Pet Sematary, although a celebrated King adaptation, is often an overlooked horror film in and of itself. Documentarian John Campopiano hopes to change that with his film UNEARTHED & UNTOLD: THE PATH TO PET SEMATARY. We caught up with John for an exclusive q&a on the project and gave him the opportunity to explain his passion and what we can expect from the forthcoming film.

What are the both of you setting out to do with this documentary?

JC: Justin and I are taking a deeper look into the making of the film from multiple angles, two of which are the memories of the Maine locals and those of the cast & crew. What stories and memories do local Maine residents have of the production? How was the production documented in local television, magazine, and newspaper stories? What did the production do for the county of Hancock and the greater Maine communities? These are just a few of the questions we are exploring in our documentary. In essence, what we're hoping to do is show the unique bridging of a relatively small Hollywood production with a small Maine community who, until this very day, still thinks so highly of its involvement in the film.

Why "Pet Sematary" instead of King's other works?

JC: There are several answers to this question. First, this film is an oft-overlooked horror film of the 1980s. While there have been many “making-ofs” and documentaries for the more well-known classics of that decade (Nightmare on Elm Street to name one) in many cases Pet Sematary hasn’t received the credit or attention it deserves. So, as huge fans of the film we’ve set out to make something that we ourselves would love to sit down and watch. Second, King is extremely prolific and of course there are many other great films from his cannon that would be worthy of a retrospective documentary. However, this film holds particular meaning for Justin and I – a big part of that meaning is wrapped up in nostalgia and our memories of watching the film when we were younger. The fact that it’s also a horror film shot in our native New England only deepens our appreciation for it.

What locations have you visited during filming?

JC: We have many of the locations covered and documented – locations we’re positive that fans won’t expect and, quite frankly, locations Justin and I never thought we would find. We’ve tireless scoured maps of Maine, spoken with countless Maine locals, and even gotten our hands on original location charts and maps used by cast and crew during the production. Showcasing the filming locations will be an important part of this documentary.

Do you have plans to send the film to any festivals or theaters?

JC: It’s hard to say what will happen and where things will go. Of course Justin and I have hopes and goals for the project, but a lot of those things are tied up and dependent upon other things. What I can say for absolute certain is that we’re going to do whatever we can to ensure that as many fans of the film see the final product – what that ends up meaning we don’t quite know yet. We’ll all have to wait and see.

What are your favorite scenes in "Pet Sematary"?

JC: I really like the flashback scenes. I also absolutely love the shot of Miko wearing his blue suit, wielding a scalpel, telling Denise that he’s brought her something. It’s a truly disturbing and bizarre moment – I love it. But too be honest, I think of my favorite moments from the film in terms of specific shots as opposed to whole scenes. I love the shot of Fred up at the Micmac burial ground where the sun is setting on him and he’s lighting up a cigarette - great composition work by DP Peter Stein. Another favorite shot of mine is when Fred and Dale are walked back up to the house after burying Church and the kitchen phone rings. We get the point of view from the porch then we quickly pan back through the screen door and into the kitchen as Dale bursts in to answer the phone. Pet Sematary is full of interesting and creative shots.

Will the documentary focus at all on the sequel or strictly the first film?

JC: No, there’ll be no mention of the sequel. We soon learned after jumping into this project that we had quite a bit to tackle with just the first film. We’ll leave Pet Sematary II to someone else

Who have you spoken to for the documentary so far (or planning to speak to)?

JC: We’ve interviewed quite a few people from cast and crew to Maine locals who were either in the film, worked on the production, or admired it from a distance. The list is probably too long to write here, but everyone from primary cast members including Dale Midkiff, Denise Crosby, Miko Hughes and others, actors with smaller roles such as Susan Blommaert (who played Missy Dandridge) to crewmembers and many others, will all make an on-camera appearance in this documentary. Check out our official Facebook page for more details on those who have given on-camera interviews as well as those who have contributed to the documentary in other ways.

What other projects have the both of you worked on together?

JC: None! Though we had been friends for a few years prior to starting this project, this is our first documentary together.

Tags: Pet Sematary documentary, John Campopiano

I sit down with Michael Berryman to talk about his movies and some stories I've heard about him online... Read more

Tags: Interview , Michael Berryman, youtube

1 ) You're the publisher of a magazine (TAPSparaMagazine) whose writers include folks of GHOST HUNTERS fame;how did you guys meet up?

