{"id":1805,"date":"2026-03-19T04:19:55","date_gmt":"2026-03-19T08:19:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/?p=1805"},"modified":"2026-05-28T19:18:13","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T23:18:13","slug":"rondo-24","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/?p=1805","title":{"rendered":"HERE ARE THE WINNERS OF THE (GASP!) 24TH ANNUAL RONDO AWARDS"},"content":{"rendered":"

NEW:<\/strong> HERE ARE THE WINNERS
\nOF THE (GASP!) 24th ANNUAL
\nRONDO HATTON CLASSIC HORROR AWARDS
\n\"\"<\/a><\/h2>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0We thank the 3,100 voters who sent in ballots for the (Gasp!) 24th Annual Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards. Their votes determined this year’s winners.<\/h3>\n

Winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions when warranted, along with Special Recognitions are listed below. Winners will receive a Rondo statuette or a plaque. There is also a Rondo Awards Ceremony at the WonderFest Convention in Louisville on Saturday, May 30 at 4 p.m.<\/h3>\n

Thanks again to all who participated, nominees and voters. You can comment at the Classic Horror Film Board Rondo Forum<\/a>. For any questions feel free to email me at taraco@aol.com. And thank you again.<\/h3>\n

david colton<\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/h2>\n

SINNERS narrowly tops FRANKENSTEIN in the (Gasp!) 24th
\nAnnual Rondo Hatton Awards<\/strong>
\n‘Making Monsters’ is Book of the Year; ‘Curse of Frankenstein 4K release wins two; Hammer’s John Gore is Monster Kid of the Year<\/em><\/h2>\n
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE<\/div>\n

By David Colton
\nCHFB News<\/h4>\n

WEST ORANGE, NJ \u2013 Some of the tightest races in the Rondo Awards’ 24-year history found Ryan Coogler’s SINNERS taking the top film prize over Guillermo Del Toro’s reimagining of FRANKENSTEIN in results released Sunday night.<\/h4>\n

In category after category, nearly 3,100 voters in the (Gasp!) 24th Annual Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards were often split between honoring classic films from the 1930s and 1950s, or more modern fare such as Friday the 13th and Jaws.<\/h4>\n

The wide range of nominees could be seen in results from the Book and Documentary categories:<\/h4>\n

The year’s Best Documentary went to BASIL GOGOS: KING OF THE MONSTERS, an in-depth look at the late painter whose colorful sometimes day-glo renditions of classic black-and-white menaces such as Dracula and the Frankenstein monster helped kick off the monster craze of the 1960s.<\/p>\n

At the same time, the Best Book of 2025 went to MAKING MONSTERS, by effects and make-up experts Howard Berger and Marshall Julius, whose creations include some of the modern menaces seen in today’s horror films.<\/h4>\n

Top honors in the crowded category of television horror, sci-fi and fantasies went to the Season Five Finale of STRANGER THINGS, barely beating out shows like STAR WARS: ANDOR, the Charles Addams inspired satire, WEDNESDAY, and PLURIBUS.<\/h4>\n

Rondo voters honored a British independent film, THE REIGN OF QUEEN GINNARA, and picked SCREENING AFTER MIDNIGHT, a whimsical look at the lost silent film, LONDON AFTER MIDNIGHT, as the top Short Film.<\/h4>\n

In individual categories, Sam Irvin<\/strong>, a multi-Rondo winner was picked as Writer of the Year for his bare-all memoir CONFESSIONS OF A BRIAN DE PALMA PROTEGE, while Mark Maddox<\/strong> was again voted Best Artist.\u00a0 Lee Hartnup <\/strong>took away his second accolade as top Fan Artist.<\/h4>\n

Special Recognition Rondos<\/strong> were awarded to:<\/h4>\n

— Anthony McKay, who won the late David J. Skal Research Award, for his years of study on the making of the British monster movie, GORGO, resulting in a book-length report in the magazine LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS.<\/h4>\n

— John Gore, whose revitalization of the famed Hammer Studios in the United Kingdom has resulted in new releases on the 1957 CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN and lesser-known films from the Hammer and Warner Brothers Catalog, was named Monster Kid of the Year.<\/h4>\n

— Universal Studios was cited for the 2025 opening of Dark Universe, an interactive recreation of the classic Universal Monster sets at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park in Orlando.<\/h4>\n

Finally, the newest inductees to the Rondo Awards’ Monster Kid Hall of Fame<\/strong> were:<\/h4>\n

— Actor, director and longtime monster memorabilia collector Daniel Roebuck<\/strong>, who once entertained fans as a version of Dr. Shocker and more recently appeared as The Count in The Munsters remake.<\/h4>\n

— Other inductees included horror film and TV historian Jeff Thompson<\/strong>, publisher Ben Ohmart<\/strong> of BearManor Media, and Lawrence J. Liff<\/strong>, developer of the monster-craze vampire fangs, rubber bloody wounds, and evil teeth of the 1960s.<\/h4>\n

— The Hall of Fame will also welcome Lisa and Chris Herzog<\/strong>, and artist and writer pair who have\u00a0 helped host the annual WonderFest Clubhouse over the last years; and the late music and horror historian Terry Pace, <\/strong>along with and his family, wife Anita, and childen Forrest and Alexandra<\/strong>, who helped Terry fight through a stroke without losing his sense of purpose or love.<\/h4>\n

\u00a0 The Rondo Awards, named after Rondo Hatton, an obscure B-movie villain of the 1940s, honor the best in classic horror research, creativity and film preservation. This year\u2019s e-mail vote was conducted by the Classic Horror Film Board, a 31-year old online community. A full list of winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions can be found below. A Rondo Awards Ceremony will be held May 30, 2026, at the WonderFest Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.<\/h4>\n
\u00a0<\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

HERE ARE ALL THE WINNERS IN THE
\n<\/strong>(GASP!) 24th ANNUAL
\n<\/strong>RONDO HATTON CLASSIC HORROR AWARDS<\/strong><\/h3>\n

1) BEST FILM OF 2025
\n<\/strong>
\nSINNERS, directed by <\/strong>
\nRyan Coogler<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunner-up<\/strong>: FRANKENSTEIN
\nHonorable mentions<\/strong>: WEAPONS;
\nBUGONIA; SUPERMAN<\/p>\n

—————————————————-<\/p>\n

2) BEST TV PRESENTATION<\/strong><\/p>\n

STRANGER THINGS (Season Five)<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up: <\/strong>STAR WARS: Andor;
\nWEDNESDAY
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>ALIENS: Earth;
\nPLURIBUS<\/p>\n

———————————————————-
\n3) BEST BLU-RAY<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1957; Hammer\/Warner Bros.
\nArchives)<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Runner-up: <\/strong>NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (1990; Sony);
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>QUATERMASS XPERIMENT (1955; Hammer); ALTERED STATES (1980; Criterion)
\n
\n<\/strong>———————————————————————-
\n4) BEST BLU-RAY COLLECTION<\/strong>
\n\u00a0<\/strong>
\nDAN CURTIS CLASSIC MONSTERS
\n(Kino)<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up: <\/strong>UNIVERSAL’s Dracula, Frankenstein Mummy (ViaVision); A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 1984-1994 (Warner Bros.)
\nHonorable mention:<\/strong> MABUSE LIVES: Dr. Mabuse at CCC (1960-64; Eureka)
\n\u00a0———————————————————————<\/strong>
\n5) BEST RESTORATION OR UPGRADE<\/strong><\/p>\n

CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1957; Hammer\/WB)<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Runner-up: <\/strong>HE WHO GETS SLAPPED (1924; Flicker\/Blackhawk)
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>FRANKENSTEIN’S BLOODY TERROR 3D (1968; 3D Film Archive; Kino);
\nTHE DEADLY SPAWN (1983; Synapse); SAMURAI PRIEST VAMPIRE HUNTER (originally Live Evil; ETR Media)<\/p>\n

———————————————————————<\/p>\n

6) BEST BLU-RAY EXTRAS<\/strong><\/p>\n

JAWS @ 50, the Definitive Inside Story (2025; Amblin). Directed by Laurent Bousereau.
\n<\/strong>Included with 50th Anniversary Blu-Ray set.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up: <\/strong>DAN CURTIS COLLECTIONS (Kino); THE BEYOND (Grindhouse);
\nHonorable mentions:<\/strong> QUATERMASS XPERIMENT (Hammer); JIM HENSON’S STORYTELLER (ViaVision)<\/p>\n

————————————————————————–<\/p>\n

7) FAVORITE COMMENTATOR OF 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n

TOM WEAVER<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Runners-up:<\/strong> Tim Lucas; Gary Gerani; Stephen Bissette
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>Amanda Reyes; Gary Rhodes; Rebekah McKendry\/Elric Kane
\n————————————————————————
\n
\n8) BEST INDEPENDENT FILM
\n<\/strong>
\nTHE REIGN OF QUEEN GINNARRA,
\ndirected by Lawrie Brewster<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nMegan Tremethick<\/h6>\n

Runners-up: <\/strong>GOOD BOY; THE UGLY STEPSISTER
\n<\/strong>Honorable mention: <\/strong>DUST BUNNY; DANGEROUS ANIMALS<\/p>\n

———————————————————————-
\n9) BEST SHORT FILM<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCREENING AFTER MIDNIGHT, directed by Ansel Faraj<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunner-up:<\/strong> DOMESTICATION OF VAMPIRES IN ESSEX
\nHonorable mentions:<\/strong> THE OCCUPANT OF THE ROOM;
\nBUNNYMAN; IT CAME FROM BEYOND
\n——————————————————–
\n10) BEST DOCUMENTARY
\n<\/strong>
\nBASIL GOGOS, THE KING OF THE MONSTERS,
\n<\/strong>directed by Bill Diamond
\n<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up<\/strong>: THE VINCENT PRICE LEGACY; HEARTS OF DARKNESS: The Making of Final Friday
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>GEORGE A. ROMERO’S RESIDENT EVIL;
\nTHE WILHELM SCREAM<\/p>\n

