Monster Costumes
Do you want to explore your creepy side this Halloween? LTM party features a wide variety of monster costumes to suit your gothic lifestyle! From fun and freaky monsters to professional monster masks from special effect mask makers - LTM Party has it all!

Do you want to explore your creepy side this Halloween? LTM party features a wide variety of monster costumes to suit your gothic lifestyle! From fun and freaky monsters to professional monster masks from special effect mask makers - LTM Party has it all!



Young Frankenstein (Special Edition) (1974)

Amazon.com essential video
If you were to argue that Mel Brooks's Young Frankenstein ranks among the top-ten funniest movies of all time, nobody could reasonably dispute the claim. Spoofing classic horror in the way that Brooks's previous film Blazing Saddles sent up classic Westerns, the movie is both a loving tribute and a raucous, irreverent parody of Universal's classic horror films Frankenstein (1931) and Bride of Frankenstein (1935). Filming in glorious black and white, Brooks re-created the Frankenstein laboratory using the same equipment from the original Frankenstein (courtesy of designer Kenneth Strickfaden), and this loving attention to physical and stylistic detail creates a solid foundation for nonstop comedy. The story, of course, involves Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) and his effort to resume experiments in re-animation pioneered by his late father. (He's got some help, since dad left behind a book titled How I Did It.) Assisting him is the hapless hunchback Igor (Marty Feldman) and the buxom but none-too-bright maiden Inga (Teri Garr), and when Frankenstein succeeds in creating his monster (Peter Boyle), the stage is set for an outrageous revision of the Frankenstein legend. With comedy highlights too numerous to mention, Brooks guides his brilliant cast (also including Cloris Leachman, Madeline Kahn, Kenneth Mars, and Gene Hackman in a classic cameo role) through scene after scene of inspired hilarity. Indeed, Young Frankenstein is a charmed film, nothing less than a comedy classic, representing the finest work from everyone involved. Not one joke has lost its payoff, and none of the countless gags have lost their zany appeal. From a career that includes some of the best comedies ever made, this is the film for which Mel Brooks will be most fondly remembered. Befitting a classic, the Special Edition DVD includes audio commentary by Mel Brooks, a "making of" documentary, interviews with the cast, hilarious bloopers and outtakes, and the original theatrical trailers. No video library should be without a copy of Young Frankenstein. And just remember--that's Fronkensteen. --Jeff Shannon

Review: Comedic Classic: A Rare and Touching Gem,


YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN is one of the funniest movies I've ever seen. There are so many things that Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder got right in this film, it is hard to enumerate them. Suffice it to say that this film, spawned from a real love of the "Frankenstein" films of the 1930s, manages to satirize the originals with perfect grace, all the while creating a movie that is strangely touching in its own right. The comedy is spot-on and I found myself rolling at several points.

The film itself is gorgeous. It is entirely shot in black & white. It was a great decision to do so, too: the black & white film lends the movie a "haunted" feel that transports the audience back to the shadows and gloom of the 1930s originals. Not only does the B&W film allow us to "get in the right mood," I also believe that it is what contributes to the fact that YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN achieves more than just a simple parody. As strange as it sounds, particularly when compared to modern parodies, this film manages to tell a touching story. There is a real human element to this film, despite all of its (hilarious) off-color jokes and humor.

Let me make a few comments on the special features: this is not a crummy DVD. There are a bunch of extras that make this edition worthy of buying. The DVD quality is superb. Additionally, there is a commentary by Brooks, a 36 minute documentary, outtakes, deleted scenes, and some weird "Mexican" interviews. I particularly enjoyed watching the documentary of how this wonderful film came to the big screen. It was obviously a labor of love and it shows.

If you enjoy Mel Brooks's films, the original Frankenstein films, or simply a great & timeless comedy, you honestly cannot go wrong with YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN. It holds up after thirty years and will continue to do so for many to come.

Review: Slapstick comedy masterpiece!

This film is one of my all-time favorite Mel Brooks movies. It has been called one of the ten funniest movies ever made, and I am not about to argue that. Everything about this film works. From the casting, to the set pieces, to the dialogue, to the direction, to the soundtrack, everything clicks. One thing in the film's favor: the decision to film in glorious black and white, as in the glory days of Hollywood horror films, which this movie paid direct homage to. The cast was spot on, and you could only imagine the crack-ups that occured after each take. Peter Boyle was wonderful as the Monster, and Gene Wilder was a true genius as Fiedrich Frankenstein. Teri Garr, in an early appearance, is great as Inga, the lab assisant. Marty Feldman lends his maniacal eyes to Igor, giving a rousing performance in the process. Madeleine Kahn, as usual for this great lady, nearly steals the whole show as Dr. Frankenstein's american fiancee. She will forever be remembered for her rendition of "Love at Last I've Found You". Overall, one can tell this film was a true labor of love. Every scene is filled with detail, which this DVD release brings into sharp focus. The contrast is wonderful, the sound is sharp, and the film just glows. If Mel Brooks rather crude humor isn't your forte, this film is closer to mainstream than normal for him. As a result, he gave us a true cinema classic, and we thank him for it.

Review: Reanimating Dead Tissue Is Easy, Comedy Is Hard
Released in 1974, Young Frankenstein is irrefutably one of the funniest movies ever made. Devotees are quick to recreate favorite scenes and certain lines from the film have insinuated themselves into popular culture. Never has the phrase, "Dying is easy, comedy is hard," seemed more fitting. Indeed, anyone who has ever intentionally attempted humor knows it's a whole lot more difficult than it looks.

Viewed in this context, Young Frankenstein is one of those incredibly rare examples of a project where everything goes right. The best place to begin is with the chemistry between Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder. Left to his own devices, Brooks is the original loose canon, willing to embrace any outrageous extreme in pursuit of laughs. Wilder, a far more refined and nuanced artist, is his perfect foil, they balance each other ideally. (This was also true in The Producers and Blazing Saddles.)

Next is the supporting cast. Great comic actors are less common than hen's teeth, but Brooks managed to assemble a veritable Who's Who. Teri Garr, in addition to bringing sex to the picture, has superb comic timing. Madeline Kahn is as gifted a comedienne as you might ever find, and her flamboyance is irresistible. Marty Feldman is more than just another pretty face with a moving hump, he delivers. Actors like Cloris Leachman, Peter Boyle, and Gene Hackman - not known for comedy - rise to the occasion and become funny by virtue of their context.

