From all of us here at Friday the 13th Films, we hope you guys are having an awesome Halloween! To many of us, this is our Christmas! Let us know what you have done this Halloween season. Drop a note in the comments below.

Warner Bros. has officially announced the follow up to 2009’s Friday the 13th relaunch and have even given a release date!  Friday the 13th part 2 will reportedly pop into theaters on Friday, August 13, 2010! Nothing has been official in regards to what the plot will be this time around, but after the confusion that MMA fighter Tim Sylvia was already working on a sequel, Brad Fuller shot that rumor down by stating that Derek Mears was his Jason. As for the plot, it has been hinted that Crystal Lake may finally be presented in a wintry setting, but that has yet to be confirmed. Friday the 13th part 2 will be the 13th film in the 30 year old franchise.

Platinum Dunes is currently locked tightly in post production and touching up their current project, a remake of 80’s classic “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (trailer) featuring Jackie Earle Haley in the role of Freddy Krueger, a role made famous by Robert Englund. Drop in often as more news will be coming!

SOURCE: Bloody-Disgusting/Platinum Dunes Blog

With a little paint, time, and imagination, it’s pretty awesome what you can add to your Friday the 13th collection. Recently, Mezco release their 3 3/4 Cinema of Fear series featuring Freddy Krueger, Leatherface, and of course, Jason Voorhees from Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter.

Today, I ran across an extra figure on the store shelves. The leg was broken off in the package, and I inquired about a discount which I received. I decided to just glue the leg back in place, and have a little fun with it by transforming it into another incarnation of Jason to add to my Friday the 13th collection. If it didn’t work out the way I wanted, I wasn’t out much considering what I paid for it. I have done my fair share of custom action figures in the past, but I can’t say I’ve ever worked with a figure of this size. I have to admit, I’m happy with how it turned out.  I will take better pictures very soon and add them to the article.

Source pic: Jason in "Jason Takes Manhattan"

This is what the Mezco 3 3/4 inch Jason looks like normally.

After customizing

New pictures added 9/28

If you’ve been holding back a little on buying a full painted hockey mask to add to your collection, now may be the time to make it happen. Enter “Twisted Visions: Custom Masks and Props”. Twisted Visions offer up hocks in both plastic and fiberglass, full painted at some of the most affordable prices I’ve ever seen. This doesn’t mean that these hocks lack in quality. In fact, the quality is absolutely impressive!  Fiberglass hocks run at  90 dollars and plastic hocks are  $70.  Twisted Visions also offer up Custom Hockey masks for the same prices. Twisted Vision also make many props to accompany your costume such as axes, machetes and more. Inquire about those via email by dropping a note to Shawn of Twisted Visions at capdaddy75@yahoo.com These items will be added to the website in the future along with numerous other masks and props.  Check out the gallery below to see the hocks and to see much more detailed shots, as well as some of their props and other mask projects, check out the Twisted Visions  myspace at http://www.myspace.com/twisted_visions_props Though Shawn of Twisted Visions can often be quick to tell you that Twisted Visions is new to the game, there is no need to be humble. Having seen these hocks in person, I can back up the claim that these hocks are the real deal. Be sure to check them out at http://www.visionstwisted.com/

Mezco continues to put unique merchandise into the hands of horror collectors. This time, they have offered up their “Tiny Terrors” line, featuring Jason, Freddy and Leatherface, in a limited edition varient set that glows in the dark!

The sets are available to only 666 sets and you can only get your hands on them at MEZCO DIRECT. The figures are actually articulated so you can pose them and they will all come individually packaged.

For more information on Mezco and Mezco products, be sure to check out http://www.mezcotoyz.com

Click images to enlarge

Jason has been to many places. Crystal Lake, Manhattan, Elm Street, and now…your bathroom! No, he’s not interested in trying out that leftover roll of wet toilet paper you’ve been hanging onto. As a matter of fact, this time he’s climbing right in the shower with you thanks to Spellbound Soapworks! Spellbound Soapworks specialize in creating a variety of soaps (that actually smell great!) in the shape of numerous horror characters ranging from the hockey masked Icon Jason Voorhees as well as some of his counterparts from Michael Myers, Leatherface, Creature from the Black Lagoon and more! They also offer up a ton of other novelty soaps such as eyeballs, teeth and even a brain.

Check out the images of Jason below. Though I must admit it smells good, why bathe with it when you can put it on your shelf for display? Ahh… the joys of being a collector! Get your very own Jason soap and check out others  HERE.

If you’re interested in double dipping and upgrading your DVD copy of Freddy vs. Jason to Blu Ray, or if you never owned the DVD to begin with and have added a Blu Ray player to your entertainment system, then you’ll likely want to head on over to your local Wal Mart. Freddy vs. Jason has hit the HD market and store shelves nationwide and Wal Mart has the Blu Ray sitting there with the beautiful price of a measely $10! Whether you’re a fan of the film or not (and I am), you can’t deny that this is a great price for another chance to see that hockey mask in high def! Also keep in mind that this is Freddy’s first entry into the Blu Ray market and at a  complete steal!

