INTERVIEWS BY TAMMY VREELAND
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MICHAEL BERRYMAN
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Interview with Michael Berryman
By: Tammy Vreeland
As I have mentioned in several of my previous interviews, attending a con (a convention with a theme in which we, the patrons, get a glimpse of stars we know and love) can be such an amazing moment in time!
There’s the anticipation as you wait in line beside people who add to your nervous excitement while waiting for their own turn. Then you have the intense focus of your attention to absorb as much as you can from the other’s interactions with the star you love, ahead of you!
Before you know it, it’s your turn to bask in this soft shine from the star you came to see in daylight! But what will you do with your brief time?
As you approach the table and the euphoria overcomes you, your mind races as you try to figure out what to say or ask that hasn’t already been said or asked before!
You desperately want this star to see you and shine down on you and only you! A moment in time you will always treasure. A story to brag about to your friends and family later.
However, sometimes we may forget this brilliant star in front of us, as talented as they are, is human too. Have friends and families of their own. And yes, they have had their own trials and tribulations.
I have always been a firm believer that a movie or TV show does not define an actor. Even though we may try to identify with their character in our own lives, is it not what the actor has brought with them that actually attributes to their character?
Personally, I love to spend my precious moments with these stars, trying to get a glimpse of their essence. Not so much the stories they were casted in but what makes them shine so brilliantly as a person?
This next interview I have for you, which is such an honor for me to be given this opportunity, lets you see a glimpse of his essence. And let me tell you, the shine that he bestows on you will never dim or fade! His smile is beautiful and contagious. It’s as if he charges the shine we all have inside us!
Let me introduce you to Mr. Michael Berryman. You will know him from his roles in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Hills Have Eyes, Star Trek, and The X-Files, to name a few.
At the latest NJ Horror Con in AC, I was determined to meet Mr. Berryman! I had the very same nervous anticipation as others around me. My turn came, and as I looked down on his table and saw all these wonderful headshots from the movies and TV shows I grew up with, the one thing that drew my attention the most... was a single hardback book entitled "It’s All Good!".
I knew then exactly how I wanted to spend my precious moments with him! Little did I know, that book would reveal more about him than I could have ever dared hope for!
Let's let him give you a glimpse of his new book, “It’s All Good!”.
Tammy - Thank you, Michael, for giving our readers a chance to know more about you! We have so much to cover! Speaking of cover, let’s talk about the cover of your book "It’s All Good”.
I have to say, it intrigued me right from the beginning! Can you tell us about the cover and why you chose it?
Michael - At first I had plan on doing a head shot but I wasn’t really happy with that idea. I started going through family photos I had inherited and I came across this photo of my sister, my father and myself. Knowing how I wanted to portray my story, seen through the eyes of this small boy, it fit.
Tammy - I think it’s perfect! You can just feel the love it emits. Your father is so handsome, strong, and protective. While your sister and you look so happy and loved. A picture that so many of us may have of our own.
Already we feel ourselves identifying with you, but this time not as a character in a movie or TV show. But as a sweet, innocent child with a full life ahead of them!
I opened your book, and your very first sentence is (and I quote) "As a story has a beginning, so do our lives." I love that! A perfect way to lead in to telling your story!
But before we get into your story, I’m curious: did you write this book yourself?
Michael: Every word! When I had to dance the dance with the literary agent and co-writer it got to a point where it was obvious to me they were going to change the narrative. They were going to change the feel and perspective of the young boy’s life. They wanted a movie star story.
After going back and forth over a year I said no. I am taking full control over it. I wrote every word myself.
Tammy: I am so impressed that you did! Too often, stars have ghostwriters write their books, and though they still may be interesting, having a star write their own book lets us actually see it through their own eyes!
Michael: That is correct. That is exactly the way I describe in the beginning. I invite you into the young boy’s mind. I want you to be comfortable in a theater chair inside his head, experiencing through his eyes, so you get the emotional context, not content - context.
Tammy - And its raw.
Michael - Very raw.
Tammy - Let’s talk about the beginning of your life.
Michael: My father was at ground zero at Hiroshima. The reason he was there, was to see the affects radiation from nuclear weapons would have on people.
Ironically he found that out, in a bittersweet manner, by having a premature son with multiple birth defects. He soon realized my skull was fused, I would go blind and soon die.
My first grade classroom was having my skull reconstructed so I could survive.
Tammy: Ok, so you discussed the medical issues you had as a child in the very first chapter. You lay it all out for us to see. Heart wrenching! Not only as a person who is trying to wrap our minds around all that you went through but also as a parent.
And I think even more so because your parents were so hands on with your treatments. Your father there for you as a neurosurgeon, during your surgery! Your mother there as a nurse caring for you not only as a patient but as her own child!
Most parents come in after their child is all cleaned up and taken care of but they were there with you for all of the stages of these amazing medical procedures that allowed you to be with us today. I can’t even imagine their pain of seeing you going through all that you did!
I mean just look at this little boy on the cover, how could they not? That beautiful carefree smile. It just makes me want to scoop him up, protect him and give him the most I can and they did! Its obvious through your smile from then and now.
Michael: My mother had the emotional burden of giving birth to a premature child. My father, the idea during surgery, is my child going to live? They were wondering I’m sure, one how to proceed? Two, I know they were trying to deal with not just grief but responsibility.
Responsibility went beyond the family realm. Its axis painted a picture of a war. A horrible terrible war. My father brought home pictures of vaporized shadows that used to be humans. This touched him deeply, we had many conversations about that.
Tammy: And yet, the outlook you had as a child, through your eyes, is so uplifting, innocent and inspiring! My heart ached for you, but your tone was just as you titled the book, "It’s all good!”
I have to know, was there any time you were angry to why this happened to you?
Michael: I was never angry about my situation. I never felt that I was cheated. I never felt like I was being punished. I never felt resentment. Because I knew that there were people who also had syndromes that were challenging.
I mention Billy in the book. Billy had polio. I mention how I was angry not that he had polio but I was angry at the people who were ignorant, disrespectful, and mean. At a very, very early age I was repulsed at insitivity on purpose.
Things happen and you have to ask yourself are they doing this out of ignorance and what they have been taught or are they doing this out of spite and to cause harm?
Those ethics came with me at a very early age from my mother, my father, my nana Sophie and my Aunt Peggy. Compassion and walk a mile in their shoes became a precept and a theme for me.
Tammy: I admire that about you. Because you are able to be reasonable, forgiving and understanding to one’s actions. Your up-bringing is so commendable! For you to have the ability to question people’s motives before you assume …it’s just so admirable! I love that about you!
You proceed to tell us about your school life. We all know how hard childhood can be, even without adding medical hardships to it. But your school life was unlike the public school life I had grown up in.
Giving some of us even more glimpses of a life style we may not have known about. Unusual rewards, in forms of graphic cards for such a tender age, to physical punishments.
Did this school life, that was chosen for you, seem normal to you as a child since you had nothing to compare it to? Or did you sense or have an intuitiveness that it may be different from what other school environments were like?
Michael: I describe how I witnessed in the classroom and the nuns, striking children with wooden pointers. Graphic Holy cards in grammar school. I started seeing a sense of hypocrisy.
Tammy: I’m beginning to think you were advanced in intuitiveness as a child too, because it seems you were quick to sense things that were wrong.
This next subject was hard for me to read and, I’m sure, even harder for you to reveal. And yet you did. I am so proud of you for doing so, and I admire you for revealing something so personal to help and protect our children.
You call it "betrayal". And yet, I don’t think there is one word that exists that can encompass all that you endured. The fear, the unknown, being trapped by an upbringing of being respectful and yet knowing the situation was wrong.
Then to reveal the incident in hopes of trying to understand all those feelings only to be punished. And yet, you were forgiving and tried to understand the reason.
What would be your advice to parents when a child reveals to them such a traumatic event?
Michael: Honesty. Protection. Not retaliation. But take the person to the pulpit, so to speak. Its like watching someone being attacked and everyone is gawking and no one is intervening.
Those are the type of scenarios that I could never not engage in. I try to assist, to save others. That would be more important to me than trying to save myself.
I knew my lot in life would be forever different and I didn’t know how to protect or save myself I just knew that the humanity that is in all of us. Some of the things I learned in Catholicism stuck with me as bright gems of truth. But the Dogma is the evil entity.
Tammy: ‘The dogma is the evil entity’. You know, honestly (and I am showing my naivety here) I knew of the word dogma. Saw the movie Dogma, but when I read it in your book I really didn’t know or understand what that word truly meant.
So, I looked it up. I’m not lying and I’m not ashamed. I really wanted to know what it meant. And I’m glad I did because when you said that sentence to me, just now, you said it with such conviction. So much power and feeling went into that sentence from you!
Dogma’s definition is (for ones who may think they know but aren’t sure): a principal or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly (not able to be denied or disputed) true. Then, I instantly knew what you meant.
I can’t thank you enough for sharing. The innocence of childhood should be protected, at all costs and knowledge gives us the power to do so. Your resilience amazes me.
Not only were there major medical challenges for you to overcome.
There was an ideology that encompassed you and your family. A horrific war you grew up knowing about while most of us growing up, were sheltered from until much later in life for a brief moment in a history class!
Then to be thrown into theology, where you miraculously to this day can still find bright gems of truth from. All of this and you still have half a book left to go!
Without revealing too much more I wanted to talk about your adventures at the beach. The incredible things you experienced in the ocean. Your ability to see beauty in the nature around us.
Unfortunately, too many of us get caught up today with the economy, stress of mortgages, bills and ‘stuff’. And yet, I think we forget the age-old saying ‘the best things in life are free’.
Do you have some ideas on how people can see the beauty that you do?
Michael: Yes. You should be child like. Not childish. And child like to me is a description of almost a virgin mind experiencing something majestic for the first time. It has an affect on you.
The effect has an affect. By that I mean an appreciation of why does it make you feel the way you do. If it does not make you feel, its not a why but a question of how do you embrace this experience? You embrace the experience if the experience is not contrived.
And that is how nature is, nature is not contrived. We are part of nature. That being said its like a touch stone that we should always remember that we are a part of.
Spirit, body, mind and the physical body. They all work together but anytime I had doubts about behavior so to speak I would always reflect on nature and how they do things.
For instance, if there is a pack of animals and one of them is born different they don’t send them off to die. They are still part of the pack. There is no physical perfection in this life.
Tammy: I’m sorry, I have to say I feel childlike around you right now! I find you so very interesting! And your intellect, honestly, is challenging to me but refreshing. And I mean that in the highest complimentary form.
I truly feel I could be a sponge right now soaking this all up! I know that was a bit random and I apologize. However, I want our readers to realize these are your words you are speaking to me right now.
It didn’t take a staff of writers and several rewrites. I had the honor of having you speak to me here for thirty-six minutes and every minute was powerful, intelligent and raw and that is exactly how your book reads!
There are so many more things I would love to go over with you that is in the book but I’m a firm believer in not revealing spoilers. Even though we did reference items in your book, I believe it will merely wet our audience’s appetite to want to find out more about this precious little boy’s life.
Thank you so much for giving me a front row seat, it will be something I will always cherish!
I’m sure our readers are anxious to know where they can purchase this amazing book and get their own front row seats. Mind giving us the details?
Michael: It is on Amazon. Currently being processed into Barnes & Nobles and I hope to have an audio version of it out soon.
Thank you so much, Michael, for letting me do this interview. I know I am gushing but you truly are such an amazing, caring, talented and intelligent man! I know, your family were and are, so very proud of you - as all of us are!
I have read the book "It’s All Good" by Michael Berryman, and as I said at the beginning, I had no idea there was a book out there that satisfied my thirst to know more about this star I grew up with at the movies and on TV.
I was pleasantly surprised to be able to read it, knowing it was his own words, and to see his life through his eyes as he grew into the icon we all know and love.
I encourage all of you to pick it up, but know this: it will be hard to put down! It will tug at your heartstrings but inspire you in the same breath.
It gives you a new perspective on your own issues, and in the end, you realize, "It Is All Good!”
By: Tammy Vreeland
As I have mentioned in several of my previous interviews, attending a con (a convention with a theme in which we, the patrons, get a glimpse of stars we know and love) can be such an amazing moment in time!
There’s the anticipation as you wait in line beside people who add to your nervous excitement while waiting for their own turn. Then you have the intense focus of your attention to absorb as much as you can from the other’s interactions with the star you love, ahead of you!
Before you know it, it’s your turn to bask in this soft shine from the star you came to see in daylight! But what will you do with your brief time?
As you approach the table and the euphoria overcomes you, your mind races as you try to figure out what to say or ask that hasn’t already been said or asked before!
You desperately want this star to see you and shine down on you and only you! A moment in time you will always treasure. A story to brag about to your friends and family later.
However, sometimes we may forget this brilliant star in front of us, as talented as they are, is human too. Have friends and families of their own. And yes, they have had their own trials and tribulations.
I have always been a firm believer that a movie or TV show does not define an actor. Even though we may try to identify with their character in our own lives, is it not what the actor has brought with them that actually attributes to their character?
Personally, I love to spend my precious moments with these stars, trying to get a glimpse of their essence. Not so much the stories they were casted in but what makes them shine so brilliantly as a person?
This next interview I have for you, which is such an honor for me to be given this opportunity, lets you see a glimpse of his essence. And let me tell you, the shine that he bestows on you will never dim or fade! His smile is beautiful and contagious. It’s as if he charges the shine we all have inside us!
Let me introduce you to Mr. Michael Berryman. You will know him from his roles in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Hills Have Eyes, Star Trek, and The X-Files, to name a few.
At the latest NJ Horror Con in AC, I was determined to meet Mr. Berryman! I had the very same nervous anticipation as others around me. My turn came, and as I looked down on his table and saw all these wonderful headshots from the movies and TV shows I grew up with, the one thing that drew my attention the most... was a single hardback book entitled "It’s All Good!".
I knew then exactly how I wanted to spend my precious moments with him! Little did I know, that book would reveal more about him than I could have ever dared hope for!
Let's let him give you a glimpse of his new book, “It’s All Good!”.
Tammy - Thank you, Michael, for giving our readers a chance to know more about you! We have so much to cover! Speaking of cover, let’s talk about the cover of your book "It’s All Good”.
I have to say, it intrigued me right from the beginning! Can you tell us about the cover and why you chose it?
Michael - At first I had plan on doing a head shot but I wasn’t really happy with that idea. I started going through family photos I had inherited and I came across this photo of my sister, my father and myself. Knowing how I wanted to portray my story, seen through the eyes of this small boy, it fit.
Tammy - I think it’s perfect! You can just feel the love it emits. Your father is so handsome, strong, and protective. While your sister and you look so happy and loved. A picture that so many of us may have of our own.
Already we feel ourselves identifying with you, but this time not as a character in a movie or TV show. But as a sweet, innocent child with a full life ahead of them!
I opened your book, and your very first sentence is (and I quote) "As a story has a beginning, so do our lives." I love that! A perfect way to lead in to telling your story!
But before we get into your story, I’m curious: did you write this book yourself?
Michael: Every word! When I had to dance the dance with the literary agent and co-writer it got to a point where it was obvious to me they were going to change the narrative. They were going to change the feel and perspective of the young boy’s life. They wanted a movie star story.
After going back and forth over a year I said no. I am taking full control over it. I wrote every word myself.
Tammy: I am so impressed that you did! Too often, stars have ghostwriters write their books, and though they still may be interesting, having a star write their own book lets us actually see it through their own eyes!
Michael: That is correct. That is exactly the way I describe in the beginning. I invite you into the young boy’s mind. I want you to be comfortable in a theater chair inside his head, experiencing through his eyes, so you get the emotional context, not content - context.
Tammy - And its raw.
Michael - Very raw.
Tammy - Let’s talk about the beginning of your life.
Michael: My father was at ground zero at Hiroshima. The reason he was there, was to see the affects radiation from nuclear weapons would have on people.
Ironically he found that out, in a bittersweet manner, by having a premature son with multiple birth defects. He soon realized my skull was fused, I would go blind and soon die.
My first grade classroom was having my skull reconstructed so I could survive.
Tammy: Ok, so you discussed the medical issues you had as a child in the very first chapter. You lay it all out for us to see. Heart wrenching! Not only as a person who is trying to wrap our minds around all that you went through but also as a parent.
And I think even more so because your parents were so hands on with your treatments. Your father there for you as a neurosurgeon, during your surgery! Your mother there as a nurse caring for you not only as a patient but as her own child!
Most parents come in after their child is all cleaned up and taken care of but they were there with you for all of the stages of these amazing medical procedures that allowed you to be with us today. I can’t even imagine their pain of seeing you going through all that you did!
I mean just look at this little boy on the cover, how could they not? That beautiful carefree smile. It just makes me want to scoop him up, protect him and give him the most I can and they did! Its obvious through your smile from then and now.
Michael: My mother had the emotional burden of giving birth to a premature child. My father, the idea during surgery, is my child going to live? They were wondering I’m sure, one how to proceed? Two, I know they were trying to deal with not just grief but responsibility.
Responsibility went beyond the family realm. Its axis painted a picture of a war. A horrible terrible war. My father brought home pictures of vaporized shadows that used to be humans. This touched him deeply, we had many conversations about that.
Tammy: And yet, the outlook you had as a child, through your eyes, is so uplifting, innocent and inspiring! My heart ached for you, but your tone was just as you titled the book, "It’s all good!”
I have to know, was there any time you were angry to why this happened to you?
Michael: I was never angry about my situation. I never felt that I was cheated. I never felt like I was being punished. I never felt resentment. Because I knew that there were people who also had syndromes that were challenging.
I mention Billy in the book. Billy had polio. I mention how I was angry not that he had polio but I was angry at the people who were ignorant, disrespectful, and mean. At a very, very early age I was repulsed at insitivity on purpose.
Things happen and you have to ask yourself are they doing this out of ignorance and what they have been taught or are they doing this out of spite and to cause harm?
Those ethics came with me at a very early age from my mother, my father, my nana Sophie and my Aunt Peggy. Compassion and walk a mile in their shoes became a precept and a theme for me.
Tammy: I admire that about you. Because you are able to be reasonable, forgiving and understanding to one’s actions. Your up-bringing is so commendable! For you to have the ability to question people’s motives before you assume …it’s just so admirable! I love that about you!
You proceed to tell us about your school life. We all know how hard childhood can be, even without adding medical hardships to it. But your school life was unlike the public school life I had grown up in.
Giving some of us even more glimpses of a life style we may not have known about. Unusual rewards, in forms of graphic cards for such a tender age, to physical punishments.
Did this school life, that was chosen for you, seem normal to you as a child since you had nothing to compare it to? Or did you sense or have an intuitiveness that it may be different from what other school environments were like?
Michael: I describe how I witnessed in the classroom and the nuns, striking children with wooden pointers. Graphic Holy cards in grammar school. I started seeing a sense of hypocrisy.
Tammy: I’m beginning to think you were advanced in intuitiveness as a child too, because it seems you were quick to sense things that were wrong.
This next subject was hard for me to read and, I’m sure, even harder for you to reveal. And yet you did. I am so proud of you for doing so, and I admire you for revealing something so personal to help and protect our children.
You call it "betrayal". And yet, I don’t think there is one word that exists that can encompass all that you endured. The fear, the unknown, being trapped by an upbringing of being respectful and yet knowing the situation was wrong.
Then to reveal the incident in hopes of trying to understand all those feelings only to be punished. And yet, you were forgiving and tried to understand the reason.
What would be your advice to parents when a child reveals to them such a traumatic event?
Michael: Honesty. Protection. Not retaliation. But take the person to the pulpit, so to speak. Its like watching someone being attacked and everyone is gawking and no one is intervening.
Those are the type of scenarios that I could never not engage in. I try to assist, to save others. That would be more important to me than trying to save myself.
I knew my lot in life would be forever different and I didn’t know how to protect or save myself I just knew that the humanity that is in all of us. Some of the things I learned in Catholicism stuck with me as bright gems of truth. But the Dogma is the evil entity.
Tammy: ‘The dogma is the evil entity’. You know, honestly (and I am showing my naivety here) I knew of the word dogma. Saw the movie Dogma, but when I read it in your book I really didn’t know or understand what that word truly meant.
