Thomas J. Churchill Presents…Emerging Past
Not to long ago I had the pleasure of introducing to you, My Freaky Darlings, Thomas Churchill! At the time we more just talked about who he was and what things he had going. You might remember of his projects we talked about one of his films Emerging Past. Since that interview this film has been on the circuit causing all kinds of attention. It is now getting a release to DVD June 7th and will also be streamed on Netflix. It is because of this that Thomas Churchill and Marquee Media and Marketing have decided to give me the pleasure….NO….the Honor of interviewing him again for the release! I’m not going to waste another second…let’s dig right in darlings…
Thomas J. Churchill Presents…Emerging Past
Malice Psychotik: Well so glad I was given the honor to do another interview with you boyo!! So let’s do this!!!
Thomas J. Churchill: Thanks me too
Malice: It wasn’t too long ago that I was introducing my readers to the great Thomas Churchill….
T.J.C: Thomas J. Churchill…lol just kidding.
Malice: Ha Ha! Sorry…Well now your back again to promote your new DVD release. How have things been in between Thom?
T.J.C: Pretty busy…Getting “Emerging Past” together for distribution and pre-production with Hallow Pointe has kept me pretty busy. BUT…a good busy.
Malice: Why don’t you refresh my freaky darlings on Emerging Past?
T.J.C: This film is a mind trip! Pure rollercoaster ride of excitement…as it has been labeled! Every twist, every turn reveals something different. It is a thinking person’s horror thriller. It has also been said that somewhere between The Exorcist and The Omen…Emerging Past will sit.”
Call it what you want but, it is a film you need to pay attention to. EP has won 5 awards to date. I had an amazing time working with an awesome cast and crew. We have been meeting great people along the promotional tour for it. And the fans…OMG! The fans have been amazing. They get it. They seem to love it! The film is a trip. When I set out to make something that was different from your average horror film, I wanted something that no one can guess my storyline or ending ten minutes into it. That is what I feel I delivered to the world. Something fresh and new and most of all a horror film that isn’t a recycle of every other film that comes out.
Malice: How did you come up with the concept for Emerging Past?
T.J.C: I came up with the concept on a weekend get away trip to Washington , DC with my cousin.
Malice: What in D.C. inspired you to write the story?
T.J.C: Heading to Washington, DC I was excited to location hop where one of the greatest horror films of all time was shot, The Exorcist. I wanted to see the stairs, the house, the college, the streets of Georgetown . It was exciting to me. So I was playing around with my camera and shot things I could later incorporate into a film back in New York . The title came to me while in Washington , DC .
The footage I shot with my cousin Joe was inspiring me to write something different. I shot a version of EP a long time ago, during this trip. The concept was pretty much the same but a lot different. I always wanted to redo it on a bigger scale and now I have. Maybe one day down the road I will release that test-version of EP on some anniversary edition of the current film. Wow! What great memories I have of making that film.
Malice: When you made the characters, did you already have an actor in mind? Or more what inspired you to write the story?
T.J.C: When I rewrote the script, I wanted Pamela Anderson to play the lead. LOL. That’s why the character’s name is Pamela in the film. One of the first that was approached was Tiffany Shepis. I had spoken to Tiffany about this role back in the day in New York . She was approached again when we were about to shoot the film. She was excited and we were heading closer to working together until something occurred that didn’t work out for us. I was bit bummed because I wanted to work with her. I will be now with Hallow Pointe. Brooke McCarter brought Krista Grotte to the table. I had a few meetings with her and she read the script and came with the passion you would need to pull off this complex character. The role of Pamela Garret is very layered. Each layer reveals something cool about her. Krista got it! An amazing actress and a delight to work with. She brought Pamela Garret to life as well as won a Best Actress award for role.
When you’re doing an independent horror film with a limited budget you need the best actors to bring your writing to life. I believe no A list stars would have done a better job than the cast that I have in EP. Brooke McCarter won a Best Actor award for his role as Dylan. “The Lost Boys” was an amazing film and Brooke’s role in it was cool. But it didn’t show his amazing talent as an actor. His acting range is brilliant! Seeing him play this role in EP was amazing. If it was a Hollywood film, Brooke would be Sean Penn. Brooke was just that good in this film. Stephen Geoffreys who plays Cameron in the film was brilliant. Stephen has had an amazing career…he is a horror icon with his roles in “Fright Night” and “976-EVIL.” He was brilliant. We have several horror icons in the film: Stephen, Brooke, Steve Dash (“Friday the 13th part 2”) and Tony Moran (Carpenters’ Halloween 1 and 2) They brought their A-game to EP. Even though their roles were small, they stand out in a HUGE way.
