Swamps, Sharks, and Shatner: The Exploitation Cinema Legacy of William Grefé
If there were ever a king of Florida-based, low-budget cinema with a knack for killer snakes, jellyfish men, and telepathic shark whisperers, that crown belongs to William Grefé.
Let’s dive deep into the wonderfully wild filmography, outrageous behind-the-scenes stories, and creature-feature charm that define William Grefé’s unforgettable contribution to cinema.
When Pizza Came With a Plot Twist: Papa John’s DVD Giveaway (2004–2005)
Once upon a pizza time—in the golden age of physical media—Papa John’s dropped a marketing bombshell: free DVDs with your pizza order. Yep, between 2004 and 2005, customers could have hot, cheesy goodness delivered to their door along with a Hollywood movie. It was cozy, collectible, and kind of brilliant.
Let’s rewind to one of the most underrated movie nights of the 2000s.
K. Gordon Murray: The King of Dubbed Cult Cinema
K. Gordon Murray was a trailblazer in the world of American film distribution, renowned for his quirky approach to dubbing Mexican films for English-speaking audiences. Though not widely known by mainstream audiences, Murray holds a cherished place among cult film enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the fascinating history of K. Gordon Murray’s recording studio, his influence, and why his films have an enduring cult following.
Milk Duds: The Unsung Hero of Movie Theater Candy
You’re sitting in a darkened theater, the previews are rolling, and the scent of popcorn is in the air. What’s the candy nestled in your hand? For many moviegoers, that answer has been the same for generations: Milk Duds.
Classic Sci-Fi & Horror Movies Perfect for Cozy Winter Nights
When the snow piles up and the nights turn frigid, there’s nothing better than settling in for a marathon of classic sci-fi and horror movies set against chilly backdrops, or you can heat things up by watching other classics set in tropical and sunny locations.
Classic Movie Premiums: Iconic Giveaways and Gimmicks from Cult Cinema
In the golden age of cult horror and exploitation films, movie promotions went beyond posters and trailers. Here’s a list of some of the best and most memorable movie premiums/giveaways that accompanied cult films, along with the year they debuted and a synopsis of each film.
Exploring Forgotten Dreams: The Allure of Abandoned Amusement Parks, Roadside Attractions, and Drive-Ins
There’s something hauntingly beautiful about abandoned amusement parks, roadside attractions, and drive-ins. Let’s explore their history, cultural significance, and the thrill that comes from wandering their rusting ruins.
Underdogs of the Golden Age: Forgotten Arcade Legends of the 1980s
When people think of the Golden Age of arcade games, they picture Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, or Space Invaders. Titans like Atari, Namco, Nintendo, and Midway ruled the arcades — but they weren’t the only players changing the game.
Beneath the flashing lights and coin slots was a pack of bold underdog developers pushing boundaries. Let’s plug in and explore the forgotten trailblazers: Gremlin, Centuri, Universal, Exidy, and Stern.
Bizarre Eco-Disaster Movies: Nature Strikes Back in Cult Cinema
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed a unique genre of eco-disaster films where the natural world turned on humanity with bizarre and often campy consequences. Here’s a look at some of the strangest eco-disaster films, including where they were shot, what made them memorable, and any strange promotions or effects.
Throwback to Gaming Glory: The History of Activision’s Achievement Patches
Activision, one of the trailblazers in video game publishing, gave gamers a unique incentive to hit high scores and aim for the ultimate bragging rights – by mailing in proof of their digital feats in exchange for these awesome, collectible patches.