The picture on the disc is phenomenal. Though the regular DVD isn’t nearly old enough to be considered dated, the Blu Ray disc is a noticeable improvement when you take into consideration how colorful this film is. The colors are vibrant on the disc and the sound is great. Well worth this price. If there are no Wal Mart stores in your area, you can get the Blu Ray on Walmart.com for just a little more at $11.32.  New Line will also be releasing the 2003 remake of  “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” on Blu Ray on September 29th. This disc will also be released at a discounted price.

It’s crunch time. Zero Hour. Whatever you call it, The Scare Fest, the largest Horror & Paranormal Convention in the south, is about to make it’s triumphant return to Lexington, Kentucky! Doors will open on September 11 and if you still haven’t gotten your tickets you need to make it happen! What’s holding you back? Perhaps you have a burning question regarding the event? If this just so happens to be you, then you are going to love this guide to “Frequently Asked Questions” by Scare Fest Event Manager and Co-creator Jeff Waldridge. All of your burning questions answered! If this isn’t enough, be sure to check out Jeff’s recent appearance on the Eric Morse online radio show for a very informative discussion of Scare Fest, Horror conventions, and some great insight on working the in the paranormal field. Horror Guests at The Scare Fest include Kane Hodder, Robert Kurtzman, Doug Bradley, Gunnar Hansen, Danielle Harris, Ken Foree, Dee Wallace, Warrington Gillette and many more! If Paranormal is your thing, then you are going to be absolutely thrilled by the lineup of stars involved in the paranormal world ranging from Zak, Aaron and Nick from Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventurers, Bill Birnes from The History Channel’s UFO Hunters, Chip Coffey of Paranormal State and Psychic Kids, Co Creator of Scare Fest and president of Ghost Chasers International Patti Star, Ghost Hunter’s Shannon Sylvia, Carmen Reed from the real Haunting in Connecticut as well as many others!

Get your tickets now at http://www.thescarefest.com/tickets and read on for the F.A.Q

Q. What is the address to the Lexington Center?
A. 430 West Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40507, phone number 859-233-4567

Q. I bought my ticket online, What type of paperwork should we bring with us?

A. Bring your picture ID and if possible the ticket confirmation receipt you received when you bought your tickets. If you did not receive a confirmation please email Patti Starr at patti@ghosthunter.com and she will send one out to you right away.

Q. What time does the convention open each day?

A. Friday, September 11, 2009, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

(Golden Tickets enter at 4:00 pm)
Saturday, September 12, 2009, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

(Golden Tickets enter at 10:00 am)
Sunday, September 13, 2009, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

(Golden Tickets enter at 11:00 am)

Q. Where do we park our vehicles?

A. The Lexington Center parking lot located on High Street

Q. Are Autographs Free?
A. Unfortunately, no. The main reason the celebrities are doing the convention (instead of actual film work or time off to spend with their family) is because of the financial return these shows deliver. Some celebrities attending may sign for free, but nothing is guaranteed.

Q.How much are Autographs?
A. We have no way of knowing what autograph pricing will be. The price is set by the individual talent. Generally pricing is set at $15-25. I would plan on each one costing $20.00

Q. Are autographs included in the ticket price?
A. NO! Prices are decided by the guest.

Q.What are the times and days the guests will be signing?
A. The guest will be signing all day each day of the convention at their booth unless otherwise noted on the webpage.

Q. Are small Children allowed in free?
A. Children 6 and under are free any other children have to pay. They must be closely watched by parents due to the graphic nature of some displays.

Q.Do I need to plan for long guest lines? Will there be a large crowd?
A. Plan for long lines, The crowd will be large but we have enough space where all fans will be comfortable.

Q.Is there a concession stand?
A. Yes there is a concession stand inside the dealer room ran by the Lexington Center we have no control over what they serve or their prices. We do ask that you limit eating around dealer and star booths. We have a nice seating area at the concession stand where you can rest and eat.

Q.If I lose my keys or something what do I do?
A. We have a information booth and all staff have been directed that if they are given or if they find a lost item to take it to the information booth. We are not responsible for anything lost or stolen at the convention but if you do lose something ask about it at the information booth.

Q.Do I get in the costume ball free?
A. The only fans who get in are Golden and Platinum ticket holders all other will be charged $15.00. Dealers will pay $5.00 when they show their dealer pass.

Q.Can I attend the V.I.P. Party?
A. Only Golden, Platinum, and stars can go to the VIP party. We are making a selct amount of tickets available to everyone else for $50.00

Q.I have a machete, Chainsaw, or other item I would like to get signed, Can I?
A. Yes, but you have to keep the items in a box, sheath, or container until it is signed and then you must take it to your vehicle. Usually the Lexington Center does not allow this but they have made an exception for this event.

Q.Are there ATM machines?
A. Yes there is an ATM machine in the Lexington Center and at several locations close by.

Q.If I email you will I get a response?
A. Yes we strive on answering emails if it is sent to thescarefest@hotmail.com If we are emailed the weekend of the show we may not have access to our email.

