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Big Worm's Sherwood Scare
Northridge
'We had the opportunity to checkout some “home haunts” during our rounds this Halloween season, and were absolutely blown away by what the folks at “Big Worm’s Sherwood Scare” were able to create around their front and back yards. The basic theme of this haunted house is that all 64 kids attending Camp Sherwood went missing in 1975. After this event, the camp was closed – but, of course, recently re-opened. As guests of the camp, you get the chance to check it out and get more than you bargained for. Approaching the home where Sherwood Scare is located, I was immediately impressed with the sheer length of the line to get into the attraction. This haunt has been highly-praised and we were so excited to get the chance to check it out. The attraction asks for a $3 dollar donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, so you can rest easy knowing that you are not only going to have fun but, also, give to a good cause. We were eventually ushered into the large cabin facade out front and sent towards what is usually the home’s back yard. While Big Worm’s Sherwood Scare has a number of talented monsters working its winding pathways, and the duration of the experience is quite good, taking us about six minutes or so to get through, what stuck with me most was how the event kept the story of the camp going throughout. The narrative of the world they constructed was clearly present throughout and the final meeting with the “man in the lake” was a direct callback to the introductory video we watched as well as the two girls in the tent talking about it.'-- gamingshogun.com
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Urban Death
North Hollywood
'Located in a nondescript strip of businesses in the North Hollywood Art's District, Zombie Joe's Underground is known for their intense stage shows, specifically their long-running horror show, "Urban Death." Last year Zombie Joe and his gang of misfits took Urban Death and turned it into a haunted house. Enter into the darkness, guided by nothing but a dim flashlight. Once inside of the theater, the doors close behind you and the show begins. Watch as a pile of blackened, grimacing corpses gasp and twitch back to life; recoil as an unseen critter claws and scurries past your feet; feel your jaw hit the floor, as a demented chorus of menstruating dancers squat over a bucket and, er, relieve themselves of their soiled tampons. Now in its fourth year, Urban Death mines every horror genre known to man or beast — and then some — and stages their gruesome chills and thrills in a weekly tour de force of shock, subversive wit and artful misdirection. Definitely not for everyone, but for those of you who want to see something insanely scary and entirely in its own category, this is the place to be.'-- laist.com
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Mystic Motel
Ladera Ranch
'Mystic Motel is a dark ride Halloween Haunt we designed in our garage at home in Ladera Ranch. Last year the response was off the charts, even adults enjoyed it! This year we want to make the experience longer by adding a walk-thru themed motel that leads to the basement (the ride portion). I'm a game designer by trade, so this helped with the theme of the ride. I love branding products, so I even went as far as to search and file a US Trademark too. Now the fictional story... Mystic Motel was a motel built in 1955 located in the sun bathed and cactus infested desert along route 66. A hot spot through the 1970's, the motel was eventually abandoned and forgotten until Jack Turner (fictional character) purchased it for its mysterious activities. Jack knew he could make a buck off folks daring enough to take a ride through it's mysterious basement. With parts of the motel actually caving through the basement ceiling, some of the motel's visitors have never left. Jack kept one of the original maintenance workers (Charlie) on staff to scare off any vandals. Only riders of Mystic Motel will figure out why Charlie has gone so crazy! My son Ashton and I have always wanted to build a ride. For years we talked about it. He always asked, well Dad why don't we build one in our garage? After a few years, I finally said yes and there you have... Mystic Motel. Last year we started building it in the summer and finished just in time for October. It was a great experience for all of us, especially for Ashton who wants to be an Imagineer someday.'-- MM
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The Basement: A Live Escape Experience
Sylmar
'The Basement is a completely immersive experience where you and your friends are locked in a room and forced to find your way out by any means necessary.A real and live "Escape Game" where you and up to eleven of your friends (12 people total per hour block) will show up, get a safety spiel, and be locked in a room. You then have 45 minutes to find your way out using the hidden clues and items within the space. Various startling events (intense lights, sounds, rabid dogs, etc.) will "distract" you throughout your journey and make the task of escaping slightly more difficult. This event contains loud sounds, strobe lights, dim lighting, and small enclosed spaces. If you are senstive to these, have any health issues that could be exacerbated by them, or are pregnant, you should not attend our event.'-- events la
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Old Town Haunt
Pasadena
'I went to the Old Town Haunt in Pasadena, just this last Sat. It is truly, by far, the best maze I've been to. I had a discount general admission flyer that was given to me, which saved me a few bucks getting in ( cost $12 w/flyer - $15 without ), I knew this Haunt was going to be great, just from waiting in line (which moves fairly quick ). They have a few Monsters lurking in the alley, where you wait to enter the Haunt. They made me laugh and at the same time, made me practically soil myself with fear. Quite entertaining. This Haunt, is not your typical Freddy's & Jason's & chainsaws. It's a claustrophobic, dark & creepy setting, which I may add, takes place in an underground basement. That vibe alone, makes it beyond scary. Not going to spoil what's inside, but there are very cool animatronics and props. There is one section, where you actually get down on your hands & knees, and crawl thru a 20 ft or so, pitch black tunnel. Freaky!!!! I highly recommend anybody who's been to the scary theme parks, to check this maze out. You will not be disappointed. Best bang for your buck.'-- California Haunts
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Maniac Mansion
Covina
'One of the largest and most complex home haunts in Southern California, Maniac Mansion features a carnival themed three-part yard display complete with the Malevolent Midway and the Scary-Go-Round, a working 15-foot tall haunted carousel designed and built right here. Also featuring the Creepy Carnival Cotillion, a unique display of animated dancing ghouls, and the Hungry Harlequin Haunted House, a walk-through maze that culminates in Vertigo Alley, a spinning tunnel of disorientation. 31 animated props so far, including several 3-axis skulls and animatronics, and more on the way!'-- Home Haunters Association
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Alone: An Existential Haunt
Downtown Los Angeles
'Alone: An Existential Haunt offers a 30-minute walk-through experience, which each visitor must accomplish on his own, with only a flashlight. The experience – which is described as one part interactive theatre and one part psychological haunting – sounds similar to the Blackout Haunted House: you to fill out a waiver and then follow the instructions given to you inside the haunt; refusal to comply will result in your removal, without a refund. This is a 21-and-over event. Survivors will receive a complimentary Dos Equis beer while the recooperate in the Shadow Lounge, listening to music by Dublab. $45 for general admission, $60 for front-of-the-line privileges. Tickets are sold in one-hour blocks of time. 18 and over only (bring photo i.d.). Wear comfortable shoes, and clothes you are not afraid to get dirty.'-- A:AEH
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Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights
Hollywood