Malice: What led you to the decision to have G Tom Mac soundtrack this masterpiece?
T.J.C: Masterpiece? Thanks bro. Thank you very much for the compliment. Well, G came to the table through David Lee Madison and Brooke McCarter. Actually most of the cast came through David. During shooting Brooke told me that he had this feeling while making the movie that it’s going to be bigger than what we are doing. He mentioned he would reach out to G. I didn’t think anything about it…just went about making the film. The night before I was leaving to go to LA, David called me on a three-way with G on the other line. We spoke a bit and when I got to LA we met. Great guy. I showed him some “raw footage” and he wanted to be involved a bit more than giving a song or two. He was excited about the project. He stated he has not had this feeling since The Lost Boys about a film. He wrote the score and handed over 8 “new” songs including “Soul I Bare” which I directed. “Taken,” “Fallen” and the duet with Corey Haim “Mend Me”. Brilliant. To me this soundtrack is G’s best work. “Soul I Bare” is the new “Cry little Sister”. We have a song called “Mud” by Katie DiCicco which also won Best Song. I directed that video as well. Various artists including Brian Ray, Magni, Kizzy Star…just to name a few, round out the soundtrack. Spectra Records did a kick ass job with the soundtrack album which is available now for download on sites such as iTunes and Amazon and the physical CD hits stores the same day the movie does…June 7th.
Malice: What kind of experience was it on the set?
T.J.C: I have some awesome stories. I got to work for the first time with one of my childhood friends, David Lee Madison. We acted together in a big fight scene in Brad Davis’ last role called “Heart” back in the early 80’s and we went to JHS together as well. EP was the first time we actually worked producing a film together. Mr. Hush was our follow-up where we reversed our roles. We were still producers, but now I was also in front of the camera. David was the writer and director. David has a small role in EP as well.
Malice: There has to be some interesting stories working with cult horror legends such as Steve Dash, Stephen Geoffreys, and Brooke McCarter…
T.J.C: Steve and Stephen were both a delight to work with. They both went on to work with David and I again in “Mr. Hush.” Stephen is a master at what he does. I speak to Brooke at least a few times a month. He ended up becoming my brother. The stories are endless… but I am not sure if I can spill any of them. You know images. LOL. But working with horror legends was amazing. Helping to create “new” horror legends is fun. I am speaking about Edward X. Young who is a horror/grindhouse independent favorite to some hard-core indie directors. Edward was amazing as Father Cole. Another one that I had the privilege of working with three times and will be again in “Hallow Pointe” is Mike Marino who plays the iconic character The Stranger in EP. People should study him and know his name because Mike is one of the greatest method actors that I have ever met.
Malice: So far what has the reception been on your end?
T.J.C: Wow…5 awards to date. People seem to love it. People get it. It has been a blast. Especially doing conventions and meeting the fans. That’s what this business is to me. You make things for the fans. For people to enjoy themselves.
Malice: Is it possible we may see a sequel?
T.J.C: Yes. It is possible. There are many scenarios we can do with this story. I know sometime in the near future you will be seeing a spin-off character from EP in his own film. We will be doing an origins film of the Mike Marino character called The Strange1. We are excited about that project.
Malice: What movie can we expect to see next?
T.J.C: The next film I will be producing and directing is a throwback to the iconic ’80 horror films called Hallow Pointe. It will be the definitive werewolf story. Take An American Werewolf in London and The Howling and kick them in their ass. Get horror author Joe Knetter and producers Bobby Ray Akers, Jr from Dead of Night Films, Marla Stoker and the executive producer from “Predator”. Now add a who’s who of horror and mainstream film and what do you get? Pure carnage. Hallow Pointe will be that “event” film for the indie and mainstream world without the $200 million dollar price tag on things you don’t need. This film is designed to scare and thrill the horror lovers. I am stoked about it. We have a pretty solid slate of films. After Hallow Pointe: Witches Playground, The Strange1 and Cold Plastic is another film I’m real stoked about.
Malice: Well…I’m sure you remember what time it is…You guessed it…time for “Out-of-Hat” questions: What would you do if you were trapped in a room with someone who was demonicly possessed?
T.J.C: Start singing television tunes. Play a game of name that show.