Next is the discipline. Brooks and Wilder stay close to the original Mary Shelley story as well as the two famous film versions, even going so far as to locate and use the laboratory set from the 1931 Frankenstein by James Whale. By making the film an homage to the great monster pictures of early Hollywood, (note the decision to shoot in black and white), Brooks and Wilder created something that is more than just a broad farce, at times it is actually touching.

Architecture firmly in place, the mayhem could begin in earnest. This is as good a comedy script as you are likely to find anywhere, one-liners zing by with the manic pace of a Marx Brothers movie. But even the best script can die in the wrong hands, and there are no wrong hands in this film, (not even the dead ones). From physical humor, to timing, (where comedy lives or dies), to snappy, deadpan delivery of over-the-top dialogue, Young Frankenstein is practicality a masters class in comic acting - plus - these performers are obviously enjoying themselves. If you were to own just one comedy film, this should be it. Absolute perfection.

Review: "This DVD needs a new Special Edition"
I've had this DVD for about 5 years, and I have to say that it needs a "NEW" Special Edition. (1) It needs a anamorphic tranfer, watching it on my widescreen TV does not do this movie justice. (2) It needs new audio, a mono soundtrack is good if you're watching using your TV speakers. Give it a Dolby/DTS 5.1 this film deserves it. (3) "Making Sense of... " is great, but what about the FOX Channel special that aired for it's 25th Anniversary that would be a great addition. (4) The deleted scenes are in 4:3. Did Mel shoot them that way, I don't think so. Present them the way they were shot in 16:9. (5) The trailers should be in widescreen (some are, and some are'nt). Bottom line "Young Frankenstein" needs a "NEW" Special Edition, come on FOX you release that same crap over and over, do we really need another DVD release on ID4- I think NOT.

Review: One of the finest comedies ever made
The other reviews have summarized this film's qualities quite well, so I won't repeat them. Instead, I'll simply say that this is, bar none, my favorite comedy ever. I've watched it so many times that I know the entire script by heart, and I still laugh every time I see it. I recommend this film unconditionally. It is sheer brilliance. Buy it. Enough said.

Horror Classics Collection: 50 Movie Pack

Titles include:
Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde starring John Barrymore
Blue Beard starring John Carradine
The Corpse Vanishes starring Bela Lugosi
Night of the Living Dead starring Judith O’Dea
Doomed to Die starring Boris Karloff
The Phantom of the Opera starring Lon Chaney, Sr.
The Indestructible Man starring Lon Chaney, Jr.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame Lon Chaney, Sr.
Nosferatu starring Max Schreck
Swamp Women starring Mike Connors
The World Gone Mad starring Pat O’Brien
The Little Shop of Horrors starring Jack Nicholson
Tormented starring Richard Carlson
The Monster Walks starring Rex Lease
Monster from a Prehistoric Planet starring Tamio Kawaji
The Gorilla starring The Ritz Brothers
A Shriek in the Night starring Ginger Rogers
Bloodlust starring Robert Reed
The Amazing Mr. X starring Turhan Bay
Last Woman on Earth starring Robert Towne
The Bat starring Vincent Price
The House on Haunted Hill starring Vincent Price
The Last Man on Earth starring Vincent Price
Dementia 13 starring William Campbell
Phantom from 10,000 Leagues starring Kent Taylor
Carnival of Souls starring Candace Hilligoss
Atom Age Vampire starring Alberto Lupo
Creature from the Haunted Sea starring Robert Towne
Nightmare Castle starring Barbara Steele
Black Dragons starring Bela Lugosi
Invisible Ghost starring Bela Lugosi
One Body Too Many starring Bela Lugosi
White Zombie starring Bela Lugosi
Attack of the Giant Leeches starring Ken Clark
The Screaming Skull starring John Hudson
Beast of Yucca Flats starring Tor Johnson
The Terror starring Boris Karloff
Revolt of the Zombies starring Dean Jagger
The Giant Gilla Monster starring Don Sullivan
The Fatal Hour starring Boris Karloff
Dead Men Walk starring George Zucco
The Mad Monster starring George Zucco
Maniac starring Bill Woods
Metropolis starring Gustav Frolich
The Vampire Bat starring Fay Wray
The Ape starring Boris Karloff
The Monster Maker starring J. Carol Naish
The Killer Shrews starring James Best
The Brain That Wouldn’t Die starring Jason Evers
King of the Zombies starring Joan Woodbury

Product Description
Get an instant library of some of the greatest horror classics ever to come out of Hollywood on twelve double-sided DVDs. From legendary silent classics such as Phantom of the Opera, Nosferatuand Metropolis, to cult favorites like Night of the Living Dead and House on Haunted Hill, the Horror Classics 50 Movie Pack has something for everyone. Never has such a comprehensive collection of great classic horror films been assembled in one exciting package, all for an amazingly low price!


Review: What A BARGAIN! 50 Classics & Schlock For A Pittance!!!,

I purchased this 50 DVD box set this past autumn (for Halloween) and have viewed all of the films. There are some GREAT CLASSICS mixed with fabulous SCHLOCK for a price that can't be beat!

Different horror genres including:

Crusty, Creepy Creatures
Descend to the depths of the deep, dark ocean and encounter the "Phantom From 10,000 Leagues" and "Creature From The Haunted Sea". Check out the cheesy and quite primitive special effects in "The Giant Gila Monster". Rediscover terror of dogs dressed up in fur playing "The Killer Shrews". Hold your breath to see which hick from the backwoods will actually survive "The Attack of the Giant Leeches"! Also the great "The Hunchback Of Notre Dame" with the fabulous Lon Chaney, Jr., "The Gorilla", "Swamp Women", "Atom Age Vampire", "Beast Of yucca Flats", "Black Dragons", "Invisible Ghost", "The Vampire Bat" with Fay Wray, "White Zombie" with Bela Lugosi and "The Bat" With Vincent Price!

Majorly Maddening Madmen
Descend into insanity and weird funereal rites in Francis Ford Coppola's first full-length feature "Dementia 13". Be astounded at the scientific perversity of Jason Evers as he keeps the severed head of his fiance alive in "The Brain that Wouldn't Die". Also includes, "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde", "The Monster Maker", "Maniac", "The Amazing Mr. X", "The Tormented", and "Bluebeard".

