I found this woman during a recent monster walk in a local town, she had her vendor table set up.  She had a unique style of art I hadn't noticed yet, running late, I handed her my card and asked about interview, she was overjoyed.  Someone noticed me and my skills and really is interested in writing an interview with me, must have flowed through her brain.  Sarah Mcgee is such an artist, I speak of, she is on all forms of social media (details at end), selling all different types of horror in multiple sizes and always willing to accept commission work (which I have done).  In the following days I have gotten things done and straightened out so here are her 10 questions: 

     S:  1:  When did it occur to you that you had such talent?

     Sarah McGee (SM)  1:   I've messed with art since I was in middle school. But really got obsessed my junior year of high school. Always had a Stephen King novel and a sketchbook in my purse. It started as my way of blocking out the bullies. 

     S:  That's an excellent way to detract yourself from bullying.  People (kids) need to find other passages to express themselves than killing themselves or bullies, try art, writing, or reading many fine things to start with if your not athletically gifted.

     S:  2:  How do you decide who or what to draw (non-commission)?

     SM:  2:  Sometimes the themes of upcoming events help me decide. Or if there's an anniversary of a cool movie, show, etc. coming up. Other times I pick from whatever I've been jonesing to draw. My ever growing list had about 30 items or themes last time I checked.

     S:  What an excellent answer, I love jonesing a lot never sure but once you start getting it all done is a personal problem of mine, that's why I have many stories on paper but only one finished haha.

     S:  3:  Have you ever tried other forms of art, like painting, etc......?

      SM:  3:  Yes, but nothing else really stuck. Painting was too messy. Pastels got everywhere. This medium just suited me. And the style fit my weird brain.

     S:  Well personally then we all have a weird brain lol.  You at least tried other mediums to find your fit which is unique.

     S:  4.  What is your favorite horror movie ever?

     SM:  4:  I know it's schticky, but Army of Darkness. All of the Evil Dead movies are pretty rad, actually. I'm a big time Bruce Campbell fan girl!

     S:  That's awesome I too love Bruce Campbell fan.  All those movies are classics, you couldn't go wrong with any of them.  Bruce is great because he never takes himself too seriously.

     S:  5:  What design is your favorite classic monsters, holiday themes, or music stars?

     SM:  5:  Horror, but comic theme is a close second actually. My drawing of Ash from Evil Dead was my first and favorite of the modern horror genre. I do like to break things up with a pet portrait now and then though!

     S:  Classic horror chic, great, collected comics when I was young and now enjoy watching comic movies, and some of the TV shows, and who doesn't love pets.  Everybody has a animal they want or have to call family.

     S:  6:  Did you have any formal schooling to hone your talent?

     SM:  6:  I went to Kent State for a year, pressured to do graphic design. Couldn't get into it.  Computer art wasn't and still really isn't my thing. Went to LCCC for a bit as well. But most of this was self taught.

     S:  Sure college didn't work, cause they want this or that, you have to unbridle my passion don't hold me back.  Let people go do what they want, feeling comfortable is better than unsure of what your doing.

     S:  7:  How did you learn about dotting as an art form?

     SM:  7:  In high school. My favorite art teacher showed us how Christmas card design for the year and it was in that style. Loved it. And the card idea, which I also did for a while. That got me more familiar with certain supplies and methods that have evolved into what I do now. Minus the "normal" holiday cards. For the most part lol.

     S:  You had a great art teacher, which I had too, but I still never seen or heard of "dotting" but I was definitely intrigued by it.  Who wouldn't want a non-conventional holiday card, that would be great.

     S:  8:  Tell us something most folks don't know about you?

     SM:  8:  I collect cookie cutters. This started when I ran a pet bakery as a side biz a while back. We have more critters than kids in my family, so it just made sense to me to make goodies for the fur kids. 

     S:  Now that's a new one on me, people collect the strangest things, but cookie cutters?  Although I collect some weird stuff too, nothing really that "normal" lol.

     S:  9:  How long does it take, on average, for one piece depending on the different sizes?

     SM:  9:  The average time it takes for me to complete an 8x10 is 8 hrs, from sketch to final color. I have had a few 9x12s take me well over 11 hrs before. I just started my first 18x24...that time frame should be interesting!

     S:  That's surprising to me, I figured it would take longer.  But then again 8 hours is a solid days work and considering you get 1 picture done, that sounds right, I guess.

     S: 10:  Of all the pieces you've done, commission or not, which is your favorite from start to finished product?