I hope this helps out
Jeff

The commercials for the Scare Fest Horror & Paranormal Convention are finished and available for viewing. The commercials are very well done and were shot in High Definition in Lexington, Kentucky at various locations. All three commercials feature well known Friday the 13th costume maker Wickedbeard (check out our recent interview), and one of them entitled “Blood Donor” features horror actress and Kentuckian Tucky Williams. These will air in the local and surrounding markets of the convention. Check out the commercials below and don’t forget to grab your tickets as soon as possible to avoid long lines on the day of the convention! There are very few Golden Tickets remaining, but the regular tickets will not sell out! Scare Fest takes place on September 11, 12, and 13 at the Lexington, Center in Lexington, KY. Be there and bring friends!

Get your tickets now at http://www.thescarefest.com/tickets

Scare Fest Spot: Barber Shop

Scare Fest Spot: Pizza Parlor

Scare Fest Spot: Blood Donor

To some, he is simply known as Jeff. To a legion of online folk as well as convention attendees, he has grown into somewhat of a legend known simply as Wickedbeard! The man with the very fitting name, given that you never know what shape or form his beard will take on next, has carved his niche amongst the massive crowds that turn out at various horror conventions, and even appeared on the 2009 Friday the 13th part 2 Deluxe Edition DVD. Just as unpredictable as the fashion of his beard, is the mystery as to what costume he will don on any given day of these conventions. Wickedbeard has put together some of the most detailed and screen accurate recreations of horror movie (and beyond) costumes that have ever been on display at conventions. Known mostly for his absolutely incredible recreations of Jason Voorhees from the Friday the 13th flicks, these amazing costumes have led to him becoming a staple on the convention circuit as well as a very popular online figure. Wickedbeard’s work has even gotten him the chance to don these costumes in the upcoming TV commercials for Lexington, KY’s upcoming Scare Fest! . Always willing to pose for pictures with eager fans at horror conventions, Wickedbeard drops in to tell us about his costume work and much more!

TONY C: What would you say is your favorite Friday the 13th film?

WICKEDBEARD: I love ‘em all, but Part 8,” Jason Takes Manhatten,” has always been my favorite. Sorry, to all the part 8 haters, but for some reason this version of Jason has always been my top pick.

TC: Which costume have you made do you consider to be your favorite?

Wicked Beard poses with Benevolent Street's Michael "Avenger" Portman and I at Scare Fest 2008

WB: My favorite costume has got to be my part 7, “New Blood” suit.It has been a labor of love for quite some time, and has become quite famous.

TC: Your costumes are the most elaborate that I have ever seen. You obvious put a lot of time into piecing them together. Which costume have you put together that you have found to be the most challenging?

WB: The most challenging costume would have to be my über suit (from “Jason X”), which is still in progress.This suit is going to be my crowning achievement when it is finally completed.

TC: What type of places (stores, online merchants etc) do you hit up for materials and parts for your costumes?

WB: Oh my! Lots of places! Most of my clothing is from my local thrift shop, but I have purchased items off e-bay and online clothing stores. I do metal work so a lot of the metal parts I wear, I make myself. Sometimes my shopping cart can look a little unusual.lol

As far as my undermasks and some of my hockey masks, I have to give special thanks to Crash Cunningham, Paul from Darkside, Bob from MMFX, Erich Lubatti, Deadguy for my awesome machete, Steve Bellamy, Rahl(he is repsonsible for the VS coat), Kornbredd, Jeremy Bohr, Ken Tarallo, Bob at fiberglassmasks.com, ELS studios, and lastly, Shawn from Twisted Visions.
These creative individuals have played a huge role in my transformation.

TC: You are becoming somewhat of a staple on the convention circuit, appearing at numerous conventions in costume. What can you recall about your very first horror convention? (when and where) Did you go in costume? If so, what did you wear?

Wickedbeard and Derek Mears at Horrorhound 08

WB: My first convention, in costume, was Horrorhound 2008. I wore my very first remake suit, and my part 8 suit. The remake I wore was very crude as there were only a couple reference images to go by and I think I was the first to actually do one, as well. Derek was impressed with it, though, and that made my day.

TC: How many different horror conventions have you appeared at in costume?

WB: I have actually only worked 3 conventions in costume.Twice for Horrorhound, and also for last years Scarefest. I am working this years Scarefest as well as the Horrorhound show, in november.

TC: Which conventions do you do your best (or would like to) to drop in on every year?

WB: I am involved with Scarefest and Horrorhound every year now.These shows are my priority, but would love to eventually be a part of the Frightnight Filmfest, and Monster Mania, in the future.

TC: As a fan yourself, what do you think draws fans to these type of events?

WB: The excitement of the shows, and my love of horror is enough for me to be there, but i think the right choice of celebs,and vendors is key for most folks. Proper advertising is also a big factor. Jeff at Scarefest and Aaron at Horrorhound really know how to draw a crowd with their awesome promotions, and it is always a pleasure working with them.

TC: Attending a convention in a decent costume can draw a lot of fans to ask for photographs with you. I even had a few hit me up last year and thought it was awesome! Do you enjoy taking pictures with the fans? How does it feel to get asked to pose for pictures with people at conventions as much as the horror guests themselves?