Cult Classics
Watch when Audrey II cries "feeeed me" in "Little Shop of Horrors". Fear for the fate of humanity as flesh-eating zombies roam the earth in Romero's "Night of the Living Dead". Find out what it's like to be "The Last Man on Earth" with Vincent Price and "The Last Woman On Earth" with Robert Towne. Go to the "Carnival Of Souls" with Candace Hilligoss, even!

Silent Horror Classics
Watch the amazing Lon Chaney in "Phantom of the Opera", slinking through the cellars of the Paris Opera House. Marvel at the chilling Max Schreck in "Nosferatu", giving a truly mesmerizing performance and the classic and futuristic, "Metropolis".

AND MUCH, MUCH MORE! I highly recommend this very cool and inexpensive box set for anyone who likes classic horror, cheesy schlock, Bela Lugosi or stylings of the great Ed Wood!

Happy Watching!

Monsters (Paperback)


Review: Intriguing

The book's author takes a kind of "scientific" approach to the subject matter. This book is intended for the novice and does include some creatures not necessarily thought of monsters, like angels and mermaids. Nine different types of "monsters" are described here, starting with vampires, ghosts and werewolves, and finishing off with demons. Things that go bum pin the night, indeed.

Greer takes great pains to debunk a number of "facts" about each of these creatures. For example, vampires who in most lore are thought of to be almost "glamorous," are portrayed here as something completely different. He also talks briefly about "psychic vampires," which in some cases can be just as nasty as a "real" vampire.

He also devotes chapters to "monster investigations," what to look for, what to watch out for, the "tools of the trade," and cautions the reader to never go alone when "looking" for one of these creatures, and the book's final chapters are devoted to defending yourself by the use of magic.

While this is not the definite guide to "monsters," it is a good overall book on the subject and there's a long bibliography of related books listed at the book's end for those who wish to learn more.

Review: Not intended for those already knowledgeable on the subject.
This book is clearly a primer, intended for beginners and disbelievers. As such, it does what it sets out to quite well; if it is a disappointment to those who expect advanced tracts from Mr. Greer, as some of the other reviews suggest, the problem is with their expectations, not with the material at hand. One wouldn't rate a first-year calculus book poorly simply because it fails to increase one's understanding of differential equations.

For those inclined to learn a bit about the lore of occult creatures, whether or not they actually believe in the reality of said creatures, this is a very good book. Even if one doesn't believe, and is somewhat put off by Greer's unapologetic stance that magic and occult monsters are real, nonetheless, one must concede that he is very practical in his approach; he repeatedly reminds the reader to consider all other explanations before assuming true occult activity, including hoaxes and simple misunderstanding of "normal" happenings. He states repeatedly that true paranormal activity is much rarer than such other happenings, and is clearly attempting to discourage people attempting to live out their Fantasy Role Playing Games in the real world, a phenomenon that he is obviously all too familiar with.

For those who ARE inclined to believe in the possibility of the occult, this is a very good beginning text on the subject.

Review: Interesting, but empty in the end
I guess this book would be better appreciated by those who actually believe in magic, protection spells and things like that. The book does offer it's fair share of information to those who are just interested in monsters generally, but there are far more better books for that kind of research.

The book has chapters for ghosts, demons, angels, werewolves, vampires and other things that go bump in the night. Greer has included sightings and legends from the history, but I always found myself wanting more details. Most portions of the book are about monsters generally and they also offer magical means to defend oneself from monsters. If you are not interested in magic and spells, the book offers only a brief glance into the monster lore.

I was somewhat disappointed in the book, it had only a few interesting bits and pieces of information. Most of the times I found myself reading about Greer's own theories, which I am sorry to say, didn't seem too convincing. If you are offering an example from the history or news, you should include more information about it, otherwise the example has no real use.

If you are interested magic and it's involvement with monsters, this might be the book for you. If you want to really read about monsters, I recommend you find other books for your reading pleasure.

Review: An Ok Book and truly Interesting.
I found this book very interesting, but, some where missleading to the reader(s) (i.e.:"ghosts","spirits") which are pretty much the same thing no matter how you look at it.However, some of the points he makes about certain creaturs are interesting and make sense. This is a really good book, but, its not that great. I say if you want to learn about certain folklore then this book is for you if you truly want something thats interesting.

Review: This book shatters some common perceptions of Monsters,
I found this book to be interesting, thought-provoking and overall one of the best I have read on paranormal and fatastical creatures. He hit upon ideas I have held for years, but had never ran into in a book. He shatters Hollywood created stereotypes for ancient creatures such as werewolves and vampires and provides theories that make perfect sense and finally shed light on all the "missing" evidence in relation to fairies and alien abductions. Also included are easy-to-use ways of removing negative and/or unwanted energies from houses ..ie ghosts. The only negative thing I can say about this book is that he labels the Unicorn as a true Mythical creature! ::my inner child weeps:: If you have even a small intrest in magick creatures...get this book. It is an easy to read, down to earth, explanatory guide to things considered "unknown"!

Review: Interesting but irrelevant.
As someone who has spent most of my short life trying to understand the paranormal and occult I believe this book poses some very interesting ideas. Interesting as they are they mean nothing to anyone who is at all serious about the paranormal. There is an interesting talk about the abduction phenomena and Faery that I have seen parralleled in other works. The rest is just dribble. I showed the book to some of my Wiccan and other "magically inclined" friends (of which I am still puzzling over the validity of magik) and they were all very angry at some parts of the book. However it is a fun read if you want to read something that is ultimately much more fiction than fact.

Review: More bull from Llewellyn
There seems to be a new fad in the magic section these days. If being a witch with fluffy bunny superpowers doesn't make you feel special enough, you can spend $20 and call yourself a monster hunter! You can now do battle with the horrible dangers we all face in life: vampires, werewolves and disgruntled fairies!

