As Woodsy seems to be on a bit of a Halloween kick, I thought I'd better contribute something in case he decides to stick pins in his Scoop action voo-doo doll action figure!
I do have a nostalgic liking for the old Hammer, Amicus and Tigon films though, mainly from the sixties and early seventies.
Comic and magazine editor, Des Skinn,( a legend in comic circles, and called by some as 'the British Stan Lee!) was also a big fan of Hammer horror and in 1976 came up with 'The House of Hammer' magazine.
Although, it was created to celebrate Hammer's film output, it did feature articles on other popular films (occasionally abandoning horror for sci-fi as with the original Star Wars film,)
I managed to hang on to a few copies, mainly for the Quatermass articles and the comic strip adaptation drawn by Brian Lewis.
The magazine did go through name changes becoming known as Hammer's House of Horror, and eventually Halls of Horror. It ended in 1978 at issue 23.
All in all, H of H was a fun publication written by fans for fans.In fact it did look a lot like a fanzine. It was filled with grainy black & white photos with lots of info on my favourite horror flicks! Very useful in pre-internet days.
Super collection Scoop. I have some House of Hammers too in my attic stack. Brill covers. I have some House of Horror magazines as well, Are they related?
ReplyDeleteThanks Woodsy, and yes, as I mention, House of Horror is related. I believe the title was changed when it was distributed in America.
ReplyDeleteYou're right Scoop. Mags like these were indispensable for keeping up with monster movies in the pipeline and also the classics of the past. The internet between two covers! I used to buy my horror mags second hand off a chap on Preston outdoor market. I can see his stall now crammed with Famous Monsters and Creepy and Eerie. The guy himself had Hollywood looks. He reminded me of McGill from Man in a Suitcase!
ReplyDeleteGosh , I remember visiting Preston market in the days when nostalgic second hand bargains could be found. Not like that now , unfortunately.
ReplyDeleteI remember the brilliant 'House of Hammer' for its great comic art, storylines and vivid covers. Great to see these wonderful comic-stand blasts from the past.
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