I had the opportunity to meet Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson (the founders of TAPS and the stars of Ghost Hunters) at a paranormal event many years ago. I was simply interested in the topic and went to learn. I had not been at the event for more than 5 minutes when I ran into Jason and Grant getting off of the hotel elevator. I introduced myself and it was the beginning of friendships that last to this day.

2 ) What are some articles that you feel are must reads from your mag?

Every one. Seriously, we put a lot of effort into the editorial content of TAPS ParaMagazine, and we are proud of every issue, and every article. I can tell you that one of the articles that has received a lot of attention is an article I wrote about post-mortem photography. This piece, which explored the most Victorian-era practice of taking photographs of departed loved ones generated a tremendous reaction from our readers. It was a slight departure from the paranormal-heavy content that is usually found in the magazine, but intrigued people nonetheless.

3 ) Have you ever been a part of a haunting yourself?

Some say I haunt my employees. I assume what you’re asking here is whether I have experienced a haunting. The answer is “yes.” I won’t pretend to have all of the answers (or for that matter, ANY of the answers), and cannot necessarily explain some of the things I have experienced. But that, in itself, is the very nature of the paranormal – beyond normal explanation. I have seen things that logic cannot explain; that my understanding of science cannot explain; things that simply leave my fascinated and more curious than before. These are the experiences that increase my desire to know the truth.

4 ) For 2013, the name of the horror con will now be Scare-A-Con and not Scare-A-Cuse;is this because of the change of location from last year or to better reflect the over all vibe of the con? From my view the con was a mix of horror entertainment and paranormal reality.

Changing the name of the convention serves 2 purposes, and you touched on them in your question. First, it better reflects that the event is more regional in nature, and is not necessarily limited to just Syracuse (although Syracuse will always be considered “home” for the event), and it also offers a better impression of what the event is…”CON” is the accepted abbreviation for “convention.”

Regarding the “mix” of the event – our mission is to combine the best elements of horror and sci-fi pop culture and entertainment. Currently, much of that pop culture focuses on paranormal realty television and the movies it has inspired – ie Paranormal Activity, The Blair Witch Project, etc. These are “horror” movies that in essence are paranormal reality programs…..

As we grow the convention we are adding more elements as well – COSplay (costuming), comics, Anime’, steampunk, and more are all becoming parts of SCARE-A-CON.

5 ) On your website http://scare-a-cuse.net/ it states you're well on your way of the planing for next years event. Can you tell us who you may have already gotten and who you're going after?

At this point, I cannot offer any specifics on guests for 2013. I can tell you, however, that we are extremely excited about the folks we are talking to and can assure you and other attendees that we are not only maintaining the quality of our celebrity guests, but we are raising the bar and look forward to featuring some very high-profile people for 2013. You will not be disappointed.

6 ) How much time and energy goes into creating an event like the now renamed Scare-A-Con?

It’s immeasurable. In the 4 months before the convention, I am working on details nearly 20 hour per day, seven days per week. There are so many things that go in to the planning, and fortunately, I have a terrific team of volunteers. Without their help, it would not be possible. Speaking of that – if anyone is interested in volunteering, contact – info@scare-a-cuse.net

The event has grown so quickly, that it is starting to outpace my ability to organize alone. We are starting to establish committees to handle certain functions, and expect that our team will grow to a hundred people or so for 2013.

7 ) Who are some of your favorite horror actors/actresses?

My preference is old school horror. I am a huge fan of the classic horror movies from Universal (Dracula, The Wolman, Frankenstein, etc.). While these movies don’t necessarily carry the same “punch” as they did when they were released (people used to faint from fear when these movies were shown in theaters), there is an honesty about them, and a respect for humanity in the stories that doesn’t exist in today’s horror films.

I also love the campy horror/sci-fi films of the 50s and 60s – these movies, many of which have been lampooned on Mystery Science Theater 3000 and similar programs, are just fun to watch and reflect an age when America was redefining itself amidst the cold war.

So, with that, I am a tremendous fan of Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney, etc. That does not discount, or lessen my appreciation for more contemporary horror actors. Their job is harder than ever, as movie-goers, become more and more difficult to scare. There is some terrific talent in the horror-film business and we’re very fortunate to have many of them as guests for SCARE-A-CON.

8 ) If you could make a horror movie what would it be about?

