film is any good? Who will?




                      

BACKWOODS 2 on it's WAY EXCLUSIVE from DAVID C. HAYES himself

                   While patrolling the internet for men ahhhh I mean hot action. SHIT I mean a good story I stumbled into a conversation with writer - director David C. Hayes of Backwoods fame. Backwoods is an amazing little low budget masterpiece that is nasty , offensive , and just downright fucking bizarre and wonderful. If non of you have seen Backwoods it is almost mandatory viewing below is a trailer and a link in which to purchase the film on amazon.

                    Now the real reason this old girl has emerged from her drunken coma long enough to bash the keyboard is because Mr. David has given me an exclusive on BACKWOODS 2 which has already been filmed and is gearing up for a release ( hopefully very soon). I had the chance to chat with Mr. David via facebook about the sequel and this is the tasty info he shared with me :



                              "   Lol. Yeah, we made one. It's on the down low. We spent less on it than the original and are re-using the Mangina footage with a new voice actor. We got me, Cannonball Boy and Mama back for the sequel. Also threw in Kevin and Jeff from Blown and Steve from Blood Orgy of the Damned. It's horrible, but Maman flies now and shoots laser beams out of her eyes. Glorious... nearly unwatchable, but glorious. "


Color me VERY excited about this one babies, as soon as more information is available you will be the first to know.

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What do you say, babies ?

DEMONICA GETS HER PURE JOY WITH DIRECTOR JAMES CULLEN BRESSACK

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Well hello there once again my babies ,it's me Demonica. Honestly, who else did you think it was going to be?  This is MY fucking website after all. Dumbasses. 

Once again your dear old mama has snagged another stimulating interview with a very interesting new talent, Jame Cullen Bressack director if the exciting new indie MY PURE JOY. MY PURE JOY looks to be a demented and nasty ride through the deranged mind of serial killer and if what I hear is true we are in for a treat. Below Mr. Cullen - Bressack discusses some of his inspirations and dislike and expresses his undying love for Demonica Vansant. Well everything except that last part. ENJOY !!

        

 Have you always had a leaning towards films that where a little more obscure ? What are some of your early favorites ?

Oh yeah I was always into some effed up shizz. When I was 3 years old I would cradel a the VHS of HELLRAISER, because I was obsessed with how Pinhead looked. I would sit in my room and craddle the VHS as if it were my child. I wasn't allowed to watch the film, but man did I try! I also remember when I was a bit older I was OBSESSED with ICHI THE KILLER and RIKI-OH THE STORY OF RICKY. I'm still obssesed with these flicks now! lol nothing warms my heart more then seeing disgustingly violent films!

  Did You attend Film School ?

I went to a film school for 3 weeks then dropped out, so basically I self taught. I watch other films to decide what I think is cool and from there I hone my style as kind of a mishmosh really. Basically I trust my taste in films enough to dictate how I make them haha.

 What are some " sleazy " films that you have loved that have also inspired you to make horror films ?

Oh wow. There are just so many to list. Most everything coming out of Korea for starters. Anything made by Miike, or Hennenlotter. I'm pretty much inspired by the 1980s all together.

 Who are some of you personal favorite " sleaze" directors of any genre that have inspired you to make films ?

Oh man another good one. But I will just name one name this time because I don't want to ramble on forever. FRANK HENENLOTTER. I love that guy's stuff!

 What was the last GREAT underground or sleaze  film you recall seeing ?

The last great nasty I watched was Hobo With a Shotgun, I know it's more mainstream but I can't stop watching it!

 Any directors working currently in the genre that you admire a lot ?

I have complete respect for any and all director's in the genre. To go out make your dream happen, and to put yourself on the line for your art is something to admire.  But If I had to name a few, Eli Roth, Takashi Miikie and Frank Hennenlotter.

 Can you tell me a little about your production company and how it was formed , what is the process in developing and maintaining a company ?

I teamed up with my executive producer on MY PURE JOY, Jarret Cohen, and founded PSYKIK JUNKY PICTURES together. We made this company in order to make some really awsome flicks that we hope everyone enjoys.  Mostly tho so I could put really nasty things in our movies and we couldn't get sued for it! haha just kidding

 Is it extremely difficult in these times of financial crisis to get an Indie film funded and distributed ?