Posing with a young fan at Horror Hound 2009

 

WB: I absolutley love posing for fan pics. After all, they are the reason the show goes on. They deserve a wonderful experience while they are visiting, and I try to give it to ‘em. I actually get more attention than even some of the celebs, and believe me…that is an awesome feeling!!!

Looking into a mirror? Wickedbeard vs. Kane Hodder!

 

I have also gotten to know some of the actors very well, especially Derek Mears, and Kane hodder, and…to be friends with your all time favorite horror icon is amazing.
I truly have been living my dream!!

TC: I remember being close by at Scare Fest 2008 when Betsy Palmer was going in and out of character when you approached her table in costume. It was a wild moment! How have many of the horror celebrities themselves reacted to your costume? Any other cool stories about meeting horror celebs in full attire?

My special boy!

WB: Betsy was a sweetheart.I enjoyed meeting her very much, and our photo together has become a very popular pic. Adrienne King was also a joy to talk to, and pose with.
Almost every celeb has praised my costumes, especially Derek. He knows it’s me almost immediately.

Wickedbeard, His girlfriend Angela, and Derek Mears - Horrorhound 2009

When he saw me at the last Horrorhound,he yelled “Hey, it’s Wickedbeard!” That was just the coolest, that he remembered me.

 

Another great meeting, was with Chip Coffey.   He was truly frightened to even talk to me at first, but after he warmed up to the costume, he was pulling me by the chain, around my neck, through the convention hall. lol
I gotta say though, out of everyone…meeting Kane Hodder was a dream come true for me. He has always been my favorite Jason.
There have been a ton of good times, and hopefully many many more to come.

TC: Though you are probably most known for your amazing Friday the 13th costumes, tell everyone about other costumes you have put together. What is your favorite costume outside of Friday the 13th that you have put together?

WB: Well , there are only 2 others that come close to the quality of my jason suits, and those are my Predator, and Vader suits.

TC: You seem to have a supportive group of people around you being as though many of them pose as victims when you take pictures to show off your work. How do your family and friends react to your talents as a costume maker? Do the people around you often ask for your help come Halloween time?

WB: I have a close knit crew, which consists of: my girlfriend Angie,my buddy Mike, and his wife Allison. Without them, I would not be where I am. If I have a show to attend, they go with me, simple as that. We are a package deal.
My family could not be more proud. They are not really horror nuts but they love what I do and are extremely supportive.
I get asked for tips and suggestions on costumes all the time, and I am always happy to help out, if I can.

TC: You have really began to grow into more than a convention attendee. You are flat out participating! Earlier this month, you were on the set of the Scare Fest commercial shoot! What was that experience like and what is it like to be INVOLVED as opposed to simply attending?

On the set of the 2009 Scare Fest commercials

WB: At this point, I no longer just want to be an attendee. I am at a level, now, where I think I have earned a spot at these shows, and I work very hard to give them an outstanding performance. I am always willing to do what I can to help promote the shows and bring more people through the doors.

Hopefully, one day, my pic will be in one of those little guest boxes.
And, as for the Scarefest commercial shoot; It was Amazing!!!! I loved every minute of it, and hope to do more in the future.It was an awesome experience!!
It was quite an honor to have been asked to participate, and I sincerely thank Jeff for including me in this endeavor.

TC: As both a fan, and even a participant of the convention circuit tell those thinking about attending, what makes Scare Fest a convention worth attending?
WB: Great celebs, great layout, lots of walking room, great vendors, and lots of really cool events. It is just a weekend filled with fun and awesome activities!!
What sets this show apart from the rest is the combination of the paranormal and horror. They do go hand in hand, and it is nice to have such diversity.

Jeff and Patti go above and beyond to put on one hell of a show for all fans of horror and the paranormal.

TC: You have a lot of fans of your work and are a very approachable person when attending these conventions. What would you like to say to those who are constantly looking to see what you will do next as well as those who will probably be keeping an eye out for a photo op at the conventions you drop in on?

Posing with a fan at Scare Fest 2008

WB: I am on all the popular horror forums, so if you wanna keep up with what is in store come visit, Frightforum, Nightowl, and Horrorbid forums. I am always posting new and improved costume pics on these boards. They are a great place to hang your hat and meet a ton of great people!!!!
You can also drop by my page at myspace at.. www.myspace.com/wickedbeard.

Thanks so much for the interview, Tony. I look forward to seeing you at the next show!
And a huge Thanks to all my wonderful friends and fans!!!!
Jeff
(Wickedbeard)

To see more of Wickedbeard’s awesome costumes, be sure to check out his myspace page! Be sure to get your Scare Fest tickets now! The Scare Fest takes place in Lexington, Kentucky at the Lexington Center!

For complete coverage of The Scare Fest, check out Benevolent Street!

This time, I decided to try to think even further outside the box and do a custom of Friday the 13th FX legend Tom Savini. Granted, Savini has been made into figure form before as part of the “Now Playing” line by Sota from the “Land of the Dead” film. The Tom that I made is in the form of his appearance on the recent documentary “His Name Was Jason”.  That said, check out the gallery below, which also features pics of my custom Roy figures.

Have you ever made a custom Friday the 13th action figure? If so, let’s see it ! Comment below with a link to your custom creations!

CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE

It’s been nearly one year since the 2008 Scare Fest became the sleeper hit of the 2008 Horror convention circuit with their highly publicized Friday the 13th cast reunion. In it’s first year, this convention managed to spark the attention of Paramount pictures, get featured on TWO DVD’s and was tagged as the number two paranormal convention in all of the country. With added attention becomes high expectations, and with high expectations comes increased ticket sales. Yet these are the things that make those involved in making the upcoming 2009 Scare Fest tick. Due to the popularity and success of the 2008 event, it only made sense for the sequel to be bigger and better. From everything from giving a larger lineup of horror stars, adding on special events and increasing the overall size of the convention space, the people involved in putting together this extremely fan friendly convention have worked very hard on jumping over the bar set by the 2008 event. With one month to go, Co-creator and Event manager Jeff Waldridge dropped by to give fans a little peak at how it all came together, and what they can expect when they come out for the 2009 Scare Fest: Horror & Paranormal Convention. Grab your machete’s and hocks because Scare Fest (September 11-13) is about to bring Crystal Lake AND MORE to Lexington, KY once again!

Tony C: Being nearly one year removed from the first Scare Fest, how high would you say the bar has been set considering that it’s safe to say that in it’s very first year, The Scare Fest was a great success?

JEFF WALDRIDGE: The bar was set very very high, Seeing as we had the success of a convention that has been running for like 3 or 4 years now. I have to strive to make the show even bigger and better. I believe I have done that. I have spent alot of long nights just thinking about stuff. How could this be better? What would happen if we did this? I think it will deliver. The Fans will have so many options on things to do that they will have a good time.

TC: After the learning process of putting together this convention previously, what have you learned and what have you done differently this time around?

JW: I have a secret formula I use when putting it together. I am a promoter first off. I worked in the Pro Wrestling Industry for 10 years and I know alot of tricks. I have the ability to look at it from a fans point of view. I always did the same when wrestling in thinking about what would I pay to see or what would excite me. I don’t stress about competing. I only want to put on a good show for the fan.

TC: This year, it seems that the advertising has been amped up. What all has been done to make sure you are reaching out to a wider group of fans in terms of advertisment and getting the word out?

JW: We shot 3 commercials that will air in the local market and on the internet. We went all out! We are using the top production company in Lexington and they were shot in HD. We are going to use posters like last year and we have put together an awesome street team. So far we have handed out almost 20,000 postcards! We have a big radio campaign lined up as well.
We have already sold twice the amount of tickets that we sold last year at this time and our main advertisements have not even went out!

TC: The Scare Fest offers up many ticket packages/special promotions. For those who aren’t yet aware, what type of ticket options are available?

JW: Platinum pass: 490.00 which includes 2 golden tickets, 2 t Shirts, and a hotel room for 2 nights it is very very limited at this point

Golden pass: 95.00 which includes VIP access to all 3 days of the event and a t shirt they are almost sold out and will sell out

Weekend pass: 45.00

Friday pass: 15.00

Saturday pass: 20.00

Sunday pass: 15.00

TC: You guys definitely stick to your “No fan will be turned away” when it comes to ticket purchases, meaning that the event cannot and will not sell out, and all are welcome. With the addition of more Gold and Platinum tickets this late in the game, is it safe to say that expectations have already been exceeded?

JW: Yes! They have been blown away and people say we’re in a recession the economy is bad. We have not seen any evidence that the economy is bad from the fans! They are starving for this event. I am so happy because I was super super nervous when we started selling the 490.00 tickets, but people are buying them very fast and they are almost sold out. The Golden are nearly gone too so get yours while they last. We will not extend the numbers any further.

Plus, just to be nice to the fans we will not raise ticket prices at the door. We want you to spend your money inside and not at the door. But I stress get any ticket in advance the presale line will move quicker.

TC: On Friday, September 11, anyone involved in fire fighting/rescue squad who wishes to attend the event can gain access for free if they come in uniform or submit an ID. Tell everyone more about this special promotion and how it came to be.

JW: We decided since September 11th falls during our event that we would do something nice to pay back the people that really bust their asses and put their lives on the line for us. So all Fire, EMS, Law Enforcement (including corrections officers, and active military) get in free! I included corrections officers because they always get left out and they have a rough job. Will we lose money by doing this promotion? NO! These people pay for the price of this ticket everyday they put on the uniform they wear.

TC: The 2008 Scare Fest featured a Friday the 13th reunion that was featured heavily on the Friday the 13th Uncut DVD and Blu Ray and a direct look at The Scare Fest on the Friday the 13th part 2 DVD and Blu Ray. Both of which received a positive response. Has this exposure helped get the word out about the event?

JW: I really truly owe a huge huge “Thank you” to Paramount for this! They put us in a whole different category. Do you know how many times I have watched myself on that DVD!? LOL!

TC: This years horror line up is rather extensive. Is it true that some guests actually caught wind of the event and how well it went last year and contacted YOU about potential bookings as opposed to the opposite?