'Like an evil genius devising more deviously clever ways to dispatch his victims, Horror Nights has upped its industry-leading game once again with a host of otherworldly and mythological puppet creatures that will take your breath away with their frightening realism. The downside of this new level of excellence is an unprecedented level of popularity. At one point during my visit on opening night, all but two of the haunted mazes boasted hour-plus wait times. Indeed, the trio of mazes on the studio backlot had a combined wait time of four hours that produced a sea of people as far as the eye could see. Adding insult to injury, Horror Nights made visitors hoof it from the lower lot to the backlot rather than transporting them by tram as in years past, giving new meaning to The Walking Dead. The challenge for Universal is capacity within the confines of a relatively small theme park that has grown increasingly cramped with the construction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Simpson’s village of Springfield. But even without the endless string of construction walls pinching in on the teeming masses, the increasing popularity of Horror Nights has made the crowding issue worse with each passing year. What Universal needs to do is add more haunted mazes without sacrificing quality - which is a difficult and expensive task with the brand name horror properties used for each maze. One solution would be to bring back some of the greatest hits from years past - Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th and Texas Chainsaw Massacre - to take some of the pressure off each year’s newest attractions. Another alternative would be to introduce a second tier of mazes based on lesser-known movies, television shows and video games. A third option would be to offer more generically themed mazes based on the Killer Z themes - like Toyz, Witchez, Freakz, Pigz, Lunaticz and Nightmarez - that Horror Nights has mostly relegated to scare zones. Whatever the solution, something needs to be done before Horror Nights creeps to a halt under the sheer weight of humanity.'-- Los Angeles Times
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Reign of Terror
Ventura
'The Reign of Terror Haunted House in Thousand Oaks, California. Just 15 minutes north of Los Angeles County in California. Ranked as one of the top haunted houses in the nation. Reign of Terror began as a home haunt and since grown to a professional 12,000 SqFt, 65 room attraction. Many critics say Reign of Terror rivals Universal Halloween Horror Nights in set detail and scare factor. Reign of Terror is a multi-faceted maze that incorporates a spooky Victorian mansion, The Asylum, Blood Manor, Miner’s Revenge, and Quarantine. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Reign of Terror promises “huge changes” for Halloween 2014, including “a new addition that will scare you to the core!”' -- collaged
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The Backwoods Maze
Burbank
'The Backwoods Maze Yard Haunt, arguably the greatest annual haunted house attraction, professional or amateur, in Los Angeles if not the entire USA, is back for Halloween 2014, featuring a post-apocalyptic theme guaranteed to melt your flesh to the bone. According to the amateur attraction’s Facebook page, you will: “Enter a post-apocalyptic wasteland and bid farewell to flesh as you find yourself launched into a futuristic society in which humans are rendered obsolete and mechas reign supreme. Artificial intelligence initially devised to enhance the human life is now the core of a worldwide revolution governed by an empire of hostile simulators. Survivors rampage through the wreckage in search of the globe’s remaining gasoline, piloting heavily armed deathmobiles in this anarchic free-for-all inhabited by lethal automatons and savage raiders thriving on the termination of law and order.”'-- HG
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The Empty Grave
Laguna Hills
'The Empty Grave Haunted attraction is an annual Southern California staple that we have been following for years. Designer Mike Talorico’s creations have become known for their inventive layout and homespun charm while still maintaining a high standard of professionalism and production value. However, when Empty Grave announced that they were not returning to Anaheim Gardenwalk for the 2014 Halloween season, fans were worried that the popular haunted house might not find a home in time to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. The new Empty Grave location is an old Sears Appliance and Garden Center at the Laguna Hills Mall. Mike walked me through what would soon be a maze of plywood sets and meandering passageways, explaining the storyline as it would unfold. ”Back in the day, this was a thriving factory for textiles and garments.” Mike espoused. ”But one crazed man had the high hopes of one day becoming the owner of this factory. The problem is that he was, well, insane. Soon he took over the plant and began making garments and designs from his victims. We now wander through his fiendish factory of death to learn the diabolical secrets behind his madness” Mike didn’t want to say too much more than that. Suffice it to say the new location is practically designed for this idea. Low-ceiling office spaces and cavernous storage areas, create a maze of eerie, industrial madness.'-- micechat.com
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Forest of Mirrors
Woodland Hills
'The Forest of Mirrors takes place in a house once owned by Buster Keaton. The event uses mirrors to create the illusion of a virtually endless labyrinth. It features over 50 giant mirrors hidden with foliage and angled so you can't see your reflection. Emphasizing atmosphere over shock and surprise. Now imagine if you will,... walking through a graveyard that never ends... Littered with skulls and ancient tombstones... Surrounded by ominous sounds... Inhabited by strange beings... And no matter how long you walk, or how much you pray, the end never comes... Not now, not ever.'-- collaged
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Beware the Dark Realm
Santa Clarita
'This amateur attraction from the original managers of the Heritage Haunt returns for its second year of Halloween horror. Beware the Dark Realm is a home haunt featuring a Medieval theme, with a two-story castle facade leading to a 10-15 minute maze of winding corridors, filled with creatures around every corner. Dates for Halloween 2014 are October 24, 25, 31, and November 1, 7-11pm. Beware the Dark Realm is free, but the proprietors asks guests to donate a canned food item for the local Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry.'-- Hollywood Gothique
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Delusion: Lies Within
Los Angeles
'Reviewing Delusion presents a challenge that needs to be addressed up front, and we do not wish to keep you in suspense while we dance with the darkness and delirium lurking inside the corridors of this year’s version, Delusion Lies Within. As we see it, there are two issues confronting us: Delusion is so sui generis that it almost has to be compared to itself and nothing else. There are dozens of Halloween events in Los Angeles, and many of them are great, but most of them leave one thinking, “I’ve seen that before – or at least something like it.” Delusion, on the other hand, offers sights, sounds, and experiences that one will encounter nowhere else, making it a must-see event every October. Having set the bar so high, Delusion makes it harder and harder for each new installment to surpass its predecessors, but even the “worst” Delusion ever (like the “worst” Beethoven symphony) is going to be better than ninety per cent of the competition. The best parts of Delusion Lies Within are such startling surprises that it would be a crime to spoil them for you; consequently, you will have to take our word for their existence. Omitting these details may make the play sound less exciting than it is, but trust us: when you encounter these frights for yourself, you will thank us for our discretion.'-- Hollywood Gothique
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The Curse of the Devil Swamp
Covina
'The Curse of the Devil Swamp is a home haunt located in Covina, CA. This was by far the most pleasant surprise of the entire weekend. Created by Lucas Acosta, a college student and vet of Knott’s Scary Farm, this home haunt has an attention to detail and a dedication that is unrivaled. The fresh, interesting designs of the environment and the monsters that live within are unlike anything I have seen. It makes great use of both audio and performance as well, giving this preview a very polished and completed feel. The Curse of the Devil Swamp is open Halloween night and is free, although donations are encouraged.'-- fangirlnation