So, I looked it up. I’m not lying and I’m not ashamed. I really wanted to know what it meant. And I’m glad I did because when you said that sentence to me, just now, you said it with such conviction. So much power and feeling went into that sentence from you!
Dogma’s definition is (for ones who may think they know but aren’t sure): a principal or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly (not able to be denied or disputed) true. Then, I instantly knew what you meant.
I can’t thank you enough for sharing. The innocence of childhood should be protected, at all costs and knowledge gives us the power to do so. Your resilience amazes me.
Not only were there major medical challenges for you to overcome.
There was an ideology that encompassed you and your family. A horrific war you grew up knowing about while most of us growing up, were sheltered from until much later in life for a brief moment in a history class!
Then to be thrown into theology, where you miraculously to this day can still find bright gems of truth from. All of this and you still have half a book left to go!
Without revealing too much more I wanted to talk about your adventures at the beach. The incredible things you experienced in the ocean. Your ability to see beauty in the nature around us.
Unfortunately, too many of us get caught up today with the economy, stress of mortgages, bills and ‘stuff’. And yet, I think we forget the age-old saying ‘the best things in life are free’.
Do you have some ideas on how people can see the beauty that you do?
Michael: Yes. You should be child like. Not childish. And child like to me is a description of almost a virgin mind experiencing something majestic for the first time. It has an affect on you.
The effect has an affect. By that I mean an appreciation of why does it make you feel the way you do. If it does not make you feel, its not a why but a question of how do you embrace this experience? You embrace the experience if the experience is not contrived.
And that is how nature is, nature is not contrived. We are part of nature. That being said its like a touch stone that we should always remember that we are a part of.
Spirit, body, mind and the physical body. They all work together but anytime I had doubts about behavior so to speak I would always reflect on nature and how they do things.
For instance, if there is a pack of animals and one of them is born different they don’t send them off to die. They are still part of the pack. There is no physical perfection in this life.
Tammy: I’m sorry, I have to say I feel childlike around you right now! I find you so very interesting! And your intellect, honestly, is challenging to me but refreshing. And I mean that in the highest complimentary form.
I truly feel I could be a sponge right now soaking this all up! I know that was a bit random and I apologize. However, I want our readers to realize these are your words you are speaking to me right now.
It didn’t take a staff of writers and several rewrites. I had the honor of having you speak to me here for thirty-six minutes and every minute was powerful, intelligent and raw and that is exactly how your book reads!
There are so many more things I would love to go over with you that is in the book but I’m a firm believer in not revealing spoilers. Even though we did reference items in your book, I believe it will merely wet our audience’s appetite to want to find out more about this precious little boy’s life.
Thank you so much for giving me a front row seat, it will be something I will always cherish!
I’m sure our readers are anxious to know where they can purchase this amazing book and get their own front row seats. Mind giving us the details?
Michael: It is on Amazon. Currently being processed into Barnes & Nobles and I hope to have an audio version of it out soon.
Thank you so much, Michael, for letting me do this interview. I know I am gushing but you truly are such an amazing, caring, talented and intelligent man! I know, your family were and are, so very proud of you - as all of us are!
I have read the book "It’s All Good" by Michael Berryman, and as I said at the beginning, I had no idea there was a book out there that satisfied my thirst to know more about this star I grew up with at the movies and on TV.
I was pleasantly surprised to be able to read it, knowing it was his own words, and to see his life through his eyes as he grew into the icon we all know and love.
I encourage all of you to pick it up, but know this: it will be hard to put down! It will tug at your heartstrings but inspire you in the same breath.
It gives you a new perspective on your own issues, and in the end, you realize, "It Is All Good!”
TONY MORAN
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Tony Moran
By: Tammy Vreeland
I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am to do this next interview! If you told me, while I was growing up, that one day not only would I get to meet the Michael Myers from Halloween but he would become a very close friend, I’d never believe you!
And yet, here I am with the man, the myth, the legend - Tony Moran! And believe me, in person he is still larger than life to me, as he was on the big screen!
Tony, my friend, what an honor!!! Thank you so much for doing this interview, especially for this most iconic month! Such a special “treat” for our readers!! Now the “trick” will be, what questions could I possibly ask you that you haven’t already been asked?
We first met at the PA Horror Con and then the New Jersey Horror Con. Honestly, you being the face of Michael Myers from Halloween was an enigma to me! The man who did not hide behind a mask. I could only wonder what would you be like in person?
As our friendship grew, I began to see that Tony Moran did not need a mask! That you are comfortable being yourself and have no problem being yourself around your fans!
Do you think your fans are surprised, when they first meet you, to how easy it is to talk to you?
Tony: YES! At first, they are very reserved. Then when they see I want to talk to them, they open up! It always amazes me because I’m a homie and these fans come up to my table and they are the loveliest people I’ve ever met and I just want to get to know them!
Tammy: Well, to be fair, I’m sure they don’t know what to expect? A fan going up to a Michael Myers’s table has a bit of fear of meeting such an iconic scary character! Whereas if they were going up to, let’s say, Peter Pan’s table, they may act differently?
I know being star struck for a fan can be a tough thing to overcome. First-hand experience here, sometimes I meet a star and my mind races thinking “omg, omg, look who I am talking to”! Then I’m sort of at a loss for words, hard to believe I know since I usually talk nonstop.
Is there a trick you use to get your fans to calm down, breathe and just enjoy the moment with you?
Tony: A lot of times, about 80 percent, fans come up thinking I’m going to take their money and they need to split. So, when I ask them their name, they automatically assume I want to know so I can put it on whatever they want me to sign.
Some of them will say no, that’s ok, I don’t need my name on the autograph. And I’m like no, I want to know your name! They will look at me weird, give it to me and then I say their name and “nice to meet you”.
I swear you can see an instant relaxation come over them! They realize I’m not rushing them through an assembly line. I really want to know their name! Once I know it, I get a connection with them. Then the time I get to spend with them becomes even more enjoyable for the both of us!
Tammy: Something so simple, yet so effective! The star they came to see took the time to ask them their name, not for an autograph, but to actually meet them! That is such a priceless moment you are giving them!
You probably never thought being part of that franchise would leave such a lasting mark. Some stars actually hate the idea of being tied to a franchise. However, you’ve seemed to have embraced your iconic role.
Does it surprise you the younger generations seem to enjoy the franchise as much as our generation?
Tony: It does! I see these young kids coming up and they are enamored with Michael Myers, it’s crazy! I’m not really sure why, but they love the franchise!
Tammy: I’ve often wondered about it myself. I love it when I see parents with their kids at the con! You can almost see the parents reliving it through their kids’ eyes. I think it not only makes the parents feel young again, remembering a fonder time, but giving them a connection to their kids. Re-living their past with them.
Do you find that the younger fans are not as fearful as we were? Do you think perhaps movie magic has dulled their fear?
Tony: I do! You have to realize; these kids are exposed to way more than we were! You have your video games, horror movies, you name it, they are exposed to it and they’re fearless!
Tammy: You’re right! I remember sneaking out to see you at the drive-in theater. I had never seen anything like it before and it stuck with me! First of all, I didn’t know the concept of serial killers. Serial killers today are common knowledge not only at the movies but on TV.
The other thing was I had always felt safe in my own home! After seeing that movie, I questioned everything!
What are your thoughts on why the franchise will never die?
Tony: Honestly? I think John Carpenter was brilliant! It was a psychological Halloween masterpiece like Psycho! Here you have this 6-year-old kid who is lonely, and it’s Halloween and all he wants to do is go trick or treating!
And his sister is supposed to be babysitting him, but she’s too busy with her boyfriend. The kid knows what she is doing is wrong somehow, but doesn’t quite understand. All he understands is he’s missing out on Halloween because of her! And he’s mad! And he takes it out on her. Then he’s thrown into a mental hospital for 15 years and escapes; killing babysitters!
I think the reason it is so relatable is, it could happen! Whether it be back in 1978 or now, it could happen! And I think kids can identify so easily because they’d be mad too if they didn’t get to go trick or treating!
Tammy: You’re right, I had really never thought about it like that. When I think of Michael Myers, I think of him as a man, because I was a teenager when I saw the movie. But if I had been younger, I would have identified with the younger version. That is a very interesting take on why parents and kids alike love this movie!
Do you mind telling us how you became part of such an iconic role?
Tony: At the time, I was broke and sleeping on someone’s couch. My agent was the same as my sister’s Erin, but things were slow. My agent calls me up one day and tells me about a low budget horror movie.
Back then, you tried to stay away from porn and horror movies. If you did them, no one would hire you afterwards. But she assured me this movie was different! John Carpenter was doing it! I had never heard of him. Then she tells me Jaimee Lee Curtis was in it, she was a year younger than me, and I still wasn’t sure, but then she told me that Donald Pleasence was in it. And I loved him! A great actor and I really looked up to him!
So now I had this dilemma. Do I walk away from a horror film that could hurt my career? Or do I give it a shot because I really liked and admired Donald Pleasence? I finally decided what the hell, if I get it, I get it!
Later in a documentary they asked John Carpenter why they cast me and he said and get this …he said “because I thought he had an angelic face” ain’t that a kicker?
Tammy: That’s crazy! All because of that, you are getting to experience what you are now!
Because I am part of the con, I get to see behind the scenes that most do not. And let me tell you, it’s the most amazing experience!
I see the little things that have become some of the biggest moments in a fan’s life! There goes Tony, pushing a woman around the con in a wheelchair because she wanted to see another star.
Or, when I overheard you asking a fan about her father’s health, only to see you embrace her as she tearfully told you he had passed.
I see fans patiently waiting their turn, not just to see you for the first time, but to see you again and again! The way they light up when you see them and how genuine you are when you smile and say, “Hey man, how you doing?”
In fact, just recently at the PA Horror Con, I got to see first-hand this most amazing situation evolve right in front of us. My husband and I were waiting in this long line to see you. There were these 2 women in front of us.
They caught our attention when their mother came up with a brand-new Michael Myers mask. The one daughter instantly grabbed it and lovingly held onto it as she waited. I strike up a conversation with her sister.
The sister proceeds to tell me how much the one holding the mask loves Michael Myers. In fact, she carries a picture of him in her purse! They’ll be driving her somewhere and they’ll look over at her and she has that picture out staring at it.
The woman with the new Michael Myers mask nodded and proudly showed me the picture! She was so excited. It would be the first time she ever met Michael Myers in person. She then carefully put the picture back and anxiously looked forward, waiting patiently for her turn.
Now you had already seen a ton of fans and your line was the longest in the room. But when this woman came up to you, so excited, showing you her new mask, without missing a beat, you gave her your full attention!
You carefully took the mask from her and signed it. You took pictures with her, you talked to her. Your interaction with her was amazing! I’m telling you, there wasn’t a dry eye in the line while we all watched how wonderful you were to her!
I know in my heart you gave that woman a memory she will always treasure!
What does it mean to you when you have those special moments with your fans or when you have fans come back to see you over and over?
Tony: Tammy, I have to admit it was hard for me not to have a dry eye with her too! What a very special lady! Here she had a shirt with me on it, she waited in line patiently to see me, she had the mask her mom had just bought her and she was showing it to me like it was such a treasure! And I’m thinking, she’s here for me! It humbles you.
And with each con I do, I’m getting these fans coming back for more! And you get to know them, bond with them. It means the most to me! It’s not about the money. It’s about making people smile and be happy.
I know how life works. I see these people come up to me and I ask them how you doing? I break them down so they can be homies with me. Everybody in life just wants a friend and I’m all in. But when you try to put it in words, it’s hard. The only way I describe it is I’m blessed!
Tammy: That you are! Not only now with the cons and your fans but the things you have gotten to do in your life and lived to tell the tale, are iconic in itself!
For example, most probably do not know how athletic you are and always have been. You’ve surfed, you’ve taught tennis, you golf, you fish, you ride motorcycles. I could go on and on! Let’s talk about surfing because you are very passionate about it.
What are your thoughts on surfing?
Tony: Surfing is a dangerous sport. I did it for 40 years. I liked the danger of surfing. People see it on TV and I watch it too but I’ve done it! People who have never surfed have no idea how frightening it can be! You have sharks, seals, other surfers, 10 ft waves and a very real threat of drowning!
At 15 when I learned how to surf, I thought this was cool and I continued to do it until I was 60. I even taught my daughter how to surf. I have 2 tattoos on my body of surfing. Surfing is the only sport where you don’t have control. The wave has control! You can ski, play tennis, play baseball and you have control.
In the ocean, the ocean says you’re mine! It will tell you it’s ok if you want to love and have affection for it but it’s going to be dangerous. It’s not going to be safe. It may even mess you up a little! And the threat of drowning is always there, I know! But man, did I love it!
Tammy: That’s powerful! I never thought of surfing being that dangerous! Gives me a whole new respect for it and the ones who do it! I have to say it’s the one thing you and Michael Myers definitely have in common… you are fearless!!!
Recently, you’ve taken another one of your hobbies, riding a motorcycle, and combined that hobby with a tribute to a dear friend.
Would you mind telling us about your motor blogging?
Tony: A buddy of mine, Terry, has Parkinson’s disease. It got so bad he couldn’t ride any more. So, he calls me up and asks me if I wanted his BMW? And I’m like yea, but are you sure? And he proceeds to tell me not only does he have Parkinson’s but cancer in his jaw.
Heartbreaking Tammy, he’s my buddy! The man can’t ride, can’t eat, let alone do other things and it’s bad. And you think to yourself, what can I do? Then I saw these people motor blogging, and I thought, why not? I can take Terry with me, on his bike, and show what he means to me while motor blogging.
Tammy: That’s rough. I don’t know how you do it. I know that whole situation is weighing heavily on your mind and yet here you are at the cons. I admire that about you. You have this personal issue going on and yet your fans have no clue.
Tony: Tammy, we all have problems! But we all can gain strength from one another to get us through.
Are there other channels you are doing too?
Tony: Yes! My buddy Kevin, he created a channel for me called thekillerchannel on youtube. I have The Real Tony Moran on Tic Toc and on Instagram The Real Tony Moran.
Tammy: I’ve seen them, I’ve subscribed to them and I love them as I’m sure our readers and your fans will too!
I have to ask. I know at the end of a long weekend at a con, I’m tired and ready to go home as I’m sure you are too. And yet, Paul, my husband, and I can’t stop talking about the con for days after! Who we met, the stories we heard. It’s such a rush!
Do you find yourself talking about the con when you get home?
Tony: I’m exhausted when I get home! I have Debi waiting for me at home. I love Debi, but it’s taken me 65 years to learn how to talk to a woman without making them worry! So, I’ve learned to ease her into all the stories.
When I first get home, I tell her there’s this one thing I want to tell her. Then I tell her another. If I do it in 20 minutes, it’s no good. But over a few hours it’s good. So yeah, I love telling her all the stories from the cons.
Tammy: It is such an amazing time! Well, hopefully, just like your franchise, you keep coming back to life in these cons time after time! Tony, thank you so much for doing this interview and allowing me to let others see you how I see you, a man who will never need a mask!
I also want to thank Todd Starauch and his awesome camera man Gary Wills. Todd was gracious enough to let me do this written interview with Tony on his podcast! If you want to see the live version of this article please check it out at TheHorrorNerd on youtube.
I’ve said it before and I will continue to say it. These cons are amazing events that let you meet the stars you know and love. A chance to remanence about your past and interact with the ones on the screen that were part of that past.
Even a chance to make it a family event! For doesn’t fear tend to bring us closer together? And what better way than to face your childhood fear with a group of your loved ones to protect you from the boogeyman?
Thank you, Tony, for letting us meet the real boogeyman and be able to live and tell the tale. You certainly make it a memorable occasion for all of your fans!
By: Tammy Vreeland
I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am to do this next interview! If you told me, while I was growing up, that one day not only would I get to meet the Michael Myers from Halloween but he would become a very close friend, I’d never believe you!
And yet, here I am with the man, the myth, the legend - Tony Moran! And believe me, in person he is still larger than life to me, as he was on the big screen!
Tony, my friend, what an honor!!! Thank you so much for doing this interview, especially for this most iconic month! Such a special “treat” for our readers!! Now the “trick” will be, what questions could I possibly ask you that you haven’t already been asked?
We first met at the PA Horror Con and then the New Jersey Horror Con. Honestly, you being the face of Michael Myers from Halloween was an enigma to me! The man who did not hide behind a mask. I could only wonder what would you be like in person?
As our friendship grew, I began to see that Tony Moran did not need a mask! That you are comfortable being yourself and have no problem being yourself around your fans!
Do you think your fans are surprised, when they first meet you, to how easy it is to talk to you?
Tony: YES! At first, they are very reserved. Then when they see I want to talk to them, they open up! It always amazes me because I’m a homie and these fans come up to my table and they are the loveliest people I’ve ever met and I just want to get to know them!
Tammy: Well, to be fair, I’m sure they don’t know what to expect? A fan going up to a Michael Myers’s table has a bit of fear of meeting such an iconic scary character! Whereas if they were going up to, let’s say, Peter Pan’s table, they may act differently?
I know being star struck for a fan can be a tough thing to overcome. First-hand experience here, sometimes I meet a star and my mind races thinking “omg, omg, look who I am talking to”! Then I’m sort of at a loss for words, hard to believe I know since I usually talk nonstop.
Is there a trick you use to get your fans to calm down, breathe and just enjoy the moment with you?
Tony: A lot of times, about 80 percent, fans come up thinking I’m going to take their money and they need to split. So, when I ask them their name, they automatically assume I want to know so I can put it on whatever they want me to sign.
Some of them will say no, that’s ok, I don’t need my name on the autograph. And I’m like no, I want to know your name! They will look at me weird, give it to me and then I say their name and “nice to meet you”.
I swear you can see an instant relaxation come over them! They realize I’m not rushing them through an assembly line. I really want to know their name! Once I know it, I get a connection with them. Then the time I get to spend with them becomes even more enjoyable for the both of us!
Tammy: Something so simple, yet so effective! The star they came to see took the time to ask them their name, not for an autograph, but to actually meet them! That is such a priceless moment you are giving them!
You probably never thought being part of that franchise would leave such a lasting mark. Some stars actually hate the idea of being tied to a franchise. However, you’ve seemed to have embraced your iconic role.
Does it surprise you the younger generations seem to enjoy the franchise as much as our generation?
Tony: It does! I see these young kids coming up and they are enamored with Michael Myers, it’s crazy! I’m not really sure why, but they love the franchise!
Tammy: I’ve often wondered about it myself. I love it when I see parents with their kids at the con! You can almost see the parents reliving it through their kids’ eyes. I think it not only makes the parents feel young again, remembering a fonder time, but giving them a connection to their kids. Re-living their past with them.
Do you find that the younger fans are not as fearful as we were? Do you think perhaps movie magic has dulled their fear?
Tony: I do! You have to realize; these kids are exposed to way more than we were! You have your video games, horror movies, you name it, they are exposed to it and they’re fearless!
Tammy: You’re right! I remember sneaking out to see you at the drive-in theater. I had never seen anything like it before and it stuck with me! First of all, I didn’t know the concept of serial killers. Serial killers today are common knowledge not only at the movies but on TV.
The other thing was I had always felt safe in my own home! After seeing that movie, I questioned everything!
What are your thoughts on why the franchise will never die?
Tony: Honestly? I think John Carpenter was brilliant! It was a psychological Halloween masterpiece like Psycho! Here you have this 6-year-old kid who is lonely, and it’s Halloween and all he wants to do is go trick or treating!
And his sister is supposed to be babysitting him, but she’s too busy with her boyfriend. The kid knows what she is doing is wrong somehow, but doesn’t quite understand. All he understands is he’s missing out on Halloween because of her! And he’s mad! And he takes it out on her. Then he’s thrown into a mental hospital for 15 years and escapes; killing babysitters!
I think the reason it is so relatable is, it could happen! Whether it be back in 1978 or now, it could happen! And I think kids can identify so easily because they’d be mad too if they didn’t get to go trick or treating!
Tammy: You’re right, I had really never thought about it like that. When I think of Michael Myers, I think of him as a man, because I was a teenager when I saw the movie. But if I had been younger, I would have identified with the younger version. That is a very interesting take on why parents and kids alike love this movie!
Do you mind telling us how you became part of such an iconic role?
Tony: At the time, I was broke and sleeping on someone’s couch. My agent was the same as my sister’s Erin, but things were slow. My agent calls me up one day and tells me about a low budget horror movie.