JW: Yes! I was contacted personally by almost all of the guests with the exception of about 3 or 4! Its weird because I would be lying around and I would get a call and on the other end was a horror icon I have watched a million times! They would say “I don’t know if you have seen my films but I am so and so.” LOL!!! I knew every one of them and have watched their films but I don’t get star struck at all.

TC: Given this exposure, did it make it a no brainer to give the passionate Friday the 13th fanbase something to look forward to with the booking of three previous Jason’s? (Kane Hodder, CJ Graham, Warrington Gillette)

JW: It WAS a no brainer and the Jason’s contacted US about coming! They always say if you build it they will come. LOL!. Well they came! I am glad my pal Kane Hodder will be returning as well. I am a little partial to him as Jason

TC: Though it was said early on that you would prefer to book an entirely new lineup for 2009 (meaning all new guests) to give horror fans a chance to meet a new crop of their favorite stars (and smartly so), as mentioned above, Kane Hodder was signed on to make a return to the convention. Was this a “back by popular” demand type of situation? Kane was easily the most requested “return guest.”

JW: Yes he was requested and Kane was passionate about coming. He is an awesome guy and people can’t wait to see him. He was brought in by one of our sponsors Screampark. I will always be Loyal to the first years lineup. They helped me make this a hit. Its sad I could not have more of them back but I had to be a smart businessman.

TC: Many new events are scheduled for the 2009 event that fans were not treated to last year. What can you tell potential convention attendees about these new events and as a horror/paranormal convention fan yourself, which of these events are you looking most forward to?

JW: We have the Boo and Brew pub crawl which will let people indulge in a different type of spirit for a discounted price.

We have the costume ball which will be a wild atmosphere and my sick ass mind is coming up with the decor for it.

We also have a help/info booth this year where you can ask questions, get a dealer map, a program, a city map, or any other info you may need.

We have changed the layout a little for the good.

I myself am looking forward to it all. If I was a fan that did not have full access I would for sure be buying a ticket. I love conventions! You guys will see me being a fan on sunday when the battle is almost won.

TC: One of the best things The Scare Fest seems to do is start the booking process early on. Exactly how early did that process start once the doors closed on the 2008 event?

JW: Yep! As soon as the doors were shut! I literally laid on the couch for 2 days resting and then I started on the guest list and alot of the stars just fell in my lap. I use an “if it feels right I do it” approach. Like I said I have a formula I use but its secret.

TC: The Scare Fest will featured many discussion panels featuring guests from both the horror and paranormal fields. What discussions are planned at this time?

JW: We have the usual. I do know Ken Foree will do a Q and A. We have one planned for the folks that were in Halloween. We are in the middle of planning a Jason panel or a “men behind the mask” panel. Robert Kurtzman will also be speaking.

TC: Which guest seems to be the biggest surprise (unexpected) for those planning on attending the event?

JW: Robert Kurtzman, He is the co founder of KNB EFX Group, he is the director of Wishmaster, And he wrote the story for Dusk Till Dawn. Thats not even counting the FX work he has done.

TC: Kurtzman actually picked up multiple booths for The Scare Fest! This sounds exciting! Do you know what Kurtzman has in store with these booths?

JW: He is going to have 4 booths that a 40X40 space that he will have props from his films and all kinds of things setup! He will be promoting Robert Kurtzman’s Creature Corps and Precinct 13 Entertainment.

TC: One of the more fun aspects of horror conventions are special screenings. What’s in store for horror fans this time around?

JW: We got the showing of Dark Night of the Scarecrow! I love this film! We have all kinds of other fine indy films. Check out our webpage. We also have the midnight 35mm film print showings at the Historic Kentucky theater (Texas Chainsaw Massacre) and one of them involves a very angry guy named Jason! (Friday the 13th part VII: The New Blood with special introduction by Kane Hodder himself!)

TC: What kinds of special events and surprises can fans of the paranormal look forward to? Who are some of the guests involved in this field?
JW: We have Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventure crew, Chip Coffey, Shannon Sylvia (Ghost Hunters), Carmen Reed (the real lady from The Haunting in Connecticut), John Zaffis Demonologist, Michelle Belanger occult expert and psychic vampire.

TC: Vendors play an intricate role when it comes to conventions. What can fans expect when it comes to picking up some new horror merchandise at Scare Fest?
JW: We will have around 128 vendor spaces and they will be able to get everything from Tshirts to dolls to masks to anything else. We even have some tattoo artists where they can get something that will last forever!

TC: As quickly as you guys like to start the booking process, is it safe to assume that ideas for 2010 are already swirling through your heads? If so, who would you like to target?

JW: I already have huge ideas for 2010. It will center around a certain genre of horror and the fans will love it! Thats all I will say.

TC: With the 2010 Equestrian Games coming into Lexington, KY in 2010, there lies the potential that the dates may have to change a bit next year. Any word on that at this time?

JW: The dates will change a little but it will be within a weekend or two of the dates we always use. There will be alot of people already in Lexington when we have our event and that will help, but I stress to people as soon as the dates are confirmed and announced book your rooms or you may have a hard time getting one!

TC: Last but not least, if they still are not convinced, tell everyone in the area, or those willing to travel to the area, why THEY should attend the 2009 Scare Fest in Lexington, Kentucky.