     SM:  10:  The skull and cherry blossom piece is my fave. It was my first attempt at a skull. It was done about 3 yrs ago, and still gets a good response from folks. Which is why I do this. The smiles, tears, cringes....all worth it. If they don't respond to the art, what's the point?

     S:  That is very true art is meant to inspire some sort of feeling or reaction.  Your favorite piece actually surprises me, I figured it would be a horror film shot of some sort, maybe that's the "girly" side of you coming out lol.

    Hope you all enjoyed that interview, it was a pleasure of mine to do, for sure.  I wish to thank Sarah for her time and patience with me, I hope it all goes well.  Please send her some business, she does excellent work in a unique style. Info for her will be posted underneath.  I am not biased in any way I paid for my artwork (no freebies) she has skills. 

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     I would consider this man a great voice in the horror genre, even though he makes no-budget to micro-budget films.  He gives his all without expecting a profit, he does it for the love of it.  I speak of Chad Nelson Knauer, indie filmmaker, and all around do whatever necessary, for his dreams of horror films to be done.  I enjoyed giving him his 10 questions and the answers are very insightful, so without further ado: 

     S:  1.  What made you decided to make no-budget horror films?

      Chad Nelson Knauer: 1: Filmaking has always been a passion and hobby of mine. When I was a kid I got a PXL 2000 (a B&W camera that recorded video on audio cassette tapes) as a Christmas present in the 80's. I've been hooked ever since!

     S:  Man what i wouldn't have given to have your parents, lol.

     S:  2.  How many films have you done no-budget?

     CNK:  2:  Dozens! The first projects I've publicly released were fan films. I've helped out on many other projects with local filmmakers. The next two works in progress are Murder Clown: 1985. Which filming has wrapped and is currently in post production. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BFwIn2OXNXA ;

And Skeleton Cop. That one is still being filmed. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7qUNx5_UBbI

     S:  Wow i must head off to see these and possibly work with you on a future project.

     S:  3.  What is, the greatest thing you've learned from your experience?

     CNK:  3:  Safety first. We are big fans of practical effects. Some of these effects come with a serious element of danger if proper safety procedures are not followed. Such as blank guns or fire stunts for example.

     S:  That is the greatest answer i have heard ever, everybody needs to be safe even Hollywood stunt people use and practice safety.  Look at how many actors/actresses have been killed or seriously injured on films.  Great answer!

     S:  4.  What is your all-time favorite horror film?

     CNK:  4:  John Carpenter's The Thing!

     S:  I can't believe of all the interviews I've conducted nobody has ever said that answer, such a classic piece of film work, that probably will never be duplicated.

      S:  5.  Who would you consider your directing "idol"?

      CNK:  5:  That's a tough one! For me, it's a three way tie between Mctierman, Verhoeven, and the Coens!

      S:  That is a nice list, but the Coens, really don't fit, but they have their own style that is for sure.  Just surprising that no horror directors made your list, but it is your opinion and I can't deny your choices they are good.

      S:  6.  Do you direct, act, and write all your films?

      CNK:  6:  No, everything has been a collaborative effort with the people in our group!

     S:  It's awesome to have quality people willing to go the extra mile for one vision.

     S:  7.  Have you ever considered a crowdfunding campaign to get some "real" actors and money?

     CNK:  7:  I think everyone has contemplated that at some point. In my opinion, it's an amazing time to be working in low/no budget films do to the advancements in consumer technology. The times of having to rely on a studio system and distribution companies to have your project created and seen is a relic from the past! The Internet has leveled the playing field for artists to get their work to the public.

     S:  Yes i agree, I was in a film group for a while,  even assisted one a couple of projects on Youtube now.  The group seemed to level off with more discussion than work getting done, that is why I left. But would love to get involved again in a group of action and planning not so much talk.     

  

     S:  8.  Tell us something most people don't know about you?

     CNK:  8:  I spend hours and hours listening to creative Commons music, hoping to find a diamond in the rough! Haha!

     S:  I  don't even know what that is so the jokes on me. Haha!

     S:  9.  How long does it take to film one movie, speaking of no-budget wise?

     CNK:  9:  For me, At least a year for a short film. Sometime longer. Like the saying goes, fast-good-cheap, best you can hope for is two of the three.

     

     S:  You should always aim for all three, but two out of three ain't bad, quality doesn't always come with money either.

     S:  10.  Which movie that is getting a sequel (hypothetically) would you want to direct?