—————————————————
\n11) BOOK OF THE YEAR<\/strong><\/p>\n

MAKING MONSTERS: Inside Stories from the Creators of Hollywood\u2019s Most Iconic Creatures<\/strong>, by Howard Berger and Marshall Julius
\n<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0 \"\"<\/a>
\nRunner-up: <\/strong>CONFESSIONS OF A BRIAN DE PALMA PROT\u00c9G\u00c9: How I Shadowed the Director on The Fury, Dressed to Kill & More, by Sam Irvin
\nHonorable mentions:<\/strong> CINEMA BIZARRO: The Weird Kid\u2019s Guide to Particularly Odd Horror and Sci-Fi Movies, edited by Steven Peros and Mark Bailey with Steven B. Orkin;
\nICONS OF FRIGHT: 100 Interviews with Legendary Horror Filmmakers, by Mike Cucinotta, Rob Galuzzo, Adam Barnick, Jason Alvino;
\nand WILLIS O\u2019BRIEN: Lost Worlds, Giant Apes and Dinosaurs, Vol. 2, From She Who Must Be Obeyed to Mr. Joseph Young of Africa, by Greg Kulon<\/p>\n

\n

12) BEST BOOK ON GODZILLA’S 70th ANNIVERSARY<\/strong><\/p>\n

GODZILLA: THE FIRST 70 YEARS, by Steve Ryfle, Ed Godziszewski<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Runner-up:<\/strong> KING KONG VS GODZILLA, The Most Colossal Conflict the Screen Has Ever Known, by Thom Shubilla
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>THE LUMINOUS FAERIES AND MOTHRA: The Original Story, translated by Dr. Jeffery Angle;
\n\u201cGOJIRA\u201d 1954, by Peter H. Brothers<\/p>\n

—————————————————–<\/p>\n

13) BEST CLASSIC MONSTER FICTION
\n<\/strong>
\nDRACULA NEVER DIES: The Revenge of Bela Vorlock,
\nVol. 2, by Christopher Gauthier<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up:<\/strong> BECOMING NOSFERATU, Stories Inspired by Silent German Horror, edited by Matthew Sorrento, Gary D. Rhodes;
\nWHAT FRESH HELL IS THIS?, Dark Tales, by Del Howison;
\nTICK TOWN, by Christopher A. Miklos
\nHonorable mention:<\/strong> \u00a0DEALS WITH THE DEVIL, Dialogues With Death, by Frank J. Dello Stritto<\/p>\n

——————————————————————
\n13) BEST MAGAZINE (modern)<\/strong><\/p>\n

FANGORIA
\n<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>
\nRunner-up:<\/strong> RUE MORGUE
\nHonorable mentions<\/strong>: HORRORHOUND;
\nDELIRIUM<\/p>\n

———————————————————-
\n14) BEST MAGAZINE (classic)<\/strong><\/p>\n

CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up:<\/strong> LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS; SCARY MONSTERS
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>CASTLE OF FRANKENSTEIN; THE DARK SIDE; WE BELONG DEAD; VIDEOSCOPE; CRYPTOLOGY; SPACE MONSTERS<\/p>\n

————————————————————————
\n15) Best Article<\/strong><\/p>\n

‘Is Horror Political? Glad You Asked\u2026\u2019 by Catherine Corcoran, FANGORIA Online<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up:<\/strong> \u00a0\u2018Hammer and Wheatley,\u2019 by John Logan, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #34;
\n\u2018Horror\u2019s Greatest Showman: The Fun and Frights of William Castle,\u2019 by Frank R. Dello Stritto, SCARY MONSTERS #140;
\n\u2018The Brides of Dracula: Exploring Hammer\u2019s Macabre Fairy Tale Anew,\u2019 by Jonathan Rigby, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #36;
\n\u2018Gorgo: Monster of the Kings,\u2019 by Anthony McKay, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #52;
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>
\n\u2018Vincent Price, Maestro of the Macabre,\u2019 by Rod Labbe, SCARY MONSTERS #137
\n\u2018Merian C. Cooper: A King and a God in the World He Knew,\u2019 by Steve Vertlieb, File 770;
\n\u2018The 88 Edits of Sinbad,\u2019 by Larry Blamire, CASTLE OF FRANKENSTEIN #41.<\/p>\n

—————————————————————————
\n16) BEST INTERVIEW<\/strong><\/p>\n

Guiillermo Del Toro interviewed by Michael Gingold,<\/strong>
\nFANGORIA #29<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up:<\/strong> Clive Barker by Majo Pavlovic, RUE MORGUE #222;
\nCaroline Munro by Chris Alexander, Delirium #40
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>Sara Karloff by Diana Robertson, Ghastly Phantasms #20; Alice Cooper by Aaron Von Lupton, RUE MORGUE #225.<\/p>\n

————————————————————
\n17)\u00a0BEST COLUMN
\n<\/strong>
\nSCENE QUEEN by Barbara Crampton, FANGORIA;
\n<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up<\/strong>: Heard But Not Seen, by Bill Timoney, VIDEOSCOPE;
\nRondo Remembers by Ron Adams, MONSTER BASH
\nHonorable mentions:<\/strong> R&D by David J. Schow, bare*bones;
\nKaiju Korner, Mike Bogue, SCARY MONSTERS<\/p>\n

—————————————————————————<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

18 )\u00a0 BEST COVER <\/strong><\/h3>\n

LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #52,
\nby Mark Maddox<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up:<\/strong> CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #34
\nby Daniel Horne;\u00a0FANGORIA #26 by Matt Ryan Tobin; CRYPTOLOGY #6 by Bernie Wrightson
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>CASTLE OF FRANKENSTEIN #42, by Scott Jackson; RUE MORGUE #225, by Shane Mills<\/p>\n

——————————————————————-<\/p>\n

19) BEST WEBSITE<\/strong><\/p>\n

MONSTER KID CENTRAL<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunner-up<\/strong>: Trailers From Hell; Bloody Disgusting; Dread Central
\nHonorable mention<\/strong>: Bill Fleck’s Classic Horror Behind the Scenes;
\n————————————————<\/p>\n

20) BEST PODCAST<\/strong><\/p>\n

MONSTER PARTY
\n<\/strong>\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Runners-up: <\/strong>Terror at Collinwood; Icons of Fright
\nHonorable mentions: <\/strong>Harryhausen Podcast;The Monsters That Made Us<\/p>\n

——————————————————–<\/p>\n

21) FAVORITE HORROR HOST OF 2025
\n<\/strong>
\n\u00a0SVENGOOLIE<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a>
\nRunners-up:<\/strong> Joe Bob Briggs; Elvira
\nHonorable mentions:<\/strong> Mummy & the Monkey; Captain Calico Drake; Penny Dreadful; Dr. Gangrene<\/p>\n

———————————————————-<\/p>\n

22) BEST EVENT<\/strong><\/p>\n

ELSA LANCHESTER, THE BRIDE AT REST
\nGrave gets new burial plaque
\n<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>
\nRunner-up:<\/strong> Ray Harryhausen tarveling exhibition
\nHonorable mentions:\u00a0<\/strong> Serling Celebration at Monsterama<\/p>\n

——————————————————<\/p>\n

23) BEST GRAPHIC NOVEL OR COLLECTION<\/strong><\/p>\n

ROBOT MONSTER COMICS IN 3-D
\n<\/strong>(3-D FilmArchive)
\nPublisher Bob Furmanek, Edited by Paul Castiglia<\/strong>
\n\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Runner-up:<\/strong> LONDON AFTER MIDNIGHT
\nHonorable mentions:<\/strong> ART OF GEORGE WILSON; CURSE OF DARK SHADOWS; IN THE MOOD FOR MONSTERS (Bissette)<\/p>\n

\n

\u00a0INDIVIDUAL RONDO AWARDS<\/strong><\/h3>\n

WRITER OF THE YEAR
\nSAM IRVIN
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

Sam Irvin’s long career as a director and filmmaker has resulted in multiple books revealing the brilliance and sometimes absurditiies of realities on the set. His most recent book, CONFESSIONS OF A BRIAN DE PALMA PROTEGE. goes deeply into the Hollywood fun and fears of moviemaking.<\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

ARTIST OF THE YEAR<\/strong>
\nMARK MADDOX
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n

\u00a0 \u00a0The vivid impact of Mark Maddox’ work makes familiar fantasy icons new power, as if born again decades after they unreeled at the theatre or on television.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nFAN ARTIST OF THE YEAR
\nLEE “GOATBOY” HARTNUP<\/strong><\/div>\n
\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 Lee “Goatboy” Hartnup’s work is precise and dramatic, but never overdone. See the monsters in new lights.<\/h4>\n

<\/h3>\n

MONSTER KID OF THE YEAR
\nJOHN GORE
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 Entrepreneurs and imitators have long tried to recapture the film clout of Hammer Films. But British producer John Gore is now determined to restore the power of the Hammer brand.<\/p>\n

Working with Warner Bros., the new Hammer has released restored versions of CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN and the QUATERMASS XPERIMENT, with more vintage films to come.
\nFans and the industry are watching with interest as a true Monster Kid tries to revive the magic.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

——————————————–<\/div>\n

THE DAVID J. SKAL RESEARCH AWARD
\nANTHONY McKAY
\n<\/strong>\"\"<\/a>
\nHonoring the late horror scholar David J. Skal, this award recognizes exceptional scholarship and research in the horror genre. This year’s honoree is Anthony McKay, who spent years uncovering hidden truths about a film we all think we know — the British monster movie, GORGO.
\nThe result was a 270-page book\/article published by LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS.<\/p>\n