JW: If you miss Scarefest you will have to sit around and listen to your friends talk about it until 2010. We only have 1 per year so make sure to come. It is the place to be! FYI we have had several people of extreme importance inquire about tickets. Thats all I will say. Don’t miss it. I promise it will be one of the most fan friendly events you will attend!!

BE SURE TO GET YOUR TICKETS BY CLICKING HERE!! ALSO BE SURE TO ADD THE OFFICIAL SCARE FEST MYSPACE PAGE TO YOUR FRIENDS LIST! ALSO CHECK OUT http://www.benevolentstreet.com/?cat=17 for more EXTENSIVE Scare Fest 2009 coverage!

Friday the 13th fans who are in the area for the 2009 Scare Fest next month in Lexington, KY (Sept 11-13) are in for a very special treat. Screening at midnight on the late Saturday/Early Sunday leg of the event at the historic Kentucky Theater (a stones throw away from the event) will be Friday the 13th part VII: The New Blood! Not only will the fans get to see a 35 mm film print of the film, the movie will be introduced by none other than Kane Hodder who will be appearing at the Scare Fest for the second year in a row! How cool is that!? Also playing at the Kentucky Theater on the weekend of the event (late Friday/Early Saturday at midnight) will be a 35 mm print of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

If you are in, or can be in the Lexington, Kentucky area on September 11-13 then there’s just no reason not to be there. Get your tickets HERE! Come back tomorrow for an all new interview with Scare Fest event manager Jeff Waldridge to find out about what other Friday the 13th related goodies fans can expect at The Scare Fest!

That seems to be the word coming out of Comic Con.  With the horror collecting community now buzzing, what does this mean for the amazing Cinema of Fear line, featuring horror icons from the New Line House of Horrors, from Mezco?  What does NECA have in store? Can they live up to the highly popular Cinema of Fear series? Stay tuned. More on this coming soon.

 UPDATE: I know some readers prefer video reviews. So here it is in video form as well! Enjoy 

It’s been a while since Cinema of Fear series 3 hit the market and brought Jason fans a great figure sized version of Jason from Jason Goes to Hell. It was shortly after that release, we were given early pics of series 4 Jason that left collectors drooling at the thought of owning Jason in his Friday the 13th 3D guise. To tide us over, we were presented with a Cinema of Fear figure in February that wasn’t part of a larger series. This was to coincide with the release of the Friday the 13th relaunch film.  As great as it was, fans were still eager to get their hands on Jason 3.

The wait ends this month as Cinema of Fear series 4 has hit store shelves and online dealers nationwide (Surprisingly this time at Toys R us!)

Mezco has done another amazing  job with Jason Voorhees.  The packaging this time around is a noticeably different.  It’s smaller and not as well protected as previous series (which came completely covered in plastic). Though the figure looks great MOC, it’s how it looks out of the package that really makes this entry into the Cinema of Fear a must have!

The details on the 7 inch figure are just amazing. The paint application is spot on. Jason stands with his back arched just like in the film. He comes packaged with his trademark machete, an axe, the severed arm of biker gang leader Ali, as well as an alternate head with the axe chop from the finale of the film.

The mask on the primary head is removable, revealing a super ugly Jason. The sculpt is just a tad off in the nose, but for a 7 inch figure, it contains a striking resemblance to the look in the film. The axe chopped mask on the alternate head does not come off, however, the axe packaged with Jason fits into the wound perfectly.

Jason is articulated in the usual places. The shoulders contain a little maneuverability, and the shoulders twist in order to obtain various poses. The legs are stationary and posed in a motion that allows the figure to stand without trouble. The neck is ball jointed and allows a full range of motion and the waist is also ball jointed. The hands bend and twist at the wrist.

This may very well be the best of the Cinema of Fear figures to date. Mezco continues to do a great job and bringing us versions of Jason that other companies have failed to even try. If you have yet to get your hands on series 4 Jason, be sure to grab one now at Mezco’s official site or even Toys R Us! Cinema of Fear series 4 also features Dr. Freddy and Debbie Stevens (Roach Girl) from “A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master

Be sure to check out our massive gallery of pics of Cinema of Fear series 4 Jason complete with detailed pics as well as comparison/display pics of other Jason figures in my collection.

CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE

A lot of you are surely familiar with the 1990’s series entitled the “Camp Crystal Lake” novels by Eric Morse (William Pattison). Though they did not feature Jason himself, they did manage to maintain the mood and tone of the original Friday the 13th series.

Many months ago I got the chance to interview Pattison (read that interview HERE) and now he’s taking the time to interview me on his online radio show “The Eric Morse Show”. Be sure to check it out tomorrow night (6/27) at 11 PM Eastern/ 8 PM Pacific where we’ll be talking about horror films, benevolentstreet.com, and I have no doubt that this awesome place and a certain hockey masked icon will be brought up.

To listen in live, go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/The_Eric_Morse_Show

If you have picked up Paramounts recent DVD/Blu Ray releases of Friday the 13th uncut as well as Friday the 13th part 2: Deluxe Edition, then you are familiar with the Scare Fest horror convention that took place in September of 2008 in downtown Lexington, KY.