     CNK:  10:  Shin Godzilla. I've always loved giant monster movies and would love a go at one!

     S:  I have never seen it but do love old school Godzilla films, so I will agree with it.

 

     These are a few images of his greatness, looks amazing for his budget restrictions.  I want to thank Chad Nelson Knauer for giving me this opportunity for another quality interview from another great voice in indie circuit.  Be sure to check out his Youtube videos (i need to myself).  SUPPORT INDIE HORROR

    This is a special interview with a photographer, actor, director, and film fest organizer I am talking to George James Fraser.  He has acted in movies, also directed movies, but right now has his Happenstance Film Fest coming soon.  He is doing his part for the indie horror scene from all he does and has done photography also with his company Stained Glass & Blood Baths.  He is soon to be a force to be reckoned with soon.  I'm glad from the bottom of my bleeding heart he accepted my invitation for this interview.  Here goes his 10:

      S:  1:  What lead you into the realm of horror?

      George James Fraser (GJF)  1:  I was just kind of born into horror i guess. Ever since i was a little punk toddler i remember being drawn to the darker stories that the universe had to offer. It has just always been there. I spent my days sharpening stakes and hunting invisible vampires in the creek near my home. I read and did a report on Shelley's Frankenstein in the second grade.

     2:  How long have you been running The Happenstance Film Fest?

     GJF:  This is my second year organizing the fest. This year is fixing to be 10 times what we had last year. With special guests, vendors, raffles, and some special surprises.

     S:  Surely sounds great, almost like a mini-convention.

      3:  What made you feel another horror film fest was needed?

     GJF:  The way the world is set up, especially here in the states, the artists go unseen. Capitalism and consumerism are the gods here and Hollywood is the holy word. The independent artists need to carve their own paths, climb their own towers, and stamp their own mark. Because they have something to say. I feel i needed to supply an arena to help to shine some light where mainstream media ignores.

      S:  That is truly one artist speaking from the heart. Awesome.

      4:  What is your all-time favorite horror film ever?

     GJF:  This is the most difficult question. I could probably tell you which of my 3 children is my favorite before i could answer that. In no particular order.

In the Mouth of Madness

Hellraiser 1&2

NOES

The Blob 1988

Shivers

     S:  That is the oddest list I have seen great movies but a few I haven't seen, but am now on the lookout.

     5:  Stained Glass and Blood Baths is an idea you came up with or was it a collaborate effort?

     GJF:  SG&BB as a production company is something I began unnamed for a while. I delved into the world of cinema not knowing where to begin. I knew what I wanted the result to be so from there it was basically just reverse engineering. The name Stained Glass and Blood Baths has been a motto of mine through most of my life. The balance of the beautiful and the grotesque. The light and the dark. The good and the evil.

     S:  Nice motto, and you done a great service to the horror community, with all the photos alone I have seen.  You definitely have the eye for what is awesome.

     6:  How long have you been acting?

     GJF:  The acting only began as a means for me to learn how things worked on a set. Mostly just studies that would lead to me running a set of my own. It only lasted a couole years and now i really only do it from time to time to help out friends with their projects.

     S:  At least you went about it the right way, learning from the inside out, at least that's the way I did it.  I do believe it is more helpful.

     7:  Do you feel you prefer directing over acting?

 

     GJF:  I 100% prefer working behind the camera than in front of it. Seeing my imagination being played out it real life. God complex I suppose.

     S:  I don't think so, you have a vision to see it fully through is pride I believe not a God complex.  Everyone who is doing what they love wants the best for themselves first, that may seem selfish to some but I can't agree more.

     8:  What is something most people don't know about you?

     GJF:  Most people assume that because I put myself front stage in the spotlight I must be an extrovert. In fact I am rather reserved and comfortable in solitude.

I hate mushrooms though, as a chef, it angers me to do so.

If Taylor Swift is playing, I am singing.

     S:  A chef too wow, and sorry I must laugh at the Taylor Swift thing, I understand the first one way too well.

     9:  How do pick one film over another for festival, is some sort of method to the madness?

     GJF:  I could never imagine running a festival that was open to all genres. There are just so many aspects to consider. Even with just horror the spectrum is infinite. I look for thibgs that stand out. Points for originality but also respect to a classic theme done right. If a piece makes me feel something, its a winner.

     S:  That is very judge like, honest and fair, I would appreciate that once I have a film "in the can".

