Memorabilia Birmingham NEC

Posted on September 17, 2014 by platinumal

22/23 March 2014

Twice a year, the Memorabilia event at Birmingham NEC is a massive gathering of everything sci-fi, fantasy, and horror. Whether it’s old or new; or from the worlds of film, television, comic books or whatever – there’ll be something representing all facets of geekdom.

An enormous event hall within the NEC houses stalls selling paraphernalia of every conceivable description. Obviously I’m there for the Star Wars and Hammer stuff; but you’ll find Marvel and DC items, Doctor Who, the Terminator – you name it, it’s to be found there. Toys, books, clothes, comics, props – memorabilia of all types.

There are also displays, from costumes to vehicles (check out my post about the Evel Knievel exhibition). I’ve seen American wrestlers grappling in the ring, robot wars and cars from the A-Team and Back to the Future.

You’ll also get the chance to meet actors from your favourite franchise and get their autograph.

Also, there are many people dressed up for the day as their favourite characters. Some belong to fan groups; some are just there for a day out and choose to show off their geeky side. Keen readers will remember photos from November 2013 posted previously.

I last went to the NEC for this event in March, earlier this year. It’s been a while, but I thought visitors to the Virtual Hot Tub would be interested to see some photos from the event.

Alien Marines

Royal Guard

I do love a Catwoman pic

Awesome Loki

“How long have you had these droids?”

Classic slave Leia

Hawkeye

The next Memorabilia at the NEC is 22nd and 23rd November 2014. Take a look at the website here.

More Memorabilia photos can be found here: comics television film

Slave Leia and Gamorrean

Trekkie Girl

My favourite costume of the day

Meeting Cheetara!

Hit Girl and the other guy…

Kick Ass, Spidey and Scarecrow

Judges

Leia and Mara Jade

Belle and Gaston

Claws out

Oola, Leia and Darth Talon

Super spies

Sci-Fi Weekender part 2

Posted on April 14, 2014 by platinumal

Sci-Fi Weekender 28th – 30th March 2014

Hafan Y Mor Holiday Park, Pwllheli

Day Two – and Adam, Greeny, Kurt and myself were up bright and early to see what the day would bring. LIE. We had a lie in, went to get s cooked breakfast, got some supplies at the Spar, and chilled out in the chalet for a while. We decided to wander down to see what was going just a little after the action began at midday. Although impressed with what we’d witnessed so far, we still didn’t know what to expect.

Exploring the set up, we soon found the events and had a good look around the merchandise area. I picked up a couple of cool items – a Star Wars figure I needed and a Countess Dracula t-shirt. I could’ve spent a fortune if I’d had the money. There was quite a buzz as fans scouted around for bargains and highly desirable paraphernalia.

Yeah Baby! Black Widow and Austin Powers

K-9

Chimp Trooper

No idea, but great costume

Superman

Stilt babes

Hellboy – at the bar

Kick-Ass, Black Cat, Catwoman

They are not Ewoks!

There were numerous discussion panels, interviews and signings through out the afternoon. Luckily I caught a very interesting talk with 2000AD creator Pat Mills, refreshingly anti-authoritarian even after all these years. There was quite a 2000AD presence, with some of my favourite artists of all time – Glenn Fabry and Simon Bisley – in attendance. Somebody really should make a film version of Slaine…

I also caught a very entertaining chat with The Hobbit actor Graham McTavish. Although I’ve yet to see the film(s), his interview was still engaging; with many captivating stories from behind the scenes.

Classic Battlestar Galactica

Jack and Sally

Minion

Meeting Wonder Woman!

Doc Brown and DeLorean

The Comedian

Optimus Prime!

The Phantom

Colonial Warriors – BSG

Star Gate

The Riddler, The Joker, The Penguin

Wow

Of course, the main attraction for me (except for beer) was taking photos of all the various fans who’d taken the time and trouble to dress up as their favourite characters. There were some amazing costumes, as shown here and in the previous post. Again, fans were more than happy to pose for photos. The atmosphere was friendly and welcoming with no bad vibes on display anywhere.

The highlight of the evening was the Cosplay final – those who entered the competition were judged on the best costume. I forget who won, but the talent and care on display was highly commendable – as you can see from the photos.

Martian girl – awesome outfit!

She- Ra and pal

Green Lantern

Sorry this pic didnt turn out better guys…

Not a great pic sorry, cool bunch though!

Rorschach

Droog

Rogue and Ms Marvel

Xena – with Wonder Woman

Tony Stark – nice guy!