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Knotts Scary Farm
Buena Park
'This year's mazes include Voodoo: Unique in its realism, Brooke Walters' stunning new maze is also unusual in that guests may choose between two directions at select junctures. Though the line was long, it moved quickly. Suggestive of a New Orleans French Quarter mansion decorated for Mardi Gras, the gorgeous exterior and its accompanying soft zydeco music belie the eeriness within. Visitors to the Skeleton Key room enter the underworld after a surprising experience involving burial alive. In the exquisitely evocative maze interior, guests pass spectral goblins, witness sinister rituals inside swamp shacks, and traverse bridges over skeletons and alligators lurking in foggy areas. I've been to Louisiana bayous; and aside from its creepiness, "Voodoo" simulates the open, ethereal atmosphere of an actual swamp as successfully as could be expected from any theme park or movie set. The Tooth Fairy: Daniel Miller's new maze is terrific in every sense of the word. With hook-like giant dental picks and a porthole-like window, when I first saw its exterior before opening night, it reminded me of a pirate ship--appropriate to the children's fantasy theme. Through the maze, Miller successfully extracts the creepiness of the tooth fairy legend and amalgamates it with the common fear of going to the dentist. Its most compelling overall aspect is its invocation of an unusually wide range of horror, from bizarre eeriness to sheer gore. The soundtrack throughout is unnerving enough to make one's teeth hurt. Innovative use of special effects, quirky attention to detail, and escalation of tension make this maze one of Knott's most original. Black Magic: Even if there's no line, the video projection on the façade is worth watching as it allegorizes the maze's back-story. Guests in the Skeleton Key room participate in a shocking séance. This year's additions to the maze include the "Hall of Illusions," a new wing containing surprising new tricks including a striking cameo appearance by a ghost of "Mirror, Mirror." Channeling 1920's elegance, the cultivated singularity of each character in this maze combines with convincing illusions to create a totally bizarre experience. One of the most intriguing characters is a mysterious illusionist with a card in his face who performs tricks at a scarlet table. Perfect for his part, the actor is a real magician who beckoned me over and lured me into a game of Three-card Monte. No matter how slowly he moved the cards around, I lost every hand. After he showed me that my original card had disappeared and changed into another, I didn't feel so bad. Forevermore: Like "Voodoo," this maze evinces Brooke Walters' expertise at creating immersing environments. Each room is like a modern version of a scene out of a different story by Edgar Allan Poe. In spite of numerous bloody murder scenes, the overall tone of the maze is mysterious and disquieting in the vein of Poe's stories. The soundtrack in many of the rooms features a voice reading parts of the stories. Familiarity with them isn't necessary to enjoy the maze. "The Cask of Amontillado" room is cave-like and claustrophobic. "The Masque of the Red Death" features a hypnotic nightclub scene. "The Raven" is open-air; one feels as if a flock of birds is flying or has just flown overhead. "The Pit and the Pendulum" room is especially creepy: an axe swings menacingly over guests as they walk around a body floating in a pool. In one of the most disturbing scenes, a passageway between rooms is lined with trees hung with dead animals, accompanied by a sickening soundtrack of screaming cats. Trick or Treat: I went through at closing time when the queue was moved through the maze as quickly as possible with no interruptions, so I didn't get the full experience. There seemed to be few changes in last year's design, but the Tricksters' costumes are less whimsical than before. It's a wonderful maze, and it always seems to have the longest lines, perhaps because its theme is the most closely related to Halloween. Dominion of the Damned: I never thought vampires very interesting until I went through this maze, which beautifully captures their sinister glamour. The Skeleton Key room is grotesque but funny; it even comes with a snack. Inside an elegant mansion, vampire aesthetes leer and snarl at passersby; further on, horrible bloody ghouls jump out of graveyards and mausoleums. A pop-out animatronic scared me so much that I nearly fell over. This year's maze is grislier and overall more surprising than last year's, but I missed the King. The mannequin Queen lacks a commanding presence. Gunslinger's Grave: Gus Krueger's maze educes the dark side of the Old West, creating the feeling of stepping back in time to a sordid 1880's town full of detrimental cowboys. The western theme is so appropriate to Knott's that it's surprising that it was only introduced to Haunt last year. This Skeleton Key room is by far the most horrifying: you feel as if you're witnessing an actual murder. The acting throughout the maze is wonderful. The design has been tightened from last year's version, which had numerous long stretches with too few actors. The only problem is that the town hall shootout finale is anticlimactic, especially after having gone through the intense key room. The shootout is barely apprehensible, its only indications being soundtrack and a huge shying horse. It needs more bang for the buck; the addition of gun-toting actors or video projections could create a feeling of being caught in the crossfire. Pinocchio Unstrung: When I visited the Skeleton Key room, Pinocchio was played by an excellent actor who put on a disturbing comedy that seemed to be funnier for him than for his audience. This year's version of the maze is more gruesome than last year's. The finale would benefit from better lighting. It looked impressive at Scare School; but on opening night, the goriness of the scene was lost in the darkness. The Witch's Keep: This year's Halloween overlay on the Calico Mine Train is different mostly because of the ride's recent remodel. Some areas were creepier thanks to more evocative lighting and strategically placed fog; however, previous years' tactile sensations of spider webs were gone.'-- collaged
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Rotten Apple 907
Burbank
'This amateur home haunt, put on by “Rotten Apple Studios,” has been in operation since 1990. It’s free to trick-or-treaters, but they do accept donations to benefit charities. Rotten Apple productions renames the haunt each year according to its theme. This year the demented Wilsley Brothers, William and Ramsley, are back, but instead of haunting the Wilsley Manor as they did last Halloween, they will take you on a terrifying tour through the Wilsley Bros House of Fun. Rotten Apple 907 started off as child's birthday party and has grown to become an experience that people look forward to attending each year. Now it is designed and built by all the members of the Meyer family, as well as a terrific group of people who volunteer their time and building and acting skills.'-- collaged
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Blackout
Los Angeles