     10:  Do you prefer the film or photography aspect of your company Stained Glass and Blood Baths?

     GJF:  It is hard to choose one over the other. Still photography is such a beautiful and timeless art. Capturing a story within one frame is just such a powerful thing to me. On the other hand, taking someone on a walk through my twisted imagination, making them feel something, or to provoke something within them is a special thing in itself.

     S: That is so well said.  I couldn't answer either way, I find both so intriguing.

\

     This looks like on helluva awesome film fest.  He as absolutely outdone himself.  This doesn't even say what films have been selected yet.  I must say George James Fraser has a loud voice to be heard in this genre.  Gots to love he does movies too, wow.  Can't wait to see what comes next from him.  All Beware, he is soon to be reckoned with.  I alone can't wait.  SUPPORT INDIE HORROR

     This interview is from a late bloomer, I would say.  But he definitely has the skills to get far quickly.  I am talking about Chad Armstrong and his company LC Films.  He has the skills to go far in a short amount of time.  And as far as his company goes, it is there to help all independent filmmakers, who want their visions seen.  But without further ado let's see what transpired between us, here is his 10 questions:

     S. 1.  Did you do have any college to prepare you for filmmaking?

     Chad Armstrong (CA):  1: I actually majored in Theater Arts, however I didn't take many filmmaking classes. I had the pleasure of meeting Robert Rodriguez when I was in my teens at a Fangoria Weekend Of Horrors convention in the late 1980's, his advice was to take the money I would spend on film classes and make films. I took that to heart and shot about 15 short films in the following ten years. Best advice I ever got.

     S:  I love Rodriguez work I wish I met him, that's awesome advice.

     S: 2.  Did you start making short films or jump head first into full length filmmaking?

     CA: 2. As per my last answer, I shot a ton of short films in my teens and throughout my twenties. It was back in the days when everything was shot on film, and editing was a bitch, by hand rolling the print through the monitor, splicing and gluing the film together. Much more tedious than making films today.

     S: That sounds awful, but we do a lot to see our films become reality, I did a short (award winning) with a friend and was willing to put a mouthful of maggots on me and my face but FX man stepped in to do it.

  S: 3.  With so little directing experience, what would you consider the best attribute you've learned?

             CA: 3. Well I would say I have little experience in directing feature films, but not directing in general. The best attribute I've learned is the new techniques available today. After my short films early on I took about 15 years off of making films, moved to Alabama. So when I got back into it, it was a whole new process, sure camera setups are the same, but lighting for digital, editing, and sound have a much more different process. I have learned a lot in the process of shooting my current film Deimosimine, I learn something new everyday and it's great to have technically knowledgeable people surrounding me to keep me grounded.

              S:  I really didn't know how many films you had done, my bad, but the process being so much easier is great for new filmmakers can get their visions to screen easier.

   S: 4.  What is your all-time favorite horror film?

              CA: 4. There are so many it's hard to really say. But Blood Beach and Scanners will always have a soft spot in my heart. Those were the first two horror films I saw when I was very young, for some reason my dad felt it would be a good idea to take my brother and I to a drive in double-feature of both. But the film that got me into makeup fx and horror movies in general was A Nightmare On Elm Street. I know it's cliche to say, because everyone does but I guess that just shows how amazing that film was, and that it spawned a whole army of aspiring little filmmaker's and horror addicts.

              S:  Nobody has said any of those three, so you have laid claim to it. lol. Couldn't agree more with Scanners or Nightmare never seen Blood Beach so I guess I need to check it out.

   S: 5.  You made the decision to start your own company, Legless Corpse Films, now LC Films, how or why did this come about?

              CA: 5. I actually made some of my early short films under the name LeglessCorpse Films (Leglesscorpse is from Return Of The Living Dead, the little zombie with no legs was credited in the in credits as LeglessCorpse and it stuck with me). So about three years ago I was diagnosed with Heart Failure and my heart was only pumping 15% of my blood and almost died. During that time I couldn't work for over a year so I started a horror news site so I wouldn't die of boredom. So that's really how LeglessCorpse was resurrected after all those years.

              

     S:  I'm glad you're okay, cause you've definitely got a voice in the horror genre that needs to be heard.

    S:  6.  Now you opened your own distribution company, as if your plate wasn't full enough, was this out of necessity or to help other indie filmmakers with deals to spread the horror?