Malice: Have you ever known someone who spontaneously paints disturbing pictures of unspeakable things on their walls?
T.J.C: Yes. Me. I love making stick figures hanging. ..Oh I’m sorry that’s when I am playing “Hang Man”. No. I don’t. Wait yes. Do dentist offices count? Don’t they have a lot of clown paintings! LOL
Malice: If you could do any idea (Book or Comic Adaptation, Remake, own idea…etc…) what would it be?
T.J.C: Oh I would LOVE to do “Deliverance” has a horror film.
Malice: Oh! And money is not Not an issue
T.J.C: Always wanted to do Romeo and Juliet as Zombies. Star Wars as a pure horror film. Kind of like Alien meets Hellraiser.
Malice: Have you ever had a paranormal experience?
T.J.C: A few times. Once, when I was moving from one of my apartments I closed the bathroom door. The outside of the door had a door mirror hanging on it. As I closed it I saw a little boy standing behind me. It freaked me out. Pretty creepy
Malice: If given the choice, would you rather hang out with A) The kids from Jersey Shore B) The Ghost Adventures C) McManus Brothers or D) Hugo Weaving and Willem DaFoe…in drag….?
T.J.C: Jersey Shore so I can give them a good ol’ New York style ass kicking! Just kidding…Probably The Ghost Adventures…it seems eerie and fun to tackle that. Yes…thats my final answer.
Malice: It’s time to bring this to an end, do you have anything you would like to add? Links to where we may purchase the DVD and CD?
T.J.C: Yes. June 7th EP hits stores: both the DVD and soundtrack. Also it hits Netflix as well. Everyone out there please add it to your queue. There also is a special combo package being offered on EmergingPast.com For a low price you get the DVD filled with extras, the soundtrack and an autographed poster. I also want to say Thank you. I want to tell all the horror fans out there that without you guys who go out and support horror or independent horror we would not be here to entertain you. I will make it my mission to continue to give you quality and entertaining films. You guys are awesome.
For more information on our projects visit our websites and Facebook pages. Thank you very much. I had fun with this.
www.churchhillproductions.com
www.emergingpast.com
www.facebook.com/hallowpointe
www.facebook.com/coldplastic
www.mrhush.net
www.facebook.com/emergingpast
I must say that was a little more fun then the first time, and that is hard to beat! I’m telling you al you need to check Emerging Past out as soon as you can. If you haven’t already pre-ordered watch it on Netflix…and then BUY IT!!! I don’t see a reason why you would be disappointed! Make sure to keep a close eye on this man, he’s going places. As always I will try to keep you posted on any other developments. Don’t forget to keep an eye open for the Psychotik Review of the flick!
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
*Check out the trailer for Emerging Past below…
Allow Me to Introduce Dave Madison…
The other day, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dave Madison. Dave is the Director of an up coming independent film, Mr. Hush. He is also the promoter for Mr. Hush Weekend of Fear. I have to say, I’m very impressed with this movie and the convention. The movie looks fantastic, and the convention line-up is pretty tight. They even have the privilege of being Steve Dash’s last show. It was great being able to chat with Dave, he’s such a down to earth guy and real genre fan at heart. I truly feel that it’s people like him, that will lead the horror genre in the direction it needs to go. So without wasting another key stroke, done in the name of From Dusk till Con, and interviewed by yours truly…
Allow Me to Introduce, Dave Madison…
That's Dave in the Middle...
Malice Psychotik: So we will get to the movie and the convention in a moment, but first I would like to ask some question about you if you don’t mind. I think it would be pretty fair to say that you are a fan of horror film. Why Horror? What got you into the genre?
Dave Madison: As a product of the 80’s, I was exposed to some of the finest horror films ever made. In addition, my older brother, Bob, who was like a father-figure to me, adored the classic Universal films. Every Halloween, these films would be shown on the local PBS station; it is one of my fondest childhood memories.
Malice: What are some of your favorite Horror films?
Dave: I have a real passion for the Universal classic films such as Karloff’s Frankenstein, Lugosi’s Dracula and Chaney’s Wolfman. Fright Night is one of the finest horror films ever made with just the right amount of scares and wit. Halloween is driven by the great performances of Donald Pleasance and Jamie Lee Curtis. The Lost Boys was a great popcorn, summer vampire film that was beautifully shot. Near Dark made smarmy cool and American Werewolf in London was terrifying as our hero never really had a chance to win. Other great horror films, in no particular order, are Frank Langella’s Dracula, Evil Dead, the original King Kong, and Needful Things.
