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Pressbooks (Horror, Sci Fi, Fantasy)

The Dunwich Horror (1970) Pressbook

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If only the movie was as exciting as this pressbook layout. Good and alien evil battle in this story from H.P. Lovecraft, which is higly unusual because HPL ignored such dynamics in his other work. The Cthulhu Mythos is all about us against them and they're winning, with no cavalry on the way.

You won't see terms like "half-witted girl" used in mainstream movie poster art anymore, although its use here, with the lurid graphic, solidifies the presence of an unclean, deviant evil.

dunwich horror pressbook

dunwich horror pressbook

dunwich horror pressbook

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Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972) Pressbook

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"Women's Lib Controversy Stunt — The character of Vulnavia…is an ideal example of female servitude as she plays background music to Dr. Phibes nasty machinations; pops grapes in his mouth and provides gorgeous feminine comfort in complete silence to the master criminal. Have pretty girls picket your theatre with signs stating "Dr. Phibes is a chauvinist male monster…""

–from the Exploitation section of the Dr. Phibes Rises Again pressbook.

dr phibes rises again pressbook

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Gremlins (1984) Pressbook

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Gremlins is a good example of how cute monsters can tie into merchandising the “horror” experience. This British pressbook for the movie is chock full of product tie-ins. The merchandising page (click image to enlarge) mentions items including soft drink concentrates, backpacks, tote bags, t-shirts, jigsaw puzzles, stickers, toys, and more. Who could resist a little Gizmo doll in his little car? Of course, true horror fans prefer Stripe.

 

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Son of Dracula (1943) Pressbook

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Another sumptuous pressbook (campaign manual) from Universal Studios,  Son of Dracula (1943). While I will agree that Lon Chaney’s physique is the least beneficial asset to his portrayal of Count Alucard, the movie’s atmosphere and effectively applied special effects create a uniquely intimate Gothic-noir.

Comic reader version:  Download Son of Dracula Pressbook

Son of Dracula Pressbook 01

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