              CA: 6. It was, I heard so many horror stories of filmmakers getting ripped off by distribution companies.  Companies that wouldn't take the chance of releasing indie horror films on BluRay and just on DVD, and that got me thinking to give it a try.  We are no where we want to be yet, but we are growing, it's a VERY tough business, and for a very small team with a lot it's even tougher. But we are doing our best to grow, keep fans happy and are always learning new things, new distribution outlets, which ones work, which ones don't for the indie guys.  So our business module changes as we continue to test the waters.

                S:  That should be awesome to hear to other indie filmmakers, that you're there if they can't find a good distribution deal.  I would give you mine, saying I finish a movie, trying very hard for camera to start something.


               S:  7.  What do most people not know about Chad?

     CA:  7.  Probably the heart failure thing. I try not to harp on it to much, but when you know you could at any time, drop dead , lol you tend to drive yourself harder and make sure you get as much accomplished as you possibly can. That was an inspiration to make our feature film Deimosimine, because it's something I've never done and said I always wanted to do, so I'm making sure I'm doing it. Funny thing is after Deimosimine wraps we are moving straight into Blood Dancers 2, which we acquired the rights to last year. So looks like I will be able to do at least two before the ride of life is over. Of course I'm hoping to do many more, but you just never know and can't take life for granted.

              S:  I must agree I have Nash's disease, and need a liver transplant, also very weak immune system another pancreatic attack could kill me.  I want to do a movie so bad, but have to save all vacation time from work for impending transplant, so I feel your pain.  Just glad to know dreams come true always gives me inspiration.

     S:  8.  Your newest film, Deimosimine, looks old school 80's horror, was that intentional?

                CA:  8. Of course, especially with the practical FX. There is a big boom right now for 80's style horror, with filtered film grain, picture noise, etc. We didn't want to go that route. I mean what's the point in shooting 4K if you are going to make it look like VHS? However, we are keeping the practical FX and creatures very 80's style, it will have it's campy moments but over-all it's a very dark film and my partner and writer Andrew Thompson did an amazing job on the script, so we don't want to make it into a camp-fest. That's what Blood Dancers 2 will be fore.

                 

       S:  That is a good point, I've seen a lot of 80's style coming out, but not with such a creature aspect to, which truly looks great in this film.

       S:  9.  Would you prefer CGI effects over practical FX if given the choice?

                 CA:  9. I'm not a huge fan of CGI. CGI has it's place when complimented with practical FX, which we have some shots like that in Deimosimine. But CGI blood, and 100% CGI monsters look fake. Now don't get me wrong, most practical FX creatures look fake too, however they are organic, physically there in front of you, to me that's more pleasing to see.

        S:  I couldn't agree more, some big name movies looks worse with CGI than if they would have went practical.  The perfect example to me would be when they added CGI to original Star Wars, looks made it very blatantly cheesy looking.  Total CGI on remakes is different but almost all the time, to me, originals are better.

        S:  10.  Do you believe that crowd-funding campaigns are an easier route to fund projects or do you need to find solid backers?

                  CA:  10. Crowd funding sucks, but unfortunately it's a necessity for indie filmmakers to get their movies made these days. The market is so saturated. It's not like it was back in the days when someone would invest 100K into a project because it was going to be one of 3 horror movies hitting the theatre's that year and they knew they would get their money back. Anyone can get their films onto Amazon Video these days, no matter how bad or good it is, so if you are a true indie filmmaker and want to make more films in the future, you have to think like a businessman and a PR person. You can't just release your film and let people try and discover it, you have to keep reminding people, keep pushing it, spend a little on a PR company and care about your film enough to do so. Keeping your return on investment in mind with every penny you spend. Sorry I derailed there. Short answer to the question is solid backers are much better, however you're more likely to raise funds from crowd funding than finding an investor that's going to fund your movie these days. 

                   S:  Great answer, seems that is the new trend, but I do understand people are tighter with their money nowadays.  Crowd funding gives true indie horror lovers a piece of the action never offered before also and we do get psyched about what little we can.  Most people don't, I think, understand how much extra work it puts on filmmakers and actors signing and buying trinkets that are given away for what little they pay.