Malice: Is there anyone in the genre that you look up to specifically?
Dave: No, oddly enough, I think Frank Capra was the finest film maker that ever lived. I would have loved to have worked with the late Roddy McDowall, Donald Pleasance or Vincent Price.
Malice: Let’s move to Mr. Hush. I’ve seen the trailer, and I have to say I’m impressed! It looks really good, and I can’t wait to see it. What was your inspiration for the film?
Dave: Mr Hush is the perfect storm of films that have inspired me over the course of my life. I like to think it is smart and witty like Fright Night, well acted like Langella’s Dracula, and paced like a great Carpenter film.
Malice: What has been your favorite part of the film making process?
Dave: The writing. It is really rewarding to see your characters come to life by extremely talented actors and actresses.
Malice: You have a pretty tight cast going on with this film. What helped you pick some of them?
Dave: After knowing most of these people for a while, this particular script was written to the strengths of these fine actors. Stark, for example, brings Stephen Geoffreys back to what he is beloved for by genre fans, classic horror with a touch of dark humor.
Stephen Geoffreys in a scene from Mr. Hush
Malice: Any on-set stories you can share with us?
Dave: Sets are kind of like Vegas, what happens there stays there!
Malice: What advice do you have for anyone trying to get into the business of film? Anything you have learned?
Dave: Keep working at it and if you have talent, it will eventually come to you. And the most important thing you can ever learn is never take yourself too seriously.
Malice: I would also like to discuss your convention. What got the idea started for the convention?
Dave: The genesis of the convention came when I was pondering how to introduce the next cultural horror icon to as many people as possible. The Weekend of Fear is really just a celebration of our beloved genre where new film makers, veteran film makers, actors, actresses and fans can convene for a weekend of fun. What is most important to me is that we stay true to our genre.
Malice: Do you attend other conventions? If so, do you have any favorites?
Dave: I have attended a handful and all have been fun.
Malice: Is there any special events that you think will stand out at your show? Anything you think fans are not going to want to miss?
Dave: So much fun, so little time. Here are a few not to be missed: Friday night’s Masquerade Ball – if you have not partied with Brad Loree (Michael Myers in Halloween: Resurrection), you haven’t lived! Steve Dash (Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th Part 2) will be making his last convention appearance- if you have not had a chance to meet this horror icon, he is truly a fan favorite. Stephen Geoffreys and Tiffany Shepis discussing Corey Haim’s last horror genre film, New Terminal Hotel, should be very interesting. And of course, the world premier of Mr Hush. Plus there will be more surprises.
Malice: Your guest list looks great! Will you be adding anymore to the list? Any hints?
Dave: There are more to come and they are all from the horror genre. wink wink
Malice: This being the first show, where do you see the show going? Do you have any goals for the show to grow?
Dave: I hope that every autumn, people converge on northeastern PA to celebrate the greatest genre in film today. But truly the most important thing is that everyone has fun!
Malice: Alright, before we wrap this up, it’s become a trademark of mine to ask a round of completely random questions. Would you be interested in participating in the madness?
Dave: Sure
Malice: If you could be any infectious disease, which would you be?
Dave: mono
Malice: Who do you think would win between Lestat (from Queen of the Damned) and David (from The Lost Boys)
Dave: Lestat was a buttercup so it would be David, hands down. But David would fall quickly to the mighty Evil Ed.
Malice: How much wood could a wood chuck chuck, if a wood chuck could dual wield chainsaws?
Dave: 2 cords
Malice: Have you ever had something so good, it made you want to smack a man named “Rufus”
Dave: Sal’s chicken parm
Malice: Well, I want to thank you for doing this interview. You have been awesome and it was a pleasure having you. I really look forward to see Mr. Hush when it’s ready. Is there anything you would like to add?
Dave: Thanks for the time. It was great. I hope everyone loves Mr Hush. We made a film that is very different from the types of horror films Hollywood pumps out today. We’re not in 3D, and we’re smart with a touch of dark humor. It is exactly the direction the genre should be going in. And I can’t wait to see everyone at the Weekend of Fear- we will have a blast.
Well that wraps up the interview with Mr. Madison. I look forward to seeing Mr. Hush. I just can’t wait to hear more news. If anyone else would like to keep up with the movie or the convention, you can catch the news on the website at MrHush.net.
Sadistically Yours,
Malice Psychotik
Encyclopedia Psychotika 