The Bride

Painful

There were several Cosplayers I either missed getting a photo of, or the pic turned out rubbish. My apologies – again, I’m not a professional. It is with great shame that I cannot present for you here Jar Jar Green Screen, General Zod, the Beast and sexy Six of Nine silver Star Trek girl. Sorry. But I think Silk Spectre (below) makes up for that.

Dungeons and Dragons!

Wonder Woman and Silk Spectre

Pat Sharp – no mullet

Darth Elvis

At the bar

Another late night ended with the “legendary” Pat Sharp spinning the wax for a packed dance floor. All in all, a great day with a real sense of community.

Finally, I must thank Glyn again for providing not only tickets but our accommodation. I hope these reports give you some idea of how the event was. Cheers!

Visit the Sci-Fi Weekender site here.

Sci-Fi Weekender part 1

Posted on April 8, 2014 by platinumal

Sci-Fi Weekender 28th – 30th March 2014

Hafan Y Mor Holiday Park, Pwllheli

I’ve been to a few all day events, such as Memorabilia at Birmingham NEC , but nothing like this. The Sci-Fi Weekender is basically a convention over several days, held at a holiday park in North Wales. There are guest speakers, merchandise, film showings and entertainment – all in one location.

My friend Glyn had won tickets for the event, but sadly was unable to go. So he donated the tickets – and accommodation – to yours truly. A total gent. My comrades Adam, Greeny, and Kurt – plus Platinum Al – thus made the trip to check out what was going on.

This is part one of the adventure.

Emperor Palpatine

Judges on duty

Im a nice Dalek! Would you like to come for tea?

Magneto

Black Widow and Tony Stark

Obi-Wan

Rogue

The Simpsons, relaxing with Duff Man

The REAL Batman!

Our party left late on the Friday, due to work commitments. With additional traffic problems on the A Double 5, when we arrived it was already dark. No matter – the four of us found our chalet, dumped the luggage and went exploring.

Festivities were already well under way. There was plenty of beer available, and many merry (though friendly) sci-fi types in various states of refreshment. Several were dressed as characters from film, TV, books and comics; presenting a fantastic menagerie of fantasy figures.

Entertainment on the first night began for me with Professor Elemental. The Professor is a purveyor of fine steampunk rap, apparently known as “chap-hop”. Wearing pith helmet and rapping about tea and the British Empire, I found his act captivating and funny in equal measure. Weaving funky beats out of old brass band music is no mean feat but the Prof raised the roof. Catch him if you can, I promise a night you won’t forget!

Biker Scout and Stormtrooper

Wolverine

Judges

Slave Leia dude

Galactus

Willy Wonka

Black Cat

These two were a lovely couple!

Pennywise

Next up were Darth Elvis and the Imperials. Yes, a Star Wars themed Elvis tribute act. What more could anyone want? Sheer magic. Their songs consisted of Star Wars re-workings of Elvis hits, plus a groovy rendition of that Rebo Band classic, Lapti Nek. Now there’s a song I never thought I’d ever hear played live. The spectacle of numerous Star Wars characters rocking out together on stage was something to behold. This band should be intergalactic!

That was about it for us, as we headed off to get some rest for Day 2. Attica Rage played us out; would’ve loved to stay but we were wrecked.

Gordons Alive!

You’ll see many pictures here of those who attended, wearing all sorts of wonderful costumes. The hard work and imagination that went into these outfits is really exceptional. Plus, everyone was really happy to have their photo taken; there was a great fun atmosphere at the event. I’ll post more photos in the next instalment. Please remember however – I am not a professional photographer! The lighting was not always very good and everything was always a bit rushed….

Part 2 soon!

Visit the Sci-Fi Weekender website here.

Hallowee’en Horror Fest Meets the Wolfman

Posted on October 31, 2013 by platinumal

Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman (1943)

It wouldn’t be right, to review a load of horror movies and not include something from Universal. I couldn’t forgive myself. Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman, though not at the more critically acclaimed end of the Universal catalogue, is a hell of a lot of fun.

Lawrence Talbot (Lon Chaney Jr) is revived – in very creepy style – from his tomb. Sometime later he’s treated in Cardiff hospital (yes, you read that right), only to disappear on a quest to destroy himself and his werewolf curse. Eventually, Talbot finds his way to Frankenstein’s castle, where he aims to persuade the doctor to aid him. Instead, Talbot finds the Frankenstein monster (Bela Lugosi), and ultimately chaos ensues…

This film features some great Universal sets and lots of atmosphere. It wins bonus points from me, for setting the first part of the film in Wales – though the supposedly Welsh actors don’t tackle the accent at all! It’s a bizarre fact that Hollywood chose to set it’s Wolfman saga in Wales, though I have no idea why.