Vampire and werewolf wannabees beware! Mr. Greer's readers are packing heat! I consider this one of the more dangerous books out there because it not only confuses the reader with fabricated idiocy but it also inspires violence between the lines. For instance, after stating that physically shifting werewolves are indeed a present threat the author advises loading a gun with silver bullets or purchasing a silver tipped staff and taking up martial arts. He even recommends discretion when committing a slaying as it would be difficult to justify the act to the authorities by stating the victim was a werewolf. Due to the supernatural nature of the "werewolf" he also states the corpse might appear in an inconvenient location in human form. Perhaps the author would be more apt at writing books on committing crimes!

Review: In-depth Research Guide to "Imaginary" Beings & "Monsters",
I accidentally dismissed this book, because of the cover, until my wife brought me a copy to peruse. The cover doesn't really do the book justice--although, I am sure it sells many copies, normally. If this book had an entirely different cover, I believe it would be taken Very Seriously by many students of The Mysteries, Anthropology (especially), and could possibly be used in a College Course on Mythology.

Greer's explanation of Occult, Ghost, UFO, Fay, etc., Phenomena makes more sense than most of what I have read on the subject, throughout my life. I have read Secret School materials that do not make as much sense as this amazing treatise on the Paranormal. I am especially Impressed with the UFO-Fairy connection. This theory not only makes tremendous sense, but resolves Numerous issues I have experienced and debated, over the years. For those who research the Paranormal and have experienced UFO, Ghost and such "Otherworld" activities, this book makes tremendous sense, and often makes the reader realize things in a very ( "So, that's it !" ) revelatory manner.
I could have really used this book, when I was younger and silly-enough to go looking for trouble. Throughout my life, I have experienced various Hauntings and Paranormal Events, and often went looking for them, as Inspiration for writing books. Personal experience leads me to conclude that Greer is an Expert and should be taken very Seriously by Anthropologists, Psychologists, et al.
I doubt that most people who are not psychically inclined or Initiated will "get it," but this guide is Certainly well-worth owning just to discourage people from "Dabbling" in Occult Matters. Amazingly, this is the first "Occult" book I have ever read that would be perfect material for Christians to encourage their teenagers to read. The usual Christian theory of "Don't Dabble" (in the Occult) is repeated throughout the book. However, the book is written from an Initiated, Mystical perspective, coinciding with Common Sense.
To make a long review short.... This is a perfect guide to "Monsters" (the Paranormal, Mystical, Hauntings, Vampires, Werewolves, etc.) that should be on the shelf of every "Occultist," Christian, Psychic, Psychologist and Anthropologist.

Please, do not "judge the book by it's cover." This is not a sensationalist, copy-cat, or un-researched book written to capitalize on Vampire Trends and such. I sincerely expect this book to make it's way into college courses. Greer has obviously researched this material in-depth and first-hand. This is the only Serious work on the subject that I have encountered. If you are expecting sensationalized UFO encounters, this book isn't for you. However, this book does explain, Rationally, the UFO phenomena. This book does not "debunk" monsters, ghosts and fairies--but, it does Explain them, logically
Greer obviously has the Credentials to back-up his theories. "Monsters" is being used as a "Reference book" at Libraries (a book you cannot check-out: "for Research purposes, only").
For those who may be interested, several chapters included in this book involve Natural Magick and Ritual Magick, with detailed instructions and diagrams.

Review: On Things That Go Bump In The Dark
This is one of the most fantastic books I've read in ages. Note that this has very little to do with cryptozoology; most of the creatures discussed are not always material.
In this surprisingly readable book, we have a discussion of various common preternatural and supernatural monsters. Not all of these would ordinarily be considered monsters (such as mermaids and angels), but are classified as such for ease of use.

Mr. Greer covers a lot of very useful ground, such as investigative techniques for the amateur monster hunter, a detailed explanation of the different levels of reality that is the most internally consistent I've ever seen, and one of the best bibliographies in print today. He freely admits that many so-called monster sightings are, in fact, possibly something much more mundane.

The meat of this, though, is the section on actual monster descriptions. Here, we learn the nature of real vampires, what Nessie *really* is, and what demons might have to do with mental illness (and no, it's not necessarily a cause-effect relationship, either...). Information is given on the history of said monsters, various sightings, and what to do if one encounters said monster...realistically, most are treated as any other rare creature (i.e. be quiet, look, take notes and pictures if you can). Finally, he also discusses vulnerabilities and has a section on quick ritual magic if one does, in fact, have to go all Buffy on that vampire.

In summation, this is one of the best New Age/magical book I've read in years. He writes very well, and very entertainingly, and keeps a very level head. If you're at all interested in supernatural creatures, this is one of the best books for you.

Review: Fascinating, practical, down-to-earth and very readable.
Greer defines monsters as "beings that cannot exist, according to currently accepted scientific theories about the way the universe works, but which are routinely encountered by credible witnesses and described in traditional folklore". The major portion of the book extracts the common threads from world-wide folklore and modern day sightings of vampires, ghosts, werewolves, creatures of faery, mermaids, dragons, spirits, angels and demons, while dispelling modern TV myths. Although cultures vary in their interpretation of what monsters are, there is surprising agreement about what they do. This suggests that there are common phenomena that have been subject to different interpretations.

I was particularly attracted to the book because of this well-structured and systematic distillation of the evidence, old and new. It is written in a sensible style that gives one a great deal of confidence in the author. However, there is much more that is of interest, and different audiences will take different things from the rest of the book. For the complete newcomer to the field, there is an introduction containing a cogently argued defence of the idea that evidence shouldn't be discarded just because it doesn't fit our current theoretical models. However, the main thrust of the book is as a guide for psychical researchers, ghost hunters and other investigators of spontaneous anomalies. It contains some extremely practical information about e.g. equipment to take, questions to ask and how to ask them, how to detect hoaxes and how to do research. This should be required reading for any person involved in field work of this kind.

The monster catalogue itself contains two parallel threads. Besides describing reported monster behaviour and the development of associated folklore, the author also provides an interpretation, based on Western magical philosophy, of what the monsters are and how to deal with them. Fortunately, he keeps these threads fairly separate, so that one can extract a lot of useful information about monster sightings, even if one chooses to ignore the magical perspective. That said, the framework that he presents is internally consistent and seems to be an interesting way of analysing monster lore. The notions that he draws on could also be interpreted in terms of other cultural philosophies, and students of e.g. eastern mysticism or holistic medicine will find parallels in their own philosophy to the concepts used here.