That was another wonderfully fulfilling interview with  a great up and coming filmmaker, the sky is the limit for these new faces of horror.  Chad Armstrong may be a late bloomer but from the action and stills from Deimosimine looks awe inspiring.  I can't wait to get my hands on my copy, and also see what else is up his sleeve.  I appreciate all you do Chad and am so thankful from the bottom of my bleeding heart, thanks for the interview.  SUPPORT INDIE HORROR

      As promised my review of The Void, it was an excellent piece of film work.  From the opening, in the farmhouse to the end of the film, it was thrilling.  I would go so far as say a masterpiece of film work.  Sure naysayers will say it had this and that from these movies, so frickin' what.  I saw an excellent movie from old school FX, to the great storyline, and excellent characters.  It compelled me from the opening elements of the WTF moments to the crazy antics of that ensued.  I want to say so much but i can't give any moments away, I honestly wish for you to take the time to let yourself enjoy.  If you have the opportunity to see in a theater, DO, you won't be disappointed.  I have every intention of purchasing it soon.  If that doesn't sell you on it here goes: influences in the movie were Lovecraft, Cronenberg, Barker's Hellraiser, Coscarelli's Phantasm films and practical FX from most great 80's and 90's horror films.  If your not sold this gory-horror film is not your cup of blood.  I would say, so far, horror film of the year 10/10.

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     This interview is a special one, it has non-other than the newest Pinhead himself Paul Taylor.  He has been acting for years, he first got his movie start in the star studded Sin City film.  He has also done guest roles in a lot of TV shows, but mostly has done theatre work.  He gracious took time to let me do my 10 question segment with him.  So without further ado, here goes:

     S. 1.  Who came and offered you the job of Pinhead, or did you have to audition like everybody else?

     Paull Taylor (PT).  1.  I had to audition.  I have a great relationship with the casting director Chris Freihofer, who is basically the big cheese for casting in Oklahoma, where the film was shot.  He's a great guy and a very gifted actor himself.  He has cast me in several movies and commercials over the last several years.  He first sent me a notice that he wanted to put me on tape for another role called The Auditor.  Then I got a private e-mail about auditioning for Pinhead.  At the time, JUDGEMENT was the only title and the fact that it was a HELLRAISER film was a secret, but I knew it as soon as I read The Auditor's first line, which was a version of a classic HELLRAISER line.  I've been told the studio wanted to cast an L.A. actor, but this casting was really a victory for the "flyover" actors!  Chris was also the person who texted me early one Sunday morning to tell me the part was mine.  "Welcome to the movie, Pinhead."

     S:  Wow, that had to be a special day, nice how they disguised the movie.

     S. 2.  What emotions flooded your system when the job of Pinhead was offered to you?

     PT: 2.  Elation, Joy, Exhilaration, a Feeling of Victory.

     S:  I bet the feeling was overwhelming, to know you landed such a coveted role.

     S: 3.  How did you feel about replacing such an iconic character as Pinhead, who has never been replaced before?

     PT: 3. Actually, Doug Bradley was replaced before me (although the word "replaced" seems inappropriate since nobody can replace the original perfectly) with another actor named Stephan Smith Collins in HELLRAISER: REVELATIONS.  So I'm the third Pinhead.  Anyway, to answer your question:  Gary warned me that hard-core fans of Doug Bradley would not be happy with me no matter how good I was.  At first, this worried me, but not for long.  I have a job to do as an actor and that job has nothing to do with who has played the role before, it has to do with bringing myself to the role as written in the given script.  I love Bradley's work in several of the HELLRAISER's and I honored his creation as much as possible with my own, but there came a point where I had to give that up and do my own thing with the role.

     S:  I did forget about him, saw that movie so long ago and only once cause it didn't strike me as awesome.  I understand everything you say about being Pinhead, if you are that weak you shouldn't take on such roles.

     S:  4.  What did you feel you could bring to the Pinhead character?

     PT: 4. A certain gravitas that was already written into the script. This chapter in the HELLRAISER world has a Pinhead who is a bit more internal than in some of the past HELLRAISER films.  And I brought my own affection for monsters to it.  I love playing monsters and the scarier the better.  This Pinhead doesn't laugh and never doesn't make jokes.  I'm a funny guy, but you won't see that in JUDGEMENT.

     S:  That sounds great.  Internalizing Pinhead sounds like a great script.

     S: 5.  Is this the biggest acting gig you have had the pleasure of doing?

     PT: 5. As far as film, yes, it's the biggest.  I have played many leading roles in theatre, but in my previous film work, it's been small character parts.

      S:  Hopefully this becomes your breakout role.  I have dabbled in acting I don't believe theatre work is for me, being honest.

      S: 6.  All I have heard about Hellraiser: Judgement is bad and that you had know right taking over Doug Bradley's character, did you expect this much backlash?  