'The most memorable part was when I walked into a room where a naked man who looked not unlike Jeffrey Dahmer was simulating rape on an unconscious girl on a bed. In my head I'm thinking "Ok, here it is, this is the naked part of the maze, there's a guy's penis." But this is an 18 & up maze-- you've seen a penis before if you're in this maze. It ended up being not scary, I just stared at it for a moment and I was done. Then faux Jeffrey Dahmer barks for me to get on the bed next to the other girl. Now this is where I started to balk-- in real life, I would fight in this situation or in the words of Nancy Reagan "Just say NO." But I signed up for this mistreatment and paid good money to do it, so your dutiful reporter went along with the act and sat on the bed. The guy then continued to attempt to rape the girl next to me, but his penis was still flaccid (I never saw penetration) and he blamed me and screamed "I can't do this with you looking at me!" and told me to get out of the room. I obeyed, because that's what I was instructed to do for the purposes of the haunt. I believe in the next room there was another naked man (also flaccid, also not so endowed-- by this time I'd realized I'm not afraid of nudity), and he was pseudo-vomiting into a toilet. He told me a key I needed was in the toilet and made me fish around in the bowl to grab it-- I found the key somewhere in the muck of the fake rice vomit, and then he washed my hand in a urinal and pushed me into the next room. There was another part somewhere in there where I faced off with a skinny maniac with a staple gun who threatened to staple my wrist-- that part actually scared me slightly, but not in a fun way. Then I went in another room where a naked girl was chained up and I had to use a key to free her. Then we were both running for the exit when she was pulled back in and I was pushed out... having made it out alive. If you're thinking that none of this sounds fun, you're right. It wasn't really fun. The Blackout haunt is more a way of testing your personal boundaries than it is about horror or fun, which honestly I find a bit questionable. I mean to me the whole avant garde interactive shock theatre stunt smacks of overprivileged people needing to simulate torture and rape in order to feel alive. If you survived any of those things in real life, I doubt this sounds like a good time or worth spending $65 to go through again.' -- jill kill.com
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p.s. Hey. If I were you, and if you are in LA and so inclined, I would especially do The Backwoods Maze and Big Worm's Sherwood Scare. I did their versions last year, and they were easily among the best spooky houses I've ever been inside. After them, I might also especially recommend Reign of Terror, which I've never personally managed to get to but which is famously one of the best haunted houses in So. Cal., and Knotts Scary Farm, which is perhaps the greatest single manifestation of the idea of Halloween in the world, and Mystic Motel because, like many of the best spooky houses, it's made by some kids and their dad in their house, and because I think it may be the only spooky house ever that includes a homemade dark ride. So, there you go. ** gucciCODYprada, Dude, you're really going to be here! I'm around. I've got some work to do here and there and a concert on the night of the 20th, but mostly I'll be free and free-ish at the very least, and, obviously, we should hang out! You'll be at the Parc des expositions, yeah, that's pretty way out there, but we'll sort it. I can come there or you can come into Paris proper if you can and want. Like Misanthrope said, you should be able to get free WiFi pretty easily. Crazy, man, that sounds so amazing! Yeah, just hit me up by whatever means that works for you, and we'll figure out meeting up for sure! ** Thomas Moronic, Hi. Yeah, Dan's been working on making this film for many years, and it's pretty incredible: his dedication and hard work, 'cos it's not at all easy. I think I remember that Killian story too, now that you mention it. Maybe it's in 'Little Me'? ** Craig, Hi, Craig! Wow, it has been a really long time. It's so very, very nice to see you! Man, of course I remember you. How are you? What's been going on? Are you still working at the bookstore and mentoring? Anyway, if you feel like hanging out, that would be really sweet. Take care, buddy. ** David Ehrenstein, Hi, David. If small budget films can manage to get over here, it's not as bad. At least in France, there's more equalization. For instance, I've seen just as many big shiny posters in the metro for the new Araki as I have for the Ninja Turtles movie. In the States, yeah, it's grim. Zac's and my film has some kind of distribution deal, but I think only for a very limited release in NYC and LA. ** Damien Ark, Hi, Damien. More write ups would be amazing if you have the time and interest. Yeah, it's cool, about No-Man's involvement. ** Keaton, Hi. I just kind of have zero interest in 'Gone Girl' for whatever reason. Halloween store! Oh, just to have one in one's vicinity, sigh. I love cheapie make-up. I collected Halloween cheapie make-up kits for a year when I was a kid. Big up re: the upcoming Halloween post. The one yesterday was gorgeousness! ** Misanthrope, There should be a dark work award, although I'm sure as soon as 'dark' got organized by a committee, all kinds of merely gloomy shit would win. My only big lit. prize, probably forever, was the 'dark' work award in France, the Prix Sade. So there you go. Yeah, the prejudice against my work by people who've mostly only heard of me is pretty pervasive, and I realized long ago that nothing and no one will ever be able to do shit about that. Thanks for trying though, man. Love, me. ** Steevee, I liked the first few Weather Report albums too back in the day, and I admit I haven't listened to them in, like, thirty years or something. Yeah, as an addendum to what I said to David E., it's not so hard for gay themed films here, or not as hard. Patric Chiha's new film 'Boys Like Us', which was overly marketed as a gay film, played widely here and did pretty well. And the bigger gay/queer name filmmakers like La Bruce, Araki, Dolan, et. al. get a lot of attention and wide-ish distribution here. And, like I said, 'Pride' was kind of a small big hit here. ** Kier, Hi, K-meister! The Iceage just gets better and better. They rule ever moreso. 'Mina Harker' is a great novel! I'm pretty sure Dodie wrote the stuff that seems to be by me, although I guess I would have to check back. She does collage in language/writing by me here in there from my work and from our correspondence. I didn't take a proper handwriting analysis class, but I did study handwriting analysis on my own at one point, for fun and re: my fiction, and I got pretty good at it, and I did amaze friends of mine with what I could get out of their script, but I don't remember most of it now. Oh, nice: that vehicle thing you used for the potatoes. I'll link Zac to it. He loves that kind of equipment. I love your day. It was and remains dreamy in my mind. My day: uh, hm, I worked on stuff. I made a couple of blog posts. Phone, email. Then we were supposed to get the film footage finally, but the compatibility issues are still not resolved, so it was extremely frustrating, and now we might just might finally get the footage into a form that we can start editing today if we're really lucky. The guy whom we, or, rather, I, gulp, hired to do the job turned out to be not so great and not diligent at all, and it's been a huge pain in the ass. But of course it was great to hang out with Zac even in a state of frustration. That took up most of the later part of the day, and then I just came home and ate and futzed around, Not an exciting day. Maybe today, who knows. How was yours? ** _Black_Acrylic, Hi, Ben. That link didn't work for me for some reason. I'm glad you did your thing and that they wisely loved it! ** Etc etc etc, Yep, for sure about the Iceage. Oh, only 4 to 5 months from now. That's not bad. I don't really know how Lazy Fascist works. My only interactions with Cameron Pierce have been very minimal and Facebook-based. Fingers crossed, and if I can help or something, let me know. Best of Paris vibes -- which are strangely clear, sunny, and, not so strangely, dream-like -- to you! ** Sypha, That's interesting about your pre-sleep editing in your head ritual. That's partly how I write my novels. When I'm into novel work, I do that re: my novel every night as I'm falling asleep, and some of the very best ideas about sentence editing and story movement and so on have occurred to me when I do that. Also, it seems to be an excellent way to de-stress and actually be able to fall asleep. Curious to hear the new Cut Hands, and, as you guessed, really, really not curious to hear the new Streisand. ** Rewritedept, Hi. Ouch, a prolapse, Jesus, ouch. Okay, I'll look into this Gove Vic Ruggiero fellow. When I say ska, I just mean ska, all of it, I guess. I guess if I had to choose, I would choose early Specials-era ska as my favorite manifestation of the genre. Not Madness, though. Really, really don't like Madness and never did. Ugh. That pic is very cool. I want one of those 'FotLTP' things, yes, save me one if you don't mind. I would think Richard would like it. I mean, not having seen it, obviously, He's an odd, unpredictable guy, but I think he would dig it, or that's my guess. Cool, later. ** Fin. So, if you're around LA, the post today is for you, and I guess it's also for those of you who, like me, aren't but wish you were. Blah blah. See you tomorrow.