Said Anthony when learning of the award: “All the ‘Gorgo’ research would not have been possible without the incredible international team of volunteers who were working with me on the project, not to mention the generous souls who donated their papers to the archives.”
\n———————<\/p>\n

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD<\/strong>
\nUNIVERSAL STUDIOS
\nDARK UNIVERSE THEME PARK
\n\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

The look and eerie feel of the classic Universal Monsters lives again at Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. The “Dark Universe” section features fanciful European streets, shambling monsters and replicas of famous sets, including a burning windmill.<\/p>\n

Universal’s Peter Carsillo in a nomination email said\u00a0 “Dark Universe, is the first ever official theme park world based on the classic Universal Monsters. Tons of world famous artists worked on it, including Danny Elfman who did all original scores, and it\u2019s been minting fresh Monsterkids since the day it opened.”
\nWe look forward to a Rondo joining the memorabilia at the park.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

—————————————<\/h3>\n

THE MONSTER KID HALL OF FAME
\nNew inductees<\/strong><\/h3>\n

DAN ROEBUCK
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 For all his movie and TV roles, Dan Roebuck the filmmaker is also Dan Roebuck the Monster Kid. A collector of monster memorabilia and full-size figures, a one-time horror host (a version of Dr. Shocker), a lecturer on horror’s pop history, and known too for roles ranging from Jay Leno and the “Lost” nitro guy to the Count in Rob Zombie’s The Munsters, Dan is a foundational figure in the Monster Kid world.<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n

BEN OHMART<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

If it seems that there are film books everywhere these days, especially about horror and fantasy, BearManor Media’s Ben Ohmart has been a driving force.No topic or obscure film or TV star seems too niche, from Westerns to radio to the well-known horror stars and bit players, BearManor is a welcome home, with more than 900 subjects available.<\/p>\n

In an interview with Screaming Eye Press, Ohmart said, “In 25 years of publishing I\u2019ve learned that ONLY the popularity of the book\u2019s subject sells a book. Not the cover, editing, price, author name, etc. I know that sounds obvious, but there it is.”
\n——————
\nDR. JEFF THOMPSON
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong>Jeff Thompson has been a longtime historian and keeper of the TV fantasy flames, from Dan Curtis films to the perennial, Dark Shadows.Thompson’s books have gone through many editions, and as recently as last year he offered 10 video introductions to various Curtis productions. He’s considered a go-to authority on Curtis and many other aspects of horror and thrillers on television.<\/p>\n

LAWRENCE J. LIFF
\nMaker of scary stuff
\n\"\"<\/a> \"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n

If you remember wearing vampire fangs, rubbery claws,\u00a0 blood wounds, and “evil teeth,” then you remember the work of Lawrence J. Liff, who helped fuel the monster craze in the 1960s.Parents objected, but the monster make-up sold its way to the mainstream, a precursor to the make-up skills so prevalent today.<\/p>\n

LISA AND CHRIS HERZOG
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Lisa and Chris are familiar figures at monster conventions, and sometimes at burlesque shows! Lisa is a painter and Chris a writer and film reviewer, and they are often ready to host hungry or exhausted convention goers. Sometimes.<\/p>\n

In particular, the duo have been hosting the annual “clubhouse” at monster conventions ( hard ticket to get these days), but everyone’s admiration for Lisa and Chris is greater than ever. Welcome to the Hall of Fame!<\/p>\n

TERRY AND ANITA PACE
\nand Forrest and Alexandra
\n\"\"<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The death last year of music and horror historian Terry Pace after a long recovery from a stroke, saddened his many friends and fans.<\/p>\n

Terry’s wife, Anita, and their two now grown children Forrest and Alexandra, ande sure his final years were full of laughter and grit, love and determination. The Pace family is a model for us all, and because of them, Terry’s spirit will live on always.<\/p>\n

———-<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0And that’s it for Rondo 24. Thanks to everyone who voted, and for your patience and support. Til next year!<\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/h3>\n

As we always say, if you’ve gotten this far,
\nyou are a true Monster Kid.<\/em><\/h3>\n
\n

Rondo Awards copyright 2026 by David Colton<\/em><\/h3>\n

———————————————————–<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

 <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

THIS WAS<\/em> THE\u00a0 BALLOT FOR THE (Gasp!) 24th ANNUAL RONDO HATTON CLASSIC HORROR AWARDS<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\u2014 This year\u2019s awards are dedicated to the memory<\/strong><\/span>
\nof the ultimate Monster Kid, BOB BURNS \u2014<\/strong><\/span>
\nAnd we remember also a dear friend of the Rondos, Terry \u00a0Pace …<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

VOTING IS CLOSED<\/strong><\/h2>\n

1) BEST FILM OF 2025
\nIncludes wide release, video-on-demand and streaming<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH
\n\u2014 BLACK PHONE 2
\n\u2014 BRING HER BACK
\n\u2014 BUGONIA
\n\u2014 THE CONJURING: LAST RITES<\/p>\n

\u2014 FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS
\n\u2014 FINAL DESTINATION: BLOODLINES
\n\u2014 FRANKENSTEIN
\n\u2014 JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH
\n\u2014 THE MONKEY<\/p>\n

\u2014 PREDATOR: BADLANDS
\n\u2014 SINNERS
\n\u2014 SUPERMAN
\n\u2014 28 YEARS LATER
\n\u2014 WEAPONS
\n\u2014 WOLF MAN
\n— Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

2) BEST TV PRESENTATION\u00a0(in 2025)<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0ALIEN: Earth<\/strong>, Hulu. Corporate overlords develop enhanced lifeforms to harvest alien species. \u2018We find some nets? How big can it get?\u2019
\n\u2014 FOUNDATION<\/strong>, AppleTV+ Psychohistory is disrupted by the unexpected: The Mule. \u2018I intend to consume the Imperium, along with the Foundation.\u2019
\n\u2014 IT: Welcome to Derry<\/strong>, HBO. The origins of Pennywise. \u2018You\u2019re saying it wants to eat us?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u2014 THE LAST OF US<\/strong>, HBO. Bitter survivor and teenage girl pick their way through the end of humanity. \u2018You can\u2019t keep her safe forever, no matter how hard you try.\u2019
\n\u00a0\u2014 PLURIBUS<\/strong>, AppleTV+. A tiny handful are left to resist a seemingly benevolent hive mind. \u2018Do you want an atom bomb?\u2019
\n\u00a0\u2014 THE SANDMAN<\/strong>, Netflix. Dream becomes the custodian of Hades after Lucifer abandons her post. \u2018It has begun. Hell is closed.\u2019
\n\u2014 SILO<\/strong>, AppleTV+. Ten thousand survivors demand answers as rebels learn about the Beforetime. \u2018Did I just hear you say you want to go outside?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2014<\/strong> STAR TREK: Strange New Worlds.<\/strong> Paramount+. The adventures of Captain Pike, Spock and a young Kirk before \u201cThe Cage\u201d \u2018You can call me Jim.\u2019
\n\u2014<\/strong> STAR WARS: Andor, <\/strong>Disney+. Prequel series to Rogue One. \u2018If I die fighting the Empire, I want to go down swinging.\u2019
\n<\/strong>\u2014 STRANGER THINGS<\/strong>, Netflix. The final season brings the battle to the Upside Down. \u2018I need you to trust me to make the right choice.\u2019
\n\u2014 THE WALKING DEAD: The Ones Who Live,\u00a0<\/strong>AMC. The seventh franchise series reunites Rick and Michonne. \u2018You don’t understand. In the dead world, love is dead!\u2019
\n\u00a0\u2014 WEDNESDAY, <\/strong>Netflix. The Addams family delves deeper into Nevermore\u2019s dark school history. \u2018I\u2019m where fun goes to die.\u2019
\n\u00a0<\/strong>
\n\u2014 Or write-in another choice:<\/p>\n

3) BEST BLU-RAY OF 2025:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 ALTERED STATES <\/strong>(1980; Criterion)
\n\u2014 ASYLUM<\/strong> (1972; Severin)
\n\u2014<\/strong> CRACK IN THE WORLD<\/strong> (1965; Kino)
\n\u2014 CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN <\/strong>(1957; 4K; Warner Bros.)
\n\u2014 DEAD OF NIGHT <\/strong>(1945; Kino)<\/p>\n

\u2014 THE FINAL PROGRAMME <\/strong>(1973; Severin)
\n\u2014 \u00a0THE KEEP<\/strong> (1983; Vinegar Syndrome)
\n\u2014 THE MAN WHO COULD CHEAT DEATH (<\/strong>1959; Vinegar Syndrome)
\n\u2014 \u00a0NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD <\/strong>(1990; Savini; Sony)
\n\u2014 THE QUATERMASS XPERIMENT <\/strong>(1955; Hammer)
\n\u2014\u00a0<\/strong>Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

4) BEST BLU-RAY COLLECTION<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 BRIVIDO GIALLO<\/strong> \u00a0(1987-88; Cauldron) Lamberto Bava\u2019s TV films include Graveyard Disturbance, Until Death, Ogre, and Dinner with a Vampire)
\n\u2014 \u00a0DAN CURTIS\u2019 CLASSIC MONSTERS<\/strong> (Kino). Dracula (Jack Palance), Frankenstein (Bo Svenson), Jekyll and Hyde (Palance).
\n\u2014 \u00a0DANZA MACABRA: Volume Four<\/strong> (Severin): Terror Creatures from Grave; Night of Damned; Devil\u2019s wedding Night; Baba Yaga<\/p>\n