Back then, you tried to stay away from porn and horror movies. If you did them, no one would hire you afterwards. But she assured me this movie was different! John Carpenter was doing it! I had never heard of him. Then she tells me Jaimee Lee Curtis was in it, she was a year younger than me, and I still wasn’t sure, but then she told me that Donald Pleasence was in it. And I loved him! A great actor and I really looked up to him!
So now I had this dilemma. Do I walk away from a horror film that could hurt my career? Or do I give it a shot because I really liked and admired Donald Pleasence? I finally decided what the hell, if I get it, I get it!
Later in a documentary they asked John Carpenter why they cast me and he said and get this …he said “because I thought he had an angelic face” ain’t that a kicker?
Tammy: That’s crazy! All because of that, you are getting to experience what you are now!
Because I am part of the con, I get to see behind the scenes that most do not. And let me tell you, it’s the most amazing experience!
I see the little things that have become some of the biggest moments in a fan’s life! There goes Tony, pushing a woman around the con in a wheelchair because she wanted to see another star.
Or, when I overheard you asking a fan about her father’s health, only to see you embrace her as she tearfully told you he had passed.
I see fans patiently waiting their turn, not just to see you for the first time, but to see you again and again! The way they light up when you see them and how genuine you are when you smile and say, “Hey man, how you doing?”
In fact, just recently at the PA Horror Con, I got to see first-hand this most amazing situation evolve right in front of us. My husband and I were waiting in this long line to see you. There were these 2 women in front of us.
They caught our attention when their mother came up with a brand-new Michael Myers mask. The one daughter instantly grabbed it and lovingly held onto it as she waited. I strike up a conversation with her sister.
The sister proceeds to tell me how much the one holding the mask loves Michael Myers. In fact, she carries a picture of him in her purse! They’ll be driving her somewhere and they’ll look over at her and she has that picture out staring at it.
The woman with the new Michael Myers mask nodded and proudly showed me the picture! She was so excited. It would be the first time she ever met Michael Myers in person. She then carefully put the picture back and anxiously looked forward, waiting patiently for her turn.
Now you had already seen a ton of fans and your line was the longest in the room. But when this woman came up to you, so excited, showing you her new mask, without missing a beat, you gave her your full attention!
You carefully took the mask from her and signed it. You took pictures with her, you talked to her. Your interaction with her was amazing! I’m telling you, there wasn’t a dry eye in the line while we all watched how wonderful you were to her!
I know in my heart you gave that woman a memory she will always treasure!
What does it mean to you when you have those special moments with your fans or when you have fans come back to see you over and over?
Tony: Tammy, I have to admit it was hard for me not to have a dry eye with her too! What a very special lady! Here she had a shirt with me on it, she waited in line patiently to see me, she had the mask her mom had just bought her and she was showing it to me like it was such a treasure! And I’m thinking, she’s here for me! It humbles you.
And with each con I do, I’m getting these fans coming back for more! And you get to know them, bond with them. It means the most to me! It’s not about the money. It’s about making people smile and be happy.
I know how life works. I see these people come up to me and I ask them how you doing? I break them down so they can be homies with me. Everybody in life just wants a friend and I’m all in. But when you try to put it in words, it’s hard. The only way I describe it is I’m blessed!
Tammy: That you are! Not only now with the cons and your fans but the things you have gotten to do in your life and lived to tell the tale, are iconic in itself!
For example, most probably do not know how athletic you are and always have been. You’ve surfed, you’ve taught tennis, you golf, you fish, you ride motorcycles. I could go on and on! Let’s talk about surfing because you are very passionate about it.
What are your thoughts on surfing?
Tony: Surfing is a dangerous sport. I did it for 40 years. I liked the danger of surfing. People see it on TV and I watch it too but I’ve done it! People who have never surfed have no idea how frightening it can be! You have sharks, seals, other surfers, 10 ft waves and a very real threat of drowning!
At 15 when I learned how to surf, I thought this was cool and I continued to do it until I was 60. I even taught my daughter how to surf. I have 2 tattoos on my body of surfing. Surfing is the only sport where you don’t have control. The wave has control! You can ski, play tennis, play baseball and you have control.
In the ocean, the ocean says you’re mine! It will tell you it’s ok if you want to love and have affection for it but it’s going to be dangerous. It’s not going to be safe. It may even mess you up a little! And the threat of drowning is always there, I know! But man, did I love it!
Tammy: That’s powerful! I never thought of surfing being that dangerous! Gives me a whole new respect for it and the ones who do it! I have to say it’s the one thing you and Michael Myers definitely have in common… you are fearless!!!
Recently, you’ve taken another one of your hobbies, riding a motorcycle, and combined that hobby with a tribute to a dear friend.
Would you mind telling us about your motor blogging?
Tony: A buddy of mine, Terry, has Parkinson’s disease. It got so bad he couldn’t ride any more. So, he calls me up and asks me if I wanted his BMW? And I’m like yea, but are you sure? And he proceeds to tell me not only does he have Parkinson’s but cancer in his jaw.
Heartbreaking Tammy, he’s my buddy! The man can’t ride, can’t eat, let alone do other things and it’s bad. And you think to yourself, what can I do? Then I saw these people motor blogging, and I thought, why not? I can take Terry with me, on his bike, and show what he means to me while motor blogging.
Tammy: That’s rough. I don’t know how you do it. I know that whole situation is weighing heavily on your mind and yet here you are at the cons. I admire that about you. You have this personal issue going on and yet your fans have no clue.
Tony: Tammy, we all have problems! But we all can gain strength from one another to get us through.
Are there other channels you are doing too?
Tony: Yes! My buddy Kevin, he created a channel for me called thekillerchannel on youtube. I have The Real Tony Moran on Tic Toc and on Instagram The Real Tony Moran.
Tammy: I’ve seen them, I’ve subscribed to them and I love them as I’m sure our readers and your fans will too!
I have to ask. I know at the end of a long weekend at a con, I’m tired and ready to go home as I’m sure you are too. And yet, Paul, my husband, and I can’t stop talking about the con for days after! Who we met, the stories we heard. It’s such a rush!
Do you find yourself talking about the con when you get home?
Tony: I’m exhausted when I get home! I have Debi waiting for me at home. I love Debi, but it’s taken me 65 years to learn how to talk to a woman without making them worry! So, I’ve learned to ease her into all the stories.
When I first get home, I tell her there’s this one thing I want to tell her. Then I tell her another. If I do it in 20 minutes, it’s no good. But over a few hours it’s good. So yeah, I love telling her all the stories from the cons.
Tammy: It is such an amazing time! Well, hopefully, just like your franchise, you keep coming back to life in these cons time after time! Tony, thank you so much for doing this interview and allowing me to let others see you how I see you, a man who will never need a mask!
I also want to thank Todd Starauch and his awesome camera man Gary Wills. Todd was gracious enough to let me do this written interview with Tony on his podcast! If you want to see the live version of this article please check it out at TheHorrorNerd on youtube.
I’ve said it before and I will continue to say it. These cons are amazing events that let you meet the stars you know and love. A chance to remanence about your past and interact with the ones on the screen that were part of that past.
Even a chance to make it a family event! For doesn’t fear tend to bring us closer together? And what better way than to face your childhood fear with a group of your loved ones to protect you from the boogeyman?
Thank you, Tony, for letting us meet the real boogeyman and be able to live and tell the tale. You certainly make it a memorable occasion for all of your fans!
DARCY DEMOSS
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Darcy DeMoss
By: Tammy Vreeland
Recently, I was at the Horror Sideshow Market event held in Pennsylvania. I was there because Geoffrey Von Gore, the editor of Poisonous Pinups Magazine, had released a special edition for that show. My first article with him, happen to be in it.
The cover girl used for Poisonous Pinups, Darcy DeMoss, was also there! Which not only gave me a chance to get her signature on the magazine, but also actually interact with her!
The Poisonous Pinup table was right next to hers. Tentatively, I sat behind the table, watching Darcy next to me interact with her fans.
This woman was amazing! Not only beautiful, with a smile that lights up the whole room, Darcy has this inner beauty that one can feel instantly reaching out to you! Her energy pulled me in, like a moth to a flame. I wanted to know more!
I decided to get in line to get my signature on the magazine. As I waited my turn, in a long line of fans, the thing I admired the most about Darcy was her warmness to each one of her fans! It didn’t matter who you were; you had her full attention!
There was this father and daughter dressed up as Jason anxiously waiting in line in front of me. Yes, you read that right, father and daughter dressed up like Jason just for Darcy since she was in the movie Friday the 13th – Jason Lives Part VI.
And Darcy - she gave those two memories they will always have to cherish! She knew they were there for her and she didn’t disappoint. That little girl was so excited when she walked away, she couldn’t wait to tell everyone she had just met Darcy!
In fact, every single fan that came away from Darcy’s table had a smile on! It was as if Darcy’s own beautiful smile was contagious!
Here at this magazine, we try to put strong women who are entrepreneurs in every sort of businesses you can think of, to help inspire women of all ages. Women who are not only successful in their own lives but who touch others.
Darcy is world renown. She’s a model, an actress, and a business woman. Seeing her in action, with a business I know little about, I wondered if I should ask her for an interview?
Going out on a limb, I figured, why not? And she accepted! Which even gave me more insight into who Darcy really is, one I wanted to share with you.
I wanted to try to ask her some questions that may give us a little insight into how she manages to do it all. With grace and a killer smile. Here is our interview:
Tammy: “Darcy, first of all, thank you so much for letting me interview you! I’m trying desperately not to act like a gibberish school girl, but you’ve somehow managed to make me feel at ease! Have you always been able to interact with people so easily?”
Darcy: “I was painfully shy as a child. I got into dance and acting classes. It brought me out of my shell. I am a triple Leo, so I have always been a bit of a leader. However, I came into my own when I discovered my voice and it empowered me.”
Tammy: “Very interesting, so there is hope for us shy ones! The way you handle yourself, I would have never thought of you starting out shy. Honestly, for some reason, I always thought actors and actresses started out - outgoing. It’s nice to see classes can tap into one’s hidden talents so efficiently!”
“I happened to be there when you were on the phone with your husband. Who I also got to say hi to (very exciting to be a part of a normal behind-the-scenes situation) and I was shown a beautiful painting of you on the wall behind your husband.”
“What impressed me most about that moment was not only how beautiful the portrait was, but the way you wanted to show me. Two things. One, how proudly you told me your father had it done for you. And two, how you teased that it was behind your husband looking over him.
“Obviously, you have a wonderful and loving, supportive family. Did they help you get into your career while growing up? Was it something they knew you wanted to pursue or did it become a passion later in life?”
Darcy: “My childhood best friend is actress Helen Hunt. I grew up on her TV & film sets. I always wanted to be an actress but my mother was not into being a stage mother.”
“I was going to UCLA when I landed an agent. I told my father he could pay for me to learn, or I could be paid and learn on the set - in front of the camera.”
“My father was my biggest fan and fully supported my career.”
Tammy: “I always love hearing when a family is supportive. And I could tell instantly the way you talked about your father, there is much love towards him.”
“This brings me to my next question. As for your husband, a very talented man in his own right, seems very supportive and encouraging. Do you think it helps to be with someone who knows and understands the business?”
Darcy: “My husband, Jack Lippman, is fully supportive of my career. He used to own a talent agency.”
Tammy: “I’m sure that helps immensely with already knowing what is expected of you by others. Before this interview, while at the con, we had a fun little spontaneous photo shoot.”
“Something I’m certainly not familiar with and yet the poses came easy to you. It was almost as if the camera made you come alive!
“How do you get your mindset for a photo shoot? Do you work for the camera or do you try to forget the camera is there and work for yourself?
Darcy: “I work within myself. But, I’m fully aware of the camera. I’m a big HAM!”
Tammy: “It was all so foreign to me and yet you made it look so easy! I would think you may have the same mindset for your acting roles?”
“Or do you find yourself in a different mindset? Where maybe you have to remind yourself the camera is not there? Whereas, you focus on your character and the surrounding ones instead?”
Darcy: “It depends on the role. It always helps when you’re working with an actor that you have a connection with or build a connection with.”
Tammy: “When we were talking earlier, I loved how you said you enjoyed watching everything that was going on at the set. You didn’t just do your part and walk away. That you stay watching, soaking it all in. I admire that, it makes me feel you are a team player.”
“I’m curious, does traveling or having a new part ever concern you?”
Darcy: “Traveling is the best when I’m working on a film or TV project. Then I only need to be concerned with my character as I’m away from everyday life.”
Tammy: “That makes sense. I’m sure it would let you focus on the task at hand more. But, even so, the stress of traveling, learning new parts. How do you center yourself? Tune it out and get to be you? Do you do any meditation or yoga perhaps, to help?”
Darcy: “I do meditate and I do yoga. What also helps is I love being on the set! Near the camera and watch. There is so much to learn!”
Tammy: “Interesting, your excitement for a new project doesn’t seem to stress you but leaves you a desire to learn more.”
“Too often we find ourselves caught up in the minor details. Perhaps focusing on the excitement of a new project will help us with the stress. That is a fresh way of looking at it. I like that!”
“I heard you say you were a dancer. What type of dancing?”
Darcy: “I was a professional jazz dancer.”
Tammy: “Again, you surprise me. Good thing I’m not a betting girl! I would have thought for sure it would have been ballet!”
“How about a hobby?”
Darcy: “I am a wildlife photographer which has brought me to Africa seven times. I have had my photographs in several galleries in Los Angeles. I also had an exhibit in London.”
Tammy: “No kidding? Now that is some kind of hobby! Wow! That’s amazing! You know, it’s one thing to take pictures. But to have the eye to capture something and then have galleries do exhibits on what you captured? That’s talent!”
“I love hearing about people we know from movies/tv shows, hidden talents! Often times, it is things we would never expect!”
“You travel a lot. Where is a place you would love to visit you haven’t been to?”
Darcy: “Bali. I love the culture and can’t wait to get there and see it!”
Tammy: “And I am sure you will get some amazing pictures!”
“I know you are a very busy woman and I can’t thank you enough for doing this interview for me! I do have one last question.”
“Looking back, what would you tell your younger self?”
Darcy: “Stay focused. Stay true to myself.”
Tammy: “Perfect! You have some exciting things coming up! Mind letting us in on some of them?”
Darcy: “Vengeance 2 Bloodlines is coming out on YouTube in April or May. It’s a fan funded film. I’m reprising my role as Nikki from Friday the 13th part 6, 36 years later.”
Tammy: “The fans are going to love that! I can’t wait to see it myself!”
Darcy: “I also have a few films brewing but unable to disclose at this time.”
Tammy, “I understand, but such a tease! Where can our readers follow you, to be able to see upcoming events?”
Darcy: “I’m on Instagram darcydemoss19 and my website is darcydemoss.com. I would also like to do a shout out for my professional photographer Joe from Joe Caban Photography, he does such an amazing job! And can’t forget hashtags for my skater shoes in the one picture, which I love! #heednyc #ripcity1978 and #magnumsk be sure to check them out!”
Tammy: “I agree the pictures are amazing! And I will definitely check out the shoes, love the colors! I can’t thank you enough, Darcy, for letting us have this opportunity! I know for me and that little girl, along with so many other fans, you gave us something we will always talk about!”
“May you continue to touch others with that bright light of yours and know that light will continue on in your fans - young and old alike - father and daughter! Thank you and continued success to you!”
By: Tammy Vreeland
Recently, I was at the Horror Sideshow Market event held in Pennsylvania. I was there because Geoffrey Von Gore, the editor of Poisonous Pinups Magazine, had released a special edition for that show. My first article with him, happen to be in it.
The cover girl used for Poisonous Pinups, Darcy DeMoss, was also there! Which not only gave me a chance to get her signature on the magazine, but also actually interact with her!
The Poisonous Pinup table was right next to hers. Tentatively, I sat behind the table, watching Darcy next to me interact with her fans.
This woman was amazing! Not only beautiful, with a smile that lights up the whole room, Darcy has this inner beauty that one can feel instantly reaching out to you! Her energy pulled me in, like a moth to a flame. I wanted to know more!
I decided to get in line to get my signature on the magazine. As I waited my turn, in a long line of fans, the thing I admired the most about Darcy was her warmness to each one of her fans! It didn’t matter who you were; you had her full attention!
There was this father and daughter dressed up as Jason anxiously waiting in line in front of me. Yes, you read that right, father and daughter dressed up like Jason just for Darcy since she was in the movie Friday the 13th – Jason Lives Part VI.
And Darcy - she gave those two memories they will always have to cherish! She knew they were there for her and she didn’t disappoint. That little girl was so excited when she walked away, she couldn’t wait to tell everyone she had just met Darcy!
In fact, every single fan that came away from Darcy’s table had a smile on! It was as if Darcy’s own beautiful smile was contagious!
Here at this magazine, we try to put strong women who are entrepreneurs in every sort of businesses you can think of, to help inspire women of all ages. Women who are not only successful in their own lives but who touch others.
Darcy is world renown. She’s a model, an actress, and a business woman. Seeing her in action, with a business I know little about, I wondered if I should ask her for an interview?
Going out on a limb, I figured, why not? And she accepted! Which even gave me more insight into who Darcy really is, one I wanted to share with you.
I wanted to try to ask her some questions that may give us a little insight into how she manages to do it all. With grace and a killer smile. Here is our interview:
Tammy: “Darcy, first of all, thank you so much for letting me interview you! I’m trying desperately not to act like a gibberish school girl, but you’ve somehow managed to make me feel at ease! Have you always been able to interact with people so easily?”
Darcy: “I was painfully shy as a child. I got into dance and acting classes. It brought me out of my shell. I am a triple Leo, so I have always been a bit of a leader. However, I came into my own when I discovered my voice and it empowered me.”
Tammy: “Very interesting, so there is hope for us shy ones! The way you handle yourself, I would have never thought of you starting out shy. Honestly, for some reason, I always thought actors and actresses started out - outgoing. It’s nice to see classes can tap into one’s hidden talents so efficiently!”
“I happened to be there when you were on the phone with your husband. Who I also got to say hi to (very exciting to be a part of a normal behind-the-scenes situation) and I was shown a beautiful painting of you on the wall behind your husband.”
“What impressed me most about that moment was not only how beautiful the portrait was, but the way you wanted to show me. Two things. One, how proudly you told me your father had it done for you. And two, how you teased that it was behind your husband looking over him.
“Obviously, you have a wonderful and loving, supportive family. Did they help you get into your career while growing up? Was it something they knew you wanted to pursue or did it become a passion later in life?”
Darcy: “My childhood best friend is actress Helen Hunt. I grew up on her TV & film sets. I always wanted to be an actress but my mother was not into being a stage mother.”
“I was going to UCLA when I landed an agent. I told my father he could pay for me to learn, or I could be paid and learn on the set - in front of the camera.”
“My father was my biggest fan and fully supported my career.”
Tammy: “I always love hearing when a family is supportive. And I could tell instantly the way you talked about your father, there is much love towards him.”
“This brings me to my next question. As for your husband, a very talented man in his own right, seems very supportive and encouraging. Do you think it helps to be with someone who knows and understands the business?”
Darcy: “My husband, Jack Lippman, is fully supportive of my career. He used to own a talent agency.”
Tammy: “I’m sure that helps immensely with already knowing what is expected of you by others. Before this interview, while at the con, we had a fun little spontaneous photo shoot.”
“Something I’m certainly not familiar with and yet the poses came easy to you. It was almost as if the camera made you come alive!
“How do you get your mindset for a photo shoot? Do you work for the camera or do you try to forget the camera is there and work for yourself?
Darcy: “I work within myself. But, I’m fully aware of the camera. I’m a big HAM!”
Tammy: “It was all so foreign to me and yet you made it look so easy! I would think you may have the same mindset for your acting roles?”
“Or do you find yourself in a different mindset? Where maybe you have to remind yourself the camera is not there? Whereas, you focus on your character and the surrounding ones instead?”
Darcy: “It depends on the role. It always helps when you’re working with an actor that you have a connection with or build a connection with.”
Tammy: “When we were talking earlier, I loved how you said you enjoyed watching everything that was going on at the set. You didn’t just do your part and walk away. That you stay watching, soaking it all in. I admire that, it makes me feel you are a team player.”
“I’m curious, does traveling or having a new part ever concern you?”