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Big Worm's Sherwood Scare
Northridge
'We had the opportunity to checkout some “home haunts” during our rounds this Halloween season, and were absolutely blown away by what the folks at “Big Worm’s Sherwood Scare” were able to create around their front and back yards. The basic theme of this haunted house is that all 64 kids attending Camp Sherwood went missing in 1975. After this event, the camp was closed – but, of course, recently re-opened. As guests of the camp, you get the chance to check it out and get more than you bargained for. Approaching the home where Sherwood Scare is located, I was immediately impressed with the sheer length of the line to get into the attraction. This haunt has been highly-praised and we were so excited to get the chance to check it out. The attraction asks for a $3 dollar donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, so you can rest easy knowing that you are not only going to have fun but, also, give to a good cause. We were eventually ushered into the large cabin facade out front and sent towards what is usually the home’s back yard. While Big Worm’s Sherwood Scare has a number of talented monsters working its winding pathways, and the duration of the experience is quite good, taking us about six minutes or so to get through, what stuck with me most was how the event kept the story of the camp going throughout. The narrative of the world they constructed was clearly present throughout and the final meeting with the “man in the lake” was a direct callback to the introductory video we watched as well as the two girls in the tent talking about it.'-- gamingshogun.com
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Urban Death
North Hollywood
'Located in a nondescript strip of businesses in the North Hollywood Art's District, Zombie Joe's Underground is known for their intense stage shows, specifically their long-running horror show, "Urban Death." Last year Zombie Joe and his gang of misfits took Urban Death and turned it into a haunted house. Enter into the darkness, guided by nothing but a dim flashlight. Once inside of the theater, the doors close behind you and the show begins. Watch as a pile of blackened, grimacing corpses gasp and twitch back to life; recoil as an unseen critter claws and scurries past your feet; feel your jaw hit the floor, as a demented chorus of menstruating dancers squat over a bucket and, er, relieve themselves of their soiled tampons. Now in its fourth year, Urban Death mines every horror genre known to man or beast — and then some — and stages their gruesome chills and thrills in a weekly tour de force of shock, subversive wit and artful misdirection. Definitely not for everyone, but for those of you who want to see something insanely scary and entirely in its own category, this is the place to be.'-- laist.com
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Mystic Motel
Ladera Ranch
'Mystic Motel is a dark ride Halloween Haunt we designed in our garage at home in Ladera Ranch. Last year the response was off the charts, even adults enjoyed it! This year we want to make the experience longer by adding a walk-thru themed motel that leads to the basement (the ride portion). I'm a game designer by trade, so this helped with the theme of the ride. I love branding products, so I even went as far as to search and file a US Trademark too. Now the fictional story... Mystic Motel was a motel built in 1955 located in the sun bathed and cactus infested desert along route 66. A hot spot through the 1970's, the motel was eventually abandoned and forgotten until Jack Turner (fictional character) purchased it for its mysterious activities. Jack knew he could make a buck off folks daring enough to take a ride through it's mysterious basement. With parts of the motel actually caving through the basement ceiling, some of the motel's visitors have never left. Jack kept one of the original maintenance workers (Charlie) on staff to scare off any vandals. Only riders of Mystic Motel will figure out why Charlie has gone so crazy! My son Ashton and I have always wanted to build a ride. For years we talked about it. He always asked, well Dad why don't we build one in our garage? After a few years, I finally said yes and there you have... Mystic Motel. Last year we started building it in the summer and finished just in time for October. It was a great experience for all of us, especially for Ashton who wants to be an Imagineer someday.'-- MM
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The Basement: A Live Escape Experience
Sylmar
'The Basement is a completely immersive experience where you and your friends are locked in a room and forced to find your way out by any means necessary.A real and live "Escape Game" where you and up to eleven of your friends (12 people total per hour block) will show up, get a safety spiel, and be locked in a room. You then have 45 minutes to find your way out using the hidden clues and items within the space. Various startling events (intense lights, sounds, rabid dogs, etc.) will "distract" you throughout your journey and make the task of escaping slightly more difficult. This event contains loud sounds, strobe lights, dim lighting, and small enclosed spaces. If you are senstive to these, have any health issues that could be exacerbated by them, or are pregnant, you should not attend our event.'-- events la
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Old Town Haunt
Pasadena
'I went to the Old Town Haunt in Pasadena, just this last Sat. It is truly, by far, the best maze I've been to. I had a discount general admission flyer that was given to me, which saved me a few bucks getting in ( cost $12 w/flyer - $15 without ), I knew this Haunt was going to be great, just from waiting in line (which moves fairly quick ). They have a few Monsters lurking in the alley, where you wait to enter the Haunt. They made me laugh and at the same time, made me practically soil myself with fear. Quite entertaining. This Haunt, is not your typical Freddy's & Jason's & chainsaws. It's a claustrophobic, dark & creepy setting, which I may add, takes place in an underground basement. That vibe alone, makes it beyond scary. Not going to spoil what's inside, but there are very cool animatronics and props. There is one section, where you actually get down on your hands & knees, and crawl thru a 20 ft or so, pitch black tunnel. Freaky!!!! I highly recommend anybody who's been to the scary theme parks, to check this maze out. You will not be disappointed. Best bang for your buck.'-- California Haunts
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Maniac Mansion
Covina
'One of the largest and most complex home haunts in Southern California, Maniac Mansion features a carnival themed three-part yard display complete with the Malevolent Midway and the Scary-Go-Round, a working 15-foot tall haunted carousel designed and built right here. Also featuring the Creepy Carnival Cotillion, a unique display of animated dancing ghouls, and the Hungry Harlequin Haunted House, a walk-through maze that culminates in Vertigo Alley, a spinning tunnel of disorientation. 31 animated props so far, including several 3-axis skulls and animatronics, and more on the way!'-- Home Haunters Association
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Alone: An Existential Haunt
Downtown Los Angeles
'Alone: An Existential Haunt offers a 30-minute walk-through experience, which each visitor must accomplish on his own, with only a flashlight. The experience – which is described as one part interactive theatre and one part psychological haunting – sounds similar to the Blackout Haunted House: you to fill out a waiver and then follow the instructions given to you inside the haunt; refusal to comply will result in your removal, without a refund. This is a 21-and-over event. Survivors will receive a complimentary Dos Equis beer while the recooperate in the Shadow Lounge, listening to music by Dublab. $45 for general admission, $60 for front-of-the-line privileges. Tickets are sold in one-hour blocks of time. 18 and over only (bring photo i.d.). Wear comfortable shoes, and clothes you are not afraid to get dirty.'-- A:AEH
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Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights
Hollywood
