The Start of One of the Most Intriguing Filmographies Ever

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MOVIE REVIEW
Bob Clark Horror Collection
Children Shouldn’t Play with Dead Things/Deathdream (aka Dead of Night)/Black Christmas
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Genre: Comedy, Horror/Drama, Horror, Thriller/Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Year Released: 1972, 1974, 1974, 2023 101 Films Blu-ray trilogy
Runtime: 1h 27m/1h 28m/1h 38m
Director(s): Bob Clark
Writer(s): Bob Clark, Alan Ormsby/Alan Ormsby/Roy Moore
Cast: Alan Ormsby, Valerie Mamches, Jeff Gillen, Anya Ormsby/John Marley, Lynn Carlin, Richard Backus, Henderson Forsythe/Olivia Hussey, Keir Dullea, Margot Kidder, John Saxon
Where To Watch: available to order from 101 Films www.101-films-store.com

RAVING REVIEW: 101 Films brings you the BOB CLARK HORROR COLLECTION, a treasure trove of the director's early 1970s horror creations. Before gaining recognition for his comedies like PORKY'S (1981) and A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983), Bob Clark showcased his horror abilities in three groundbreaking movies: the shoestring-budget horror-comedy CHILDREN SHOULDN'T PLAY WITH DEAD THINGS (1972), the Vietnam War narrative film DEATHDREAM (also known as DEAD OF NIGHT) (1974), and the trailblazing slasher flick BLACK CHRISTMAS (1974). As a little-known fact, it’s argued that Clark’s last work before his untimely passing was BLONDE AND BLONDER (2008,) although the truth may never be known because of disagreements even among the cast.

The newest entry in the 101 Films Black Label series, this exclusive edition set includes the riveting documentary 'Dreaming of Death' about Bob Clark, mesmerizing commissioned artwork for each film with reversible sleeves, a comprehensive booklet delving into the director's progression, a collection of art cards, and an abundance of bonus content.

CHILDREN SHOULDN'T PLAY WITH DEAD THINGS
Under the iron-fisted rule of a ruthless director, a theater group finds themselves on an isolated island that serves as a graveyard for criminals. Unknowingly, they unleash the undead and are thrust into a nightmarish situation. Filmed in a mere 14 days, this movie set the stage for Clark's later success. Those who weather the slow burn will be treated to a pulse-pounding finale. Despite the straightforward plot and quirky setting, the film's pacing picks up drastically as the zombies enter. I also found it interesting that this film is rated PG in the US; I can’t fathom a movie like this not getting a PG-13 rating at a minimum if it was released today.

BLACK CHRISTMAS
The slasher that unknowingly became the blueprint for the genre. As sorority sisters prepare for the holidays, they receive threatening phone calls from an unknown caller. With friends disappearing and a local girl found dead, they suspect a serial killer is on the prowl. Featuring remarkable performances by Olivia Hussey and Margot Kidder, this film reinvented what it meant to be a slasher. It is often overlooked for its impact, mixing suspense, emotional performances, and solid horror action. Black Christmas is a fantastic movie, challenging even the most iconic slashers as possibly one of the most critical milestones in the genre.

DEATHDREAM (aka DEAD OF NIGHT)
This thought-provoking film examines the devastating aftermath of the Vietnam War on soldiers and their families. At the same time, this is a horror film; but it’s also far more and examines real-life issues than most horror. Clark's haunting depiction of PTSD, grief, and the disintegration of family bonds creates a nightmarish atmosphere. The film's climactic conclusion delivers equal parts horror and poignancy. This is more than most horror films have the right to be.

The BOB CLARK HORROR COLLECTION is a fitting tribute to the director's love for the horror genre, showcasing his early work and its enduring influence on the film industry. With the unique blend of horror, comedy, and thought-provoking themes, the collection is a must-watch for anyone who loves horror movies. Each film delivers a one-of-a-kind experience, inviting viewers to appreciate the range and depth of Clark's skills.

SPECIAL FEATURES:
– Commentary with Alan Ormsby, Jane Daly, and Anya Cronin
– Alan Ormsby Interview
– Memories of Bob Clark
– Confessions of a Grave Digger: Interview with Ken Goch
– Grindhouse Q&A
– Cemetery Mary – Music Video
– Dead Girls Don’t Say No – Music Video
– Trailer
– Photo Gallery

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[photos courtesy of 101 FILMS]