The Screen Chills Companion, 1931-1939 - by Chris Fellner (Paperback)

About the Book

"This exhaustively researched work, the first in a two-volume set, covers every film released during the "first wave" of Hollywood horror (1931-1939), for a total of 74 chilling entries containing important historical context, frightening facts and terrifying trivia. Each entry consists of a detailed production history (derived from trade-publication reports), contemporary press hype, cast, scenario, critiques and behind-the-scenes production tidbits. Several entries also feature a postscript detailing noteworthy events that followed a picture's theatrical run, such as sequels or award nominations. Additionally, an appendix presents a full roster of horror films that came out of New York, when Hollywood wasn't looking! Thoroughly illustrated with high-quality images and meticulously documented, this complete history of the first wave of Hollywood horror is the first of its kind"--

Book Synopsis

This first volume of a two-volume set covers every film released during the "first wave" of Hollywood horror (1931-1939), providing 74 chilling entries with important historical context, frightening facts and terrifying trivia. Each entry supplies a detailed production history (derived from trade-publication reports), contemporary press hype, cast, scenario, critiques and behind-the-scenes production tidbits. Postscripts detailing noteworthy events that followed a picture's theatrical run, such as sequels or award nominations, also are featured. An appendix presents a full roster of horror films that came out of New York instead of Hollywood. This complete history of the first wave of Hollywood horror is thoroughly illustrated and meticulously documented.

Review Quotes

"Part of the fun of Fellner's 1930s horror film survey is the inclusion of contemporary reviews that are as lively (and overwrought) as the studio marketing material, which is also included for each of the more than 70 films highlighted here. ...Fellner revisits old dark houses, voodoo swamps, haunted castles, and more. ... This well-researched study covers some well-trodden ground, but Fellner uncovers rarities and lost titles that amplify the volume's value. Plus, there's something quaintly appealing about movie critics trying to make sense of mad scientists and monkey costumes."--Library Journal

About the Author

Chris Fellner lives in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.