Lugosi’s attempt with the monster falls a little short, though apparently his dialogue – which would have enhanced the performance – was cut. As a result, the last part of the film doesn’t meet early, high expectations.

The thrill with Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman is seeing two Universal monsters together in one film. When I heard about these Universal “team-ups” when I was a monster obsessed kid, this idea fascinated me. It was like superhero team ups in comic books, and all seemed very exciting. The end result doesn’t quite deliver, but I love it all the same.

8/10

Hallowe’en Horror Fest Must Be Destroyed

Posted on October 30, 2013 by platinumal

Ed Wood (1994)

OK – so Ed Wood doesn’t have any shocks or frights. Nor does it contain anything remotely supernatural. Yet it does have Bela Lugosi, Vampira, a Hallowe’en scene and references to some of the worst horror B-movies of all time.

This film charts the career lows (and more lows) of Ed Wood, a man whose movies are largely considered absolute disasters. Played by Johnny Depp, Wood and his band of misfits blunder from one production to another, with far more enthusiasm than talent. Thus we see a dramatised version of Wood’s life behind the scenes of such turkeys as Bride of the Monster and Plan 9 From Outer Space.

Bela Lugosi is played fantastically by Martin Landau, in a role that elicits great sympathy from the audience. The film also stars Sarah Jessica Parker, the legendary Bill Murray, Patricia Arquette and Lisa Marie as the aforementioned Vampira. Depp, too, does a riveting job, making Wood likeable – a failed hero the audience can root for.

Directed by Tim Burton, this is a film that I can watch again and again. You don’t have to be familiar with the works of Wood, but it does add another dimension if you are. It’s a wonderful film that has, at it’s core, a story of succeeding against the odds. Sort of.

Not a horror film then, as such, but the fact that Ed Wood features such icons of early horror makes this film an unmissable Hallowe’en treat.

10/10

Day of the Dead (1985)

So it’s post apocalypse and there are zombies everywhere. There are these survivors holed up in an underground mine/storage facility. Tensions mount between the survivors – some being scientists and some military – as they each have their own agendas. Eventually everything goes belly up and it’s zombie attack time.

I don’t think that gives away too many spoilers – you weren’t expecting anything else, were you?

Director George A Romero was also responsible for the completely thrilling Night of the Living Dead. He also made Dawn of the Dead, a very fine sequel. However, for me, Day of the Dead doesn’t quite reach the heights of the two earlier films. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty to get your teeth into here, and there are a few genuinely innovative moments. It’s just harder to relate to people stuck in an underground cavern than it is a shopping mall.

I won’t mention the zombie Bub, a character that I definitely thought was too much. But check it out, certainly if you’ve seen the other Dead films.

7/10

Son of Hallowe’en Horror Fest

Posted on October 27, 2013 by platinumal

28 Days Later (2002)

When Mrs Platinum Al and I went on our very first date, this was the film she wanted to see. I’d heard it was good, and being a fan of the Director Danny Boyle’s earlier works (Shallow Grave, Trainspotting) agreed it would be a good choice. What followed was one of the most extreme cinematic experiences I’ve ever had. You’ve heard stories about people walking out of the cinema? I saw that during this screening. Audience members were getting up and leaving. I’m sure that it wasn’t because the film was bad – it was because 28 Days Later is utterly terrifying.

Jim (Cillian Murphy) wakes up in hospital after being in an accident. Slowly he finds that the world he knew has crumbled, as an infectious virus called “Rage” has decimated the population by turning the victims into violent, mindless killers. Jim meets other survivors, and together they begin a journey to find a cure for Rage, and safe refuge from the Infected.

28 Days Later was never billed as a zombie flick originally, at least not as I remember it. Although obviously inspired by zombie movies and other post apocalyptic films, it was promoted as a film exploring what could happen following the outbreak of a pandemic. Scenes of an abandoned London created emotions of despair that were related, in the press, to the aftermath of 9/11. Psychologically, the audience is submitted to a world of sheer desperation that pervades every minute.

As a result, 28 Days Later gives us much more than a zombie re-hash. It has shocks and creates tension in the viewer unlike any other film I have ever seen. But it also asks questions: how far away are any of us, in a world of road rage and social unrest, from mindless uncontrolled violence?

Quite simply a superb film on every level, 28 Days Later horrifies beyond belief.

10/10

Hammer Glamour

Posted on October 26, 2013 by platinumal

Through out its illustrious career, the Hammer film studio became synonymous with two things: horror and sex. The studio’s reputation encompassed both the lurid Technicolor gore; and the heaving cleavages of its female stars.