\u2014 HOUSE OF PSYCHOTIC WOMEN: Rarities Collection, Vol. 2<\/strong> (Severin; curated by Kier La-Janisse). Butterfly Kiss, Morgiana, Savage Eye, Glass Ceiling.
\n\u2014 \u00a0INVASION USA and ROCKET ATTACK USA<\/strong> (1952, 1960; Film Masters)
\n\u2014 MABUSE LIVES! Dr. Mabuse at CCC, 1960-1964 <\/strong>(Eureka). Four discs, six films: Thousand Eyes, Return, Invisible Testament, Scotland Yard, Death Ray.<\/p>\n

\u2014 A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET: 7-Film 4K Collection <\/strong>(1984-1994; Warner Bros). First seven films, including extras.
\n\u2014 TALES OF ADVENTURE: Collection 9 <\/strong>(1974-1978; Imprint) Land Time Forgot, People Time Forgot, At Earth\u2019s Core, Warlords of Atlantis, all directed by Kevin Connor
\n\u2014 TERROR IN THE FOG: The Wallace Krimi, 1963-1964 (<\/strong>Eureka). Yellow Snake, Blackmoor Castle, Mad Executioners, Monster London City, Racetrack Murders.
\n\u2014 UNIVERSAL COLLECTION: <\/strong>Dracula, Mummy and Wolfman series from ViaVision have 10 new commentaries
\n\u2014 THE X TRILOGY <\/strong>(A24) Ti West\u2019s X (2022), Pearl (2022), and MaXXXine (2024)
\n<\/strong>\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

5) BEST RESTORATION OR UPGRADE<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 CURSE OF FRANKENSTEIN <\/strong>(1957; 4K Warner Bros). Three discs include British, American, and TV aspect ratios.
\n\u2014 \u00a0THE DEADLY SPAWN<\/strong> (1983; Synapse). Douglas McKeown, Ted Bohus\u2019 film gets 4K treatment.
\n\u2014 FRANKENSTEIN\u2019S BLOODY TERROR 3D <\/strong>(1968; 3D Film Archive; Kino). Third-dimension shows what could have been.
\n\u2014 HE WHO GETS SLAPPED <\/strong>(1924; Chaney; Flicker Films\/Blackhawk). First time in high definition, from a safety print.,
\n\u2014 \u00a0SAMURAI PRIEST VAMPIRE HUNTER <\/strong>(2009 original version; ETR Media). Originally the film was called \u2018Live Evil\u2019, revived as a B-movie extravaganza.; ETR Media).<\/p>\n

\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

\u00a06) BEST DVD EXTRAS<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 THE BEYOND<\/strong> (1981; Grindhouse), six discs of interviews and music, plus a copy of The 7 Doors of Death.
\n\u2014 CAPTAIN KRONOS, VAMPIRE HUNTER <\/strong>(1974; Hammer), Director Brian Clemens documentary; Caroline Munro commentary.
\n\u2014 <\/strong>CRACK IN THE WORLD<\/strong> (1965; Kino), Two-part discussion with Tim Lucas and Stephen R. Bissette
\n\u2014 DAN CURTIS COLLECTIONS <\/strong>(Kino), Jeff Thompson introductions to all the telefilms.
\n
\n\u2014 FRANKENSTEIN\u2019S BLOODY TERROR 3D, <\/strong>Tim Lucas discusses film and restoration.
\n\u2014 IN THE MOUTH OF MADNESS <\/strong>(1995, Arrow), interview with Sandy King Carpenter.
\n\u2014 INVASION USA<\/strong> (1952; Film Masters) \u2018Better Dead Than Red: Hollywood vs Communism in the 1950s\u2019 (Ballyhoo)
\n\u2014 JAWS @ 50: the Definitive Inside Story <\/strong>(2025; Amblin). Directed by Laurent Bousereau, 90-minute bonus feature on anniversary 4K.<\/p>\n

\u2014 JIM HENSON\u2019S THE STORYTELLER<\/strong> (ViaVision) \u2018Best Place by the Fire: Making of Jim Henson\u2019s The Storyteller,\u2019 video essay by Ryan Cauchi.
\n\u2014 THE KEEP <\/strong>(1983; Imprint) \u2018A World War II Fairy Tale: The Making of Michael Mann\u2019s The Keep\u2019, directed by Stewart Buck, Stephane Piter.
\n\u2014<\/strong> MABUSE LIVES<\/strong> (Eureka), Six introductions by Tim Lucas
\n\u2014 QUATERMASS XPERIMENT: <\/strong>Limited Collector\u2019s Edition (1955; Hammer) Five discs, new documentaries on Nigel Kneale and more
\n
\n\u2014<\/strong> TERROR IN THE FOG<\/strong> (Eureka), 84-minute discussion with Steve Bissette and Tim Lucas.
\n\u2014 <\/strong>UNKNOWN WORLD<\/strong> (1951, Severin), \u2018A Blacklist Legacy,\u2019 Crawford Kilian on actor\/grandfather Victor Kilian\u2019s blacklisting in the 1950s.
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:
\n\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>
\n7) FAVORITE COMMENTATOR OF 2025\u00a0<\/strong>(Below is a representative sample, but feel free to WRITE IN your favorite).<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2014 Rod Barnett, Adrian Smith\u00a0<\/strong>(Curse of the Voodoo)
\n\u2014 Rudy Behlmer<\/strong> (Chang, 1927).
\n\u2014 Michael Blake, <\/strong>He Who Gets Slapped (1924, Flicker Alley)
\n\u2014 <\/strong>Gary Gerani,<\/strong> Crack in the World (1965; Kino); A&C Meet Frankenstein (1948; ViaVision)
\n\u2014 John Harrison<\/strong>, Crawlspace (1986, Kino)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Troy Howarth, Troy Guinn, Rodney Barnett <\/strong>(Frankenstein\u2019s Bloody Terror 3D
\n\u2014 David Kalat <\/strong>(Five of six Mabuse films; Fantomas Returns)
\n\u2014 Stephen Bissette<\/strong>\u00a0(Unknown World; Quatermass Xperiment)
\n\u2014\u00a0 Samm Deighan <\/strong>(Altered States)
\n\u2014<\/strong>\u00a0David DelValle<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Kat Ellinger<\/strong> (Butterfly Kiss)
\n\u2014 C Courtney Joyner, Steve Haberman<\/strong>
\n<\/strong>\u2014 Tim Lucas<\/strong>\u00a0Son of Dracula; Werewolf of London, Mummy\u2019s Curse, all ViaVision.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Steve Mitchell, Nathaniel Thompson<\/strong>, Night of the Juggler (1980)
\n\u2014 Kim Newman, Stephen Jones <\/strong>(Land Time Forgot, People Time Forgot)
\n\u2014 Rebekah McKendry, Elric Kane<\/strong>, In the Mouth of Madness (1995, Arrow)
\n\u2014 Amanda Reyes<\/strong>, Dan Curtis Late Night Mysteries
\n\u2014<\/strong> Gary Rhodes<\/strong> (Dracula\u2019s Daughter (1936, ViaVision; Revenge of the Zombies; 1941; Kino)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Jonathan Rigby, Kevin Lyons <\/strong>Earth\u2019s Core, Warlords of Atlantis (Imprint); Castle of Evil (Vinegar Syndrome).
\n\u2014 Paul Scrabo, Rich Scrivani, <\/strong>Mummy\u2019s Tomb (1942, ViaVision)
\n\u2014 Tom Weaver <\/strong>(House of Dracula, The Wolfman, She-Wolf of London, The Mummy\u2019s Hand, with Larry Blamire, Mummy\u2019s Ghost, all ViaVision)
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

8 ) BEST INDEPENDENT FILM<\/strong>
\nIncludes festivals and streaming channels.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2014 <\/strong>ABRAHAM\u2019S BOYS: A Dracula Sto<\/strong>ry, directed by Natasha Kermani. Based on short story by Joe Hill, vampire-hunter\u2019s children confront his past. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 ADULTHOOD<\/strong>, directed by Alex Winter. Brother and sister discover a body buried in the family basement. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 DANGEROUS ANIMALS<\/strong>, directed by Scott Byrne. A serial killer adds sharks to the mix. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 DUST BUNNY<\/strong>, directed by Bryan Fuller, A neighbor helps a girl search for a monster. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 FOREIGNER<\/strong>, directed by Ava Maria Safai. A Persian teen tries to fit in, with monstrous results. See trailer here<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 GOOD BOY<\/strong>, directed by Ben Leonberg. A loyal dog fights off supernatural evil in a rural house. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 THE HAUNTING AT JACK THE RIPPER\u2019S HOUSE<\/strong>, directed by Stephen Stanley, Natasha Tosini. Paranormal influencers try to prove they aren\u2019t fakes.\u00a0 See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 HOW DEEP IS YOUR LOVE? <\/strong>directed by Elinore Mortimer. Deep-sea miners confront a species of the abyss. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 KEEPER<\/strong>, directed by Osgood Perkins. Folk horrors in the woods, starring Tatiana Maslany. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 THE REIGN OF QUEEN GINNARRA<\/strong>, directed by Lawrie Brewster. Old Dark Gods intervene in the battle for a Kingdom.
\nSee trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 THE UGLY STEPSISTER<\/strong>, directed by Emilie Blichfeldt. A deadly take on Cinderella. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:
\n\u00a0<\/strong>
\n\u00a09) BEST SHORT FILM<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 BUNNYMAN<\/strong>, directed by Matthew Silva (4 mins). Feeding a legend. See film here<\/a>
\n\u2014 THE DOMESTICATION OF VAMPIRES IN ESSEX<\/strong>, directed by Angie Darling Baby. \u00a0(15 mins). Three women are more than welcoming to a mysterious stranger. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 IT CAME FROM BEYOND<\/strong>, directed by Achille Brunet (23 mins). Aliens invade but will anyone believe? See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 \u00a0LOOK CLOSER<\/strong>, directed by Tyson Edwards. (5 mins). Artist experiences strange events at night. See film here<\/a>
\n\u2014<\/strong> THE LORD OF ALL FUTURE SPACE & TIME<\/strong>, directed by Chris Paul Russell (26 mins). The Old West becomes a portal to a Future That Matters. See trailer here<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 THE OCCUPANT OF THE ROOM<\/strong>, directed by Kier-La Janisse (32 mins). Adaptation of Algernon Blackwood tale of a teacher seeking late-night lodging. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 SCREENING AFTER MIDNIGHT, <\/strong>directed by Ansel H. Faraj (22 mins). David Selby in fanciful search for the lost London After Midnight. See film here<\/a>
\n\u2014 SMORE OF THE WORLDS<\/strong>, directed by Michael Varrati (3 mins). Hungry monster sniffs out food. See film here<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

