Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: The Brain Eaters

The Minus Man, written by Lou McCrary, delves into the life of Vann Siegert, a seemingly ordinary and mild-mannered individual who harbors a dark secret. Vann is a serial killer who drifts through life, poisoning those he encounters with cyanide-laced Cokes. The novel explores his detached perspective as he navigates small-town life, offering a chilling look into the mind of a killer.

Published in 1968, 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? ' is set in a post-apocalyptic San Francisco after a nuclear war. The story follows Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter tasked with 'retiring' six escaped Nexus-6 androids. The novel delves into profound philosophical questions about the nature of life, empathy, and what defines humanity. It also introduces the concept of Mercerism, a religion that emphasizes empathy and compassion. The book is known for its complex characters, including Deckard's moral dilemmas and the ambiguous line between human and android, which has been a significant influence on science fiction and popular culture, including the film 'Blade Runner'.

How to Make a Monster tells the story of a disgruntled makeup artist who uses his skills to create monsters that can be controlled through hypnotism. Seeking revenge on the studio executives who mistreated him, the makeup artist unleashes his creations on the studio lot. The monsters, initially obedient, soon begin to develop their own sinister desires, leading to chaos and destruction.

Not of This Earth centers on an alien from the planet Davanna who is sent to Earth to collect blood for his dying race. The alien, posing as a human, uses his advanced technology and hypnotic powers to acquire blood from unsuspecting victims. As his actions attract the attention of a doctor and a nurse, the alien must evade capture while continuing his mission.

The Puppet Masters, written by Robert A. Heinlein, tells the story of a secret invasion of Earth by slug-like alien parasites that attach themselves to human hosts and control their minds. Sam Nivens, an agent of the U.S. government, must team up with a group of fellow agents to combat the alien threat and liberate humanity from their mental enslavement. The novel explores themes of mind control, individuality, and the struggle for freedom in the face of an overwhelming enemy.

Double Feature Creature Attack is a collection of interviews with individuals involved in the making of classic monster movies. Tom Weaver delves into the behind-the-scenes stories, technical challenges, and creative processes that shaped these iconic films. Each interview provides unique insights and anecdotes, shedding light on the often-overlooked contributions of the actors, directors, and special effects artists who brought these creatures to life. The book offers a comprehensive look at the golden age of monster movies, celebrating the creativity and ingenuity that made them so enduring.