'Like an evil genius devising more deviously clever ways to dispatch his victims, Horror Nights has upped its industry-leading game once again with a host of otherworldly and mythological puppet creatures that will take your breath away with their frightening realism. The downside of this new level of excellence is an unprecedented level of popularity. At one point during my visit on opening night, all but two of the haunted mazes boasted hour-plus wait times. Indeed, the trio of mazes on the studio backlot had a combined wait time of four hours that produced a sea of people as far as the eye could see. Adding insult to injury, Horror Nights made visitors hoof it from the lower lot to the backlot rather than transporting them by tram as in years past, giving new meaning to The Walking Dead. The challenge for Universal is capacity within the confines of a relatively small theme park that has grown increasingly cramped with the construction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Simpson’s village of Springfield. But even without the endless string of construction walls pinching in on the teeming masses, the increasing popularity of Horror Nights has made the crowding issue worse with each passing year. What Universal needs to do is add more haunted mazes without sacrificing quality - which is a difficult and expensive task with the brand name horror properties used for each maze. One solution would be to bring back some of the greatest hits from years past - Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th and Texas Chainsaw Massacre - to take some of the pressure off each year’s newest attractions. Another alternative would be to introduce a second tier of mazes based on lesser-known movies, television shows and video games. A third option would be to offer more generically themed mazes based on the Killer Z themes - like Toyz, Witchez, Freakz, Pigz, Lunaticz and Nightmarez - that Horror Nights has mostly relegated to scare zones. Whatever the solution, something needs to be done before Horror Nights creeps to a halt under the sheer weight of humanity.'-- Los Angeles Times
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Reign of Terror
Ventura
'The Reign of Terror Haunted House in Thousand Oaks, California. Just 15 minutes north of Los Angeles County in California. Ranked as one of the top haunted houses in the nation. Reign of Terror began as a home haunt and since grown to a professional 12,000 SqFt, 65 room attraction. Many critics say Reign of Terror rivals Universal Halloween Horror Nights in set detail and scare factor. Reign of Terror is a multi-faceted maze that incorporates a spooky Victorian mansion, The Asylum, Blood Manor, Miner’s Revenge, and Quarantine. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Reign of Terror promises “huge changes” for Halloween 2014, including “a new addition that will scare you to the core!”' -- collaged
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The Backwoods Maze
Burbank
'The Backwoods Maze Yard Haunt, arguably the greatest annual haunted house attraction, professional or amateur, in Los Angeles if not the entire USA, is back for Halloween 2014, featuring a post-apocalyptic theme guaranteed to melt your flesh to the bone. According to the amateur attraction’s Facebook page, you will: “Enter a post-apocalyptic wasteland and bid farewell to flesh as you find yourself launched into a futuristic society in which humans are rendered obsolete and mechas reign supreme. Artificial intelligence initially devised to enhance the human life is now the core of a worldwide revolution governed by an empire of hostile simulators. Survivors rampage through the wreckage in search of the globe’s remaining gasoline, piloting heavily armed deathmobiles in this anarchic free-for-all inhabited by lethal automatons and savage raiders thriving on the termination of law and order.”'-- HG
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The Empty Grave
Laguna Hills
'The Empty Grave Haunted attraction is an annual Southern California staple that we have been following for years. Designer Mike Talorico’s creations have become known for their inventive layout and homespun charm while still maintaining a high standard of professionalism and production value. However, when Empty Grave announced that they were not returning to Anaheim Gardenwalk for the 2014 Halloween season, fans were worried that the popular haunted house might not find a home in time to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. The new Empty Grave location is an old Sears Appliance and Garden Center at the Laguna Hills Mall. Mike walked me through what would soon be a maze of plywood sets and meandering passageways, explaining the storyline as it would unfold. ”Back in the day, this was a thriving factory for textiles and garments.” Mike espoused. ”But one crazed man had the high hopes of one day becoming the owner of this factory. The problem is that he was, well, insane. Soon he took over the plant and began making garments and designs from his victims. We now wander through his fiendish factory of death to learn the diabolical secrets behind his madness” Mike didn’t want to say too much more than that. Suffice it to say the new location is practically designed for this idea. Low-ceiling office spaces and cavernous storage areas, create a maze of eerie, industrial madness.'-- micechat.com
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Forest of Mirrors
Woodland Hills
'The Forest of Mirrors takes place in a house once owned by Buster Keaton. The event uses mirrors to create the illusion of a virtually endless labyrinth. It features over 50 giant mirrors hidden with foliage and angled so you can't see your reflection. Emphasizing atmosphere over shock and surprise. Now imagine if you will,... walking through a graveyard that never ends... Littered with skulls and ancient tombstones... Surrounded by ominous sounds... Inhabited by strange beings... And no matter how long you walk, or how much you pray, the end never comes... Not now, not ever.'-- collaged
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Beware the Dark Realm
Santa Clarita
'This amateur attraction from the original managers of the Heritage Haunt returns for its second year of Halloween horror. Beware the Dark Realm is a home haunt featuring a Medieval theme, with a two-story castle facade leading to a 10-15 minute maze of winding corridors, filled with creatures around every corner. Dates for Halloween 2014 are October 24, 25, 31, and November 1, 7-11pm. Beware the Dark Realm is free, but the proprietors asks guests to donate a canned food item for the local Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry.'-- Hollywood Gothique
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Delusion: Lies Within
Los Angeles
'Reviewing Delusion presents a challenge that needs to be addressed up front, and we do not wish to keep you in suspense while we dance with the darkness and delirium lurking inside the corridors of this year’s version, Delusion Lies Within. As we see it, there are two issues confronting us: Delusion is so sui generis that it almost has to be compared to itself and nothing else. There are dozens of Halloween events in Los Angeles, and many of them are great, but most of them leave one thinking, “I’ve seen that before – or at least something like it.” Delusion, on the other hand, offers sights, sounds, and experiences that one will encounter nowhere else, making it a must-see event every October. Having set the bar so high, Delusion makes it harder and harder for each new installment to surpass its predecessors, but even the “worst” Delusion ever (like the “worst” Beethoven symphony) is going to be better than ninety per cent of the competition. The best parts of Delusion Lies Within are such startling surprises that it would be a crime to spoil them for you; consequently, you will have to take our word for their existence. Omitting these details may make the play sound less exciting than it is, but trust us: when you encounter these frights for yourself, you will thank us for our discretion.'-- Hollywood Gothique
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The Curse of the Devil Swamp
Covina
'The Curse of the Devil Swamp is a home haunt located in Covina, CA. This was by far the most pleasant surprise of the entire weekend. Created by Lucas Acosta, a college student and vet of Knott’s Scary Farm, this home haunt has an attention to detail and a dedication that is unrivaled. The fresh, interesting designs of the environment and the monsters that live within are unlike anything I have seen. It makes great use of both audio and performance as well, giving this preview a very polished and completed feel. The Curse of the Devil Swamp is open Halloween night and is free, although donations are encouraged.'-- fangirlnation