Darcy: “Traveling is the best when I’m working on a film or TV project. Then I only need to be concerned with my character as I’m away from everyday life.”
Tammy: “That makes sense. I’m sure it would let you focus on the task at hand more. But, even so, the stress of traveling, learning new parts. How do you center yourself? Tune it out and get to be you? Do you do any meditation or yoga perhaps, to help?”
Darcy: “I do meditate and I do yoga. What also helps is I love being on the set! Near the camera and watch. There is so much to learn!”
Tammy: “Interesting, your excitement for a new project doesn’t seem to stress you but leaves you a desire to learn more.”
“Too often we find ourselves caught up in the minor details. Perhaps focusing on the excitement of a new project will help us with the stress. That is a fresh way of looking at it. I like that!”
“I heard you say you were a dancer. What type of dancing?”
Darcy: “I was a professional jazz dancer.”
Tammy: “Again, you surprise me. Good thing I’m not a betting girl! I would have thought for sure it would have been ballet!”
“How about a hobby?”
Darcy: “I am a wildlife photographer which has brought me to Africa seven times. I have had my photographs in several galleries in Los Angeles. I also had an exhibit in London.”
Tammy: “No kidding? Now that is some kind of hobby! Wow! That’s amazing! You know, it’s one thing to take pictures. But to have the eye to capture something and then have galleries do exhibits on what you captured? That’s talent!”
“I love hearing about people we know from movies/tv shows, hidden talents! Often times, it is things we would never expect!”
“You travel a lot. Where is a place you would love to visit you haven’t been to?”
Darcy: “Bali. I love the culture and can’t wait to get there and see it!”
Tammy: “And I am sure you will get some amazing pictures!”
“I know you are a very busy woman and I can’t thank you enough for doing this interview for me! I do have one last question.”
“Looking back, what would you tell your younger self?”
Darcy: “Stay focused. Stay true to myself.”
Tammy: “Perfect! You have some exciting things coming up! Mind letting us in on some of them?”
Darcy: “Vengeance 2 Bloodlines is coming out on YouTube in April or May. It’s a fan funded film. I’m reprising my role as Nikki from Friday the 13th part 6, 36 years later.”
Tammy: “The fans are going to love that! I can’t wait to see it myself!”
Darcy: “I also have a few films brewing but unable to disclose at this time.”
Tammy, “I understand, but such a tease! Where can our readers follow you, to be able to see upcoming events?”
Darcy: “I’m on Instagram darcydemoss19 and my website is darcydemoss.com. I would also like to do a shout out for my professional photographer Joe from Joe Caban Photography, he does such an amazing job! And can’t forget hashtags for my skater shoes in the one picture, which I love! #heednyc #ripcity1978 and #magnumsk be sure to check them out!”
Tammy: “I agree the pictures are amazing! And I will definitely check out the shoes, love the colors! I can’t thank you enough, Darcy, for letting us have this opportunity! I know for me and that little girl, along with so many other fans, you gave us something we will always talk about!”
“May you continue to touch others with that bright light of yours and know that light will continue on in your fans - young and old alike - father and daughter! Thank you and continued success to you!”
TOM RYAN
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Tom Ryan
By: Tammy Vreeland
Today’s interview will be a perfect setup for the season that is almost upon us. A season where the cold is just beginning to set in. The bright colors of fall are washing away, turning the scenery into a barren and gray background.
A perfect time to curl up by a nice fire and enjoy a good movie! Perhaps even a scary movie, to put us in the mood for the season.
I know for a fact that our guest, Tom Ryan, knows a couple of great movies for such an occasion! Especially since he directed them!
But before we get into the movies Tom has directed, let’s get a behind the scenes look at a director’s life and the path that led him to that career.
Tammy: Tom, thank you so much for doing this interview for us! I am so excited to share you with our readers!
Let’s start off with the very beginning. While growing up, what sort of movies captured your attention?
Tom: 1950s science fiction, Universal monster movies, and classic fantasy films were the kind of cinema that appealed to my young imagination.
Tammy: Aw yes, the classics. You can never go wrong with them! It’s how I started my boys out in getting to know creature features and then advance into the horror genre.
When did you start wondering about the movie magic? Was there a particular movie that really made you wonder how they made it?
Tom: I was a huge fan of stop-motion. I guess it’s because it was essentially an adult playing with toys and I could relate to that. It was movies like King Kong, Jason & the Argonauts and the Adventures of Sinbad that really started to spark my interest and I wanted to know how it was all done. I remember watching the making of Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back and being absolutely blown away by the creativity that was taking place behind the scenes. The models, the blue screen, the fireworks, all of it was incredibly inspiring and groundbreaking at the time and, for the first time in my life, I didn’t want to just watch movies. I wanted to make them too.
Tammy: I actually loved the Adventures of Sinbad too!!! However, I was a bit more naïve, didn’t have a clue to how they did it, just loved the effect. And as for Star Wars? I didn’t want to see the behind scenes because it was so magical for that time. It took us places we had never been before! But I can definitely see if you were already curious about how things were made, that one being a great inspiration!
While others were following actors and actresses’ careers, were there directors that caught your attention instead?
Tom: Honestly at the time I didn’t pay much attention to who was at the helm of my favorite films. I did, however, know who Ray Harryhausen was. I knew Rick Baker, Tom Savini, Steve Johnson and a slew of other effects artists because to me, those were the guys making the movie magic. But when I did start paying attention, I discovered Spielberg, Lucas, Landis, Dante, Barker, Craven, Cronenberg, Scott, Miller and an endless list of others. They all caught my attention and made me realize I needed to direct in order to bring my visions to life.
Tammy: I love that you wanted a hands-on experience! Most people go through life expecting others to do for them. It has to be so self-gratifying that you accomplished what you wanted!
When did you decide it was time for you to test the waters of directing?
Tom: I’ve been directing since I was a young boy playing in the streets of Jersey City. My friends and I were frequently discussing our favorite movies and would often re-enact scenes from those movies in our backyards. Those re-enactments would morph into our own stories and, of course, there I was telling everyone what to say, where to stand, and offering plot twists for our make-believe sessions. I officially earned my first credit as a director in my low budget indie release “Day 9” in 2012.
Tammy: Wow, how creative all of you were! I know with our time line, that was before major video games, so it was common to be out and about with your friends. But you took it to a whole new level that must have been so much fun!
Did you find yourself pursuing a certain genre, or does the genre really matter? Perhaps a story speaks to you no matter what the genre is?
Tom: I’m a fan of all genres. I simply love great storytelling. With that said, I tend to gravitate towards horror and science fiction because those genres allow me to stretch my creative muscles and explore subject matter outside of the realm of the real world. The escapism is what’s most appealing to me in movies.
Tammy: I agree. In fact, my take on the horror and science fiction genre is that it seems to be not only more forgiving per se, but you also get to sprinkle in other genres. Such as comedy or romance. Whereas if you are watching a comedy or romance, that’s all there is. However, in the horror genre, one minute you can be in love, the next joking who will be killed and then the pure rush of, like you said, escapism!
When you decide on a story to direct, what are the first things you think about in the story? Is it the characters, maybe what type of actors or actresses you may wish to use? Or is it the location? Perhaps it’s the special effects that the story may require? Is there a method to your madness per se?
Tom: There has to be something relatable and intriguing in the story for me to pursue it. I love to explore the human condition and the impact that our flaws, as well as our strengths, have on our lives and the lives of our loved ones. That’s where the actors come in. I usually begin the writing process clear of any preconceptions about who my leads will be. As I delve deeper into the characters, I begin the casting process. Who have I worked with or would like to work with who embodies this character? In most cases, I develop a wish list of actors early on. In other cases, I will audition hopefuls. Regarding locations, they too are like characters to me. They must stand out, be memorable and particular to the story.
Tammy: That’s what I really like about your movies! You can tell you put a lot of thought into your characters and the locations. In fact, they flawlessly go together! Too often, you’ll see an Indie film cast someone, perhaps in hopes they will carry the movie, only to not match up the proper location. Even to the untrained eye, it sets the wrong tone.
Now we get to talk about all the fabulous films you have directed! Please tell us about your films.
Tom: My films are all very dear to me and I sincerely enjoyed making every single one of them. As much as they revolve around a world of death, demise and eerie twist endings, the real power in our stories is the character study. The movies have most certainly benefitted from the incredible performances of an array of independent film talents I had the pleasure of working with. We take pride in delivering high-quality entertainment on a shoe-string budget.
Tammy: That you do, I’m always so excited to hear you have another one coming out!
Knowing you, I can only imagine the fun you have on set! What are your thoughts about having fun while you film? Ever think of doing a blooper for fun?
Tom: I always say that if you’re not having fun while making a movie, you’re making movies with the wrong people. In the earliest days of pre-production, I try to encourage camaraderie among the cast members and crew. From table-reads to Facebook group pages, we begin to get familiar with each other. By the time we get to set, there is a buzz, and excitement about finally getting to work together. That kind of energy makes our sets very comfortable and feels like a family gathering. We share jokes, bust chops, actors flub lines and we enjoy every minute of it. The process has to be enjoyable or else it starts to feel like work instead of make-believe.
I only cut together one blooper reel for my very first short film “Day 9”. It was almost as much work as cutting together the full film, so it was the last time I did it.
Tammy: You know, I never really thought about the extra hard work that must go into a blooper reel. We take so many things for granted when we sit and watch a movie! And to be perfectly honest, I like watching blooper reels for other genres but now that I think about it - I really don’t care for ones in the horror genre because it tends to take away the mood you have set. But I have heard, from ones on your set, how much they truly enjoy doing a film with you!
Recently you had some exciting news about one of your films being overseas! Which one is that and what’s happening with it?
Tom: “Splinter” just enjoyed its UK premiere at Frightfest. It was an honor to be among some of the best new independent films like “Piggy”, “Fall”, and “Terrifier 2”. “Splinter” is part of our new feature-film anthology “Return to The Theatre of Terror” and our team is very excited to see it alongside some of the other creepy new stories we’ve developed.
Tammy: That’s amazing! I was so excited for you when I saw that! And I love that you brought back Theatre of Terror, I can wait to see the new stories for it!
When you have finished directing a film, what are your feelings? Of course, I’m sure a satisfaction of accomplishment, no doubt. And of course, a bit of sadness, having a bond with the story as well as with all of those who helped bring it to life. What I’m curious about is, do you like the afterglow with the promoting and such? Or, are you already thinking about your next project and anxious to get back to directing?
Tom: Let me first say that I have more involvement in my films than an average director. I am usually the head-writer, the producer, the casting director, the location scout, the editor, the VFX artist, the marketing department, the sales agent and whatever else I need to be to see the film through to completion. Now to address the question specifically; after filming, the excitement to edit our footage begins. That part is a lot of fun because now I’m piecing together our scenes and the vision is coming to life right before my eyes. When that’s done and the sound mixing begins, I arrange the cast and crew screening so everyone who invested time and energy into the project can see the finished product. I think that’s when a bit of sadness starts to creep in. I do develop some great friendships with both cast and crew members and it’s hard to accept that particular journey is over. The bright side is that there is always another one on the horizon.
Tammy: Again, I am humbled by all that you do! Who knew? Call me a blonde, which I am, but I just visualize a director sitting behind the camera with someone bringing them a coffee. Lol! I am so happy that you explained how much more there is to it! I’m sure you probably even left some out! Certainly, gives us more respect to what goes on behind the scenes!
This last question I usually ask is if there is anyone you want to do a shout out for helping you? I’m going to let you off the hook because we all know how grateful you always are and there are so many you always give credit to! I know it takes a small village when it comes to raising your “dreams” but in your case, it seems like you have an entire city who is always willing to help you! Would it be safe to say that our readers can easily see your shout outs in the credits of your awesome movies? And while we’re at it, do you have a website where everyone can easily see your work?
Tom: There are so many wonderful people in my life who have helped make these pictures a reality. I would love to shout them all out here and now but that would be risking forgetting someone. They are financial donors, city administrators, home-owners, close friends, friends of friends, and the list goes on. They all make the credits and most of them make my website in the “cast & crew” section. You can find us at www.theatreofterror.net.
Tammy: Awesome! Thank you, Tom, there are so many more questions I could continue to ask but since you have exciting projects yet to come - perhaps we can do another interview later?
I’m telling you, Tom Ryan is going to become a household name! Once you experience a taste of his true talent, you will want to follow his career to so many successful avenues that are on the horizon!
Until then Tom, we wish you the very best! And for now, I guess we can say “it’s a wrap” …meaning it’s time to go home and watch Tom’s movies, enjoy!
By: Tammy Vreeland
Today’s interview will be a perfect setup for the season that is almost upon us. A season where the cold is just beginning to set in. The bright colors of fall are washing away, turning the scenery into a barren and gray background.
A perfect time to curl up by a nice fire and enjoy a good movie! Perhaps even a scary movie, to put us in the mood for the season.
I know for a fact that our guest, Tom Ryan, knows a couple of great movies for such an occasion! Especially since he directed them!
But before we get into the movies Tom has directed, let’s get a behind the scenes look at a director’s life and the path that led him to that career.
Tammy: Tom, thank you so much for doing this interview for us! I am so excited to share you with our readers!
Let’s start off with the very beginning. While growing up, what sort of movies captured your attention?
Tom: 1950s science fiction, Universal monster movies, and classic fantasy films were the kind of cinema that appealed to my young imagination.
Tammy: Aw yes, the classics. You can never go wrong with them! It’s how I started my boys out in getting to know creature features and then advance into the horror genre.
When did you start wondering about the movie magic? Was there a particular movie that really made you wonder how they made it?
Tom: I was a huge fan of stop-motion. I guess it’s because it was essentially an adult playing with toys and I could relate to that. It was movies like King Kong, Jason & the Argonauts and the Adventures of Sinbad that really started to spark my interest and I wanted to know how it was all done. I remember watching the making of Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back and being absolutely blown away by the creativity that was taking place behind the scenes. The models, the blue screen, the fireworks, all of it was incredibly inspiring and groundbreaking at the time and, for the first time in my life, I didn’t want to just watch movies. I wanted to make them too.
Tammy: I actually loved the Adventures of Sinbad too!!! However, I was a bit more naïve, didn’t have a clue to how they did it, just loved the effect. And as for Star Wars? I didn’t want to see the behind scenes because it was so magical for that time. It took us places we had never been before! But I can definitely see if you were already curious about how things were made, that one being a great inspiration!
While others were following actors and actresses’ careers, were there directors that caught your attention instead?
Tom: Honestly at the time I didn’t pay much attention to who was at the helm of my favorite films. I did, however, know who Ray Harryhausen was. I knew Rick Baker, Tom Savini, Steve Johnson and a slew of other effects artists because to me, those were the guys making the movie magic. But when I did start paying attention, I discovered Spielberg, Lucas, Landis, Dante, Barker, Craven, Cronenberg, Scott, Miller and an endless list of others. They all caught my attention and made me realize I needed to direct in order to bring my visions to life.
Tammy: I love that you wanted a hands-on experience! Most people go through life expecting others to do for them. It has to be so self-gratifying that you accomplished what you wanted!
When did you decide it was time for you to test the waters of directing?
Tom: I’ve been directing since I was a young boy playing in the streets of Jersey City. My friends and I were frequently discussing our favorite movies and would often re-enact scenes from those movies in our backyards. Those re-enactments would morph into our own stories and, of course, there I was telling everyone what to say, where to stand, and offering plot twists for our make-believe sessions. I officially earned my first credit as a director in my low budget indie release “Day 9” in 2012.
Tammy: Wow, how creative all of you were! I know with our time line, that was before major video games, so it was common to be out and about with your friends. But you took it to a whole new level that must have been so much fun!
Did you find yourself pursuing a certain genre, or does the genre really matter? Perhaps a story speaks to you no matter what the genre is?
Tom: I’m a fan of all genres. I simply love great storytelling. With that said, I tend to gravitate towards horror and science fiction because those genres allow me to stretch my creative muscles and explore subject matter outside of the realm of the real world. The escapism is what’s most appealing to me in movies.
Tammy: I agree. In fact, my take on the horror and science fiction genre is that it seems to be not only more forgiving per se, but you also get to sprinkle in other genres. Such as comedy or romance. Whereas if you are watching a comedy or romance, that’s all there is. However, in the horror genre, one minute you can be in love, the next joking who will be killed and then the pure rush of, like you said, escapism!
When you decide on a story to direct, what are the first things you think about in the story? Is it the characters, maybe what type of actors or actresses you may wish to use? Or is it the location? Perhaps it’s the special effects that the story may require? Is there a method to your madness per se?
Tom: There has to be something relatable and intriguing in the story for me to pursue it. I love to explore the human condition and the impact that our flaws, as well as our strengths, have on our lives and the lives of our loved ones. That’s where the actors come in. I usually begin the writing process clear of any preconceptions about who my leads will be. As I delve deeper into the characters, I begin the casting process. Who have I worked with or would like to work with who embodies this character? In most cases, I develop a wish list of actors early on. In other cases, I will audition hopefuls. Regarding locations, they too are like characters to me. They must stand out, be memorable and particular to the story.
Tammy: That’s what I really like about your movies! You can tell you put a lot of thought into your characters and the locations. In fact, they flawlessly go together! Too often, you’ll see an Indie film cast someone, perhaps in hopes they will carry the movie, only to not match up the proper location. Even to the untrained eye, it sets the wrong tone.
Now we get to talk about all the fabulous films you have directed! Please tell us about your films.
Tom: My films are all very dear to me and I sincerely enjoyed making every single one of them. As much as they revolve around a world of death, demise and eerie twist endings, the real power in our stories is the character study. The movies have most certainly benefitted from the incredible performances of an array of independent film talents I had the pleasure of working with. We take pride in delivering high-quality entertainment on a shoe-string budget.
Tammy: That you do, I’m always so excited to hear you have another one coming out!
Knowing you, I can only imagine the fun you have on set! What are your thoughts about having fun while you film? Ever think of doing a blooper for fun?
Tom: I always say that if you’re not having fun while making a movie, you’re making movies with the wrong people. In the earliest days of pre-production, I try to encourage camaraderie among the cast members and crew. From table-reads to Facebook group pages, we begin to get familiar with each other. By the time we get to set, there is a buzz, and excitement about finally getting to work together. That kind of energy makes our sets very comfortable and feels like a family gathering. We share jokes, bust chops, actors flub lines and we enjoy every minute of it. The process has to be enjoyable or else it starts to feel like work instead of make-believe.
I only cut together one blooper reel for my very first short film “Day 9”. It was almost as much work as cutting together the full film, so it was the last time I did it.
Tammy: You know, I never really thought about the extra hard work that must go into a blooper reel. We take so many things for granted when we sit and watch a movie! And to be perfectly honest, I like watching blooper reels for other genres but now that I think about it - I really don’t care for ones in the horror genre because it tends to take away the mood you have set. But I have heard, from ones on your set, how much they truly enjoy doing a film with you!
Recently you had some exciting news about one of your films being overseas! Which one is that and what’s happening with it?
Tom: “Splinter” just enjoyed its UK premiere at Frightfest. It was an honor to be among some of the best new independent films like “Piggy”, “Fall”, and “Terrifier 2”. “Splinter” is part of our new feature-film anthology “Return to The Theatre of Terror” and our team is very excited to see it alongside some of the other creepy new stories we’ve developed.
Tammy: That’s amazing! I was so excited for you when I saw that! And I love that you brought back Theatre of Terror, I can wait to see the new stories for it!
When you have finished directing a film, what are your feelings? Of course, I’m sure a satisfaction of accomplishment, no doubt. And of course, a bit of sadness, having a bond with the story as well as with all of those who helped bring it to life. What I’m curious about is, do you like the afterglow with the promoting and such? Or, are you already thinking about your next project and anxious to get back to directing?
Tom: Let me first say that I have more involvement in my films than an average director. I am usually the head-writer, the producer, the casting director, the location scout, the editor, the VFX artist, the marketing department, the sales agent and whatever else I need to be to see the film through to completion. Now to address the question specifically; after filming, the excitement to edit our footage begins. That part is a lot of fun because now I’m piecing together our scenes and the vision is coming to life right before my eyes. When that’s done and the sound mixing begins, I arrange the cast and crew screening so everyone who invested time and energy into the project can see the finished product. I think that’s when a bit of sadness starts to creep in. I do develop some great friendships with both cast and crew members and it’s hard to accept that particular journey is over. The bright side is that there is always another one on the horizon.
