The Rough Guide to Cult Movies - 2nd Edition

by Paul Simpson

This new edition of the Rough Guide to Cult Movies offers a new improved blend of essential trivia and informed opinion as it takes you on a tour of the most compellingly weird - and weirdly compelling - films in the world. From ''A Bout de Souffle'' to ''Zoltan Hound of Dracula'', this guide selects films to savour in every genre from circus movies to westerns of all flavours - spaghetti and sauerkraut. New genres have been added - gambling and vampires - and this edition includes a miscellany of movie trivia identifying, for example, the four women who have played Hamlet on screen, a peek at celluloid''s greatest back stories (such as the rumours of munchkin mayhem in The Wizard Of Oz) and a personal selection of cult movies from the likes of Johnny Depp, Julie Christie, Kevin Spacey and Bert Kwouk.

Genres: Film, Reference, Nonfiction

480 pages, Paperback

Published November 15, 2004

Reviews

[Az]

Nothing that should be trawled through. But a fantastic rough guide if you're pondering which nun themed film to watch next.

[Andy Nelson]

The Rough Guide to Cult Movies is an entertaining and comprehensive tour through the world of cinema’s most eccentric, influential, and offbeat films. Blending essential trivia with informed opinion, the guide covers a wide spectrum of cult classics—from midnight movie staples and underground oddities to mainstream films that have developed passionate followings over time. Each entry provides concise synopses, background information, and insights into what makes these movies resonate with devoted fans.

The book’s tone is lively and accessible, making it easy for both newcomers and seasoned cinephiles to discover new favorites or revisit old ones. Its structure encourages browsing, with films grouped by themes, genres, and directors, and the inclusion of sidebar facts and trivia adds to its appeal. The guide also highlights the cultural impact of these films, exploring how they gained their cult status and the communities that have formed around them.

While some readers may wish for more in-depth analysis or coverage of even more obscure titles, The Rough Guide to Cult Movies succeeds as a fun, informative, and highly browsable reference. It’s an ideal starting point for anyone curious about the weird and wonderful corners of film history.

[Zey Seeker]

Skimming

[Mindy Worley]

A guide to lots of movies I'm pretty sure I never would have even heard of otherwise. Plus, I'm kindof addicted to trivia type books.

[yengyeng]

One star is taken away because The Adventures of Baron Munchausen is listed under Turkeys.

[Brian]

A little to snarky for my taste but a good addition to a film library.