To say that’s all Hammer movies were does them a great disservice, yet the two key elements of horror and glamour have become the trademarks for which the company was known. Alongside the great Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee, numerous beauties also graced these fine films.

There’s a great book, “Hammer Glamour” by Marcus Hearn (Titan Books, 2009). If this topic is of interest to you, I recommend you pick it up. I’ve been lucky to meet some of the female stars of classic Hammer movies at fan events, and they’ve been kind enough to autograph my copy of the book for me.

It’s no easy task, but here are my favourite ten Hammer actresses. It’s been a pain-staking process analysing the contribution of each of these ladies, but my selection is below.

10. Martine Beswicke

Appearing in three Hammer movies (One Million Years BC, Prehistoric Women and Dr Jekyll & Sister Hyde), Martine Beswicke’s career with Hammer covered both gothic horror and dinosaur movies. Dr Jekyll & Sister Hyde is her greatest contribution, where in a novel twist on the traditional tale, she plays the evil “sister” transformed from Dr Jekyll (Ralph Bates). She also appeared in two Bond movies – From Russia with Love and Thunderball. I’ve met Martine and she happily signed my copy of “Hammer Glamour”.

9. Barbara Shelley

The lovely Barbara Shelley appeared in more Hammer movies than anyone else on this list. Her films include The Gorgon, Rasputin the Mad Monk and Quatermass & the Pit. Barbara’s best role, however, was in Dracula Prince of Darkness, where she is transformed from Victorian lady to vampiric creature of the night. She also appeared in the great Village of the Damned. Again, Ms Shelley has signed the book, I’m very happy to say – she was extremely nice, for a vampire.

8. Stephanie Beacham

I remember Stephanie Beacham from numerous television appearances growing up, notably Dynasty. She appears in Dracula AD 1972 as Jessica Van Helsing, granddaughter of Peter Cushing’s Professor. A great camp classic, this is one of my favourites, and Stephanie looks ravishing. I’ve yet to meet Stephanie to ask her to sign the book, I’ve got my fingers crossed.

7. Veronica Carlson

Starring in three Hammer horror films, Veronica holds the distinction of having starred alongside two different Baron Frankensteins: Peter Cushing (in Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed) and Ralph Bates (The Horror of Frankenstein). She also appeared in Dracula Has Risen From the Grave – all great films. Ms Carlson was lovely when I met her not too long ago.

6. Valerie Leon

Although she appeared in just one Hammer film, Blood From the Mummy’s Tomb, Valerie Leon makes a fantastic impression in it. A great film and a beautiful actress. She also appeared in Carry On and Bond movies, making her a true 70’s film sensation. You can read more here. Very charming and another welcome signature for the book.

5. Ingrid Pitt

No-one encapsulates Hammer Glamour more than Ingrid Pitt. She seems synonymous with horror movies. Classic films she starred in include the brilliant The Vampire Lovers and Countess Dracula, alluring as the evil Countess. She also starred in genre classics for other studios, such as The House That Dripped Blood and The Wicker Man. Sadly, Ingrid passed away in 2010. A true legend.

4. Kate O’Mara

Gorgeous Kate O’Mara appeared in The Vampire Lovers and Horror of Frankenstein. Prim in the former and sexy in the latter, Kate’s contribution to Hammer is excellent. Her exotic looks have been a regular on-screen ever since, I remember her well in Dynasty. I’ve not met Kate, but would love her to sign my Hammer Glamour book.

3. Madeline Smith

Appearing very briefly in Taste the Blood of Dracula, Madeline Smith looks absolutely dazzling in The Vampire Lovers and Frankenstein and the Monster From Hell. She also appeared briefly in Theatre of Blood and was a Bond girl in Live and Let Die, as well as numerous other film and TV credits. Ms Smith has signed the book and was very nice too.

2. Raquel Welch

Possibly the most beautiful woman to ever walk the planet, Raquel Welch became a screen icon when she appeared in One Million Years BC. Unfortunately, she never appeared in any more Hammer movies (hence she only reaches number two in this list). Raquel has made many other great films in a pretty fabulous career, since her debut in that “silly dinosaur movie” (her words, not mine!).

1. Caroline Munro

The stunning Caroline Munro appeared in two of my favourite Hammer films, Captain Kronos: Vampire Hunter and Dracula AD 1972. She’s also appeared in many other cult classics – try At the Earth’s Core and Starcrash, for starters. Ms Munro is probably most famous for her role as Naomi in The Spy Who Loved Me. With her beautiful, long brunette hair, I’ve been smitten with Caroline for a long time. She’s also a very lovely person with plenty of time for her fans, as I found out when I met her. Caroline Munro is a Queen of classic cult cinema, and top of the Hammer Glamour list!