Tammy: Again, I am humbled by all that you do! Who knew? Call me a blonde, which I am, but I just visualize a director sitting behind the camera with someone bringing them a coffee. Lol! I am so happy that you explained how much more there is to it! I’m sure you probably even left some out! Certainly, gives us more respect to what goes on behind the scenes!
This last question I usually ask is if there is anyone you want to do a shout out for helping you? I’m going to let you off the hook because we all know how grateful you always are and there are so many you always give credit to! I know it takes a small village when it comes to raising your “dreams” but in your case, it seems like you have an entire city who is always willing to help you! Would it be safe to say that our readers can easily see your shout outs in the credits of your awesome movies? And while we’re at it, do you have a website where everyone can easily see your work?
Tom: There are so many wonderful people in my life who have helped make these pictures a reality. I would love to shout them all out here and now but that would be risking forgetting someone. They are financial donors, city administrators, home-owners, close friends, friends of friends, and the list goes on. They all make the credits and most of them make my website in the “cast & crew” section. You can find us at www.theatreofterror.net.
Tammy: Awesome! Thank you, Tom, there are so many more questions I could continue to ask but since you have exciting projects yet to come - perhaps we can do another interview later?
I’m telling you, Tom Ryan is going to become a household name! Once you experience a taste of his true talent, you will want to follow his career to so many successful avenues that are on the horizon!
Until then Tom, we wish you the very best! And for now, I guess we can say “it’s a wrap” …meaning it’s time to go home and watch Tom’s movies, enjoy!
TODD STARUCH
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Todd’s Interview
By: Tammy Vreeland
Today I get to interview a person who usually does the interviewing! However, you are going to find out quickly that Todd Staruch, is a Jack of All Trades with possibly a secret identity!
In fact, I didn’t realize how many hidden talents Todd had until I started to try to put a timeline of what I did know about him for this interview only to find out so many things he did or does branches off into several directions I didn’t realize!
So, help me out here, Todd. Let’s create this timeline together. My timeline in getting to know you was through the cons. I knew you wrote, you directed, you did interviews, etc. But that timeline, when we met, came in much later.
Let’s start at the beginning. How did you get interested in doing film festivals?
Todd: Well, to be honest, a dozen or so years ago, I didn’t even know that local festivals or independent filmmaking was even a thing. I mean, I of course was aware of the giant festivals like Cannes or Sundance, but I had no idea that there were small events, and local people making movies. Then I met a bunch of guys from NY who had made an awesome indie film called “The Super.” We became friends and then they asked me to play a zombie in one of their movies, and from then on, I was hooked on indie filmmaking!
Tammy: Wow, I never knew that I’ll have to check it out! Just like you, I knew nothing about the smaller cons. Then, at my first one, I met Tom Ryan who then introduced me to you at my second one. Like you, I became hooked!
I alluded at the beginning of you having a secret identity. What I meant by that is most probably do not know, besides your passion for the film industry and other interests, what your full-time day job is! I like to tease you of having a Clark Kent persona, mind telling us what your day job is?
Todd: I am an IT (Information Technology) consultant. My company specializes in providing retailers with hardware and software to help manage and secure their corporate networks. I personally specialize in the payment card field, where we install hardware and software to process credit card payment.
Tammy: I’m sure some will be surprised at that. I know I was! Now, throughout the rest of the interview, we will see you as the Superman I see you. A Super Dad, a Super Brother, a Super Son, a Super Friend. You see where I’m going with this whole cute analogy.
But there’s also a lot of substance to what I am alluding to, by all the things you do besides your work life and private life. Let’s take example your event called Grindhouse.
How did that come to be and what is it?
Todd: It all started about a decade ago when my good friend Rob Dimension ran something called the PA/NJ Horror Film Club. A bunch of folks would gather in the back room of a comic book store in Bensalem, PA.
We would watch an indie horror film and then sit around and talk about it. Then we would just hang out and talk about movies, comic books and such. I was mulling around the idea of doing something similar in northern NJ when I was at my friend’s restaurant/bar with the same group of NY filmmakers I mentioned before. One of them said, “You know, this would be a good place to watch horror movies!”
So, I asked the owner, who I had known since grade school, if we could schedule a film screening and she said yes. I expected maybe a handful of people to show up, but we had about 20 people! From there it just grew into the event that we have today, which is a two-day juried film festival, combined with live entertainment.
Tammy: To have started out with such humble beginnings, it’s an impressive event! If I am correct, last year was your 10th Anniversary! Congratulations, your baby is still growing!
So, besides your day job and the Grindhouse, you are also an author! When did writing become part of your life? And are you strictly a screenplay writer or do you write a story first, then turn it into a screenplay?
Todd: Well, to be fair, I really don’t consider myself an author. In my mind, that does a disservice to people such as yourself, who make a living with their writing. I do enjoy the process of writing a screenplay, but I am a long way from calling myself a screenwriter. Back in college, I did write a couple of short stories that I am currently converting into screenplays, so we’ll see how that goes!
Tammy: Again, a humble answer, from my mild manner Clark Kent, but I disagree! It takes strength in being able to write, let alone format, into a movie! All of which you have done!
The way I see it, you are someone who has a passion for something. Then shares that passion with others, to writing, then you went on to directing! Was that just a natural order of things for you? Ultimately, knowing that was where this was all taking you, or was it a surprise to you?
Todd: Honestly, I never really mapped it out in my mind. I went from being a PA, lugging gear around for friends, to having small roles in indie movies, to becoming a producer with Theatre of Terror and it just felt right to try my hand at writing and directing. Again, my “real” job pays the bills, so the filmmaking side of my life is just something I do for the joy of it, and I never really know what’s next.
Tammy: Your guess is as good as mine! You constantly amaze me with your new projects that you have going on! Recently, you have even won awards!
Mind letting us know more about them?
Todd: The film “Splinter”, which is an original story by me, and was directed by my buddy Tom Ryan and produced by Theatre of Terror, recently won the Kevin Smith Home Grown Film Award at the prestigious Garden State Film Festival, and I was very proud of that!
My own short films “The Bonds of Friendship” and “Nana” both had successful festival runs and I am proud of those films as well. I do want to take a moment to give a shout out to everyone I have worked with on any film. It’s definitely a team effort, and I appreciate everyone’s involvement!
Tammy: That’s awesome, good for you! As for your teams, what amazing and talented people you have involved in your projects! I’ve seen the interaction and there is a mutual respect which carries over into your films, something you all can be proud of!
You mentioned earlier you were even an actor! Can you tell us more about your acting?
Todd: My first role was as a zombie in my friend Liam’s film “Survive” and that was a lot of fun because we had a lot of gross makeup and effects and stuff. My first big speaking role was in a short film called “Rapt,” which was written by Russ Hackett and Jerry Janda and also directed by Tom Ryan. I’ve been in other stuff here and there and it’s always a lot of fun!
Tammy: So far you have a day job, you are a host and promoter, a writer, a director, an actor and when I first met you, you were also interviewing the stars at the cons!
How did that all come about?
Todd: Well, I kind of just stumbled into that. I had my website, horrornerd.net and people kind of knew who I was through my events and social media, so I just applied for a press pass at a horror convention in New Jersey and it was approved, much to my surprise!
For the first couple of events, though, I was behind the camera, and I had a different host. Unfortunately, we had a falling out and while I was looking for a replacement my dad said, “You know all of these celebrities and you know every movie and every show they have ever been in, so why don’t you just do the interviews yourself?”
My dad usually knows what he’s talking about, so I gave it a try and had a blast, so now I do interviews at multiple shows every year. Truly, I am just a fan at heart who gets to do some really cool stuff, and sometimes I do wonder, “How the heck did I get here???”
Tammy: That’s what I love about you! You have fun with all these things. And let me tell you, your father was right! I was so nervous about my own interview with you. But you made it so easy and when it was all done and said, you made me look like I knew what I was doing, lol! No wonder you are such a hit with all the stars!
For all those wonderful interviews, you have created a YouTube channel and a website for them. Where can our readers find them?
Todd: Well, I am a social media whore, so I am not that hard to find. You can find me under my real name just about everywhere, and on YouTube you can find my channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHorrorNerd. My website is www.horrornerd.net. Which reminds me, I neglect my site far too much and I really need to get back to it!
Tammy: Oh please, I don’t know how you do it! We’ll be at a con, you’ll take a picture and within 5 minutes it’s posted! I swear its magic - takes me days to find the time and I have way fewer things going on than you!
Hopefully our readers now have some sort of idea of how complex and talented you are, but I saved one last thing that I think really puts you over the top. The real reason I think you wear a cape!
You are involved in charity work. Scares that Cares. In fact, it’s one of the reasons I wanted to put you in this month’s article!
Could you tell us about what the charity does and how our readers could maybe participate in such a worthy cause?
Todd: Scares That Care is a registered 501c3 charity organization that is very close to my heart. Founder and CEO Joe Ripple has become a dear friend over the years and he and the rest of the staff do an amazing job raising money to help ease the financial burden for families who are dealing with catastrophic illnesses or injuries.
Each year, we host several events to raise money for the cause, and there are also a lot of online/virtual fundraisers every year.
For more information, people should visit www.scaresthatcare.org or https://www.facebook.com/ScaresThatCarePage.
Tammy: A very worthy cause and what I like is that they have events throughout the year, not just this time of year. Please, check them out not only is it for charity but the people involved are amazing and it’s just a great time for the whole family!
There you have our Clark Kent turned Superman after work hours, Todd Staruch. I can’t thank you enough, Todd, for letting us see a glimpse of all the amazing things you do!
Todd: Thank you so much Tammy! It’s been such a pleasure getting to know you these last few years!
Tammy: Pleasure has been all mine! Even though I may use a little kryptonite on you once in a while, you are a Superman, through and through!
I’m sure I’m not the only one that realizes your story is far from over! It will be interesting to see what you will come up with next!
Until then, I wish you the very best as I carefully reach over the cape you wear, to hand back the microphone to where it belongs!
By: Tammy Vreeland
Today I get to interview a person who usually does the interviewing! However, you are going to find out quickly that Todd Staruch, is a Jack of All Trades with possibly a secret identity!
In fact, I didn’t realize how many hidden talents Todd had until I started to try to put a timeline of what I did know about him for this interview only to find out so many things he did or does branches off into several directions I didn’t realize!
So, help me out here, Todd. Let’s create this timeline together. My timeline in getting to know you was through the cons. I knew you wrote, you directed, you did interviews, etc. But that timeline, when we met, came in much later.
Let’s start at the beginning. How did you get interested in doing film festivals?
Todd: Well, to be honest, a dozen or so years ago, I didn’t even know that local festivals or independent filmmaking was even a thing. I mean, I of course was aware of the giant festivals like Cannes or Sundance, but I had no idea that there were small events, and local people making movies. Then I met a bunch of guys from NY who had made an awesome indie film called “The Super.” We became friends and then they asked me to play a zombie in one of their movies, and from then on, I was hooked on indie filmmaking!
Tammy: Wow, I never knew that I’ll have to check it out! Just like you, I knew nothing about the smaller cons. Then, at my first one, I met Tom Ryan who then introduced me to you at my second one. Like you, I became hooked!
I alluded at the beginning of you having a secret identity. What I meant by that is most probably do not know, besides your passion for the film industry and other interests, what your full-time day job is! I like to tease you of having a Clark Kent persona, mind telling us what your day job is?
Todd: I am an IT (Information Technology) consultant. My company specializes in providing retailers with hardware and software to help manage and secure their corporate networks. I personally specialize in the payment card field, where we install hardware and software to process credit card payment.
Tammy: I’m sure some will be surprised at that. I know I was! Now, throughout the rest of the interview, we will see you as the Superman I see you. A Super Dad, a Super Brother, a Super Son, a Super Friend. You see where I’m going with this whole cute analogy.
But there’s also a lot of substance to what I am alluding to, by all the things you do besides your work life and private life. Let’s take example your event called Grindhouse.
How did that come to be and what is it?
Todd: It all started about a decade ago when my good friend Rob Dimension ran something called the PA/NJ Horror Film Club. A bunch of folks would gather in the back room of a comic book store in Bensalem, PA.
We would watch an indie horror film and then sit around and talk about it. Then we would just hang out and talk about movies, comic books and such. I was mulling around the idea of doing something similar in northern NJ when I was at my friend’s restaurant/bar with the same group of NY filmmakers I mentioned before. One of them said, “You know, this would be a good place to watch horror movies!”
So, I asked the owner, who I had known since grade school, if we could schedule a film screening and she said yes. I expected maybe a handful of people to show up, but we had about 20 people! From there it just grew into the event that we have today, which is a two-day juried film festival, combined with live entertainment.
Tammy: To have started out with such humble beginnings, it’s an impressive event! If I am correct, last year was your 10th Anniversary! Congratulations, your baby is still growing!
So, besides your day job and the Grindhouse, you are also an author! When did writing become part of your life? And are you strictly a screenplay writer or do you write a story first, then turn it into a screenplay?
Todd: Well, to be fair, I really don’t consider myself an author. In my mind, that does a disservice to people such as yourself, who make a living with their writing. I do enjoy the process of writing a screenplay, but I am a long way from calling myself a screenwriter. Back in college, I did write a couple of short stories that I am currently converting into screenplays, so we’ll see how that goes!
Tammy: Again, a humble answer, from my mild manner Clark Kent, but I disagree! It takes strength in being able to write, let alone format, into a movie! All of which you have done!
The way I see it, you are someone who has a passion for something. Then shares that passion with others, to writing, then you went on to directing! Was that just a natural order of things for you? Ultimately, knowing that was where this was all taking you, or was it a surprise to you?
Todd: Honestly, I never really mapped it out in my mind. I went from being a PA, lugging gear around for friends, to having small roles in indie movies, to becoming a producer with Theatre of Terror and it just felt right to try my hand at writing and directing. Again, my “real” job pays the bills, so the filmmaking side of my life is just something I do for the joy of it, and I never really know what’s next.
Tammy: Your guess is as good as mine! You constantly amaze me with your new projects that you have going on! Recently, you have even won awards!
Mind letting us know more about them?
Todd: The film “Splinter”, which is an original story by me, and was directed by my buddy Tom Ryan and produced by Theatre of Terror, recently won the Kevin Smith Home Grown Film Award at the prestigious Garden State Film Festival, and I was very proud of that!
My own short films “The Bonds of Friendship” and “Nana” both had successful festival runs and I am proud of those films as well. I do want to take a moment to give a shout out to everyone I have worked with on any film. It’s definitely a team effort, and I appreciate everyone’s involvement!
Tammy: That’s awesome, good for you! As for your teams, what amazing and talented people you have involved in your projects! I’ve seen the interaction and there is a mutual respect which carries over into your films, something you all can be proud of!
You mentioned earlier you were even an actor! Can you tell us more about your acting?
Todd: My first role was as a zombie in my friend Liam’s film “Survive” and that was a lot of fun because we had a lot of gross makeup and effects and stuff. My first big speaking role was in a short film called “Rapt,” which was written by Russ Hackett and Jerry Janda and also directed by Tom Ryan. I’ve been in other stuff here and there and it’s always a lot of fun!
Tammy: So far you have a day job, you are a host and promoter, a writer, a director, an actor and when I first met you, you were also interviewing the stars at the cons!
How did that all come about?
Todd: Well, I kind of just stumbled into that. I had my website, horrornerd.net and people kind of knew who I was through my events and social media, so I just applied for a press pass at a horror convention in New Jersey and it was approved, much to my surprise!
For the first couple of events, though, I was behind the camera, and I had a different host. Unfortunately, we had a falling out and while I was looking for a replacement my dad said, “You know all of these celebrities and you know every movie and every show they have ever been in, so why don’t you just do the interviews yourself?”
My dad usually knows what he’s talking about, so I gave it a try and had a blast, so now I do interviews at multiple shows every year. Truly, I am just a fan at heart who gets to do some really cool stuff, and sometimes I do wonder, “How the heck did I get here???”
Tammy: That’s what I love about you! You have fun with all these things. And let me tell you, your father was right! I was so nervous about my own interview with you. But you made it so easy and when it was all done and said, you made me look like I knew what I was doing, lol! No wonder you are such a hit with all the stars!
For all those wonderful interviews, you have created a YouTube channel and a website for them. Where can our readers find them?
Todd: Well, I am a social media whore, so I am not that hard to find. You can find me under my real name just about everywhere, and on YouTube you can find my channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHorrorNerd. My website is www.horrornerd.net. Which reminds me, I neglect my site far too much and I really need to get back to it!
Tammy: Oh please, I don’t know how you do it! We’ll be at a con, you’ll take a picture and within 5 minutes it’s posted! I swear its magic - takes me days to find the time and I have way fewer things going on than you!
Hopefully our readers now have some sort of idea of how complex and talented you are, but I saved one last thing that I think really puts you over the top. The real reason I think you wear a cape!
You are involved in charity work. Scares that Cares. In fact, it’s one of the reasons I wanted to put you in this month’s article!
Could you tell us about what the charity does and how our readers could maybe participate in such a worthy cause?
Todd: Scares That Care is a registered 501c3 charity organization that is very close to my heart. Founder and CEO Joe Ripple has become a dear friend over the years and he and the rest of the staff do an amazing job raising money to help ease the financial burden for families who are dealing with catastrophic illnesses or injuries.
Each year, we host several events to raise money for the cause, and there are also a lot of online/virtual fundraisers every year.
For more information, people should visit www.scaresthatcare.org or https://www.facebook.com/ScaresThatCarePage.
Tammy: A very worthy cause and what I like is that they have events throughout the year, not just this time of year. Please, check them out not only is it for charity but the people involved are amazing and it’s just a great time for the whole family!
There you have our Clark Kent turned Superman after work hours, Todd Staruch. I can’t thank you enough, Todd, for letting us see a glimpse of all the amazing things you do!
Todd: Thank you so much Tammy! It’s been such a pleasure getting to know you these last few years!
Tammy: Pleasure has been all mine! Even though I may use a little kryptonite on you once in a while, you are a Superman, through and through!
I’m sure I’m not the only one that realizes your story is far from over! It will be interesting to see what you will come up with next!
Until then, I wish you the very best as I carefully reach over the cape you wear, to hand back the microphone to where it belongs!
MARKUS MISERY
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Markus Misery
By: Tammy Vreeland
I think by now, you, my readers, have come to realize I try to bring to you the most interesting people I meet. And I have to say, I have met so many! Some of them I think of as diamonds in the rough. Not someone you may at first realize the potential they have for society.
This next interview I have for you is exactly what I mean, and it took me on a most unexpected journey! A chance meeting in an elevator. Let me connect with this most fascinating man!
While his exterior intrigued me, never did I dream how beautiful and bright that diamond of his that was hidden, would be so brilliant! Nor how many facets it would have!
Let’s start off with your name, Markus Misery. Since I know you, for many reasons, when I ask you about your name for some reason, I think of Shakespeare: “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Meaning, names of things do not affect what they really are while it may have started as such. I think yours may have evolved into something more.
Do you mind telling us how your name came to be?
Markus: We must take a trip back in time, to the late 1900s. My musical collaborative partner, Devlin Bane, coined the name. He does my tattoos, and we have been brothers since about 1989. In the mid-90s, I was at a particularly low point in my life (little did I know how much worse it could get) and he just came up with it. It fit. And it stuck.
You are correct though it has evolved, indeed. Elvis had a song called “Trouble.” “My middle name is Misery. Well, I’m evil. So, don’t you mess around with me.”
It gives me strength. Side note, the great New Jersey legend, Glen Danzig, also said, “I am Misery. I always win.” It took me a long time to learn that. But you bet I do. I always win!
Tammy: Now that we know the background of your name, let’s talk about your image.
The look that you have, can you explain it to us?
Markus: I am Markus Misery… ALL THE TIME. I have “levels” of it, so to speak, that range from a sort of “Misery Lite,” to full on-stage gear. I have spent my entire life soul searching, with little to no support. I no longer hide who I am, or make any apologies for it.
Heavy Metal rules, and it will ALWAYS be 1986 to me. It took me fifty years to truly and fully hold nothing back… to make NO apologies for who I am. Now, Midgard must deal with it. I care not what they think. Horns up.