Funny you ask. I am currently writing a screenplay for a zombie movie. The zombie theme has a great deal of attention with popular shows like The Walking Dead, and given that night of the Living Dead is one of my all-time favorites, I decided to pay homage. Not sure when it will be done, but if I ever get it made into a film, you can bet it will premiere at SCARE-A-CON.

9 ) What do you have to say to the nay sayers who say there are no such things as ghosts and horror is for the intellectually challenged?

Grow up.

Regarding ghosts – we are not even saying that ghosts are real. We are simply saying that there are things that happen that we cannot explain, Sometimes these occurrences seem to possess an intelligence, and that only fuels speculation that something spiritual exists. Until I actually have 100%, irrefutable proof of a “ghost” I can only say that it is one theory of many, and the question remains open. But to close your mind to the possibility is simply denying yourself the experience of learning and discovering some of humanity’s most enduring questions.

When it comes to horror movies, there has always been a stigma associated with the genre. It’s a place where many film makers start their careers, but few consider it their objective. The truth is, however, that horror is the most enduring and most loved of all film genres. It appeals to one of the basic human emotions – just like comedies appeal to humor, or romances appeal to love, horror movies satisfy a basic human desire for a thrill…in this case fear. It generates the same adrenaline high as riding a roller-coaster. Some people like roller-coasters, and some don’t…but I certainly wouldn’t call those who do intellectually challenged.

10 ) What do you think of the state of horror TV shows today?

I don’t think you can effectively present horror on the small screen…in a time-limited way. Shows like The Walking Dead are more action-thrillers than horror, although they feature some horror themes. When you’re watching in your living room, and getting a sandwich during commercials breaks, it’s hard to get the same experience as a dark movie theater with a large screen. Just not the same.

3 Random Questions

1 ) Best type of bar food?

Depends how long I’ve been at the bar. Generally anything fried does the trick….or the universal food – pizza.

2 ) Worse driver:Lindsay Lohan or Amanda Bynes

Both are not just bad drivers, but are train-wrecks.

3 ) What did you have for breakfast?

It just so happens that breakfast is my favorite meal – providing I can have it for dinner. Today, a bacon/egg/cheese bagel did the trick.

Any social or non-social websites you would like to promote?

www.scareacon.com, www.tapsparamag.com. www.facebook.com/scareacon, www.facebook.com/tapsparamagazine

Tags: JV Johnson , Paranormal , TAPSparaMagazine, Interview , JV Johnson, Publisher , Scare-A-Cuse

So we may be a day off, but even Friday the 12th should enjoy a lil bit of that maniacal, lovable supernatural slasher, Jason Voorhees. To commemorate Friday the 12th we are bringing you a very exclusive interview with the most celebrated of Friday thespians, Kane Hodder as he talks candid about life career and Jason with Horrorfix's own Buck. Enjoy!!!

Tags: 2012 SCARE-A-CUSE horror con, Kane Hodder

Sometimes the things you come across when working for a company like Horror-fix are so cool that they warrant you dropping everything you were planning and getting more direct info immediately. This was exactly the case when I discovered the wonderfully sick and twisted internet horror sensation: Traycee King. We at Horror-fix had covered the Ghoul Girls booth at Comikaze not too long ago. Upon checking out their site and making my way through their models list (and checking out their official websites as one like myself does), one in particular caught my eye. This was, of course, Traycee.

With a resume that features the hilarious Machnima series How to Survive a Horror Film and the critically claimed internet zombie series 8:13, I knew that I had to get an interview with Traycee. Well, as they say, all good things come to those who wait. I managed to not only get my interview, but also earn a new found respect for the power of self determination and how we horror-addicts really have to stick together. You can listen in on the super chilled and insightful conversation I had with Traycee in the link below:

Horror-fix Interview - Traycee King

Also, be sure to check out the first segment of How to Survive a Horror Film here:

And the first episode of 8:13, here:

For more on Traycee and her projects head to: 

• Traycee King - http://trayceeking.com/
• 8:13 - http://813series.com/
• Ghoul Girls - http://www.ghoul-girls.com/

Tags: girls of horror, Horror , horror fans, independent films, micro budget films, zombie films, 8:13, Chandler Bullock, Ghoul Girls, Gore, Horror shorts, How to Survive a Horror Film, Traycee King, Zombies

In the bussling little burg of Danville, Illinois there is a new idea that has people talking...it's an idea that had its roots in your childhood but its claws in your nightmares. Its the child of a mad genius known as Blackmon..Peter Blackmon. What is this idea im prattling on about you ask? Well my friends, its a Zombie Prom and heres how it all happened........