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Knotts Scary Farm
Buena Park
'This year's mazes include Voodoo: Unique in its realism, Brooke Walters' stunning new maze is also unusual in that guests may choose between two directions at select junctures. Though the line was long, it moved quickly. Suggestive of a New Orleans French Quarter mansion decorated for Mardi Gras, the gorgeous exterior and its accompanying soft zydeco music belie the eeriness within. Visitors to the Skeleton Key room enter the underworld after a surprising experience involving burial alive. In the exquisitely evocative maze interior, guests pass spectral goblins, witness sinister rituals inside swamp shacks, and traverse bridges over skeletons and alligators lurking in foggy areas. I've been to Louisiana bayous; and aside from its creepiness, "Voodoo" simulates the open, ethereal atmosphere of an actual swamp as successfully as could be expected from any theme park or movie set. The Tooth Fairy: Daniel Miller's new maze is terrific in every sense of the word. With hook-like giant dental picks and a porthole-like window, when I first saw its exterior before opening night, it reminded me of a pirate ship--appropriate to the children's fantasy theme. Through the maze, Miller successfully extracts the creepiness of the tooth fairy legend and amalgamates it with the common fear of going to the dentist. Its most compelling overall aspect is its invocation of an unusually wide range of horror, from bizarre eeriness to sheer gore. The soundtrack throughout is unnerving enough to make one's teeth hurt. Innovative use of special effects, quirky attention to detail, and escalation of tension make this maze one of Knott's most original. Black Magic: Even if there's no line, the video projection on the façade is worth watching as it allegorizes the maze's back-story. Guests in the Skeleton Key room participate in a shocking séance. This year's additions to the maze include the "Hall of Illusions," a new wing containing surprising new tricks including a striking cameo appearance by a ghost of "Mirror, Mirror." Channeling 1920's elegance, the cultivated singularity of each character in this maze combines with convincing illusions to create a totally bizarre experience. One of the most intriguing characters is a mysterious illusionist with a card in his face who performs tricks at a scarlet table. Perfect for his part, the actor is a real magician who beckoned me over and lured me into a game of Three-card Monte. No matter how slowly he moved the cards around, I lost every hand. After he showed me that my original card had disappeared and changed into another, I didn't feel so bad. Forevermore: Like "Voodoo," this maze evinces Brooke Walters' expertise at creating immersing environments. Each room is like a modern version of a scene out of a different story by Edgar Allan Poe. In spite of numerous bloody murder scenes, the overall tone of the maze is mysterious and disquieting in the vein of Poe's stories. The soundtrack in many of the rooms features a voice reading parts of the stories. Familiarity with them isn't necessary to enjoy the maze. "The Cask of Amontillado" room is cave-like and claustrophobic. "The Masque of the Red Death" features a hypnotic nightclub scene. "The Raven" is open-air; one feels as if a flock of birds is flying or has just flown overhead. "The Pit and the Pendulum" room is especially creepy: an axe swings menacingly over guests as they walk around a body floating in a pool. In one of the most disturbing scenes, a passageway between rooms is lined with trees hung with dead animals, accompanied by a sickening soundtrack of screaming cats. Trick or Treat: I went through at closing time when the queue was moved through the maze as quickly as possible with no interruptions, so I didn't get the full experience. There seemed to be few changes in last year's design, but the Tricksters' costumes are less whimsical than before. It's a wonderful maze, and it always seems to have the longest lines, perhaps because its theme is the most closely related to Halloween. Dominion of the Damned: I never thought vampires very interesting until I went through this maze, which beautifully captures their sinister glamour. The Skeleton Key room is grotesque but funny; it even comes with a snack. Inside an elegant mansion, vampire aesthetes leer and snarl at passersby; further on, horrible bloody ghouls jump out of graveyards and mausoleums. A pop-out animatronic scared me so much that I nearly fell over. This year's maze is grislier and overall more surprising than last year's, but I missed the King. The mannequin Queen lacks a commanding presence. Gunslinger's Grave: Gus Krueger's maze educes the dark side of the Old West, creating the feeling of stepping back in time to a sordid 1880's town full of detrimental cowboys. The western theme is so appropriate to Knott's that it's surprising that it was only introduced to Haunt last year. This Skeleton Key room is by far the most horrifying: you feel as if you're witnessing an actual murder. The acting throughout the maze is wonderful. The design has been tightened from last year's version, which had numerous long stretches with too few actors. The only problem is that the town hall shootout finale is anticlimactic, especially after having gone through the intense key room. The shootout is barely apprehensible, its only indications being soundtrack and a huge shying horse. It needs more bang for the buck; the addition of gun-toting actors or video projections could create a feeling of being caught in the crossfire. Pinocchio Unstrung: When I visited the Skeleton Key room, Pinocchio was played by an excellent actor who put on a disturbing comedy that seemed to be funnier for him than for his audience. This year's version of the maze is more gruesome than last year's. The finale would benefit from better lighting. It looked impressive at Scare School; but on opening night, the goriness of the scene was lost in the darkness. The Witch's Keep: This year's Halloween overlay on the Calico Mine Train is different mostly because of the ride's recent remodel. Some areas were creepier thanks to more evocative lighting and strategically placed fog; however, previous years' tactile sensations of spider webs were gone.'-- collaged
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Rotten Apple 907
Burbank
'This amateur home haunt, put on by “Rotten Apple Studios,” has been in operation since 1990. It’s free to trick-or-treaters, but they do accept donations to benefit charities. Rotten Apple productions renames the haunt each year according to its theme. This year the demented Wilsley Brothers, William and Ramsley, are back, but instead of haunting the Wilsley Manor as they did last Halloween, they will take you on a terrifying tour through the Wilsley Bros House of Fun. Rotten Apple 907 started off as child's birthday party and has grown to become an experience that people look forward to attending each year. Now it is designed and built by all the members of the Meyer family, as well as a terrific group of people who volunteer their time and building and acting skills.'-- collaged
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Blackout
Los Angeles