Tammy: Love that about you, that you are comfortable in your own skin!
Ok let’s talk about your music. Honestly, it’s the real reason I wanted to do the interview, but quickly found out it was only one of the many facets you have. What type of music is it and what instrument do you play?
Markus: I will sum it up as briefly as I can. My band is called Altar. I play bass and “sing” lead vocals. Devlin does some lead vocals, too. Honestly, it is his brainchild. I have been his king’s hand for these 30+ years, when it comes to musical creation. We have done many great things together. Of this, I am the proudest.
For those who know, Altar will appeal to fans of the likes of Venom, Celtic Frost, Sodom, Destruction, and other bands of that era. I scream my head off like a demon. And, I LOVE it!
Tammy: I’ll have to admit that you do! I’m curious, what was the youngest memory you had of hearing something similar to your music? As you got older, what bands did you follow?
Markus: Rock and Roll have been present in my life for as long as I can remember. I love what many would consider “oldies”. I love the Beatles, the Dave Clarke Five… and, oh my heart… The Mammas and the Pappas. Enter the 1970s… a band emerged called Kiss. Ever hear of them?
The “heavy” stuff started there. Later on (80s), someone randomly lent me a cassette, basically saying “check this out.” It was “British Steel,” by Judas Priest. That did it. It was over. Metal forever. As far as what we may sound like, what I currently do is thrash metal. That became my greatest love.
Tammy: I have to admit I knew the ones you started talking about but had never heard of thrash metal.
You already have music released. What is the name of that band and album? You also have a new band. What is the name of it and do you have an album coming out for them?
Markus: I have a band called Grim Legion, which I love. Devlin and I are the core members. He founded it in the 80s. We have a record contract. A new album is coming out any day now. But, every member of that band has reached great success outside of Grim Legion. So, their time is limited for it. That’s part of why we created Altar, which is the thing I am most proud of… ever. And, we did just finish recording. That record should be out soon, as well.
Tammy: It definitely is one of your passions. But I’m finding you have many! You actually greeted me at the door singing pirate shanties! (I kid you not and he was good at them!)
Then the dinner you prepared for me was not something I am used to. What are your eating preferences and why?
Markus: Simply put, I am vegan. I have been for about ten years. I do it because of my love for animals. All sentient life deserves simply to live. I despise cruelty in any form. Contrary to some beliefs, vegans don’t just eat salad. In fact, I almost never eat salad.
Tammy: Although not a vegan myself, I will admit the dish you prepared for me tonight was delish!
As we sit here eating this amazing dinner and drinking our wine, I notice quite a few wrestling belts on the wall. What are they all about?
Markus: I’m a huge wrestling fan. I want to look at those things and reflect. As a youngling, being a famous wrestler was one of things I dreamt of. I even gave it a go. I didn’t do that until my late 40s. Who knows how it would have gone if I had tried when I was young?
I did get into the business, thanks to my dear friends at Locked Target Wrestling. I was mostly a referee. I did train enough to cross something off of my bucket list. I participated in a battle royale in full Markus Misery mode. There is a video of it available. I didn’t win. But I outlasted some solid pros, and even delivered a devastating Stunner to one of them. I am a god.
Tammy: Awesome, love it! I think our readers may be quite surprised at what you do for your work career. Would you mind telling us what you do from 9 to 5 per se?
Markus: I am filled with joy that you asked this. I have been an adult education professional for about 20 years. I teach people how conversationally to communicate. Frankly, anything else we may be discussing is secondary.
It’s not just because my professional life pays my mortgage. I will sum it up as such. My students are quite literally the absolute number one reason I wake up in the morning. They are the single greatest motivation in my life. I shape them. I absolutely LOVE them. I ADORE them.
They inspire me in every moment of my existence. For full transparency, every time I explain this, it brings me to tears. Words cannot express what they mean to me. Shaping them is my purpose. Tammy... I love them so much. There are not even words for it. I would be nothing without them.
Tammy: I had no idea, yet another passion of yours. Not going to lie, not at all what I expected! But this is where we see the many facets of your diamond I was talking about. When you first told me of the people you teach, it was interesting to what you call them and how important they are to you.
Would you mind explaining it to our readers?
Markus: I call them my tribe. And I do that quite deliberately. I take that word VERY seriously. I am of Ojibwe descent. My entire chest tattoo is a tribute to that.
My great grandmother, I never met her, but I have seen pictures of her and to explain it to a layperson, she looked like Pocahontas. That is who I am. I am an Ojibwe brave. I have no greater love in this world than I have for my tribe.
Tammy: What a beautiful sentiment for them to be part of! This next subject is going to jump into a dark part of your life. One I was very surprised you wanted to talk about.
Revealing only what you feel comfortable with, would you mind describing the worst day of your life and what happened?
Markus: The following is the full story of a day I wish I could forget. This is my baggage that I carry. I am aware of how unappealing it will make me to many. But people need to know that they are not alone.
I am making this public… for the first time. My hope is that someone will draw strength from it. I have scars. I have tasted death’s sweet kiss. She will not seduce me again. This took place in April 2020.
Backstory: prior to this, I quite literally considered myself the happiest person on earth. I was in a marriage that most people can only fantasize about. We were together for about ten years, when things started to turn sour. Not in any sinister way. It was simply an awful happenstance of life. We grew apart.
Leading up to the aforementioned worst day of my life, I had moved out of my once happy home. It felt like I had literally been to Valhalla, then exiled from it. This home where you now sit, my dear friend, was my exile… my personal purgatory.
It was empty. Everything you look around and see was not here. All that existed was a futon and a television. This place was hell for me. I wanted no part of it. I wanted to go home. So, I kept it empty.
As time went on, I began to realize the harsh reality that going home was never going to be. I shopped for and ordered a bed. One afternoon in April 2020, it arrived. This may seem insignificant. But I took one look at it and realized that this situation was indeed going to be permanent. That realization shattered my soul into a billion shards of heartache. I could not cope with it.
BUT I still had my students to teach, my tribe. It was a remote class. I was logging in from home. Time to put the game face on for them. What happened next sent me to the darkest place I have ever had the displeasure of dwelling. Before I could log on with my beloved tribe, I got a phone call.
The company where I had spent seven years dedicating my life had decided to lay off 1000 people in one day, and blame Covid for it. This phone call came within 30 minutes of the mattress arriving. Put those two things together in such a short time frame… my psyche could no longer manage it.
I chugged a bottle of wine. I texted my “wife,” saying goodbye. I took this guitar cable that I am holding in this very hand and went to the garage. I flung it over the rafter, climbed a step ladder, wrapped it around my neck, and kicked the ladder out of the way. I was ready to go. I had had enough.
My Valkyrie must have decided that it was not my time. A few moments later, the garage door opened. My “wife” and the police were there. They help me up while loosening the cable. I spent the next 4 days in the hospital.
Tammy: I’m sure most, like me, will be surprised you were willing to share such a raw and emotional event. And yet you not only bared your soul, you went on to tell me about grief therapy.
Would you mind telling our readers what our society has wrong about grief therapy? Who were the people who helped you with your grief? What are some of the books you read and some of the groups you would recommend?
Markus: My own experiences have led to crave a greater understanding for the meaning of grief of loss. I have indeed learned that we do it wrong. With the best of intentions, usually from a place of love, people say and do things that at best don’t help… and often cause harm.
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross wrote on the stages of grief in 1969. However, grief is not linear. A devastating loss forever changes us. We can never be the person we once were. Saying something like “At least they are in a better place now” is beyond insulting. Better than here with me, huh?
There is only one appropriate course of action to support someone who is grieving. BE THERE FOR THEM. Show up. Shut up. Listen. Simply hold their hands, be it literally or figuratively. Hold space with them. Don’t offer any advice. Acknowledgement is everything. Let them know they are seen. Injecting your own experience, while well intentioned, changes it to being about you, rather than the griever.
I encourage people to study the work of my greatest teacher, LISA KEEFAUVER, MSW - Grief and Empathy Activist. You can find her at lisakeefauver.com. She has a podcast called “Grief is a Sneaky Bitch.” It is a tremendous resource. I have learned so much from her. I have had the pleasure of speaking to her one on one, and it is life altering!
Right up there with Lisa is Megan Devine, who I have not had the pleasure of speaking to. I feel that everyone should read her book “It’s OK that You’re Not OK.”
Tammy: Once I realized the depth of this interview, I realized how many you could help. During this interview, you did something unexpected! You took this necklace off you were wearing and gave it to me!
If you don’t mind, would you explain the significance of the necklace? And what your beliefs are and what happened to cause you to have those beliefs?
Markus: That’s Mjölnir. It’s Thor’s Hammer. Thor is the God of Thunder and protected of Midgard… Earth, as we mortals call it. I wear it for protection. And that is why I gave it to you. Thor will protect you, now.
I’m Norse Pagan. I believe in what most people may call the “Old Gods.” Odin is the Allfather… emphasis on ALL. Everyone is welcome. EVERYONE. Yet, nobody is out recruiting about it. It is forever a learning experience.
How/why do I believe this? Frankly, I was an atheist for about 30 years. Everything I just told you, I would have called bullshit for that entire time. I can only say that I heard the call of the gods. I have felt them. I have heard them. I have even seen them.
From that fateful day, I am still here. I have since met my Valkyrie. I know she was there that day. I am positive of that. She and my Oracle have told me it is not my time. I have work to do. I am glad they made me stay.
I fight against this difficult life, so I can make my way to Valhalla, when my time DOES come. I fight not only for myself, anymore. I have a new tribe to nurture… my babies. I must stay here for them as long as I can.
I am here to fight for anyone who needs me by their side, or better yet, to stand in front of them. I no longer want to “go home.” Life evolves. I use my energy elsewhere. If anyone harms someone, I hold dear, they need only ponder that I am now asking myself one simple question. “How tightly shall I close my fist?” Blood on the Altar.
Loki, the trickster, is one that I have a love/hate relationship with. I have won this round, though. He can’t trick me anymore. He did for ages. Good one, Loki. I acknowledge your power over me. Or, should I say, former power. Loki is a god. He is welcome in my hall any time. I just have to keep a sharp eye on him.
Tammy: Although I may not understand it, I do admire your conviction and passion for it. As for your gift, I will treasure it always!
Markus, I have to admit. I knew this would be a tough interview to write, for I know I barely scratched the surface of who you are but more importantly, what you are to so many!
How appropriate we used the picture of you in front of John Lennon’s Imagine “…imagine all the people living life in peace.” And although words to that song may be hard to believe at times, for all of us, I just wanted you to know how proud of you I am!
I’ve read beautiful messages from your “tribes” at work on what a wonderful teacher you are!
I know first-hand how amazingly talented you are with your music. Whether it be playing the guitar and singing on the boulevard “Halloween” to my good friend Tony Moran, or all of your admirers of your albums released, to the fun boisterous pirate shanties you love!
But what I am so thankful for, not only for your service to this country, but for you continuing to be a warrior! Fighting a fight, a mental one, that seems to be harder than any physical fight!
A fight that took its toll on you, only for you to rise up like the warrior you are, and not only reveal your scars to others, but are constantly there to let them know you “see” them!
You told me you wanted me to end this interview with a very strong message and I am honored to oblige.
If any of you are dealing with grief, please do not hesitate and reach out to Markus at Markus Misery on Facebook - his page is open to anyone. He will respond to anyone, and more importantly - he knows grief therapy, people and information that helped him and will help you!
All of us will deal with grief. As Markus adamantly says, “If you feel like are having the worst day ever - you are! Nobody can tell you otherwise. It is your grief and grief comes in many forms! It will never leave you, and others will never know your pain.”
However, Markus also wants you to know, “I see you! I hear you! And, I will hold you in my heart and will shield you!”
Now tell me, is that not the most beautiful diamond you have ever seen?
By: Tammy Vreeland
I think by now, you, my readers, have come to realize I try to bring to you the most interesting people I meet. And I have to say, I have met so many! Some of them I think of as diamonds in the rough. Not someone you may at first realize the potential they have for society.
This next interview I have for you is exactly what I mean, and it took me on a most unexpected journey! A chance meeting in an elevator. Let me connect with this most fascinating man!
While his exterior intrigued me, never did I dream how beautiful and bright that diamond of his that was hidden, would be so brilliant! Nor how many facets it would have!
Let’s start off with your name, Markus Misery. Since I know you, for many reasons, when I ask you about your name for some reason, I think of Shakespeare: “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Meaning, names of things do not affect what they really are while it may have started as such. I think yours may have evolved into something more.
Do you mind telling us how your name came to be?
Markus: We must take a trip back in time, to the late 1900s. My musical collaborative partner, Devlin Bane, coined the name. He does my tattoos, and we have been brothers since about 1989. In the mid-90s, I was at a particularly low point in my life (little did I know how much worse it could get) and he just came up with it. It fit. And it stuck.
You are correct though it has evolved, indeed. Elvis had a song called “Trouble.” “My middle name is Misery. Well, I’m evil. So, don’t you mess around with me.”
It gives me strength. Side note, the great New Jersey legend, Glen Danzig, also said, “I am Misery. I always win.” It took me a long time to learn that. But you bet I do. I always win!
Tammy: Now that we know the background of your name, let’s talk about your image.
The look that you have, can you explain it to us?
Markus: I am Markus Misery… ALL THE TIME. I have “levels” of it, so to speak, that range from a sort of “Misery Lite,” to full on-stage gear. I have spent my entire life soul searching, with little to no support. I no longer hide who I am, or make any apologies for it.
Heavy Metal rules, and it will ALWAYS be 1986 to me. It took me fifty years to truly and fully hold nothing back… to make NO apologies for who I am. Now, Midgard must deal with it. I care not what they think. Horns up.
Tammy: Love that about you, that you are comfortable in your own skin!
Ok let’s talk about your music. Honestly, it’s the real reason I wanted to do the interview, but quickly found out it was only one of the many facets you have. What type of music is it and what instrument do you play?
Markus: I will sum it up as briefly as I can. My band is called Altar. I play bass and “sing” lead vocals. Devlin does some lead vocals, too. Honestly, it is his brainchild. I have been his king’s hand for these 30+ years, when it comes to musical creation. We have done many great things together. Of this, I am the proudest.
For those who know, Altar will appeal to fans of the likes of Venom, Celtic Frost, Sodom, Destruction, and other bands of that era. I scream my head off like a demon. And, I LOVE it!
Tammy: I’ll have to admit that you do! I’m curious, what was the youngest memory you had of hearing something similar to your music? As you got older, what bands did you follow?
Markus: Rock and Roll have been present in my life for as long as I can remember. I love what many would consider “oldies”. I love the Beatles, the Dave Clarke Five… and, oh my heart… The Mammas and the Pappas. Enter the 1970s… a band emerged called Kiss. Ever hear of them?
The “heavy” stuff started there. Later on (80s), someone randomly lent me a cassette, basically saying “check this out.” It was “British Steel,” by Judas Priest. That did it. It was over. Metal forever. As far as what we may sound like, what I currently do is thrash metal. That became my greatest love.
Tammy: I have to admit I knew the ones you started talking about but had never heard of thrash metal.
You already have music released. What is the name of that band and album? You also have a new band. What is the name of it and do you have an album coming out for them?
Markus: I have a band called Grim Legion, which I love. Devlin and I are the core members. He founded it in the 80s. We have a record contract. A new album is coming out any day now. But, every member of that band has reached great success outside of Grim Legion. So, their time is limited for it. That’s part of why we created Altar, which is the thing I am most proud of… ever. And, we did just finish recording. That record should be out soon, as well.
Tammy: It definitely is one of your passions. But I’m finding you have many! You actually greeted me at the door singing pirate shanties! (I kid you not and he was good at them!)
Then the dinner you prepared for me was not something I am used to. What are your eating preferences and why?
Markus: Simply put, I am vegan. I have been for about ten years. I do it because of my love for animals. All sentient life deserves simply to live. I despise cruelty in any form. Contrary to some beliefs, vegans don’t just eat salad. In fact, I almost never eat salad.
Tammy: Although not a vegan myself, I will admit the dish you prepared for me tonight was delish!
As we sit here eating this amazing dinner and drinking our wine, I notice quite a few wrestling belts on the wall. What are they all about?
Markus: I’m a huge wrestling fan. I want to look at those things and reflect. As a youngling, being a famous wrestler was one of things I dreamt of. I even gave it a go. I didn’t do that until my late 40s. Who knows how it would have gone if I had tried when I was young?
I did get into the business, thanks to my dear friends at Locked Target Wrestling. I was mostly a referee. I did train enough to cross something off of my bucket list. I participated in a battle royale in full Markus Misery mode. There is a video of it available. I didn’t win. But I outlasted some solid pros, and even delivered a devastating Stunner to one of them. I am a god.
Tammy: Awesome, love it! I think our readers may be quite surprised at what you do for your work career. Would you mind telling us what you do from 9 to 5 per se?
Markus: I am filled with joy that you asked this. I have been an adult education professional for about 20 years. I teach people how conversationally to communicate. Frankly, anything else we may be discussing is secondary.
It’s not just because my professional life pays my mortgage. I will sum it up as such. My students are quite literally the absolute number one reason I wake up in the morning. They are the single greatest motivation in my life. I shape them. I absolutely LOVE them. I ADORE them.
They inspire me in every moment of my existence. For full transparency, every time I explain this, it brings me to tears. Words cannot express what they mean to me. Shaping them is my purpose. Tammy... I love them so much. There are not even words for it. I would be nothing without them.
Tammy: I had no idea, yet another passion of yours. Not going to lie, not at all what I expected! But this is where we see the many facets of your diamond I was talking about. When you first told me of the people you teach, it was interesting to what you call them and how important they are to you.
Would you mind explaining it to our readers?
Markus: I call them my tribe. And I do that quite deliberately. I take that word VERY seriously. I am of Ojibwe descent. My entire chest tattoo is a tribute to that.
My great grandmother, I never met her, but I have seen pictures of her and to explain it to a layperson, she looked like Pocahontas. That is who I am. I am an Ojibwe brave. I have no greater love in this world than I have for my tribe.
Tammy: What a beautiful sentiment for them to be part of! This next subject is going to jump into a dark part of your life. One I was very surprised you wanted to talk about.
Revealing only what you feel comfortable with, would you mind describing the worst day of your life and what happened?
Markus: The following is the full story of a day I wish I could forget. This is my baggage that I carry. I am aware of how unappealing it will make me to many. But people need to know that they are not alone.
I am making this public… for the first time. My hope is that someone will draw strength from it. I have scars. I have tasted death’s sweet kiss. She will not seduce me again. This took place in April 2020.
Backstory: prior to this, I quite literally considered myself the happiest person on earth. I was in a marriage that most people can only fantasize about. We were together for about ten years, when things started to turn sour. Not in any sinister way. It was simply an awful happenstance of life. We grew apart.
Leading up to the aforementioned worst day of my life, I had moved out of my once happy home. It felt like I had literally been to Valhalla, then exiled from it. This home where you now sit, my dear friend, was my exile… my personal purgatory.
It was empty. Everything you look around and see was not here. All that existed was a futon and a television. This place was hell for me. I wanted no part of it. I wanted to go home. So, I kept it empty.
As time went on, I began to realize the harsh reality that going home was never going to be. I shopped for and ordered a bed. One afternoon in April 2020, it arrived. This may seem insignificant. But I took one look at it and realized that this situation was indeed going to be permanent. That realization shattered my soul into a billion shards of heartache. I could not cope with it.
BUT I still had my students to teach, my tribe. It was a remote class. I was logging in from home. Time to put the game face on for them. What happened next sent me to the darkest place I have ever had the displeasure of dwelling. Before I could log on with my beloved tribe, I got a phone call.
The company where I had spent seven years dedicating my life had decided to lay off 1000 people in one day, and blame Covid for it. This phone call came within 30 minutes of the mattress arriving. Put those two things together in such a short time frame… my psyche could no longer manage it.
I chugged a bottle of wine. I texted my “wife,” saying goodbye. I took this guitar cable that I am holding in this very hand and went to the garage. I flung it over the rafter, climbed a step ladder, wrapped it around my neck, and kicked the ladder out of the way. I was ready to go. I had had enough.
My Valkyrie must have decided that it was not my time. A few moments later, the garage door opened. My “wife” and the police were there. They help me up while loosening the cable. I spent the next 4 days in the hospital.
