Film Alchemy: The Independent Cinema of Ted V. Mikels

by Christopher Wayne Curry

American filmmaker Ted V. Mikels holds a unique position as one of the most unconventional directors of exploitation cinema. Famous for his eccentric home life (he once lived with a harem in a castle with secret passageways) and promotional gimmicks (he was known for having nurses and ambulances on hand to assist "scared-to-death" moviegoers), Mikels is now considered a pioneering master of low-budget movie making. This unique work examines each of Mikels' 19 major film or video productions, beginning with his first feature film Strike Me Deadly (1959) and continuing through his latest work-in-progress, Demon Bloodlust . Each entry includes a full list of cast and crew credits, along with a plot synopsis and, frequently, behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Also included are a complete filmography, an overview of Ted V. Mikels memorabilia, and a transcript of the author's personal interview with Mikels.

212 pages, Hardcover

First published October 24, 2007