While reading this book, I was consistently impressed by the author's clear mind, down-to-earth approach and considerate nature. While each element of it may be covered in more detail in other books, this is an extremely useful synthesis of many ideas. I found a lot to think about in it, and I recommend it highly.

A Field Guide to Demons, Fairies, Fallen Angels and Other Subversive Spirits (Paperback)

Amazon.com
The Macks divert our gaze from our contemporary red-faced, cloven-hoofed misrepresentation of demons to remind us of the ancient roles demons were originally assigned to play. From the Tommyknockers of North American mountain mines to the South African Mbulu that waits in the river for lone travelers, A Field Guide to Demons classifies these creatures by their domains--water, mountain, forest--rather than in alphabetical or cultural order, dishing out antique and contemporary lore on these most misunderstood of spirits. A Field Guide to Demons melds folklore and mythology; maintains a surprisingly evenhanded view of demons; and reveals their role as the necessary challenger to established order, the antagonist--without which there could be no hero--and the darkness through which goodness shines brightest. --Brian Patterson--This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Reviews

"A round of applause for this demonic cast of characters . . . They let us glimpse other people's demons, and many of our very own." --Anna Deavere Smith, author of Fires in the Mirror

"An array of the most dreaded demons mythology has to offer." --Robert L. Carniero, Curator of South American Ethnology, American Museum of Natural History

Robert L. Carniero, Curator of South American Ethnology, American Museum of Natural History
"An array of the most dreaded demons mythology has to offer."

Review
"A round of applause for this demonic cast of characters . . . They let us glimpse other people's demons, and many of our very own." --Anna Deavere Smith, author of Fires in the Mirror

"An array of the most dreaded demons mythology has to offer." --Robert L. Carniero, Curator of South American Ethnology, American Museum of Natural History

Book Description
Watch your back! . . . How to spot and identify demons and other subversive spirits . . . And what to do next.

Demons, fairies, and fallen angels are everywhere. They lurk at crossroads, crouch behind doors, hide in trees, slip into beds, wait in caves, hover at weddings and childbirths, disguise themselves as friends, relatives-even disguise themselves as you. They are powerful; they are protean; they are enchanting. And, to the uninformed, they are often invisible. This illustrated guide-the first of its kind-reveals the remarkable permutations of the demon and fairy species worldwide. Packed with lore about each demon, detailing its origins, the culture surrounding it, and its reputed antics and exploits, A Field Guide to Demons, Fairies, Fallen Angels, and Other Subversive Spirits is a fascinating exploration of global mythologies. Perfect for the armchair traveler and the intrepid, seasoned demon-spotter alike, this complete guide to subversive spirits offers a behind-the-scenes look at the devilish mishaps, impish irritations, and demonic devastations that punctuate our lives.

About the Author

Carol Mack is an award-winning playwright with a master's degree in religious studies. Her daughter, Dinah Mack, a writer, earned her master's degree in cultural anthropology.

Review: Forewarned is Forearmed
This is a great reference work: useful, accessible and well organised. The demons, fairies and other mythical beings featured in this book were taken from the legends and folklore of several cultures and they are grouped according to their place of residence: water, mountain, forest, desert, domicile and psyche. Each chapter includes a short description of the creature's appearance, habits and preferences; one of two stories of encounters with it; and a section on disarming and dispelling techniques.
This guide includes some fascinating creatures, such as the Japanese Kappa and its surprising eating habits, the helpful and friendly Norwegian Nisse, the extremely fragile Australian Mimi, and the Chinese Madame White, who gives a whole new meaning to the expression femme fatale. Some better known beings like mermaids and werewolves are also featured. The Macks' writing style is clear and engaging, sometimes tongue-in-cheek but never disrespectful to other cultures. The detailed information on how to deal with these creatures is particularly useful; if you ever encounter any of them you'll know what to do to be able to tell the tale.

Review: Great Reference Book
You could spend lots of money on all kinds of folklore & mythology books, and still not have as much information on the "darker entities" as this book.

Each entry is very detailed with description, habitations, sightings, etc.

I think this book would make a great gift for anyone interested in the supernatural, or even RPG GM's looking for new ways to torture their players... ;)

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Review: Casual entertainment
Though the serious researcher or folklorist won't find much new content here, it's a fun and easy read with a unique format and a wide variety of entries. Most of the entries have associated stories, and some wonderfully unexpected things turn up (yes, Jung's Shadow is identified herein). And for that serious researcher? The bibliography is priceless, and I will probably go bankrupt amassing it. Do not, however, confuse this with an occult volume. This is simply legend and folklore.

Review: Not a serious demon book
This is not a serious demon book, and I doubt that the "protection rituals" will do anyone any good. If you have a real demon or haunting problem, buy a different book! Having got that out of the way... this is a great entertaining book... many mythical creatures are included that you would not expect to be there from this book's title... if you are looking for lots of really cool mythical creatures... each with just enough about it to be interesting, but not going on and on... then this is super-ultra-cool!!!







Giants, Monsters, and Dragons: An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend, and Myth (Paperback)

From Library Journal
There are three criteria for inclusion in this near-comprehensive reference work on a relatively narrow aspect of folklore: the creature cannot be divine, it must be a supernatural being from mythology, legend, folklore, or classic literature, and it may be a cryptozoological or symbolic being, such as a heraldic beast. Although various other sources treat giants, monsters, and mystery animals, none seems to cover them all at once, and this work's inclusion of the symbolic element appears to be unique. Entries give basic descriptions of each creature as well as its activities, region, culture, and historical period, and each entry is both cross-referenced and referenced to a selected bibliography. Appendixes categorize beings under country or region as well as such headings as "Beings Associated with Catastrophe." While works as modern as J.R.R. Tolkien's are cited, the Harry Potter series is not, though several monsters described here are present in J.K. Rowling's books. Perhaps Rose (Spirits, Fairies, Gnomes, and Goblins) does not consider Potter classic literature, but for a current reference work, this may soon prove a serious oversight. Recommended for public and school libraries where similar references are used.DKatherine K. Kaigler-Koenig, Ellis Sch., Pittsburgh, PA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Choice
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! have nothing on Rose, at home in a thicket of menacing creatures.

Choice
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! have nothing on Rose, at home in a thicket of menacing creatures.