10) BEST DOCUMENTARY<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 BASIL GOGOS, KING OF THE MONSTERS<\/strong>, directed by Bill Diamond. Interviews and highlights of artist\u2019s impact on the genre and art. See episode here<\/a>
\n\u2014 \u00a0GEORGE A. ROMERO\u2019S RESIDENT EVIL<\/strong>, directed by Brandon Salisbury. Explores the reasons Romero\u2019s adaptation of the video game was never made. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 HEARTS OF DARKNESS: The Making of the Final Friday, <\/strong>directed by Michael Felsher. Behind the scenes at Jason Goes to Hell. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 THE SINISTER CINEMA STORY<\/strong>, directed by Jack Perez. Behind the scenes of Greg Luce\u2019s pioneering source for rare VHS and DVD films. See trailer here<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 STRANGE JOURNEY: The Story of Rocky Horror<\/strong>, directed by Linus O\u2019Brien. Creators and cast describe how cult musical became a midnight sensation.\u00a0 See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014<\/strong> VIDEOHEAVEN<\/strong>, directed by Alex Ross Perry. Return to the 1980s as VHS and video stores transformed how people watched movies. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014<\/strong> THE VINCENT PRICE LEGACY<\/strong>, directed by Laurent Ohmansiek. Interviews include Alice Cooper, Joe Dante, David DelValle and others.\u00a0 See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 THE WILHELM SCREAM<\/strong>, directed by Anna Quinlan, producer Steve Lee. The untold story of the most famous sound effect in Hollywood. See trailer here<\/a>
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

11) BOOK OF THE YEAR (non-fiction)<\/strong>
\nNote: List prices are often discounted.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2014 ART! TRASH! TERROR!: Adventures in Strange Cinema<\/strong>, by Chris Alexander (Headpress, softcover, 460 pages, $25.44). \u00a0Essays, interviews from a personal perspective.
\n\u2014<\/strong> BLUTO, BUSTER AND THE BLOB: Conversations with Actors and Writers from Hollywood and Radio\u2019s Golden Age, <\/strong>by Leonard J. Kohl (BearManor Media, softcover, 524 pages, $38). Interviews range from serials to sci-fi, Our Gang and more.
\n\u2014 CINEFILMANIA: Adventures in the Retro Hi-Def Film Forbidden Zone<\/strong>, edited by Anthony Taylor (Independent, softcover, 367 pages, $17). The best reviews, old and new, from Apes on Film.
\n\u2014\u00a0 CINEMA BIZARRO: The Weird Kid\u2019s Guide to Particularly Odd Horror and Sci-Fi Movies<\/strong>, edited by Steven Peros and Mark Bailey with Steven B. Orkin (BearManor Media, softcover, 182 pages, $25). Essays from pros and monster enthusiasts examine 38 movies.<\/p>\n

\u2014 CONFESSIONS OF A BRIAN DE PALMA PROT\u00c9G\u00c9: How I Shadowed the Director on The Fury, Dressed to Kill & More<\/strong>, by Sam Irvin (Independent, softcover, 343 pages, $39.87). A young filmmaker thrives in the shadow of a genius director, wild actors and Hollywood crazies.
\n\u2014 DEATH BY SNAILS, Vol. 2: A Guide for How to Watch Anything Through the Art and Majesty of Film Criticism, <\/strong>by Lucas Hardwick (Independent, softcover, 316 pages, $16.99). Why movie critics still matter, especially now.
\n\u2014 DOUBLE SHOCK HORROR! Horror\/SF\/Fantasy in British Cinema 1958-1970<\/strong>, by Barry Atkinson (BearManor Media, softcover, 628 pages, $52). Looking back at Britain\u2019s Golden Age of weekly double-bills.
\n\u2014 FINATICS: 50 Years of Jaws<\/strong>, by Michael A. Smith, introduction. By Richard Dreyfuss (BearManor Media, hardcover, 278 pages, $52). A look at the film, the spinoffs, impact on culture, and the fans.<\/p>\n

\u2014 FROM PAGE TO SILVER SCREEN; 21 Novels That Became Horror and Sci-Fi Movie Favorites<\/strong>, by Tom Weaver (BearManor Media, softcover, 308 pages, $35). The unexpected origins of some of the genre\u2019s famous films.
\n\u2014 HOLLYWOOD HAUNTS THE WORLD: An Investigation into the Cinema of Occulted Taboos<\/strong>, by Robert Guffey (Headpress, softcover, 368 pages, $29.95). From UFOs to JFK, how filmmakers have handled conspiracies and the supernatural.
\n\u2014 ICONS OF FRIGHT: 100 Interviews with Legendary Horror Filmmakers<\/strong>, by Mike Cucinotta, Rob Galuzzo, Adam Barnick, Jason Alvino (Harker Press, softcover, 470 pages, $21.99) Seventy-five years of discussions (some new, others vintage), with creators of classic cinema.
\n\u2014 INCUBUS: Inside Leslie Stevens\u2019 Lost Horror Classic, <\/strong>by David J. Schow (Cimarron, softcover, 264 pages, $25). Exploring the fate of the 1966 thriller — in Esperanto! — starring William Shatner.
\n\u2014 THE MAGIC OF SPECIAL EFFECTS AND STOP-MOTION ANIMATION, Vol. 1: 1952-1974, by Harry Walton <\/strong>(Independent, softcover, 217 pages, $50). A hands-on look at a lifetime of effects work and genius encounters.<\/p>\n

\u2014 MAKING MONSTERS: Inside Stories from the Creators of Hollywood\u2019s Most Iconic Creatures<\/strong>, by Howard Berger and Marshall Julius (Welbeck, hardcover, 320 pages, $37.02). Hundreds of images, and top talents reveal secrets behind make-ups and effects.
\n\u2014<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>NIGHTMARE AUTOPSIS: A Return to Elm Street<\/strong>, by Lowell Greenblatt (Harker Press, softcover, 423 pages, $24.99) Offers new franchise insights along with rare photos and original interviews.
\n\u2014<\/strong> 1968: Diary of a Monster Kid<\/strong>, by Allan Bryce.<\/strong> (Ghoulish Publishing, softcover, 196 pages, $33) Dark Side magazine editor recalls his young introductions to horror movies, and other spicier parts of life.
\n<\/strong>\u2014 POSSESSION: Dreams of Suffering and Sanity, <\/strong>by Chris Kelso (PS Publishing, hardcover, 90 pages, $22.19). Monograph explores 1981 film of infidelity and dread.<\/p>\n

\u2014 ROBERT BLOCH: An Unconventional Bibliography<\/strong>, by Jim Nemeth, with essays by Randall Larson (Independent, softcover, 384 pages, $18.99). Comprehensive listing of his writings, scripts, interviews, quotes and more.
\n\u2014 SCRIPTS FROM THE CRYPT No. 17: A Trip to Mars, <\/strong>by Stephen Jacobs and Tom Weaver (BearManor Media, softcover, 246 pages, $23.62). The lost screenplay of the never-produced 1930s Universal project.
\n\u2014SUCCUBUS<\/strong>, by Tim Lucas (PS Publishing, hardcover, 220 pages, $28). An appreciation of the film, aka Necronomicon, and director Jesus Franco.
\n\u2014 THRILLS UNTAPPED 2: More Discoveries for Science Fiction, Horror and Fantasy Movie Fans, 1928-1936<\/strong>, by Michael R. Pitts (McFarland, softcover, 347 pages, $42.50). Highlighting more than 150 films often overlooked by genre fans.<\/p>\n

\u2014 TOBE HOOPER\u2019S SALEM\u2019S LOT: Studies in the Horror Film, <\/strong>edited by Antony Earnshaw (Centipede Press, softcover, 736 pages, $185 signed) 400 pages of photos and text added to landmark 2014 edition.
\n\u2014 TROG: The Ultimate Tribute<\/strong>, by John Hamilton (We Belong Dead, softcover, $26). Excavating the truth about the 1970 cult film.
\n\u2014 UNLOCKING DRACULA A.D. 1972<\/strong>, by David Huckvale (McFarland, softcover, 203 pages, $37.95). A revisionist look at a Hammer film that reflected the influences of the early 1970s.
\n\u2014<\/strong> WEIRDUMENTARY: Ancient Aliens, Fallacious Prophecies, and Mysterious Monsters from 1970s Documentaries<\/strong>, by Gary D. Rhodes (Feral House, softcover, 336 pages, $27.98). From ancient aliens to cryptids, examining the pseudo-science genre.<\/p>\n

\u2014 WILLIS O\u2019BRIEN: Lost Worlds, Giant Apes and Dinosaurs, Vol. 2,<\/strong> From She Who Must Be Obeyed to Mr. Joseph Young of Africa<\/strong>, by Greg Kulon (Kulon Ventures, softcover, 379 pages, $63.90). Second of three volumes covers She, Mighty Joe Young, Last Days of Pompeii, and more.
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