Tammy: I’m sure most, like me, will be surprised you were willing to share such a raw and emotional event. And yet you not only bared your soul, you went on to tell me about grief therapy.
Would you mind telling our readers what our society has wrong about grief therapy? Who were the people who helped you with your grief? What are some of the books you read and some of the groups you would recommend?
Markus: My own experiences have led to crave a greater understanding for the meaning of grief of loss. I have indeed learned that we do it wrong. With the best of intentions, usually from a place of love, people say and do things that at best don’t help… and often cause harm.
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross wrote on the stages of grief in 1969. However, grief is not linear. A devastating loss forever changes us. We can never be the person we once were. Saying something like “At least they are in a better place now” is beyond insulting. Better than here with me, huh?
There is only one appropriate course of action to support someone who is grieving. BE THERE FOR THEM. Show up. Shut up. Listen. Simply hold their hands, be it literally or figuratively. Hold space with them. Don’t offer any advice. Acknowledgement is everything. Let them know they are seen. Injecting your own experience, while well intentioned, changes it to being about you, rather than the griever.
I encourage people to study the work of my greatest teacher, LISA KEEFAUVER, MSW - Grief and Empathy Activist. You can find her at lisakeefauver.com. She has a podcast called “Grief is a Sneaky Bitch.” It is a tremendous resource. I have learned so much from her. I have had the pleasure of speaking to her one on one, and it is life altering!
Right up there with Lisa is Megan Devine, who I have not had the pleasure of speaking to. I feel that everyone should read her book “It’s OK that You’re Not OK.”
Tammy: Once I realized the depth of this interview, I realized how many you could help. During this interview, you did something unexpected! You took this necklace off you were wearing and gave it to me!
If you don’t mind, would you explain the significance of the necklace? And what your beliefs are and what happened to cause you to have those beliefs?
Markus: That’s Mjölnir. It’s Thor’s Hammer. Thor is the God of Thunder and protected of Midgard… Earth, as we mortals call it. I wear it for protection. And that is why I gave it to you. Thor will protect you, now.
I’m Norse Pagan. I believe in what most people may call the “Old Gods.” Odin is the Allfather… emphasis on ALL. Everyone is welcome. EVERYONE. Yet, nobody is out recruiting about it. It is forever a learning experience.
How/why do I believe this? Frankly, I was an atheist for about 30 years. Everything I just told you, I would have called bullshit for that entire time. I can only say that I heard the call of the gods. I have felt them. I have heard them. I have even seen them.
From that fateful day, I am still here. I have since met my Valkyrie. I know she was there that day. I am positive of that. She and my Oracle have told me it is not my time. I have work to do. I am glad they made me stay.
I fight against this difficult life, so I can make my way to Valhalla, when my time DOES come. I fight not only for myself, anymore. I have a new tribe to nurture… my babies. I must stay here for them as long as I can.
I am here to fight for anyone who needs me by their side, or better yet, to stand in front of them. I no longer want to “go home.” Life evolves. I use my energy elsewhere. If anyone harms someone, I hold dear, they need only ponder that I am now asking myself one simple question. “How tightly shall I close my fist?” Blood on the Altar.
Loki, the trickster, is one that I have a love/hate relationship with. I have won this round, though. He can’t trick me anymore. He did for ages. Good one, Loki. I acknowledge your power over me. Or, should I say, former power. Loki is a god. He is welcome in my hall any time. I just have to keep a sharp eye on him.
Tammy: Although I may not understand it, I do admire your conviction and passion for it. As for your gift, I will treasure it always!
Markus, I have to admit. I knew this would be a tough interview to write, for I know I barely scratched the surface of who you are but more importantly, what you are to so many!
How appropriate we used the picture of you in front of John Lennon’s Imagine “…imagine all the people living life in peace.” And although words to that song may be hard to believe at times, for all of us, I just wanted you to know how proud of you I am!
I’ve read beautiful messages from your “tribes” at work on what a wonderful teacher you are!
I know first-hand how amazingly talented you are with your music. Whether it be playing the guitar and singing on the boulevard “Halloween” to my good friend Tony Moran, or all of your admirers of your albums released, to the fun boisterous pirate shanties you love!
But what I am so thankful for, not only for your service to this country, but for you continuing to be a warrior! Fighting a fight, a mental one, that seems to be harder than any physical fight!
A fight that took its toll on you, only for you to rise up like the warrior you are, and not only reveal your scars to others, but are constantly there to let them know you “see” them!
You told me you wanted me to end this interview with a very strong message and I am honored to oblige.
If any of you are dealing with grief, please do not hesitate and reach out to Markus at Markus Misery on Facebook - his page is open to anyone. He will respond to anyone, and more importantly - he knows grief therapy, people and information that helped him and will help you!
All of us will deal with grief. As Markus adamantly says, “If you feel like are having the worst day ever - you are! Nobody can tell you otherwise. It is your grief and grief comes in many forms! It will never leave you, and others will never know your pain.”
However, Markus also wants you to know, “I see you! I hear you! And, I will hold you in my heart and will shield you!”
Now tell me, is that not the most beautiful diamond you have ever seen?
DEXTER WILLIAMS
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Dexter Williams
By: Tammy Vreeland
I am always excited when I get to interview someone that has a lot going on in their lives! And let me tell you, this man here - has some amazing things that have happened, are happening and are about to happen!
Tammy: Dexter, it’s such a pleasure to be able to interview you. Thank you for the opportunity! We have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s jump right in.
You are an award-winning screenplay writer. Let’s go back to the very beginning. As a child, were you a storyteller? Were you one of the kids that told a story around a campfire or were you one who preferred to write them down in private?
Dexter: I wasn’t much of a storyteller when I was a child. I was more of a listener to other people’s stories. I was definitely a kid who preferred writing stories in private. I wasn’t the campfire stories type.
Tammy: Listening in of itself seems to be a lost art. Sometimes, just hearing a story vs. really listening makes a world of difference in relaying the story back.
Is there anyone else in your family that writes? Do you think genetics help one write?
Dexter: Believe it or not, I'm the only one in my family who writes for a living. I started out writing short stories and poems in my late teens and early 20s. Don't know much about genetics, but I started having ideas in my brain that I thought would make for great stories.
Tammy: I find the idea of genetics maybe being a part of a talent a fascinating concept. I had a grandfather who was a college English professor. I have often wondered if I had any more relatives that were writers. I like to think that perhaps because of him; I like to write.
Do you remember your first story?
Dexter: I most certainly do. The very first screenplay I have ever written. It is a teen romantic comedy titled "Under Your Spell". It is about a high school student who is asked to hypnotize the captain of the basketball team into being her best friend's date for an upcoming dance. Unfortunately, he's already got a date for the dance; his date happens to be his very spoiled girlfriend!
Tammy: A story many teens I’m sure could relate to! Mine was in grade school, can’t remember the name but it was about an apoplectic event that ended with a paradise like environment. Even back then, I enjoyed the horror genre.
As you grew older, was there a topic you found fascinated and wanted to write about?
Dexter: Absolutely. Hypnotism has been a subject that has intrigued me since I saw a demonstration of it in the fourth grade. I've also seen it on TV shows and in feature films. It was (and still is) a male-dominated field, and I've wanted to write a story with a female hypnotist. That was the inspiration for "Under Your Spell". I've incorporated hypnotism into virtually all of my screenplays.
Tammy: I like it when a writer has passion for something, the passion seems to draw you in more. Making a topic more interesting due to their passion. Even though I didn’t pursue writing until I was in my 30s, looking back, I realize my first story sort of set the path for my future writings, too.
Is there a particular style of writing you like to use such as first person, etc.?
Dexter: The style I have used since I started screenwriting (and continue to do so) is the three-act structure. I learned this from the late screenwriting guru Syd Field through his books, especially "The Foundations of Screenwriting". I couldn't afford to go to screenwriting classes growing up, so I became a self-starter by buying and reading Syd's books. Act one is called "The Set-Up": you have to set-up your script answering three questions: who is the main character, what is the story about, and what are the circumstances of the subject of the story. You have to answer all three questions within the first 20-30 pages of the script and create a plot point. That's the incident that takes the story and spins it in another direction, and it leads to act two (The Confrontation). The stakes go higher in this act, which represents the majority of the script (between 40-60 pages). There is another plot point at the end of act two that spins the story in another direction, which leads to act three (The Resolution). That represents the climax of your story (between 20-30 pages). The three-act structure is the most effective writing style for me, and I wouldn't want to go with any other style as a screenwriter.
Tammy: That was extremely informative and interesting, thank you! I have often wondered about the rhyme and reason to screenplay writing. I could never figure it out. They say writing and screenplay writing are different techniques. They can be a hard barrier to cross, but I must say you have done it effortlessly!
When creating a story, do you like to have strong characters, perhaps breaking barriers not typical? If so, is there a reason?
Dexter: I strongly believe the two most important things in any screenplay are story and characters. No matter how great the action sequences and/or special effects are, you have to find the story compelling and have characters you actually care about. Strong characters are very important, but just as important as trying to bring something unique and different in all my screenplays. For example, my feature script, "Second Dance", is a family-friendly story about belly dancing, a beautiful and graceful art form that is sadly misunderstood by some people. I wanted to give belly dancing the integrity and respect it so truly deserves with "Second Dance".
Tammy: I agree. When it comes to a story, no matter what the topic, I try to do a lot of research so that if the reader wonders if it is true, might research themselves and realize it is. Which in turn gives them the chance to learn something new. As for characters, I like it when a writer can make an unusual character relatable to the reader. Allowing the reader, a better understanding of a character they may have never encountered.
How many screenplays have you written? Are they all in the same genre?
Dexter: To date, I have written eighteen (18) feature film screenplays and thirty-three (33) short film screenplays. They represent a diverse array of genres: comedy, drama, fantasy, horror, science-fiction, thriller, and Western.
Tammy: That’s amazing. I love that you are so diverse! I have yet to step away from my comfort genre zone. Although, writing magazine articles has been letting me test the waters.
Let’s talk about your awards. Why don’t you break them down for us and tell us what you have received?
Dexter: I have had the good fortune to have won 20 awards. My dramatic feature script, "Second Dance”, has won the most awards for me, winning six. The horror feature script "Mistresses of Sleep" has won five awards. The faith-based script "Journey to Ivory Lane" has won four awards. The fantasy script, "Ethereal Mystic", the horror script, "Enslavement", and the thriller script, "Destination Yesterday", have each won one award. My horror short script, "Unleashing the Beast", has won two awards.
Tammy: Certainly, an amazing accomplishment and one to be very proud of!
Do you find yourself more motivated to write even more when you receive an award? Or do you enjoy the glow but continue to write as usual?
Dexter: Believe me, it is always gratifying to receive an award or accolade for one of my works. However, I've never been one who rests on past achievements. I try to push myself towards the next great project.
Tammy: That is inspiring. Obviously, whatever you have been doing is working. I see no reason to change!
Are there any projects you have going on right now? What about the future, any exciting things coming up?
Dexter: I have an upcoming short script project that will be faith-based, like my feature script "Journey to Ivory Lane". It will be more of a comedy. Something very exciting is happening in August of this year. Actress/filmmaker Angie Faro will be shooting my horror short script "Thanatophobia", and it will be my very first produced credit as a screenwriter. I'm very confident Angie will do something truly scary and cool with my story, which she absolutely loves.
Tammy: Wow! That is exciting! I look forward to seeing your work visualized!
How can one find out about your work?
Dexter: I can be found on Facebook, but if people want to contact me via email, they can reach me at [email protected].
Tammy: They say it takes a village to raise a child. In this case, our stories are our children.
Are there any shout outs you’d like to drop for the ones who are helping you raise your stories?
Dexter: I mentioned Angie Faro, who's making "Thanatophobia". I'd like to give her a shout out. I also want to mention a great writer/producer named Paul McFall, whose company Pulse Pounding Productions have optioned a couple of my scripts. I've also worked with Paul on a couple of horror feature scripts ("Demonik" and "Heart of Ice"). Todd Pierce is a film producer from Colorado who is helping me with the development of "Second Dance".
Tammy: There you have it, a behind the scenes of a screenplay writer. Too often we forget about screenplay writers. The ones who make it possible for a story to take its next step into becoming visual for us.
A process that is not always easy and yet this man makes it look effortless! Don’t be surprised when one day after enjoying a story that has been visualized, you see in the credits, screenplay writer Dexter Williams, and remember him from here!
Good luck Dexter, you have had success. You are having it now and there is still so much to come for you and your creative future. May you always enjoy the fruits of your labor!
By: Tammy Vreeland
I am always excited when I get to interview someone that has a lot going on in their lives! And let me tell you, this man here - has some amazing things that have happened, are happening and are about to happen!
Tammy: Dexter, it’s such a pleasure to be able to interview you. Thank you for the opportunity! We have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s jump right in.
You are an award-winning screenplay writer. Let’s go back to the very beginning. As a child, were you a storyteller? Were you one of the kids that told a story around a campfire or were you one who preferred to write them down in private?
Dexter: I wasn’t much of a storyteller when I was a child. I was more of a listener to other people’s stories. I was definitely a kid who preferred writing stories in private. I wasn’t the campfire stories type.
Tammy: Listening in of itself seems to be a lost art. Sometimes, just hearing a story vs. really listening makes a world of difference in relaying the story back.
Is there anyone else in your family that writes? Do you think genetics help one write?
Dexter: Believe it or not, I'm the only one in my family who writes for a living. I started out writing short stories and poems in my late teens and early 20s. Don't know much about genetics, but I started having ideas in my brain that I thought would make for great stories.
Tammy: I find the idea of genetics maybe being a part of a talent a fascinating concept. I had a grandfather who was a college English professor. I have often wondered if I had any more relatives that were writers. I like to think that perhaps because of him; I like to write.
Do you remember your first story?
Dexter: I most certainly do. The very first screenplay I have ever written. It is a teen romantic comedy titled "Under Your Spell". It is about a high school student who is asked to hypnotize the captain of the basketball team into being her best friend's date for an upcoming dance. Unfortunately, he's already got a date for the dance; his date happens to be his very spoiled girlfriend!
Tammy: A story many teens I’m sure could relate to! Mine was in grade school, can’t remember the name but it was about an apoplectic event that ended with a paradise like environment. Even back then, I enjoyed the horror genre.
As you grew older, was there a topic you found fascinated and wanted to write about?
Dexter: Absolutely. Hypnotism has been a subject that has intrigued me since I saw a demonstration of it in the fourth grade. I've also seen it on TV shows and in feature films. It was (and still is) a male-dominated field, and I've wanted to write a story with a female hypnotist. That was the inspiration for "Under Your Spell". I've incorporated hypnotism into virtually all of my screenplays.
Tammy: I like it when a writer has passion for something, the passion seems to draw you in more. Making a topic more interesting due to their passion. Even though I didn’t pursue writing until I was in my 30s, looking back, I realize my first story sort of set the path for my future writings, too.
Is there a particular style of writing you like to use such as first person, etc.?
Dexter: The style I have used since I started screenwriting (and continue to do so) is the three-act structure. I learned this from the late screenwriting guru Syd Field through his books, especially "The Foundations of Screenwriting". I couldn't afford to go to screenwriting classes growing up, so I became a self-starter by buying and reading Syd's books. Act one is called "The Set-Up": you have to set-up your script answering three questions: who is the main character, what is the story about, and what are the circumstances of the subject of the story. You have to answer all three questions within the first 20-30 pages of the script and create a plot point. That's the incident that takes the story and spins it in another direction, and it leads to act two (The Confrontation). The stakes go higher in this act, which represents the majority of the script (between 40-60 pages). There is another plot point at the end of act two that spins the story in another direction, which leads to act three (The Resolution). That represents the climax of your story (between 20-30 pages). The three-act structure is the most effective writing style for me, and I wouldn't want to go with any other style as a screenwriter.
Tammy: That was extremely informative and interesting, thank you! I have often wondered about the rhyme and reason to screenplay writing. I could never figure it out. They say writing and screenplay writing are different techniques. They can be a hard barrier to cross, but I must say you have done it effortlessly!
When creating a story, do you like to have strong characters, perhaps breaking barriers not typical? If so, is there a reason?
Dexter: I strongly believe the two most important things in any screenplay are story and characters. No matter how great the action sequences and/or special effects are, you have to find the story compelling and have characters you actually care about. Strong characters are very important, but just as important as trying to bring something unique and different in all my screenplays. For example, my feature script, "Second Dance", is a family-friendly story about belly dancing, a beautiful and graceful art form that is sadly misunderstood by some people. I wanted to give belly dancing the integrity and respect it so truly deserves with "Second Dance".
Tammy: I agree. When it comes to a story, no matter what the topic, I try to do a lot of research so that if the reader wonders if it is true, might research themselves and realize it is. Which in turn gives them the chance to learn something new. As for characters, I like it when a writer can make an unusual character relatable to the reader. Allowing the reader, a better understanding of a character they may have never encountered.
How many screenplays have you written? Are they all in the same genre?
Dexter: To date, I have written eighteen (18) feature film screenplays and thirty-three (33) short film screenplays. They represent a diverse array of genres: comedy, drama, fantasy, horror, science-fiction, thriller, and Western.
Tammy: That’s amazing. I love that you are so diverse! I have yet to step away from my comfort genre zone. Although, writing magazine articles has been letting me test the waters.
Let’s talk about your awards. Why don’t you break them down for us and tell us what you have received?
Dexter: I have had the good fortune to have won 20 awards. My dramatic feature script, "Second Dance”, has won the most awards for me, winning six. The horror feature script "Mistresses of Sleep" has won five awards. The faith-based script "Journey to Ivory Lane" has won four awards. The fantasy script, "Ethereal Mystic", the horror script, "Enslavement", and the thriller script, "Destination Yesterday", have each won one award. My horror short script, "Unleashing the Beast", has won two awards.
Tammy: Certainly, an amazing accomplishment and one to be very proud of!
Do you find yourself more motivated to write even more when you receive an award? Or do you enjoy the glow but continue to write as usual?
Dexter: Believe me, it is always gratifying to receive an award or accolade for one of my works. However, I've never been one who rests on past achievements. I try to push myself towards the next great project.
Tammy: That is inspiring. Obviously, whatever you have been doing is working. I see no reason to change!
Are there any projects you have going on right now? What about the future, any exciting things coming up?
Dexter: I have an upcoming short script project that will be faith-based, like my feature script "Journey to Ivory Lane". It will be more of a comedy. Something very exciting is happening in August of this year. Actress/filmmaker Angie Faro will be shooting my horror short script "Thanatophobia", and it will be my very first produced credit as a screenwriter. I'm very confident Angie will do something truly scary and cool with my story, which she absolutely loves.
Tammy: Wow! That is exciting! I look forward to seeing your work visualized!
How can one find out about your work?
Dexter: I can be found on Facebook, but if people want to contact me via email, they can reach me at [email protected].
Tammy: They say it takes a village to raise a child. In this case, our stories are our children.
Are there any shout outs you’d like to drop for the ones who are helping you raise your stories?
Dexter: I mentioned Angie Faro, who's making "Thanatophobia". I'd like to give her a shout out. I also want to mention a great writer/producer named Paul McFall, whose company Pulse Pounding Productions have optioned a couple of my scripts. I've also worked with Paul on a couple of horror feature scripts ("Demonik" and "Heart of Ice"). Todd Pierce is a film producer from Colorado who is helping me with the development of "Second Dance".
Tammy: There you have it, a behind the scenes of a screenplay writer. Too often we forget about screenplay writers. The ones who make it possible for a story to take its next step into becoming visual for us.
A process that is not always easy and yet this man makes it look effortless! Don’t be surprised when one day after enjoying a story that has been visualized, you see in the credits, screenplay writer Dexter Williams, and remember him from here!
Good luck Dexter, you have had success. You are having it now and there is still so much to come for you and your creative future. May you always enjoy the fruits of your labor!
MICHELE CLAUSER
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Michele Clauser’s Interview
By: Tammy Vreeland
My interview with Michele Clauser, a very talented artist! A woman who can apply movie magic through makeup. Transforming humans into the most amazing living pieces of art.
Tammy - Michele, thank you so much for giving us a ‘behind the scenes look’ at well - behind the scenes! A tribute to the unsung heroes who can magically create and transform people.