Book Description
We have always conjured up creatures never seen in nature, from flying horses and two-headed birds to fire-breathing dragons and enormous killer skunks, as well as fantastic distortions of our own image, from giants to nubile maidens. In these pages you will meet extraordinary beings from Hindu and Navajo religions, Scandinavian tales, Russian folklore, Lithuanian stories, Irish oral history, American tall tales, and Aztec myth. Just some of the monstrous entourage:

• Baku, a benevolent Japanese monster with the body of a horse, the head of a lion, and the legs of a tiger, who helps people by devouring their nightmares.

• Kurma, the giant tortoise of Hindu myth, whose upper shell forms the heavens and lower part the earth.

• Missipissy, the feared fish serpent of North America's Great Lakes region.

This illustrated encyclopedia not only identifies and describes individual beasts in their cultural context but also groups them together across cultures and discusses common mythological strands and conceits. 60 b/w illustrations.

About the Author
Carol Rose is a research member at the University of Kent and a senior lecturer at Canterbury College, England.

Review: Fantabulous!
Reviewer: John J Clements (FPO, AP USA) - See all my reviews
Carol Rose has done it again! The companion to her much-acclaimed Spirits, Faeries, Gnomes, and Goblins: an Encyclopedia of the Little People, Giants, Monsters, and Dragons provides the same thorough lexicon of the fantastic. More of less everything her previous book left out (ie. the large mythical creatures) that I complained about in my review of the said book, this book covers. Got a question on Qanekelak? Wondering about Wendigo? Tired of asking about Asipatra? Just plain curious about the Cockatrice? Well this well-documented book provides all the answers to the questions you might ask (and even answers to wuestions you might NOT have asked).

Not only does it include the traditional monsters, Griffins, Dragons, Ettins, etc. but it also includes folklore monsters from the American Old West (Fearsome Critters). Also, some of the more popularized monsters like Werewolves and vampires are carefully restrained within the pages of this book.

Anyone who's had bad experiences with so-called encyclopedias of beasts-that-aren't, need not fear this book. It is not, repeat, NOT a re-telling of old folktales. This book states the physical description of each creature, in a clear, concise manner, and goes about with helpful information about it. If your trying to find their countries of origin, simply turn to the back for a thorogh cross-index of all the creatures.

So why does it recieve four-stars from me? The artwork is sub-par. Rather than original pictures, which, I admit, can rapidly become tacky, she has chosen to reprint old drawings and wood-prints from ancient texts and her private collection. Not that I'm against old-school pictures, but I prefer a more modern-touch. Maybe I'm just being picky. Before this book, I had just purchased a Monster Manual, mistakenly believing that it was a serious encyclopedia of monsters. Carol Rose's book certainly throws the Dungeons and Dragons book on their tails in the way of sheer informative value, but falls rather short in the visual department.

Review: Really fun text
Books of this type are nothing new. There are probably dozens of encyclopedia-style texts out there dealing with magical creatures and mythical beings, but this one is easily one of the more enjoyable volumes I've had the pleasure of reading. As has been pointed out in another review, this is not a book for those who are longing for visuals over text. This is not one of Froud's Fairy books or one of the Gnome texts. As fun as those books are, there is a heavy if not predominate focus on their original illustrations. Carol Rose's book is focused instead on textual descriptions and summaries. There are plenty of great illustrations in the book, mostly woodcuts from Rose's own private collection, but these are not the key focus of the book. But I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a good, searchable reference guide to creatures of myth and magic.

Review: Happy happy joy joy!
I am madly in love with this book. I have been looking for a book like this since I was old enough to read. I've read several dozen monster encyclopedias. This book is very similar to "The Encyclopedia of Things That Never Were," except that everything that Never Were did wrong, THIS book did right! You can actually find what you're looking for in this book!

This book does NOT make things up as it goes along. It does not mix the author's opinions with ancient opinions; its voice is neutral, but not dry. It does not contain illustrations which are irrelevant to the text. It is not messy in its layout- everything is perfectly organized. The bibliography is truly perfect, and is referred to constantly.

This book does indeed cover giants, monsters, and dragons; and it also covers a lot of gods, spirits, undead, goblins, fictional famous people, and so on. It covers ALL the mythologies of the world, concentrating on them equally. Most books like this will, say, tell you all about European mythics at great length, but only touch briefly on Thunderbird or Rainbow Snake, often the sole representatives of the entire continent they come from, and all their fascinating brothers are neglected completely. This book doesn't mix in movie monsters with the ancient ones (as some books do) although there are some fairly recent entities listed, such as Paul Bunyan. Rather than using modern illustrations drawn by an illustrator who is clueless about how the monster is supposed to look aside from the text description, and so produces something totally useless for reference, this book uses old illustrations, woodcuts and steel engravings- my only complaint may be that those illustrations are few and far between, and all grayscale, but it has a perfect bibliography, so you always know where to look for more- this book is designed to start you off, tell you where to go for more if you want to. Every single entry tells you which books it came from. It's full of some really seriously obscure creatures, too, so that's good.

As I was reading an entry about a creature which was born in the mythologies of an area near where I live, I thought to myself: "The only way this book could be any better was that if there was an index in the back that listed all the mythics by location! But of course there won't be, nothing is that perfect."

And lo and behold, I looked in the back, and it was THERE. As a counterpoint to the fully indexed alphabetical listing of all the monsters, the appendixes in the back list all the monsters by category, so you may look them up that way. There are category listings such as Thailand, or United States Native. And then there are category listings for type of monster, such as "beings that are horses or part horse," or "dragons- occidental." And so on. You can seriously find whatever you're looking for in this book, and there's plenty of it.

Review: Mistical..

This book has all merfolk, Paul Baunyan, and dragons. It even has jabberwocky.

Review: A good reference, but unforgivably overpriced
I'm not sure if this is Carol Rose's fault or her publisher's, but this book cost me eighteen dollars brand new with the older cover. This was only a few months ago. While this is an excellent reference book, one of the best I have seen, the price is a bit steep for casual readers.