You would not believe how hard it is to get something funded, I lucked out! But perseverance is key! Distributon on the other hand isn't that difficult. There are tons of companies looking for indie horror flicks, you just needa know where to look. I have helped a few friends of mine find distribution for their films when they couldn't find distribution. It's all about sending millions of emails! hahaha

      
 Do you prefer Acting as opposed to directing ?

I prefer to work behind the camera but I do like to stick myself into stuff I do for a line. I would love to say 1 line in someones film, but that's about it.

 Can you tell us a little bit about MY PURE JOY and how in came about , where did the idea originate ?

MY PURE JOY originated from me having a complete nervous breakdown and writing a script as if I was a serial killer. I took my anger out on everyone around me in the script. So basically it stopped me from grabbing a machete and goin ape shit one everyone.  You might think I'm kidding, I'll let you decide ;)

 It has become a trend in the past several years to remake horror films. What is your take on this trend ??

I think remakes are stupid. I have never seen a good remake. End of story.

. What are some films you feel could use a good ole fashioned restart ?

I think every single film ever made should be redone with an added Narration track by Morgan Freeman and Rob Schnieder playing the lead. I think that would be a great idea!

 As a filmmaker how do you feel about digital cinema in general ? What kinds of camera do you use to film most of your productions ?

I love digital. It's the wave of the future, although at some point I wanna shoot on film for that extra grainy look.  I use standard studio Quality Sony HD cams, or a Cannon 60D. Helps my swag a bit.

Is it hard work to sell and promote a film once it is completed or while the film is in production ? Is
it more difficult to promote domestically or internationally ?

It's for sure more difficult to promote internationally.

 What are some important tools or suggestions you can give on promoting an independent or no budget film ?

Just get the word out however you can. Post stuff, email people, make a twitter. Push the film to every medium you can!

1 When working outside the system does the MPAA harass you much as an Independent filmmaker ?

I haven't heard from them at all. We can't get this film rated, it would never be released if we did!

 What are some directors that influenced the look and feel of MY PURE JOY ?

Hitchcock, Hennenlotter, Tarentino, Chan-wook Park, Miikie, and Kubrick.

 What are some projects you have looming on the horizon ?  Any chance one could be a follow up to MY PURE JOY ?

I don't see myself revisitng the MY PURE JOY universe any time soon. But GET OUT ALIVE, which I am Producing, and THEATER OF DERANGE and MORBID MOVIES, which are anthologies, I am Writing/directing segments for. I want to make as many quality flicks as possible in my life time. So I hope More comes up soon :)

 I know you have made several short films before production of MY PURE JOY ..... Will those ever be released ? Or they now available to be viewed ?

They were released on youtube and stuff for a while, and sent to a few festivals.. but looking back on them, I don't want ANYONE to ever see them hahaha.

 I really enjoy the title Heroine Junky For Dummies . Can you elaborate a little on that specific short film and you experience with it ?

Basically it was about a character, played by me, taking a crash NA course because I got addicted to heroine. It was pretty much a kookey wacked out anti heroine infomercial with a storey. In it I killed my mother and danced ontop of her dead body while shooting up heroine and talking in a british accent. I have no clue why any of that was in my head at the time it was written but hey it happened.

 Is it difficult to cast a independent film ? To Find actors who are willing to do outlandish things for minimum pay ? What is some advice you have for directors in that  area ?

LACASTING.com is the best place to go for a casting call, no matter what pay scale and such you will have hundreds of actors that want to be a part of your project!

 What's some advice you would like to give upcoming filmmakers with low to zero budgets ?

Make the best possible film you can. Make sure you create a fun and engrossing storey, with good characters and work your ass off to make the best product you can. Budget can't limit you if you have the ambition, imagination and drive to keep going.

 When and where will I be able to see MY PURE JOY ?? I'm very excited about this film.

I will send you a screener soon. There is no official street date for everyone else yet tho :( You can see it in Oaklahoma on September 29th

 And of course since this is THE TRASH COMPACTOR please leave us with what you think to be the " best" , " trashiest" moment in film history ever ?

When he anally rapes the newborn baby in A SERBIAN FILM. :)


Thanks for having me! It was fun! I hope you enjoyed my responses. If you wanna hear more of my random ramblings you can follow me on twitter @jamescullenb


Nice stuff eh ?

What do you say , babies ?