Of course you know, my first question has to be when did you realize this was something you wanted to do?
Michele - I fell in love with movie monsters at a very young age. In my teenage years, I saw all the classic monster films. However, it was Rick Baker’s work in An American Werewolf in London, along with the makeups in Planet of the Apes, that sparked my desire to learn all I could about how makeup could do more than make women beautiful.
By age 18, I was doing makeups and costume designs for myself, family and friends during Halloween. In college, I read every book and magazine I could find on the subject.
Tammy - Both are my favorites! Especially an American Werewolf in London! That was a transformation like no other before it!
How about training? Your thoughts on classes or courses? I know for many artists, whatever form it is, there is a natural talent. Something where training only enhances the talent. I guess what I am trying to ask is this something anyone can do?
Michele - For the most part I am self-taught but I did find tons of videos and how to’s once the internet became a big thing. From there, I started taking online classes in Special Effects Makeup online with QC Academy.
I finished those and worked on classes in face painting and learning how to use different mediums to create characters and makeups. I am still studying Master Makeup Artistry and Airbrush makeup classes through QC Academy, as well as studying other applications through Stan Winston’s programs.
Thankfully, this is an age where everyone shares their techniques and is happy to discuss what they learned. I always ask other artists about what they used or how they achieve looks I like. They are usually quite happy to explain. Natural talent is only a small part that gives you the start. Hard work makes up the rest.
Tammy - You’re right, I couldn’t agree more! I think a desire and then hard work can make you accomplished in anything.
I have to admit, growing up, I was fascinated with the monsters on the screen, too! I believed in the scenario being played out because the characters looked nothing like us. Granted, many of them were in costumes, but the face was what always seemed to be the magical influence to me.
When you first think about creating an illusion. Does the shape of a person’s face factor in?
Michele - For me, it plays a big part. I prefer to look at the model’s face and build and see what it lends itself towards. You can always bulk up a slender person, but it is hard to create the illusion of gauntness in a big person. Hard, but not impossible.
If you work with the basic forms already there, the creature you are creating comes alive more. Foam latex is commonly used in prosthetics and while it is light, it does not move or bend well if too thick and the same is true of anything. The less you add to the actor underneath, the more they can emote and express themselves.
The more extreme and inhuman the outer image, the more likely you will either lose that or have to venture away from makeup and rely more on animatronic devices to make your outer visage read as real.
Subtle things like eye blinks, small facial moments such as mouth and lips, or ear twitches. Even small details like flared nostrils can then be remotely controlled by other people, but it makes for a much more intricate build and operation.
Tammy - Wow, that is very interesting! I never really thought about the whole functioning concept. But now it makes me realize how much more intricate all this can be!
What about a person’s chemistry? Like having dry or oily skin?
Michele - The actor’s skin, along with how and where they will be in makeup, plays a key role in helping the artist know which products to use. Allergies can also come into play due to the many chemicals and compounds found in makeups and removers.
Everything should be discussed beforehand and then it is advisable to do a small test patch either on the inside of the wrist or behind the ear. The model must trust the artist and the artist must listen to the model every step.
Sometimes, that product you have used hundreds of times before will still irritate your skin. Everything must be removed to prevent permanent damage or extreme reactions. Oily skin will need a toner applied prior to any makeup application, and dry skin will need to be moisturized prior to application. Both cases will require proper removers for any products and a good cleaning regimen. Artists should always wear gloves and use hand sanitizer.
Tammy - I know with just the simple task of trying to find the right daily make up for myself proves difficult at times. I can’t imagine trying to figure out the color or consistency for another person!
I’ve often heard stars complaining about breaking out due to makeup. Can this be a problem? What about acme itself? Is it hard to hide while creating an illusion?
Michele - Anyone who has worn makeup knows it can and will clog pores. Makeup should always be removed after you are done and a good moisturizer applied that is correct for your skin type.
Artists routinely clean and sterilize workspaces, tools and kits. Makeup should not be shared. Instead, put on a small palette if individual product and disposable applicators are not available. This virtually eliminates cross contamination.
Artists are also very aware of the shelf life of products that can become bacteria breeding grounds if kept too long after opening. There are techniques and products that can minimize the appearance of blemishes but open cuts and fever blisters are the exceptions and these should not be covered due to the chance of infection.
Tammy - I really like how mindful you are of the risks. We’ve touched on the make-up aspect, but there is also the prosthetics that can be applied. What types of material can be used?
Michele - Foam Latex is still the most commonly used prosthetic appliances for many reasons. They are lightweight, cheap to make and will fit most needs. Occasionally a look might be better served by silicone appliances, but they can be heavy and hot to wear for long periods of time.
Some very basic effects can be achieved with simple things like gelatin or liquid latex. Though there is a wide range of options with new ones all the time. However, foam latex serves very well if stored and cared for properly.
Tammy - I know back in the day, some things used were toxic. Take the Tin Man from Wizard of Oz. Since you first started, has things changed through the years on what to use? Are you finding today’s products easier to use? Safer?
Michele - The FDA stepped in and started regulating what went into most of the cosmetics used today, making recommendations about what was or was not recommended for use on skin. But they only control what is marketed to the public for that purpose. People still experiment.
One of the newest trends is the use of what is called Prosade Transfers. Prosade is a skin safe medical grade adhesive used to ‘glue’ prosthetic appliances to the skin, but now they have devised a way to create small prosthetics appliances made from Prosade itself.
These are shaped in molds so they have depth and sometimes color is even added, but the process makes them on transfer paper that is applied much like those temporary tattoos we all grew up with. They need only a wet cloth over the paper backing to activate the adhesive again and when used along with makeup is very realistic looking and quite sturdy, if only for a single use. Many artists will use a variety of products and processes to achieve a finished look.
Tammy - Kind of like a mad scientist figuring out the perfect potion for his monster? That is so cool about Prosade, I bet that can save a lot of time! Let’s get into how long it takes to transform someone. Are there stages to what you apply?
Michele - Applications can vary in time. Essentially, the more time you have, the more finished the result. Hollywood usually has entire teams of people assigned and they work in tandem, so the more intricate applications go quicker.
Every application would ideally start with the supplies already laid out and on hand before the model arrives. Then their skin must be prepped and if they are already in costume, you would need to cover that.
If prosthetics are involved, I prefer to pre-paint a base coat at least. Most foam latex is never flesh toned, so it needs color correction before being applied. Makeup I find I prefer to start off with a base color to get the skin surface uniform, as that allows the artist to decide where the shadows and highlights are. Then I work on the shading or contours before I move onto the eyes. I find that if contacts are needed, they must go in before prosthetics change the face shape to dramatically. I finish with lips very last after any teeth are inserted.
Tammy - I’m sure through the years, trial and error have been a great teaching experience for you. Especially when it comes to knowing what needs to be prepped in advance, as well as understanding how subtle changes (teeth/eyes/etc) can affect the overall outcome.
When you go to transform, do you need to know the rest of the costume? I would think knowing the colors and the style would be beneficial to complete the illusion.
Michele - Personally, I love the entire process of bringing characters to life. I want to understand the being I am creating. How do they move? What do they wear? Where would they live, work, or hide? Color plays a big part in that feel for me too.
It also helps the model relate to who they are becoming. I do prefer to know or discuss costumes when creating a character so that I can think about how it will change the overall form as well as the area around the prosthetics. SFX makeup is not limited to just the face.
In fact, some artists specialize in true prosthetics and appliances for medical purposes, helping people with injuries feel more normal. Think of glass eyes and dentures as well as hands and feet for amputees. What your model will wear is as much a part of them as the clothes and hairstyle they choose.
Tammy - I know first-hand how amazing your work is! I love it when you show me a group of people in a photo and then ask me ‘which one do I think you are’? I can never tell! Man, woman, or beast, makes no matter! In a line up with others, you really have to study each person. I started trying to cheat by eyeing your height and use process of elimination, but even that didn’t always work. That is how good you are!
How hard is it for you to work on your illusions on yourself? What inspires you to create a unique look?
Michele - For the longest time I had no model besides myself and it was a running joke that most people would see me in costume(s) and never know they had seen me multiple times. More people knew my makeups than knew my real face!
That is slowly changing though, but I can still usually skip under the radar. I love coming up with creatures, so it is not hard for me. I get an idea and soon they have a life and identity of their own. They are vast and varied, though I am guilty of preferring Apes, Werewolves, Vampires and Demons.
Demons are fun because they come in all shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. I enjoy giving each one their own unique identity. I hate doing hair work, but love horns and spikes.
Tammy - I find all of this so very fascinating! We are able to show a few of your illusions here, but where can people go to see more of your amazing art?
Michele - I try to keep a running steam of all my newest work posted on Instagram and Facebook under NightmaresDayscreams and I update my business page with a blog of my latest projects and events at Dayscreams.org.
I work with a lot of wonderful cosplayers, photographers and conventions ranging from Science Fiction, Fantasy to Horror. As well as Comicons up and down the east coast and MidAtlantic. I was honored to be asked by the Ocean City MD Comicon to give a presentation panel on Special FX Makeup in 2021 and will be returning again in 2022.
Tammy - Is there anyone you would like to give a shout out who may have helped you fulfill your dreams of sharing your talent?
Michele - My mom has put up with my weirdness and my daughter Willow sometimes grudgingly helps me out. This past year Mr. Tony Jones has started making sure to introduce me to a lot of people involved in small independent film making along the MidAtlantic, plus he is my convention partner serving as model photographer and promoter for me.
They, along with others out there, have allowed me the chance to create all the characters and creatures that go bump in the night while everyone else is learning how to make the perfect cat’s eyeliner. Thank you all for letting me be me.
Tammy - Thank you Michele, for the interview. I really enjoyed it! I’m usually one that doesn’t like to know the magic secrets, into creating what I may like to let myself think is real, but I must say it makes me appreciate it all so much more now!
I think you are an amazing, talented artist and just a joy to be around! Your creativity knows no bounds. And honestly, you did find the beauty beyond mundane makeup. With being able to not only express yourself but transform others into things they never dreamed of. May you continue to enjoy, create and entertain.
By: Tammy Vreeland
My interview with Michele Clauser, a very talented artist! A woman who can apply movie magic through makeup. Transforming humans into the most amazing living pieces of art.
Tammy - Michele, thank you so much for giving us a ‘behind the scenes look’ at well - behind the scenes! A tribute to the unsung heroes who can magically create and transform people.
Of course you know, my first question has to be when did you realize this was something you wanted to do?
Michele - I fell in love with movie monsters at a very young age. In my teenage years, I saw all the classic monster films. However, it was Rick Baker’s work in An American Werewolf in London, along with the makeups in Planet of the Apes, that sparked my desire to learn all I could about how makeup could do more than make women beautiful.
By age 18, I was doing makeups and costume designs for myself, family and friends during Halloween. In college, I read every book and magazine I could find on the subject.
Tammy - Both are my favorites! Especially an American Werewolf in London! That was a transformation like no other before it!
How about training? Your thoughts on classes or courses? I know for many artists, whatever form it is, there is a natural talent. Something where training only enhances the talent. I guess what I am trying to ask is this something anyone can do?
Michele - For the most part I am self-taught but I did find tons of videos and how to’s once the internet became a big thing. From there, I started taking online classes in Special Effects Makeup online with QC Academy.
I finished those and worked on classes in face painting and learning how to use different mediums to create characters and makeups. I am still studying Master Makeup Artistry and Airbrush makeup classes through QC Academy, as well as studying other applications through Stan Winston’s programs.
Thankfully, this is an age where everyone shares their techniques and is happy to discuss what they learned. I always ask other artists about what they used or how they achieve looks I like. They are usually quite happy to explain. Natural talent is only a small part that gives you the start. Hard work makes up the rest.
Tammy - You’re right, I couldn’t agree more! I think a desire and then hard work can make you accomplished in anything.
I have to admit, growing up, I was fascinated with the monsters on the screen, too! I believed in the scenario being played out because the characters looked nothing like us. Granted, many of them were in costumes, but the face was what always seemed to be the magical influence to me.
When you first think about creating an illusion. Does the shape of a person’s face factor in?
Michele - For me, it plays a big part. I prefer to look at the model’s face and build and see what it lends itself towards. You can always bulk up a slender person, but it is hard to create the illusion of gauntness in a big person. Hard, but not impossible.
If you work with the basic forms already there, the creature you are creating comes alive more. Foam latex is commonly used in prosthetics and while it is light, it does not move or bend well if too thick and the same is true of anything. The less you add to the actor underneath, the more they can emote and express themselves.
The more extreme and inhuman the outer image, the more likely you will either lose that or have to venture away from makeup and rely more on animatronic devices to make your outer visage read as real.
Subtle things like eye blinks, small facial moments such as mouth and lips, or ear twitches. Even small details like flared nostrils can then be remotely controlled by other people, but it makes for a much more intricate build and operation.
Tammy - Wow, that is very interesting! I never really thought about the whole functioning concept. But now it makes me realize how much more intricate all this can be!
What about a person’s chemistry? Like having dry or oily skin?
Michele - The actor’s skin, along with how and where they will be in makeup, plays a key role in helping the artist know which products to use. Allergies can also come into play due to the many chemicals and compounds found in makeups and removers.
Everything should be discussed beforehand and then it is advisable to do a small test patch either on the inside of the wrist or behind the ear. The model must trust the artist and the artist must listen to the model every step.
Sometimes, that product you have used hundreds of times before will still irritate your skin. Everything must be removed to prevent permanent damage or extreme reactions. Oily skin will need a toner applied prior to any makeup application, and dry skin will need to be moisturized prior to application. Both cases will require proper removers for any products and a good cleaning regimen. Artists should always wear gloves and use hand sanitizer.
Tammy - I know with just the simple task of trying to find the right daily make up for myself proves difficult at times. I can’t imagine trying to figure out the color or consistency for another person!
I’ve often heard stars complaining about breaking out due to makeup. Can this be a problem? What about acme itself? Is it hard to hide while creating an illusion?
Michele - Anyone who has worn makeup knows it can and will clog pores. Makeup should always be removed after you are done and a good moisturizer applied that is correct for your skin type.
Artists routinely clean and sterilize workspaces, tools and kits. Makeup should not be shared. Instead, put on a small palette if individual product and disposable applicators are not available. This virtually eliminates cross contamination.
Artists are also very aware of the shelf life of products that can become bacteria breeding grounds if kept too long after opening. There are techniques and products that can minimize the appearance of blemishes but open cuts and fever blisters are the exceptions and these should not be covered due to the chance of infection.
Tammy - I really like how mindful you are of the risks. We’ve touched on the make-up aspect, but there is also the prosthetics that can be applied. What types of material can be used?
Michele - Foam Latex is still the most commonly used prosthetic appliances for many reasons. They are lightweight, cheap to make and will fit most needs. Occasionally a look might be better served by silicone appliances, but they can be heavy and hot to wear for long periods of time.
Some very basic effects can be achieved with simple things like gelatin or liquid latex. Though there is a wide range of options with new ones all the time. However, foam latex serves very well if stored and cared for properly.
Tammy - I know back in the day, some things used were toxic. Take the Tin Man from Wizard of Oz. Since you first started, has things changed through the years on what to use? Are you finding today’s products easier to use? Safer?
Michele - The FDA stepped in and started regulating what went into most of the cosmetics used today, making recommendations about what was or was not recommended for use on skin. But they only control what is marketed to the public for that purpose. People still experiment.
One of the newest trends is the use of what is called Prosade Transfers. Prosade is a skin safe medical grade adhesive used to ‘glue’ prosthetic appliances to the skin, but now they have devised a way to create small prosthetics appliances made from Prosade itself.
These are shaped in molds so they have depth and sometimes color is even added, but the process makes them on transfer paper that is applied much like those temporary tattoos we all grew up with. They need only a wet cloth over the paper backing to activate the adhesive again and when used along with makeup is very realistic looking and quite sturdy, if only for a single use. Many artists will use a variety of products and processes to achieve a finished look.
Tammy - Kind of like a mad scientist figuring out the perfect potion for his monster? That is so cool about Prosade, I bet that can save a lot of time! Let’s get into how long it takes to transform someone. Are there stages to what you apply?
Michele - Applications can vary in time. Essentially, the more time you have, the more finished the result. Hollywood usually has entire teams of people assigned and they work in tandem, so the more intricate applications go quicker.
Every application would ideally start with the supplies already laid out and on hand before the model arrives. Then their skin must be prepped and if they are already in costume, you would need to cover that.
If prosthetics are involved, I prefer to pre-paint a base coat at least. Most foam latex is never flesh toned, so it needs color correction before being applied. Makeup I find I prefer to start off with a base color to get the skin surface uniform, as that allows the artist to decide where the shadows and highlights are. Then I work on the shading or contours before I move onto the eyes. I find that if contacts are needed, they must go in before prosthetics change the face shape to dramatically. I finish with lips very last after any teeth are inserted.
Tammy - I’m sure through the years, trial and error have been a great teaching experience for you. Especially when it comes to knowing what needs to be prepped in advance, as well as understanding how subtle changes (teeth/eyes/etc) can affect the overall outcome.
When you go to transform, do you need to know the rest of the costume? I would think knowing the colors and the style would be beneficial to complete the illusion.
Michele - Personally, I love the entire process of bringing characters to life. I want to understand the being I am creating. How do they move? What do they wear? Where would they live, work, or hide? Color plays a big part in that feel for me too.
It also helps the model relate to who they are becoming. I do prefer to know or discuss costumes when creating a character so that I can think about how it will change the overall form as well as the area around the prosthetics. SFX makeup is not limited to just the face.
In fact, some artists specialize in true prosthetics and appliances for medical purposes, helping people with injuries feel more normal. Think of glass eyes and dentures as well as hands and feet for amputees. What your model will wear is as much a part of them as the clothes and hairstyle they choose.
Tammy - I know first-hand how amazing your work is! I love it when you show me a group of people in a photo and then ask me ‘which one do I think you are’? I can never tell! Man, woman, or beast, makes no matter! In a line up with others, you really have to study each person. I started trying to cheat by eyeing your height and use process of elimination, but even that didn’t always work. That is how good you are!
How hard is it for you to work on your illusions on yourself? What inspires you to create a unique look?
Michele - For the longest time I had no model besides myself and it was a running joke that most people would see me in costume(s) and never know they had seen me multiple times. More people knew my makeups than knew my real face!
That is slowly changing though, but I can still usually skip under the radar. I love coming up with creatures, so it is not hard for me. I get an idea and soon they have a life and identity of their own. They are vast and varied, though I am guilty of preferring Apes, Werewolves, Vampires and Demons.
Demons are fun because they come in all shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. I enjoy giving each one their own unique identity. I hate doing hair work, but love horns and spikes.
Tammy - I find all of this so very fascinating! We are able to show a few of your illusions here, but where can people go to see more of your amazing art?
Michele - I try to keep a running steam of all my newest work posted on Instagram and Facebook under NightmaresDayscreams and I update my business page with a blog of my latest projects and events at Dayscreams.org.
I work with a lot of wonderful cosplayers, photographers and conventions ranging from Science Fiction, Fantasy to Horror. As well as Comicons up and down the east coast and MidAtlantic. I was honored to be asked by the Ocean City MD Comicon to give a presentation panel on Special FX Makeup in 2021 and will be returning again in 2022.
Tammy - Is there anyone you would like to give a shout out who may have helped you fulfill your dreams of sharing your talent?
Michele - My mom has put up with my weirdness and my daughter Willow sometimes grudgingly helps me out. This past year Mr. Tony Jones has started making sure to introduce me to a lot of people involved in small independent film making along the MidAtlantic, plus he is my convention partner serving as model photographer and promoter for me.
They, along with others out there, have allowed me the chance to create all the characters and creatures that go bump in the night while everyone else is learning how to make the perfect cat’s eyeliner. Thank you all for letting me be me.
Tammy - Thank you Michele, for the interview. I really enjoyed it! I’m usually one that doesn’t like to know the magic secrets, into creating what I may like to let myself think is real, but I must say it makes me appreciate it all so much more now!
I think you are an amazing, talented artist and just a joy to be around! Your creativity knows no bounds. And honestly, you did find the beauty beyond mundane makeup. With being able to not only express yourself but transform others into things they never dreamed of. May you continue to enjoy, create and entertain.