Friday the 13th uncut contains the cast Q & A session filmed at the event, and part 2 contains the “Horror Conventions” features that revolved around the convention.

Other than the Friday the 13th part 1 cast reunion, the 2008 Scare Fest also featured the most popular man to ever don the hockey mask in Kane Hodder. Today, it was officially announced that, due to popular demand, Kane Hodder will be returning to the 2009 Scare Fest Horror & Paranormal Convention! Kane joins two other Friday the 13th alumni in Warrington Gillette (part 2) and CJ Graham (Part 6). Also appearing at the convention will be Doug Bradley (Hellraiser), Gunnar Hansen (Texas Chainsaw Massacre), Dee Wallace (Cujo, The Howling, The Hills Have Eyes), Danielle Harris (Halloween 4, 5, remake), Ken Foree (Dawn of the Dead), Leslie Easterbrook (The Devils Rejects), Priscilla Barnes (The Devils Rejects), Brian Libby (Silent Rage), and James Hampton (Teen Wolf) with even more soon to be added!  You will also have the chance to meet many guests involved in the paranormal field!

In other Friday the 13th/Scare Fest news, I’ll also be on hand with a few Friday the 13th goodies to give away!

Be sure to check out The official Scare Fest site or benevolentstreet.com to stay up to speed on this convention.

The Scare Fest takes place on September 11-13 in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. If you are in the area, or simply willing to travel to the area (discounted hotel rooms are available), be sure to get your tickets now by clicking HERE!

Mez Its are a line of figures by Mezco that feature various movie characters in an exaggerated cartoony state. Big heads, short limbs, and a very animated look, the Mez-its typically come in much smaller 2-3 inch form. Diving into the 6 inch market, thanks in part to the popularity of lines such as “Mighty Muggs” from Hasbro, Mez-its are due to get a size increase in the coming months.

What does this have to do with Roy Burns, myself, and Comic Con? And…what is a Mez-its art show? Mezco has decided to do something rather interesting this year at Comic Con. They have invited 60 artists with the chance to participate in their Mez-its art show. 60 people were presented a completely blank 6 inch acrylic Mez-its action figure to customize in any way they wanted (with few guidelines). Customizers were instructed to mold, add onto, or modify the Mez-it in any way they chose to do so.  The 60 custom Mez-its will be displayed at San Diego Comic Con next month, and then once again at the New York event! Having longed for the day when Roy Burns, the (highly underrated) Jason imposter from Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, could be perched upon my shelf, I decided that Roy would be taking his rightful place in a display at Comic Con! So without further ado, I present to you a gallery of pics ranging from me actually working on the figure, to my final creation; The Roy Burns 6 inch Mez-it!

Click pics to enlarge

NOTE: If any of you happen to be attending San Diego Comic Con next month, and you happen to get a pic of the Mez-its art show display, be sure to take pictures and send them my way at tony@benevolentstreet.com! Thanks!

Most of those involved in the horror memorabilia collecting community are at least familiar with the Living Dead Dolls. The Living Dead Dolls rank among the most creative and unique pieces that fill the shelves of horror fans. In recent months, the Living Dead Dolls spilled over into the horror film community thanks to the relationship with Mezco Toyz. That relationship enabled many of our favorite horror icons such as, Leatherface, soon to be Michael Myers, and our very own Jason Voorhees to be made into “cute but deadly” form.

Jason made a previous appearance in this series in the guise of “Part 3″ Jason. It was only fitting that Jason appear once again as a Living Dead Doll, this time in the form of the 2009 Platinum Dunes remake Jason.

Once again, the attention to detail on this incarnation of Jason is just amazing. The clothes are stitched very well and closely resemble the attire worn by Jason in the film, all the while maintaining the “cuteness” that a Living Dead Doll should maintain. The clothing appears torn and tattered as it should, as well as weathered and worn.

The parts of the figure that are painted are nicely done as always. The babyish version of the mask is the same sculpt as featured on the previous LLD, but the paint job matches that of the film very well! The boots are blood stained and the skin tone is a much darker and dirtier look than the previous Jason.

Jason also contains rooted hair which is placed very well. The mask is removable, though it’s not recommended being as though it is actually glued into place. If your curiosity is getting the best of you as to what Jason looks like under the mask, look no further than the previous Living Dead Doll, as it’s the exact same sculpt.

If you’re a fan of Jason, or a fan of Living Dead Dolls in general, be sure to pick this up. It’s about the closest Jason will ever come to being…cute.

For more information on Living Dead Dolls, be sure to check out http://www.mezcotoyz.com as well as http://www.livingdeaddolls.com

 CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE

The bust stands at a nice 8 inches tall and features a very good likeness. An added perk to picking this up at the event would have to be that CJ Graham himself will be in attendance and will be signing the busts absolutely free. CJ will stopping by the booth throughout the day. Times will be posted. Action Figure Xpress will be in booth #4045. The Jason Lives busts will be priced at $60.

For more information on Action Figure Xpress check out http://www.shopafx.com, http://www.afxblog.com or follow them on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/shopafx

As for Gentle Giant, check them out at http://www.gentlegiantstudios.com