Horrorfix: Hi Pete thanks for meeting with us.

Peter Blackmon: Not a problem happy to meet you.

HF: So lets get to this then.  How did this all come about?

PB: Well, we have been doing a kids Halloween show for three years now, with an adult party later that night at the Palmer Arena in Danville. We have had a better turn out each year and everyone seems to really enjoy it, BUT I wasn't satisfied with it just being a party, it needed to be something special. So, I set about pondering how I could spice up an already popular event. I was racking my brain and talking to some associates and we came up with the idea of a Zombie prom. Everyone was immediately excited about the whole idea.

HF: So no one was like.."a zombie what?" Or "are you high?"

PB: Oh no, quite the opposite. When I started getting a planning commitee together I was talking to the ladies and found out that one of them actually does her cardio to some kind of zombie apocalypse scenario where you are running for your life. Some people use an iPod she uses zombies...lol. Everyone I have talked to about the event has been very amped up about it.

HF: So would you say the area has a good size horror underground in your town?

PB: Yes, the groundswell for this has been unbelievable. You wouldn't believe the amount of zombie buffs there are out there. In fact we usually use Facebook as a litmus test for these kinda events and we couldnt have imagined the positive response we received.

HF: So what exactly can we expect from this Zombie Prom?

PB: Well of course there will be a king and a queen crowned. There will be two live bands playing. We will have a local very talented speed painter named John Jansky doing an original piece there. We will also have artists there to zombify people who aren’t talented enough or don’t have the time to do it themselves. We have also talked with our buddies at Horror-fix.com and if everything goes right they will be broadcasting live from the prom itself. Besides all that I like to throw huge parties and this will be no exception, this will be a blowout. We would like this to do well enough to do it every year...make it something people will want to come see and be a part of.

HF: How many people are you expecting?

PB: I would say from 300-500, its going to be pretty crazy.

HF: So now, Pete whats your favorite scary movie?

PB: Well, honestly, I really like the classics. I read a lot and like to see how people interpret the classics like Frankenstein and Dracula. I'm not a gore hound, really. The movies that really scare me though are the ones about devil possession or movies like the Amityville horror.

HF: In a smallish town you seem to take pride in doing very daring things. What motivates yoou?

PB: simply put...they let me do it. I mean with all my ideas people seem to let me have free reaign to try what I want. In fact some of the profits of this will go to the First Gig rock camp we do in town. You have to invest in your town.

HF: So what is that?

PB: We get a bunch kids together school of rock style and do an intensive multi day training with actual rockers and at the end we put on a big show at the arena where the kids play what they have learned. It was awesome. We fully anticipate the enrollment quadrupling next year. So we do events to raise money for it to keep it cheap for the kids. In fact John Jansky's painting will be auctioned to help the cause. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=301614323241451&set=a.272304109505806.64508.272241702845380&type=1&theater

HF: Pete, you have been great and we are looking forward to this more than you can imagine. Can you tell us when and where this will all go down?

PB: I sure can. Danville Illinois, Palmer Arena, 100 West Main Street. October 26. 6pm is the all ages show. 8PM starts the adult Zombie Prom and it ends at midnight.

http://palmerarena.com/arena/

HF: Thanks Pete can't wait.

PB: It's going to be great see ya there.

Tags: David S. Palmer , Danville IL, Zombie, Zombies

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The Corridor hits DVD shelves everywhere today and director Evan Kelly was able to take a moment out of his schedule to talk to us here at HorrorFix about the film, his own phobias and the dynamics that go into telling a great story. The film, which has been hailed as "Awesome... evocative of Stephen King and Donnie Darko", can be purchased directly from Amazon here and at retail stores everywhere.

Listen to the full interview here.

Tags: Evan Kelly, The Corridor

When we heard that Robert Kirkman's Skybound label was about to release a new horror comic that fused science and the supernatural we decided to go right to the source. The book, Witchdoctor, which is currently in stores with its first issue, blew us all away here at Horror Fix so we are proud to present an interview with its Writer and Co-Creator Brandon Seifert. Enjoy!

We would like to thank Brandon for taking the time to enlighten us on what we're sure is soon to be a fan favorite. Witchdoctor #1 is currently in stores and you can learn more about Brandon and his exciting new title at www.witchdoctorcomic.com

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