     PT: 6.  I ignore the backlash.  Why feed on that unnecessary negative energy?  I have better things to do.  Mature people will give the movie a chance and not judge it before it comes out.  I was warned by the director, Gary J. Tunnicliffe, that there would be backlash. At first, that freaked me out.  But I quickly got over it and did my job. Haters gonna hate. And as far as having a "right" to take over the role...it wasn't my decision.  I'm just an actor doing his job.  I auditioned really well and got the part.  The End.

     S:  Agreed there are to many shallow people out there that believe nothing should ever change.

     S: 7.  What is your favorite horror film ever?

     PT: 7. THE SHINING.

     S:  I have heard that a lot for the unnerving suspense and overall feeling, of the film, you can't argue.

      S:  8.  You have worked with some big names in the industry, which film or TV show have you learned the most from, and which was the most fun?

     PT: 8.  My first film was SIN CITY.  When I walked into that studio and saw all the worker bees swarming about and at the center of it was Robert Rodriguez, sitting in his director's chair strumming a guitar, I learned two things.  First, Robert Rodriguez is the coolest cat in the world and second, the art of filmmaking is about the camera, not the actor.  This is obvious to a lot of people, but I had never actually seen it happening until that day.  It was amazing.  All those people adjusting all of those elements to get it down to one tiny camera lens.  It's a mind-boggling craft to the novice.

I would say the most fun I have ever had on a set was HELLRAISER: JUDGEMENT, no question.  First...I'm Pinhead in a freaking HELLRAISER movie!  I am a huge Halloween kid at heart, always was.  To play this terrifying monster on a movie set was such a head trip.  Fun may be the wrong word.  It was painful (as it should be with Pinhead), it was exhausting, it was grueling. but the fact that I was where I was and was doing what I was doing made it the most pleasurable experience I've ever had on a set.  The pleasure/pain correlation is not lost on me.

     S:  Any Halloween kid would be thrilled by that, wow, I have always heard good things about Robert Rodriguez from actors to some crew, he is just a class act.  And his movies always seem to have a certain flare to them, has to be his vibe on set.

     S: 9.  Why did you decide acting was your calling?

     PT: 9.  Because there is nothing else I can do for money that gives me such pleasure, and I happen to be very good at it.  My dad was an actor and his dad was a vaudevillian.  It's in my blood.

     S:  That is so cool that generations of your family have done this, it's know wonder you wanted to follow the gene pool.

     S: 10.  What do most people not know about you?

     PT: 10. I'm a wicked Pee-Wee Herman impersonator and a disciple of the Church of Tim Curry.

     S:  That almost frightening knowing there are Pee-Wee Herman impersonators out there, lol, given your background of generations of acting Tim Curry is a special sort of actor truly one-of-a-kind.  That is the best question for everyone I love the answers.


     This has been all my pleasure to interview Paul Taylor, what I believe, will be a huge star.  In the near future I expect him to be in with the horror greats, Pinhead is just the start.  He will be a (horror) household name very soon.  I see good things in store for this man in his future endeavors.  It has been a great interview with another quality individual such as Paul.  SUPPORT INDIE FILMMAKERS 

     This is long overdue should have been up last week, damn life keeps getting in the way, anyhow here is the new 10 questions.  This author I met years back at a convention in Oklahoma, The Underground Monster Carnival.  He was next to the booth I was working at, Tommy B. Smith is his name he had a new book of short stories out Pieces Of Chaos, which I bought.  We struck up a conversation and he was generally polite and honest fellow, I must say his work is awesome too.  I should have brought him aboard this blog a long time ago, his work is poignant and scary.  His passion for writing is only out measured by his love for his family, so as we proceed check into this man's work.  You won't be disappointed.  Here are his 10 questions:

     S: 1;  Who inspired you into writing?

     Tommy (T):  I've found inspiration in numerous places.  I recall a tide of voices rather than one specific voice.  Those who told me I wouldn't stand a chance might have inspired me in a roundabout way.  I read a lot of books when I was younger, but the authors are scattered across a spectrum.  I have Roald Dahl, Washington Irving, J.R.R. Tolkien, Shirley Jackson, Douglas Adams, Madeleine L'Engle, and Richard Matheson on my bookshelf, as well as many others, including books of mythology and non-fiction.

     S:  You seemed inspired by every aspect of books.  Which makes a very well rounded person in writing terms.  You have such a variety of writing styles to forge your path.

