Film Screenings / Programs / Series
THE GOLDEN AGE OF SPANISH HORROR CINEMA
October 30 – November 10
ALL ON FILM!!!
For a decade (1967-1976), Spain terrorized the world, cinematically-speaking. In the waning years of the Franco dictatorship hundreds of horror films were released, all of them characterized by their eroticism, violence, and unrestrained cinematography. Almost unintentionally, these movies provided an x-ray of a sociologically fractured country. Produced with miniscule budgets and under trying circumstances, the Spanish horror movies of that time were seen for years as a curious anomaly. Four decades later, the films directed by (the recently deceased) Jess Franco or starring Paul Naschy have developed a deserved cult following on both sides of the Atlantic.
Showcasing eleven classics of Spanish horror cinema, this series has been curated by Francisco Javier Pulido Samper, the author of the 2012 book, “The Golden Decade of Terror Cinema in Spain”, for which he interviewed Franco, Naschy, and numerous other key participants in this grisly, disreputable, but unforgettable genre. Beginning the night before Halloween, this extensive survey will bring these films’ hosts of vampires, werewolves, zombies, and psychos back to life, for two terror-filled weeks!
Presented with invaluable support from Spain Culture New York-Consulate General of Spain, and co-presented with the Philip K. Dick Film Festival (www.thephilipkdickfilmfestival.com); special thanks to Francisco Javier Pulido Samper, and to Iñigo Ramirez de Haro & Agueda Sanfiz (Spain Culture New York-Consulate General of Spain); Sebastian del Castillo & Tommy Swenson (American Genre Film Archive); Chris Chouinard (Park Circus); Harry Guerro; and William Lustig.
Special Halloween-night wine reception at 8:45, courtesy of Freixenet!
