Terror in the Desert - by Brad Sykes (Paperback)

About the Book

"Set in the American Southwest, "desert terror" films combine elements from horror, film noir and road movies to tell stories of isolation and violence. These films have eluded critical classification and analysis. The author traces the genre's origins and development, from cult exploitation to crowd-pleasing franchises to quirky auteurist fare to more recent releases"--

Book Synopsis

Set in the American Southwest, "desert terror" films combine elements from horror, film noir and road movies to tell stories of isolation and violence. For more than half a century, these diverse and troubling films have eluded critical classification and analysis. Highlighting pioneering filmmakers and bizarre production stories, the author traces the genre's origins and development, from cult exploitation (The Hills Have Eyes, The Hitcher) to crowd-pleasing franchises (Tremors, From Dusk Till Dawn) to quirky auteurist fare (Natural Born Killers, Lost Highway) to more recent releases (Bone Tomahawk, Nocturnal Animals). Rare stills, promotional materials and a filmography are included.

Review Quotes

"A film focused history guide you may wish to uncover...combines elements from horror, film noir and road movies to tell stories of isolation and violence"-Horror Hound

"In addition to being a very talented filmmaker, Brad Sykes also shows us that he is one hell of an author as well with his book...it is nothing short of awesome. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it as Sykes knows his stuff when it comes to these movies. I had a blast reading this book and if you're into these types of films I guarantee that you will too...very well-written...it is obvious that Sykes put his heart and soul into it. If you ever have a question about a movie that takes place in the desert all you have to do is pick up a copy of this book and you'll find your answer very quickly because that is how well put together and comprehensive this book is"-Horror News.

"Sykes looks back at this sub-genre of films to give them a critical analysis that hasn't been done before...rare stills...an interesting read"-Kitley's Krypt

"Sykes writes authoritatively and informatively and never becomes bogged down in thesis-style analytics. In fact, so readable is this relaxed writing style that ultimately his enthusiasm becomes infectious....engrossing...educational...recommend[ed]"-Cinema Retro

About the Author

Brad Sykes is the award-winning screenwriter and director of more than 20 feature films, including Plaguers, Death Factory and Camp Blood. He has penned articles for cinema magazines such as Fangoria, Indie Slate and Evilspeak. He lives in Los Angeles, California.