Monsters in history
From Wikipedia

Social concept
At one time, the monster was an important social concept. Monsters were generally composed under a group that befell humans. Monsters were often associated with unknown lands and unknown things. For instance, historically, unexplored areas on maps would be marked indicating that monsters such as dragons lived there. This connection between monsters and the unknown meant that the monster was an important concept in the Renaissance and the Enlightenment, as Western society began to use science and other academic disciplines to try to understand the unknown. Monsters were seen as scientific puzzles; things science needed to understand. In the Enlightenment, the cabinet of curiosities would often include monsters in amongst the scientific instruments and toys. Similarly, the monstrous was an important concept on aesthetics during the enlightenment, often closely associated with the wondrous and the sublime.

Religion and mythology
Many Eastern religions such as Hinduism, as well as ancient religions such as Greek mythology and Norse mythology, depict monsters as the enemies of the gods. Ragnarok in Norse mythology was the final battle between the gods of Asgard and the many monsters of the world.

Ancient peoples considered the birth of "freaks" representations of the wrath of the gods, a demonstration, as it were. The first so-named monstra were the showpieces in traveling carnival freakshows, people afflicted with body deformities or diseases like elephantiasis.

Occasionally, there are monsters who act out of legitimate motives and their monstrous appearance leads to serious misunderstandings. Some well known examples are King Kong , Frankenstein's Monster, and the Horta in the Star Trek episode, "The Devil in the Dark".

There is a pattern which many monsters in mythology follow. They are often portrayed as a threat which kills indiscriminatly and mericlessly, only to be eventually slain by the hero. Good examples of this include Beowulf and the legend of St George and the Dragon.

Monsters in literature
The relationship between science and monstrosity became an important theme in many Victorian-era horror novels, where science was often depicted not merely as studying monsters, but as producing them. Notable examples include Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Frankenstein. This change corresponded with a decline in the popularity of science among the general public.[citation needed]

Some traces of this classic relation to monsters can be found in the popularity of tabloid newspapers such as the Weekly World News.

Monsters in philosophy
Contemporary philosophers such as Lorraine Daston have written at length about the relationship between how society depicts monsters and the role of science in that society. Monsters also occur in a variety of philosophical works (Aristotle, Augustine, Montaigne, Locke, Leibniz, Diderot ...); see Monsters and Philosophy, ed. by Charles Wolfe (London, 2005; and http://www.monstersandphilosophy.com).

Monsters in cinema

Pre-World War II
During the age of silent movies, representations of monsters were the size of a person played by an actor in a costume: Frankenstein's monster, the Golem, and vampires are the most well-known ones. The film Siegfried featured a dragon that was a giant puppet on tracks. A few dinosaurs were presented by stop-motion animated models, something that was carried over into RKO's King Kong, the first giant monster of the sound era.

During the sound era, the film studio Universal specialized in monsters, offering Bela Lugosi's portrayal onscreen of his role in the stage play, Dracula, and Boris Karloff as Frankenstein's monster. They also made many lesser films, such as Lon Chaney, Jr.'s portrayal of an electrified zombie in Man-Made Monster.

Werewolves were introduced into the movies during this era, and a similar type of person afflicted with traits said to come from an animal was presented in Cat People. Mummies also became a fearsome type of monster, and a variant of Dr. Frankenstein was played by Peter Lorre. His mad surgeon, Dr. Gogol, transplanted hands that embodied a malevolent temperament, which would then re-animate in Mad Love, which became another genre. As for giant monsters, the serial Flash Gordon had a man in a monster suit, who played a huge dragon by attacking a doll dressed like the title character. The "monster" cycle eventually played itself out becoming comedic in Abbott & Costello meet Frankenstein of 1948.

Post World War II
After World War II, however, giant monsters returned to the screen in a pattern that has been causally linked to the invention of nuclear weapons. The first was American: The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms was a dinosaur that attacked a seaport. But later there were Japanese, (Godzilla, Gamera), British (Gorgo), and even Scandinavian (Reptillicus) giant monsters attacking cities. The tantalizing proximity of other planets brought the notion of alien monsters from outer space to the screen; some were huge, (such as King Ghidorah and Gigan), but cheaper movies had those of a more human scale. In this age as well, the monster type of the fish-man was developed in the series Creature from the Black Lagoon.

The British studio of Hammer brought color to the human-sized monster in the late 1950s. At this time, the earlier Universal films were shown on US television by independent stations (rather than being scheduled by a network) by mocking announcers, and these together gained a large number of young fans. Since that era, although the type of monster has changed, it has not disappeared as it did in the late 1940s.

Occasionally, monsters are depicted as friendly or misunderstood creatures. The monsters of Monsters Inc. scare to create the energy to run their secret world, and the furry monsters of The Muppets and Sesame Street live as complete equals to their fellow humans and animals.

Miscellaneous
They are also a mainstay of role-playing and video games in general. "Monster" often, but not always, implies that these creatures are larger than or equal to human size. It also almost always implies that the creatures are powerful and hostile to the hero (and consequently evil), and must be defeated to progress. The monster par excellence is the dragon.

In heavy metal and gothic rock, frequent references are made to monsters. The Finnish band Lordi, who rose to international fame in 2006 after winning the Eurovision Song Festival Contest, dress like monsters and wear hideous masks.

Well-known monsters
Bigfoot
Bogeyman
Cerberus
Chimera
Chupacabra
Cthulhu
Dracula
Dragon
Frankenstein's monster.
Gamera
Ghidorah
giants
Goblins
Godzilla
Golem
Gorgon
Grendel
Hyde
Lernaean Hydra
Jabberwock
Jersey Devil
King Kong
Kitsune - Japanese werefox
Kraken
Loch Ness monster
Medusa
Mothman
Mothra
Naga (mythology)
Nuckelavee
Reptilian humanoid
Roc
Rodan
Scylla & Charybdis
Sphinx
Spring Heeled Jack
Tarasque
Vampire
Werewolf
Yeti
Yomi

Monster Mash Song Words
words and music by Bobby Pickett and Lenny Capizzi

I was working in the lab late one night
When my eyes beheld an eerie sight
For my monster from his slab began to rise
And suddenly to my surprise

He did the mash
He did the monster mash
The monster mash
It was a graveyard smash
He did the mash
It caught on in a flash
He did the mash
He did the monster mash

From my laboratory in the castle east
To the master bedroom where the vampires feast
The ghouls all came from their humble abodes
To get a jolt from my electrodes

They did the mash
They did the monster mash
The monster mash
It was a graveyard smash
They did the mash
It caught on in a flash
They did the mash
They did the monster mash

The zombies were having fun
The party had just begun
The guests included Wolf Man
Dracula and his son

The scene was rockin', all were digging the sounds
Igor on chains, backed by his baying hounds
The coffin-bangers were about to arrive
With their vocal group, "The Crypt-Kicker Five"

They played the mash
They played the monster mash
The monster mash
It was a graveyard smash
They played the mash
It caught on in a flash
They played the mash
They played the monster mash

Out from his coffin, Drac's voice did ring
Seems he was troubled by just one thing
He opened the lid and shook his fist
And said, "Whatever happened to my Transylvania twist?"