12) BEST BOOK ON 70 YEARS OF GODZILLA
\n<\/strong>
\n\u2014 GHIDORAH, THE THREE-HEADED MONSTER<\/strong>, by Christopher Stewardson (Liverpool University Press, softcover, 144 pages, $25). How the fanciful alien foe helped transform Godzilla into a defender of earth.
\n\u2014 GODZILLA: THE FIRST 70 YEARS<\/strong>, by Steve Ryfle, Ed Godziszewski (Harry Abrams, hardcover, 432 pages, $75). Two kaiju experts explore all aspects of Japan\u2019s King of the Monsters with historic analysis and visuals.
\n\u2014 <\/strong>\u00a0\u201cGOJIRA\u201d 1954<\/strong>, by Peter H. Brothers (Independent, softcover, 257 pages, $19.54). Looking back at the atomic fears that helped launch Japan\u2019s kaiju franchise.
\n\u2014<\/strong> IN SEARCH OF GODZILLA, <\/strong>by Rick Wallach (McFarland, softcover, 174 pages, $39.95). Focusing on the 1954 Japanese original.<\/p>\n

\u2014 KING KONG VERSUS GODZILLA, The Most Colossal Conflict the Screen Has Ever Known<\/strong>, by Thom Shubilla (BearManor Media, softcover, 248 pages, $28). From film rights to special effects, how this 1962 clash of the titans emerged.
\n\u2014 THE LUMINOUS FAERIES AND MOTHRA: The Original Story<\/strong>, translated by Dr. Jeffery Angle (University of Minnesota Press; softcover, $14.56, 120 pages). The original Japanese novella.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em>13) BEST CLASSIC MONSTER FICTION<\/strong>
\n(Fiction that uses classic horror as jumping off points)<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2014 BECOMING NOSFERATU: Stories Inspired by Silent German Horror<\/strong>, edited by Matthew Sorrento, Gary D. Rhodes (BearManor Media, softcover, 324 pages, $29). Numerous contributors offer stories, essays and more.
\n\u2014 DARK SISTERS: A Novel, <\/strong>by Kristi DeMeester (St. Martin\u2019s Press, hardcover, 336 pages, $16.61). A healing witch\u2019s curse reaches across three generations.
\n\u2014 DEALS WITH THE DEVIL, DIALOGUES WITH DEATH, <\/strong>by Frank J. Dello Stritto (Cult Movies Press, hardcover, 519 pages, $32.14) Facts, dread and cinema combine to reveal Faustian bargains.
\n\u2014 DRACULA NEVER DIES: The Revenge of Bela Vorlock, Vol. 2, <\/strong>by Christopher Gauthier (Independent, softcover, 260 pages, $15.99). An actor fights battles those who destroyed his reputation in 1950s Hollywood.<\/p>\n

\u2014 HOUSE OF THE APE MAN: An Anthology<\/strong>, by Kurt McCoy (Independent, softcover, 106 pages, $14.99). New tales of Lugosi\u2019s doomed Dr. Brewster.
\n\u2014 MITZI AT MIDNIGHT, <\/strong>by Lyndon W Joslin (Palmetto Publishing, hardcover, 248 pages, $28.99) A Houston traffic reporter must battle a demon\u2019s vampire plague.
\n\u2014 MODERN MUMMIES: A Horror Anthology<\/strong>, edited by A.C. Bauer (Cat Eye Press, softcover, 202 pages, $14.99) Thirteen tales unwrap new takes from the tombs.
\n\u2014 RISE OF THE BEAST<\/strong>, by Joe Overlay (Independent, softcover, 78 pages, $11.99). Has the curse of the Talbots returned to Lainwelly?<\/p>\n

\u2014 TICK TOWN, <\/strong>by Christopher A. Miklos (Castle Bridge, softcover, 198 pages, $14.99) In the tradition of pulps, giant bugs take over a town.
\n\u2014 WHAT FRESH HELL IS THIS?: Dark Tales<\/strong>, by Del Howison (Crystal Lake, softcover, 232 pages, $12.99). Stories of the supernatural by the former owner of Burbank\u2019s Dark Delicacies bookstore.\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

14) Best Magazine of 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 Bare*Bones
\n\u2014 Castle of Frankenstein
\n\u2014 Cinema Retro (UK)
\n\u2014 Classic Monsters of the Movies (UK)
\n\u2014 Cryptology
\n\u2014 The Dark Side (UK)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Delirium
\n\u2014 Dracula Beyond Stoker
\n\u2014 Fangoria
\n\u2014 Freaky Monsters
\n\u2014 G-Fan
\n\u2014 Ghastly Phantasms
\n\u2014 HorrorHound
\n\u2014 Infinity (UK)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Little Shoppe of Horrors
\n\u2014 Monster Bash
\n\u2014 Phantasmagoria (UK)
\n\u2014 Rue Morgue<\/p>\n

\u2014 Scary Monsters
\n\u2014 Scream (UK)
\n\u2014 Screem
\n\u2014 Shock Cinema
\n\u2014 Space Monsters
\n\u2014 Videoscope
\n\u2014 We Belong Dead (UK)
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

15) BEST ARTICLE\u00a0<\/strong>(You can pick two)<\/p>\n

\u2014<\/strong> \u2018\u2018Black Stars of Classic Horror,\u2019 by Mark Voger, CRYPTOLOGY #6. From stereotypical comedy to menacing supporting players.
\n\u2014 \u2018<\/strong>The Brain of Frankenstein:\u00a0 Or Who’s Knocking Around In That Noggin?\u2019 by Kevin Hoxsey, WE BELONG DEAD #45. Which Monster am I talking to? A fair question.
\n\u2014 \u2018The Brides of Dracula: Exploring Hammer\u2019s Macabre Fairy Tale Anew,\u2019 by Jonathan Rigby, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #36. Exploring one of Hammer\u2019s earliest and most satisfying horror films.
\n\u2014 \u2018The Curse of Frankenstein,\u2019 by Mark Clark, SCREEM #44. A look at the 4K reincarnation of the Hammer version.
\n\u2014 \u2018Cryptids in Westerns,\u2019 by Stephen R. Bissette, bare*bones #21-24. Four-part examination into natural and unnatural monsters out West.<\/p>\n

\u2014 \u2018The Dead Zone,\u2019 by Andy Allard, WE BELONG DEAD #47. \u00a0The inevitable pairing of David Cronenberg and Stephen King.
\n\u2014 \u2018Die a Million Deaths: A Short History of the Grand Guignol,\u2019 by Aaron Aubochon, HORRORHOUND #194. The influence of Gruesome 19th<\/sup> Century theatre on cinema.
\n\u2014 ‘The 88 Edits of Sinbad,’ by Larry Blamire, CASTLE OF FRANKENSTEIN #41. A frame by frame breakdown of the confrontation with the Cyclops in 7TH VOYAGE OF SINBAD.<\/p>\n

\u2014 \u2018Elizabeth Bathory,\u2019 by Elizabeth Belmont, SPACE MONSTERS #2. Don\u2019t believe everything you\u2019ve heard about the Countess of Blood.
\n\u2014 \u2018Gorgo: Monster of the Kings,\u2019 by Anthony McKay, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #52. Complete 270-page issue devoted to the English monster film.
\n\u2014 \u2018Hammer and Wheatley,\u2019 by John Logan, CLASSIC MONSTERS OF THE MOVIES #34. How Hammer handled three works by Dennis Wheatley \u2013 Devil Rides Out, Lost Continent, To Devil a Daughter.
\n\u2014 \u2018Heavy Metaluna: This Island Earth on Page and Screen,\u2019 by Matthew R. Bradley, bare*bones #23.
\n\u2014 \u2018Horror\u2019s Greatest Showman: The Fun and Frights of William Castle,\u2019 by Frank R. Dello Stritto, SCARY MONSTERS #140. From Emergo to the Punishment Poll and beyond, every movie gimmick.<\/p>\n

\u2014 \u2018Is Horror Political? Glad You Asked\u2026\u2019 by \u00a0Catherine Corcoran, FANGORIA. Star of Terrifier links cinema horrors to real-life issues of war, race, communism and identity.
\n\u2014 \u2018Just a Gorilla Named Joe,\u2019 by Mike Hankin, INFINITY #89. The making of Mighty Joe Young.
\n\u2014 ‘Live to Air: The War of the Worlds Broadcast,’ by Phil Hore, CRYPTOLOGY #3. How Orson Welles’ 1938 broadcast was preceded by similar radio stunts elsewhere.<\/p>\n

\u2014 \u2018Merian C. Cooper: A King and a God in the World He Knew,\u2019 by Steve Vertlieb, File 770. Years of Kong scholarship is revealed.by Steve Vertlieb, File 770.
\n\u2014 \u2018The Phantom of the Opera, A Centennial Retrospective,\u2019 by John H.Navroth, CASTLE OF FRANKENSTEIN #42. The origins and filming of Chaney\u2019s silent masterpiece.
\n\u2014 \u2018Requiem is a Dream,\u2019 by Dennis Daniel, DELIRIUM #40. Exploring Requiem for a Vampire, a gateway to Jean Rollin.<\/p>\n

\u2014 \u2018The Science Fiction Fantasy Worlds of Irwin Allen, by Mark Phillips, INFINITY From #82 to 88. A five-part look at the longtime career of TV and movie producer.
\n\u2014 \u2018Sell Your Soul for Rock and Roll: Phantom of the Paradise,\u2019 by Jessica Dwyer, HORRORHOUND #104.
\n\u2014 \u2018Skelton Knaggs: A Face for Horror,\u2019 by Brian J. Robb, THE DARK SIDE #271. The little known, but unforgettable character actor.
\n\u2014 \u2018You Can\u2019t Keep a Good Monster Down: The Monster Renaissance of the 1990s,\u2019 by Lance Brick, SCARY MONSTERS #138. Year-by-year, how classic monsters reconquered to the culture.<\/p>\n