'The most memorable part was when I walked into a room where a naked man who looked not unlike Jeffrey Dahmer was simulating rape on an unconscious girl on a bed. In my head I'm thinking "Ok, here it is, this is the naked part of the maze, there's a guy's penis." But this is an 18 & up maze-- you've seen a penis before if you're in this maze. It ended up being not scary, I just stared at it for a moment and I was done. Then faux Jeffrey Dahmer barks for me to get on the bed next to the other girl. Now this is where I started to balk-- in real life, I would fight in this situation or in the words of Nancy Reagan "Just say NO." But I signed up for this mistreatment and paid good money to do it, so your dutiful reporter went along with the act and sat on the bed. The guy then continued to attempt to rape the girl next to me, but his penis was still flaccid (I never saw penetration) and he blamed me and screamed "I can't do this with you looking at me!" and told me to get out of the room. I obeyed, because that's what I was instructed to do for the purposes of the haunt. I believe in the next room there was another naked man (also flaccid, also not so endowed-- by this time I'd realized I'm not afraid of nudity), and he was pseudo-vomiting into a toilet. He told me a key I needed was in the toilet and made me fish around in the bowl to grab it-- I found the key somewhere in the muck of the fake rice vomit, and then he washed my hand in a urinal and pushed me into the next room. There was another part somewhere in there where I faced off with a skinny maniac with a staple gun who threatened to staple my wrist-- that part actually scared me slightly, but not in a fun way. Then I went in another room where a naked girl was chained up and I had to use a key to free her. Then we were both running for the exit when she was pulled back in and I was pushed out... having made it out alive. If you're thinking that none of this sounds fun, you're right. It wasn't really fun. The Blackout haunt is more a way of testing your personal boundaries than it is about horror or fun, which honestly I find a bit questionable. I mean to me the whole avant garde interactive shock theatre stunt smacks of overprivileged people needing to simulate torture and rape in order to feel alive. If you survived any of those things in real life, I doubt this sounds like a good time or worth spending $65 to go through again.' -- jill kill.com
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p.s. Hey. If I were you, and if you are in LA and so inclined, I would especially do The Backwoods Maze and Big Worm's Sherwood Scare. I did their versions last year, and they were easily among the best spooky houses I've ever been inside. After them, I might also especially recommend Reign of Terror, which I've never personally managed to get to but which is famously one of the best haunted houses in So. Cal., and Knotts Scary Farm, which is perhaps the greatest single manifestation of the idea of Halloween in the world, and Mystic Motel because, like many of the best spooky houses, it's made by some kids and their dad in their house, and because I think it may be the only spooky house ever that includes a homemade dark ride. So, there you go. ** gucciCODYprada, Dude, you're really going to be here! I'm around. I've got some work to do here and there and a concert on the night of the 20th, but mostly I'll be free and free-ish at the very least, and, obviously, we should hang out! You'll be at the Parc des expositions, yeah, that's pretty way out there, but we'll sort it. I can come there or you can come into Paris proper if you can and want. Like Misanthrope said, you should be able to get free WiFi pretty easily. Crazy, man, that sounds so amazing! Yeah, just hit me up by whatever means that works for you, and we'll figure out meeting up for sure! ** Thomas Moronic, Hi. Yeah, Dan's been working on making this film for many years, and it's pretty incredible: his dedication and hard work, 'cos it's not at all easy. I think I remember that Killian story too, now that you mention it. Maybe it's in 'Little Me'? ** Craig, Hi, Craig! Wow, it has been a really long time. It's so very, very nice to see you! Man, of course I remember you. How are you? What's been going on? Are you still working at the bookstore and mentoring? Anyway, if you feel like hanging out, that would be really sweet. Take care, buddy. ** David Ehrenstein, Hi, David. If small budget films can manage to get over here, it's not as bad. At least in France, there's more equalization. For instance, I've seen just as many big shiny posters in the metro for the new Araki as I have for the Ninja Turtles movie. In the States, yeah, it's grim. Zac's and my film has some kind of distribution deal, but I think only for a very limited release in NYC and LA. ** Damien Ark, Hi, Damien. More write ups would be amazing if you have the time and interest. Yeah, it's cool, about No-Man's involvement. ** Keaton, Hi. I just kind of have zero interest in 'Gone Girl' for whatever reason. Halloween store! Oh, just to have one in one's vicinity, sigh. I love cheapie make-up. I collected Halloween cheapie make-up kits for a year when I was a kid. Big up re: the upcoming Halloween post. The one yesterday was gorgeousness! ** Misanthrope, There should be a dark work award, although I'm sure as soon as 'dark' got organized by a committee, all kinds of merely gloomy shit would win. My only big lit. prize, probably forever, was the 'dark' work award in France, the Prix Sade. So there you go. Yeah, the prejudice against my work by people who've mostly only heard of me is pretty pervasive, and I realized long ago that nothing and no one will ever be able to do shit about that. Thanks for trying though, man. Love, me. ** Steevee, I liked the first few Weather Report albums too back in the day, and I admit I haven't listened to them in, like, thirty years or something. Yeah, as an addendum to what I said to David E., it's not so hard for gay themed films here, or not as hard. Patric Chiha's new film 'Boys Like Us', which was overly marketed as a gay film, played widely here and did pretty well. And the bigger gay/queer name filmmakers like La Bruce, Araki, Dolan, et. al. get a lot of attention and wide-ish distribution here. And, like I said, 'Pride' was kind of a small big hit here. ** Kier, Hi, K-meister! The Iceage just gets better and better. They rule ever moreso. 'Mina Harker' is a great novel! I'm pretty sure Dodie wrote the stuff that seems to be by me, although I guess I would have to check back. She does collage in language/writing by me here in there from my work and from our correspondence. I didn't take a proper handwriting analysis class, but I did study handwriting analysis on my own at one point, for fun and re: my fiction, and I got pretty good at it, and I did amaze friends of mine with what I could get out of their script, but I don't remember most of it now. Oh, nice: that vehicle thing you used for the potatoes. I'll link Zac to it. He loves that kind of equipment. I love your day. It was and remains dreamy in my mind. My day: uh, hm, I worked on stuff. I made a couple of blog posts. Phone, email. Then we were supposed to get the film footage finally, but the compatibility issues are still not resolved, so it was extremely frustrating, and now we might just might finally get the footage into a form that we can start editing today if we're really lucky. The guy whom we, or, rather, I, gulp, hired to do the job turned out to be not so great and not diligent at all, and it's been a huge pain in the ass. But of course it was great to hang out with Zac even in a state of frustration. That took up most of the later part of the day, and then I just came home and ate and futzed around, Not an exciting day. Maybe today, who knows. How was yours? ** _Black_Acrylic, Hi, Ben. That link didn't work for me for some reason. I'm glad you did your thing and that they wisely loved it! ** Etc etc etc, Yep, for sure about the Iceage. Oh, only 4 to 5 months from now. That's not bad. I don't really know how Lazy Fascist works. My only interactions with Cameron Pierce have been very minimal and Facebook-based. Fingers crossed, and if I can help or something, let me know. Best of Paris vibes -- which are strangely clear, sunny, and, not so strangely, dream-like -- to you! ** Sypha, That's interesting about your pre-sleep editing in your head ritual. That's partly how I write my novels. When I'm into novel work, I do that re: my novel every night as I'm falling asleep, and some of the very best ideas about sentence editing and story movement and so on have occurred to me when I do that. Also, it seems to be an excellent way to de-stress and actually be able to fall asleep. Curious to hear the new Cut Hands, and, as you guessed, really, really not curious to hear the new Streisand. ** Rewritedept, Hi. Ouch, a prolapse, Jesus, ouch. Okay, I'll look into this Gove Vic Ruggiero fellow. When I say ska, I just mean ska, all of it, I guess. I guess if I had to choose, I would choose early Specials-era ska as my favorite manifestation of the genre. Not Madness, though. Really, really don't like Madness and never did. Ugh. That pic is very cool. I want one of those 'FotLTP' things, yes, save me one if you don't mind. I would think Richard would like it. I mean, not having seen it, obviously, He's an odd, unpredictable guy, but I think he would dig it, or that's my guess. Cool, later. ** Fin. So, if you're around LA, the post today is for you, and I guess it's also for those of you who, like me, aren't but wish you were. Blah blah. See you tomorrow.