It's now the mash
It's now the monster mash
The monster mash
And it's a graveyard smash
It's now the mash
It's caught on in a flash
It's now the mash
It's now the monster mash

Now everything's cool, Drac's a part of the band
And my monster mash is the hit of the land
For you, the living, this mash was meant too
When you get to my door, tell them Boris sent you

Then you can mash
Then you can monster mash
The monster mash
And do my graveyard smash
Then you can mash
You'll catch on in a flash
Then you can mash
Then you can monster mash

KEY C

verse/chorus:

Background: Why Monster Mash? Why not? It all started while getting ready for the Halloween celebration at the Texas Renaissance Festival four or five years ago. Andrew wanted to perform this song for Halloween. Marc didn't want to argue. Once they adapted it and made it their own, with dancing goblins and the whole she-bang, it became one of their favorite Halloween songs.

Buffy The Vampire Slayer - Collector's Set (40 discs) (1997)

Plot Outline
After the traumatizing ordeal in the movie with the same name, Buffy Summers and her mother move to Sunnydale, only to discover that L.A. was just a walk in the park...
Plot Synopsis: Buffy is sixteen years old and is the "chosen one" . She gets to kill vampires because it is her destiny to do so. She had a bad reputation at her old school in Los Angeles because she had burned the gym down. The principal at her new school at first rips up her records, and then tapes her records back together again. Buffy tries to explain that the gym at her old school had to be burned down because it was full of vampires! Buffy and her mom just want a fresh start in their new, suburban California home, where the good part of town is half a block away from the bad part of town. In her new high school, Buffy meets an eccentric librarian who knows that Buffy is the "chosen one". At first, the librarian scares her away by showing her a book about vampires, but then she returns to the library, knowing that the librarian can help her out with fighting off vampires and other supernatural things.

Amazon.com
From its charming and angst-ridden first season to the darker, apocalyptic final one, Buffy the Vampire Slayer succeeds on many levels, and in a fresher and more authentic way than the shows that came before or after it. How lucky, then, that with the release of its boxed set of seasons 1-7, you can have the estimable pleasure of watching a near-decade of Buffy in any order you choose. (And we have some ideas about how that should be done.)
First: rest assured that there's no shame in coming to Buffy late, even if you initially turned your nose up at the winsome Sarah Michelle Gellar kicking the shit out of vampires (in Buffy-lingo, vamps), demons, and other evil-doers. Perhaps you did so because, well, it looked sort of science-fiction-like with all that monster latex. Start with season 3 and see that Buffy offers something for everyone, and the sooner you succumb to it, the quicker you'll appreciate how textured and riveting a drama it is.

Why season 3? Because it offers you a winning cast of characters who have fallen from innocence: their hearts have been broken, their egos trampled in typically vicious high-school style, and as a result, they've begun to realize how fallible they are. As much as they try, there are always more monsters, or a bigger evil. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, the core crew remains something of a unit--there's the smart girl, Willow (Alyson Hannigan) who dreams of saving the day by downloading the plans to City Hall's sewer tunnels and mapping a route to safety. There are the ne'r do wells--the vampire Spike (James Marsters), who both clashes with and aspires to love Buffy; the tortured and torturing Angel (David Boreanz); the pretty, popular girl with an empty heart (Charisma Carpenter); and the teenage everyman, Xander (Nicholas Brendon).

Then there's Buffy herself, who in the course of seven seasons morphs from a sarcastic teenager in a minidress to a heroine whose tragic flaw is an abiding desire to be a "normal" girl. On a lesser note, with the boxed set you can watch the fashion transformation of Buffy from mall rat to Prada-wearing, kickboxing diva with enviable highlights. (There was the unfortunate bob of season 2, but it's a forgivable lapse.) At least the storyline merits the transformations: every time Buffy has to end a relationship she cuts her hair, shedding both the pain and her vulnerability.

In addition to the well-wrought teenage emotional landscape, Buffy deftly takes on more universal themes--power, politics, death, morality--as the series matures in seasons 4-6. And apart from a few missteps that haven't aged particularly well ("I Robot" in season 1 comes to mind), most episodes feel as harrowing and as richly drawn as they did at first viewing. That's about as much as you can ask for any form of entertainment: that it offer an escape from the viewer's workaday world and entry into one in which the heroine (ideally one with leather pants) overcomes demons far more troubling than one's own. --Megan Halverson

Review:
Welcome to the Hellmouth

What can really be said about "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" that hasn't already been said. In every form of production this series was a miracle: after leaving Buffy for death after the desasterous 1992 feature film, writter Joss Whedon took his original idea and tranformed it into television form. But it was only the upstart network: The WB that would give Joss and company a chance. It was from there in March of 1997 that Buffy was born. Eventhough the show was "officially" cancelled 6 times durring its run the show lasted seven years filming 144 episodes.

To sum up the story of Buffy is extremly difficult, especially when you don't have the amount of space a book offers to do so. In the simplest of forms Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a story about outsiders, true love, and family. Buffy is a typical blond southern californian girl: superficial, peppy, and niave. It isn't until that she finds out that she is actually the lastest in a long line of women chosen to fight vampires and the forces of darkness. That secrest forcess Buffy to grow up rather fast, especially when she and her mother relocate to Sunnydale, California. It was there that Buffy truly began her journey. But she was a unique slayer in fact that she had friends by her side that saved her life more times than anyone can count... overtime these friends became her family, and the core to the show.

The best was to write about the complete series is to do so in a season by seaosn basis. Season 1 (which lasted on 12 episodes) basically series as an introduction to the series. The characters are introduced, and fleshed out... it is amazing that it only takes the show 12 episodes to establish