\u2014 \u2018Universal Studios Monsters: Prequels, Sequels, and In-Between Duels,\u2019 by George Humenik, CASTLE OF FRANKENSTEIN #42. How the studio wrestled with monstrous storylines, film by film.
\n\u2014 \u2018Unlucky Thirteen,\u2019 by Gregory Kulon, THE DARK SIDE #271. Thirteen Women battled censorship to survive as a classic horror.
\n\u2014 \u2018Vincent Price, Maestro of the Macabre,\u2019 by Rod Labbe, SCARY MONSTERS #137. No matter the role, the actor came with a warm chill.
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

16) BEST INTERVIEW<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 <\/strong>Clive Barker by\u00a0Majo Pavlovic<\/strong>, RUE MORGUE #222
\n\u2014<\/strong> Michael Berryman by Jessie Robbins<\/strong>, SCREAM #88.
\n\u2014 Jeffrey Combs by Jessica Dwyer and Paul David<\/strong>, HORRORHOUND #105<\/p>\n

\u2014 Alice Cooper by Aaron Von Lupton<\/strong>, RUE MORGUE #225.
\n\u2014 Guillermo Del Toro, by Michael Gingold<\/strong>, FANGORIA #29
\n\u2014 <\/strong>Imagineering makeup founders (Larry Liff, Gino Acevedo, Barry Koper) by Ray Castile<\/strong>\u2019s Basement of Horror<\/a>
\n\u2014 Sara Karloff by Diana Robertson<\/strong>, GHASTLY PHANTASMS #20.
\n\u2014 Ari Lehman, the first Jason, by Andrew Graves<\/strong>, SCREAM #90<\/p>\n

\u2014 Caroline Munro by Chris Alexander<\/strong> in DELIRIUM #40
\n\u2014 <\/strong>Star Trek Doctor Robert Picardo by Anthony Petkovitch<\/strong>, SHOCK CINEMA #66
\n\u2014<\/strong> Hellboy makeup artist Matt Rose by Pat Jankiewicz<\/strong>, VIDEOSCOPE #129.
\n\u2014 Zandor Vorkoff by Ernie Magnotta<\/strong>, THE DARK SIDE #264
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

17) BEST COLUMN<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014- Emma Dark\u2019s Dark Corner, WE BELONG DEAD
\n\u2014- Deep Focus, by John-Paul Checkett, SCREEM
\n\u2014- Devil\u2019s in the Details, by Stacie Ponder, RUE MORGUE
\n\u2014- Exordium, by Michael Gingold, FANGORIA<\/p>\n

\u2014 Heard But Not Seen Adventures in Voice-Acting! by Bill Timoney, VIDEOSCOPE
\n\u2014 It Came from Bowen\u2019s Basement, John Bowen, RUE MORGUE
\n\u2014 Kaiju Korner, by Mike Bogue, SCARY MONSTERS
\n\u2014 Kim Newman\u2019s Dungeon, THE DARK SIDE<\/p>\n

\u2014- Ralph\u2019s One & Only Traveling Reviews, by Richard Klemensen, LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS
\n\u2014- R&D, by David J. Schow, BARE*BONES
\n\u2014- The Rochon Report, by Debbie Rochon, VIDEOSCOPE.
\n\u2014- Rondo Remembers, by Ron Adams, MONSTER BASH<\/p>\n

\u2014- Scene Queen, by Barbara Crampton, FANGORIA
\n\u2014- Strange Days by Jason Strangis, SCARY MONSTERS
\n\u2014- They Came from the Krypt, by Jon Kitley. HORRORHOUND
\n\u2014- Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

18) Best Cover<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a>
\nbare*bones #22
\nby Woody Welch
\n(1951-2021)<\/td>\n		\"\"<\/a>
\nCastle of Frankenstein #42
\nby Scott Jackson<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Classic Monsters of the Movies #34
\nBy Daniel Horne<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Cryptology #6
\nBy Bernie Wrightson (1993)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nThe Dark Side #271
\nBy Rick Melton<\/td>\n		\"\"Delirium #41
\nBy Suspiria Vilchez<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\"\"<\/a>Fangoria #27
\nBy Matt Ryan Tobin<\/td>\n		\"\"Freaky Monsters #42
\nBy Arliss<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n

\"\"<\/a>G-Fan #148
\nBy Rudy Gardea<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n
\"\"<\/a>
HorrorHound #107<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By Matthew Therrien<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nLittle Shoppe of Horrors #52
\nBy Mark Maddox<\/td>\n		\"\"<\/a>Monster Bash #56
\nBy Kerry Gammill<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\"\"<\/a>Phantasmagoria #27
\nBy Graham Humphreys<\/td>\n		\"\"<\/a>Rue Morgue #225
\nDesign by Shane Mills<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n

\"\"<\/a>Scary Monsters #139
\nBy Scott Jackson<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nScream #92
\nDesign by Imran Kelly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u00a0\"\"<\/a>
\nScreem #44
\nBy<\/td>\n		\"\"<\/a>
\nVideoscope #128<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\"\"<\/a>
\nWe Belong Dead #46
\nBy Josh Ryals<\/td>\n		<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

19) BEST WEBSITE<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Bill Fleck\u2019s Classic Horror Behind the Scenes<\/a>\u00a0Author\u2019s blog delves deep.
\n\u2014\u00a0BlackHorrorMovies<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0Too long ignored, revelations abound.
\n\u2014\u00a0Bloody Disgusting<\/a>\u00a0Tracking the latest across all horror platforms.
\n\u2014\u00a0Bloody Pit of Rod<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0Rod Barnett\u2019s musings on monsters and horror.
\n\u2014 Cinema-crazed.com<\/a> Dissecting pop culture for 20 years.
\n\u2014 Camp Kaiju<\/a> The talk of Monster Island and beyond.
\n\u2014\u00a0The Doctor\u2019s Model Mansion<\/a>\u00a0Collector Mark Glassy\u2019s amazing monster displays.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Dread Central<\/a>\u00a0Horror\u2019s front page.
\n\u2014\u00a0Dwight Frye Appreciation Group<\/a> He was more than an assistant.
\n\u2014\u00a0Final Girl\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0Stacie Ponder\u2019s cinema survival guide.
\n\u2014\u00a0The Frankenstein Lens<\/a>\u00a0 Monster scholarship, unseen photos and fun.
\n\u2014\u00a0It Came From \u2026<\/a>\u00a0Musings from nostalgia curator David Weiner.
\n\u2014\u00a0Monster Kid Central<\/a>\u00a0Richard J. Schellbach\u2019s site offers columnists and news.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Ray Castile\u2019s Basement of Horror<\/a>\u00a0All about the toys and masks of yesteryear.
\n\u2014\u00a0Robert Bloch Official Website<\/a> A comprehensive look at the master of suspense, with webmaster Jim Nemeth.
\n\u2014\u00a0Scared Silly<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0Paul Castiglia\u2019s tribute to classic horror comedies.
\n\u2014 Shudders and Shadows<\/a> Midnight Marquee\u2019s Gary Svehla\u2019s online board.
\n\u2014 A Strange Man in a Film Land<\/a> Jay Kay\u2019s bodies of work.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Trailers from Hell<\/a>\u00a0Joe Dante and friends talk over vintage trailers.
\n\u2014 This Monstrous Life<\/a> Frank Dietz opens doors to his decades of fandom.
\n\u2014\u00a0Universal Horror & Classic Creatures<\/a>\u00a0A Facebook page with rare photos and more.
\n\u2014\u00a0Universal Monster Army<\/a>\u00a0 Ultimate destination for models, toys, collectibles.
\n\u2014\u00a0World of Monsters<\/a>\u00a0John Navroth\u2019s 50-year obsession.
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

20) BEST PODCAST<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0B-Movie Cast<\/a>\u00a0Long-running podcast still going strong.
\n\u2014\u00a0Borgo Pass Horror Podcast<\/a>\u00a0The Universal horrors discussed in detail.
\n\u2014\u00a0Bride of Monster Kid Radio<\/a>\u00a0Derek Koch and guests discuss classic horrors.
\n\u2014\u00a0Celluloid Cemetery<\/a>\u00a0Mark Bessenger digs deep.
\n\u2014 The Cobwebs Channel<\/a> Daniel Epler\u2019s fresh takes on classic horrors.
\n\u2014\u00a0Colors of the Dark\u00a0<\/a>\u00a0Rebekah McKendry and Elric Kane celebrate latest horror releases.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Cult Radio a Go-Go<\/a>\u00a0 Pioneers of the horror-talk genre.
\n\u2014 DieCast Movie Podcast<\/a> Steven Turek and friends dissect films old and new.
\n\u2014\u00a0Discover the Horror<\/a> Hosts Kitley, AuBuchon, and Glonek discuss conventions and films.
\n\u2014\u00a0Faculty of Horror<\/a>\u00a0Hosted by Andrea Subissati and Alexandra West.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Frankenstein Minute<\/a>\u00a0 \u00a0Podcast dissects the Frankenstein series minute by minute.
\n\u2014 <\/strong>Grim and Bloody Podcast<\/a> Interviews and other horrors.
\n\u2014\u00a0Grimm Life Collective<\/a>\u00a0 Visits to real-life horror film locations.
\n\u2014\u00a0The Hysteria Continues<\/a>\u00a0Slashers get their cuts.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0 Icons of Fright<\/a> After 20 years, a return of a trailblazing podcast.
\n\u2014\u00a0 Kicking the Seat<\/a> Ian Simmons and Aaron Christensen go deep.
\n\u2014 Midnight Mass<\/a> Peaches Christ and Michael Varrati invite you in.
\n\u2014 The Monster Archives<\/a> Deep dives into Universal classics.
\n\u2014 Monster Attack<\/a> Jim Adams hosts a horror roundtable.
\n\u2014\u00a0Monster Party<\/a>\u00a0Always something different when it comes to horror talk.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0The Monsters That Made Us<\/a> Dan Colon and Mike Manzi celebrate the Universal classics, old and nedw.
\n\u2014\u00a0Movie Dumpster<\/a>\u00a0 Podcast rummages through cinema\u2019s discarded gems.
\n\u2014 Planet CHH<\/a> Christian Hanna dissects classic and latest releases.
\n\u2014 Plan 9 Crunch<\/a> Readings and discussions of cult films.
\n\u2014\u00a0Ray Harryhausen Podcast<\/a>\u00a0Latest from the Ray Harryhausen Foundation.
\n\u2014\u00a0Steve & Crypto Show<\/a>\u00a0 On-the-news monster and pop culture talk.
\n\u2014\u00a0Terror at Collinwood<\/a> Horror host Penny Dreadful explores the secrets of Dark Shadows.
\n\u2014 Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