     S: 2:  Who is your favorite author either dead or alive?

     T:  This is one that doesn't work easily for me.  I've many favorites in regard to many things, authors included.  I usually tell people the latest work I've read that I enjoyed.  For now, I'm wandering between Robert E. Howard's tales of Solomon Kane and Mick Farren's Give the Antichrist a Cigarette (non-fiction/autobiography).

     S:  Those are two I never heard of but will look into, they both sound very interesting along with that answer.  You are certainly one with his own voice, most have favorites period, you look to what is making waves now.

     S:  3:  How do you come up with the ideas for your stories?

     T:  I'm primarily inspired by experiences, event, stories, and figments of the imagination.

     S:  4:  What would be your favorite horror film?

     T:  One of my favorites which sometimes arises in conversation is John Carpenter's original Halloween.

     S:  That is a classic for sure, many people like that Michael Myers definitely has many fans and some serious arguments between Carpenter and Zombie on which is better classics never go away.

     S:  5:  How many years have you been writing?

     T:  I've been selling my work, short stories and the like, to numerous publications for over a decade now.  My debut horror novella Poisonous was released in 2012.  A collections of my older stories, along with some newer material, came along with Pieces of Chaos in 2013.

     S:  I loved Pieces of Chaos, I'm sorry to admit I haven't bought Poisonous yet.  I need it for my collection (bowing).

     S:  6:  How much of your work has gone unpublished?

     T:  Considerably more is unpublished than is published.

     S:  Well that's too bad, but it is somewhat expensive to self-publish so I've heard.

     S:  7:  From conception (full novel) to finished product, how long (on average) does it take?

     T:  From commencing the writing of a piece to finishing up a final manuscript, it may take a few months on average.  There have been some major deviations from that average, however.  Some are quick, but some take much longer.

     S:  A few months sounds promising to me, I just hate it when life gets in the way of what I want to do (work, family, and especially responsibility).

     S:  8:  What do most people not know about you but you'd like to share?

     T:  If people don't know it, there is probably a reason they don't know it, but I can share a random bit for the sake of offbeat author trivia:  I once got into a fight over a penny.  That is, one cent, and yes, a real, physical fight, the kind where people get hurt.

     S:  I believe I have heard every offbeat answer, and they keep coming.  A physical fight over a penny, someone who can peel a banana with her feet, one who almost died, someone who saved a strangers life, and someone who takes baths for hours..........wow.

     S:  9:  How many conventions do you try to hit, in a year, and which is your favorite?

     T:  For a while, I was hitting between eight and twelve shows a year.  I didn't do that last year and I'm doing even less this year, but once a new book is out, I will schedule more appearances.
     There are a few conventions and shows I've made an effort to visit time to time again for varied reasons.  As of this interview, my last event was Underground Monster Carnival in Oklahoma City, certainly one of my all-time favorites and one I've been doing for several years.

     S:   That's where I met you Underground Monster Carnival, that is a great show wish I lived closer.  I understand the dynamics of shows without new stuff there isn't much reason to pay set-up fees and stuff.


     S: 10:  What fuels the fire (non-relation) to continue to write stories and novels, and do you prefer one over another?

     T:  My readers do.  Some friends have been highly supportive of what I do.  Sharing  conversations and experiences with my fellow creators at various events or otherwise also bolsters the creative inferno.
      Writing a novel and writing short stories are different experiences.  I appreciate both.  I wrote short stories for years, as mentioned, but lately I've turned more of my attention toward spinning out longer, novel length works.

     S:  I've also been writing for years never finished but one and am trying to gather steam to add more words and solidify my characters.  I appreciate all authors for churning out good quality stories that are both compelling and solid, of which i found in your works.


That would be 10 questions with author Tommy B Smith, as always it's a pleasure to be given the chance to ask people questions, of course receive solid feedback.  I like my readers appreciate all you do.  Thank you again for being a sport and letting me interview you.  SUPPORT INDEPENDENT



You can also check out his website at tommybsmith.com or FB at authortommybsmith

Author Bio:  Tommy B Smith is a writer of dark fiction and the author of Poisonous and Pieces of Chaos.  His work has appeared in numerous publications over the years to include Every Day Fiction, Night to Dawn, Black Petals, Blood Moon Rising, and a variety of other magazines and anthologies.  He has previously worked with Morpheous Tales as editor of the magazine's Dark Sorcery and Urban Horror special issues.  He presence infests Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he resides with his  wife and cats.