Meeting Caroline Munro at NEC Memorabilia

A special mention should be made to some of the lovely ladies who didn’t make the top ten, including Joanna Lumley (Satanic Rites of Dracula); Catherina Von Schell (Moon Zero Two); Julie Ege (The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires) and Ursula Andress (She). There are many more, of course.

If you’d like to buy a copy of “Hammer Glamour”, you can find it here.

www.hammerfilms.com

Hallowe’en Horror Fest Has Risen From the Grave

Posted on October 25, 2013 by platinumal

Gather round, courageous ones. It’s time for more horror movie reviews at the Virtual Hot Tub!

Dead Snow (2009)

Great film. A group of Norwegian students decide to take a break in a remote cabin up in the mountains. Surrounded by snow, their initial fun and games turn nasty when a group of Nazi zombies awaken and begin to terrorise them. Mayhem, blood and gore is the result.

I love this film. Dead Snow is obviously inspired (and is a homage to) numerous other similar movies. There are jumpy parts, gruesome parts – it ticks all the boxes. Some of the humour is a little too much sometimes, but there’s enough great content to excuse any ideas that were a little too silly.

Besides, what’s not to like? Nazi zombies? Is that not the ultimate bunch of evil bad guys ever? A very cool movie, it still worked on a second viewing and highly recommended. Norway also looks beautiful, I’d love to go there.

9/10

Night Watch (2004)

Many years ago, a truce was called between the warring factions of good and evil. Now the forces of good police the day, while the forces of darkness hold control over the night. In this world we meet the Night Watch, who are entrusted with keeping the vampires of the forces of darkness in line.

This Russian movie promised a lot, and indeed it looks spectacular. There are several scenes that definitely impress. However it’s more spectacle than substance, and I was left disengaged by the last half hour. There’s undoubtedly vast imagination at work here, so perhaps repeated viewings or more familiarity with the source material would aid my appreciation.

On the whole, it’s more dark fantasy than horror. I was hoping for more.

6/10

Hallowe’en Playlist

Posted on October 21, 2013 by platinumal

All these posts about horror movies, it’s about time there was a post devoted to music for Hallowe’en!

I have a couple of Hallowe’en compilation CDs, this playlist puts together various songs not on those collections. Some of the choices are obvious horror themes (“The Number of the Beast”, “Nasty”); others are more tenuous (“Devil in Disguise”, “Hotter Than Hell”). Other selections are related, directly or not, to great scary movies: you know where “Bad Moon Rising” is from, right?

Either way, there’s a variety of styles here – suitable for (most) Hallowe’en gatherings…

Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Bad Moon Rising”
The Damned – “Nasty”
Elvis Presley – “(You’re the) Devil in Disguise”
Ramones – “Pet Semetary”
Motorhead – “Hellraiser”
Johnny Cash – “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky”
Iron Maiden – “The Number of the Beast”
The Misfits – “Vampira”
Kiss – “Hotter Than Hell”
Rolling Stones – “Sympathy for the Devil”
Zombina & The Skeletones – “Nobody Loves You (When You’re Dead)”
Ozzy Osbourne – “Mr Crowley”
Screamin’ Jay Hawkins – “I Put a Spell on You”
GBH – “Horror Story”
Van Halen – “Runnin’ with the Devil”
David Bowie – “Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)”
The Cult – “The Witch”
Jimi Hendrix Experience – “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”
Alice Cooper – “I Love the Dead”

House of Hallowe’en Horror Fest

Posted on October 19, 2013 by platinumal

Elvira: Mistress of the Dark (1988)

Ah, Elvira, how I adore you. The black beehive hair; the seductive eyes and ruby red lips; the hourglass figure that’s barely contained in a skin tight black dress, split to the heavens. Not forgetting, of course, the greatest cleavage of all time. My admiration for you is limitless.

But surely, you cry, Elvira: Mistress of the Dark is not a horror movie? Not truly worthy of Hallowe’en Horror Fest status? Whatever, dude. This film has enough magic, spells, the odd monster and grand Gothic gorgeousness to be more than worthy.

This is probably the closest the Americans have ever come to traditional British Carry On style humour. Saucy rather than smutty, there are plenty of laughs even after all these years. Sure, a few of the gags are older than Imhotep, but there’s enough spooky fun to make this a glorious viewing. Not to mention Elvira’s impressive co-stars, who support her every step of the way in admirable fashion.

And now, some gratuitous pictures of Elvira looking drop dead gorgeous.