21) BEST EVENT OF 2025\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Back to Lost World<\/strong>, stop-motion experts including Neil Pettigrew and Mike Hankin visit the Blue Posts pub in London where brontosaurus scene was filmed 100 years ago.
\n\u2014\u00a0The Bride at Rest, <\/strong>Elsa Lanchester\u2019s grave is officially marked with a plaque in Los Angeles.
\n\u2014 Harryhausen up close:<\/strong> Animator’s models and artifacts on tour in Kalamazoo and Tucson.
\n\u2014 \u00a0Lurchfest<\/strong>, annual celebration in Philippi, West Virginia of all things Addams family. Ted Cassidy\u2019s son, Sean attends.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Monsters on Main <\/strong>Scary Monsters editors Don and Vicki Smeraldi open a horror themed store in Van Buren, Ark.
\n\u2014 Murders Double Down. <\/strong>Historians Frank Dello Stritto and Greg Mank offer separate lectures on Murders in the Rue Morgue at Monster Bash.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Plan 9 Cemetery Visit<\/strong>, Los Angeles. Dana Gould and author Harry Medved tour the graves where Ed Wood\u2019s classic was filmed..
\n\u2014 \u00a0Popcorn Frights Film festival <\/strong>in South Beach now in 12th<\/sup> year.
\n\u2014 Robby the Robot and Arnold Leibovit <\/strong>celebrate Forbidden Planet and George Pal Puppetoons in Beverly Hills.<\/p>\n

— Producer Michael Felsher<\/strong>, discusses Friday the 13th<\/sup> documentary at HorrorHound Weekend.
\n\u2014 Serlingbration at Monsterama<\/strong> in Atlanta celebrates Twilight Zone creator Rod Serling\u2019s 100th<\/sup> anniversary.
\n— Son of Frankenstein presentation<\/strong> by author Julian David Stone, and Carl Laemmle grandniece Antonia Carlotta at Monsterpalooza.
\n— Stoker on Stoker<\/strong>, Dacre Stoker, great grand-nephew of Dracula\u2019s creator, speaks and offers never before published illustrations. In Aiken County, S.C.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u00a0Or write in another choice:<\/p>\n

22) FAVORITE HORROR HOST<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 Arachna of the Spider People (Beware Theater)
\n<\/em>\u2014 Bobby Gammonster (Monster Movie Night)
\n\u2014 The Bone Jangler (and Enchantress Nocturna)
\n\u2014 Captain Calico Drake (Dead and Buried)
\n\u2014 Count Gore De Vol (Creature Feature)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Doctor Sarcofiguy (John Dimes)
\n\u2014 Don O\u2019Malley (Breakfast Serials)
\n\u2014 Drac and Countess Carita (Transylvania Tonight)
\n\u2014 Dr. Dread (John Murray)
\n\u2014 Dr. Dreck (Dungeon)
\n\u2014 Dr. Gangrene Presents<\/p>\n

\u2014 Elvira, Mistress of the Dark
\n\u2014 Gruesome Graves (Haunted Hotel)
\n\u2014 Halloween Jack (The Monster Channel)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Halloween Harvey (Festival of Fear)
\n\u2014 Hexen Arcane (Vortexx)
\n\u2014 Igorro (The Igorro Show)
\n\u2014 Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy the Mail Lady (The Last Drive-In)
\n\u2014 Karlos Borloff (Monster Madhouse)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Lord Blood-Rah (Nerve Wrackin\u2019 Theatre)
\n\u2014 Marlena Midnite (Midnight Mausoleum)
\n\u2014 Mistress Malicious (Mistress Peace Theater)
\n\u2014 Mr. Lobo (OSI74)
\n\u2014 The Mummy and the Monkey (Hairy Scary Hangout)<\/p>\n

\u2014 Penny Dreadful (Shilling Shockers)
\n\u2014 Ritch and Triv (The Midnight Movie)
\n\u2014 Sally the Zombie Cheerleader (Vortexx)
\n\u2014 Scarlet Fry (Arizona)
\n
\n<\/em>\u2014 Son of Ghoul (Ohio)
\n\u2014 Svengoolie (Berwyn)
\n\u2014 Vincent Van Dahl, Tangella, Mr. Livingston (Creature Features, Bay Area)
\n\u2014 Zelda, Bird & Theo (Offbeat Cinema)
\n\u2014 Or write in another favorite host<\/p>\n

23) BEST GRAPHIC ARTS PRESENTATION<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2014 THE ART OF GEORGE WILSON, by Anthony Taylor (Hermes Press). More than 300 illustrations from famed pulp, comic book and poster artist.
\n\u2014 THE ART OF RICK CATIZONE AND ANIVISION LTD, by Rick Catizone (Independent). Secrets and artwork from artist behind Creepshow, Evil Dead and more.
\n\u2014 CURSE OF DARK SHADOWS, by Craig Hurd-McKinney, and Jok (Hermes Press). Graphic novel, a deathbed promise brings back Barnabas.
\n\u2014 <\/strong>CREATURAE NOCTIS: The Horror Art of Frederick Cooper (Frederick Cooper Arts, hardcover, 152 pages, $40).<\/p>\n

\u2014 EARTHDIVERS OMNIBUS, by Stephen Graham Jones, illustrated by Davide Gianfelice, Riccardo Burchielli (IDW) All three volumes of time travel epic.
\n\u2014 THE GOON: Them That Don\u2019t Stay Dead. By Eric Powell (Dark Horse). New graphic novel marking 25th<\/sup> anniversary.
\n\u2014 HALLOWEEN GIRL Book Three: Gods and Monsters, by Richard T. Wilson, Shahed R (Mad Shelley Comics). The responsibilities of goth are not always pleasant.
\n\u2014 IN THE MOOD FOR MONSTERS, by Stephen R. Bissette (Monster Sketchbook Series). 178 pages of illustrations and musings on an artist\u2019s monster love.<\/p>\n

\u2014 LONDON AFTER MIDNIGHT (Chaney Entertainment. Source Point). Graphic novel version of lost film.
\n\u2014 MONSTERS Trading Cards, by Mark Spears. Classic monsters reimagined.
\n\u2014 MONSTROUS MAGAZINE (Monstrous Books). Illustrated tales of mystery and menace.
\n\u2014 ROBOT MONSTER COMICS IN 3-D, edited by Paul Castiglia (3-D Film Archives). 17 stories, along with vintage ads. Glasses of course included.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

WRITE-IN CATEGORIES<\/strong>
\n\u00a0<\/strong>
\nThe following categories are based on write-in votes, and in some cases help Rondo organizers honor those whose accomplishments don’t always fit in other categories.<\/strong><\/p>\n

24. BEST WRITER OF 2025<\/p>\n

25. BEST ARTIST OF 2025 (all formats)<\/p>\n

26. BEST FAN ARTIST OF 2025 (The Linda Miller Award)<\/p>\n

ADVISORY CATEGORIES<\/strong>
\n(Help Rondo organizers decide who should be selected<\/strong>
\nin the following categories)<\/strong><\/p>\n

27. MONSTER KID OF THE YEAR\u00a0(Who did the most to advance the cause of classic horror scholarship, film preservation or genre fun).<\/div>\n
28. Special Recognition (Whose work or energy in 2025 deserves special mention).<\/div>\n
\n

29. The David J. Skal Classic Horror Research Award. Who has advanced knowledge in the genre?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

30. AND FINALLY, THE MONSTER KID HALL OF FAME<\/div>\n
\u2014 Which fans, pros, writers, researchers, horror hosts or others should be inducted into the Rondo Awards Monster Kid Hall of Fame?\u00a0Suggest up to six names of folks who have helped fandom grow.<\/div>\n
\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Here\u2019s the list of those already in the Hall of Fame<\/a><\/div>\n
\n

Whew. That\u2019s a lot. Thanks to all for your patience. remember, you don\u2019t have to vote in every category, and write-ins are welcome and encouraged.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

TO VOTE, simply email David Colton at taraco@aol.com<\/a> by on Friday night at midnight, May 1,\u00a02026.<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

REMEMBER TO INCLUDE YOUR NAME; E-MAIL YOUR PICKS TO\u00a0taraco@aol.com<\/a>
\n\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n

Rondo Awards copyright David Colton, 2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

NEW: HERE ARE THE WINNERS OF THE (GASP!) 24th ANNUAL RONDO HATTON CLASSIC HORROR AWARDS \u00a0 \u00a0We thank the 3,100 voters who sent in ballots for the (Gasp!) 24th Annual Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards. Their votes determined this year’s winners. Winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions when warranted, along with Special Recognitions are listed below….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1805","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1805"}],"version-history":[{"count":51,"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1805\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1949,"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1805\/revisions\/1949"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1805"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1805"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rondoaward.com\/rondoaward.com\/blog\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}