The VCR That Dripped Blood

Slasher films of the 1980s occupy a unique place in cinema history. Although denounced by critics and condemned by moral watchdogs, they were embraced by audiences seeking transgressive thrills. Following the success of HALLOWEEN and FRIDAY THE 13TH, a slew of regional oddities, zero-budget curios, and “what the hell were they thinking” movies flooded the market.

But for each one that managed to carve out some mainstream recognition, countless others disappeared quickly from theaters or sat gathering dust on video store shelves. Written by a fan of the genre, this book presents affectionate (yet clear-eyed) reviews and analytical reappraisals of fifty movies that might not have spawned franchises or made a notable impact on pop culture but were a vital part of the slasher boom. It shines a light on under-the-radar titles such as MOUNTAINTOP MOTEL MASSACRE, HIDE AND GO SHRIEK, and GIRLS NITE OUT.

If you have fond memories of selecting tapes from your local rental place based on nothing more than creepy cover art or a catchy tagline, or if you have an affinity for the sometimes-dubious films of a bygone era, then enjoy this journey back into the darker recesses of the “Golden Age” of slasher films.

168 pages