Am I the only one waiting for PHANTASM V?

[Danzig Misfit]

Guys, one of the best in the fright factor area is the PHANTASM series, and as with the last two, OBLIVION was left wide open for a sequel. Does any body else other than me want to see Reggie and Michael take on the Tall Man one last time for the ultimate battle from hell? Does any body but me want to see if Michael survived after the ending of OBLIVION? What did Reggie actually do? I must say that it was nice to see the origin of the Tall Man and all, but what the hell happened at the end of PHANTASM:OBLIVION? I for one would really like to see this series come to an end, as Angus is getting too old to be playing in movies, and you can't really replace the Tall Man. As is, I heard that he was in not so good health, and that they were working on a new PHANTASM film, do any of you have any info?

[The Arrow]

I enjoyed the first two Phantasm but Part 3 sucked and 4 lacked action. I'd love to see a Part 5 but I hope they slap more action in there and stay away from too much camp/comedy. Angus Scrim is good for one more I hope it kicks ass! I dont get what happened at the end of Part 4 either...I guess 5 will clarify everything...

[!MorganOnyx!]

Just in case you were wondering PHANTASM V is officially going ahead!
I am a KICKASS fan of the whole series.They are all good in their own way!I agree that they are gonna have to hurry, Angus isn't getting any younger and it wouldn't be the same without him!I am counting every day until the fifth part is upon us.I can't wait!
It should be amazing considering Roger Averys' script appears to be wicked and the plot seems really good too! And it's good that they actually got the budget they needed as well (i hear it's around $3-5 mil)
cos although OBLIVION rocked you could see it wa severly lacking a decent budget! They should tie the whole series up, explain everything about the origins of the Tall Man and lay this magnificent series to rest!

[Prairiedogking]

I would love to see a 5th one. I wish they would release 2-4 on DVD like they did the first one. I heared something about the next one involving the milatary or something like that. I dunno, it's like a part of the world has a wall put around it, it's kinda like an ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK kinda thing and Michael and Reggie are in there trying to get out. I dunno, I head that a while back. Sounds weird. But would like to see another one anyway.

[Horror Hippie]

MorganOnyx, where'd you see that?

Like I mentioned in the "If I had 30 million dollar" question, Phantasm V would definitely be high on my "want to be made and see" list, if it'd done properly. Last I heard, OblIVion was the last, so Coscarelli could do.....uh, something? Well, if he's not doing anything, bring back the Tall Man (and the balls!)

[Danzig Misfit]

/ubb/frown.gif Guys, thank you for the info, as I too would love to see a new PHANTASM film, and according to the new FANGORIA special edition, it is going to happen . . . unfortunately, this will by all means be the last one because Michael Baldwin has colon cancer.
It is a sad moment for all horror fans worldwide. If any of you believe in God, please pray for him as it would really suck to see a horror legend in his own go out like that. As a bonus, all of the proceeds from renting Phantasm V: REVENGE, the proceeds go to cancer research, so please do rent the movie just for that very reason. /ubb/frown.gif

[!MorganOnyx!]

HORROR HIPPIE -
I'm not sure which one, but i spend a lot of time on PHANTASM sites trying to get more info on the new movie. If you get the right one there is quite a lot of useful stuff. Anyway, the official plot is something like this:
The states have been split up into two sections. There is LA on one side and NY on the other. They are the only two existing places that haven't been taken over by the Tall Man, who now runs his 'own world' in between. This 'world' contains all the people he has taken prisoner etc and has 'done his magic' to.There is some sort of virus that he gives people and if you get close to the 'victims' you can catch it and turn into a 'zombie' type thing just like them. I also hear that their heads can explode and let out all that yellow shit which can also infect you. Anyway, it's been a few years and Reggie is still wondering whether Mike is alive. He wants to go to save him - even the government know about the Tall Man but they can't stop him! I heard that Bruce Campbell is gonna be in it as well! ROGER AVARY (PULP FICTION) who wrote the script says it's like a cross between DAWN OF THE DEAD and ESCAPE FROM NY!

[Horror Hippie]

Thanks, MorganOnyx. Sounds good to me, not quite Phantasm-ish, but I'm always game for something different.

[Cyrus]

What to say? The original PHANTASM is in my Top Ten favorite horror films of all time. One of the most original ideas, and definitely a memorable villain in the Tall Man. Like HALLOWEEN or TCM, this little low budget wonder has stood the test of time and still holds up well 22 years after it's release.

As for the sequels? Well, PHANTASM II had it's moments, but it was very obvious that the Universal suits were watching the production very carefully (since they were footing the bill). The film plays more like a straightforward action/horror flick as opposed to the "rubber reality" scenario utilized in the first movie.

Also, James LeGros never once convinced me that he was Michael. Obviously this is an inherent problem whenever somebody else steps into the role of an established character (I'm dreading what's-her-name's turn as Clarice Starling in HANNIBAL). I'll never understand why Michael baldwin couldn't have been brought back for the role.

Overall, a better than average sequel, but still falling way short of the first.

I won't even discuss the wretched PHANTASM: LORD OF THE DEAD, except to offer it as a prime example of the fact that horror and comedy DO NOT MIX.

I bought OBLIVION on DVD, and words cannot describe how let down I was by this film. Supposedly dramatic moments come off as laughable, as do the supposedly scary or suspenseful scenes. There is no sense of pacing or atmosphere or character development...I could go on and on.

The PHANTASM series is one of the best demonstrations of why I limit my appreciation, by and large, to the original films. I have learned to detest these by-the-numbers, chuck-some-crap-and-see-if-it'll-stick sequels, and for that I am grateful.....

[This message has been edited by Cyrus (edited 02-04-2001).]

[!MorganOnyx!]

CYRUS -
Totally agree with you. PHANTASM still looks fresh after all these years. Will people still remember URBAN LEGEND, I KNOW etc in 20 years time? Probably not!
You are also right about PHANATSM 2 - this is my least favourite in the series because of James LeGros (he was good but you just knew it wasn't 'Mike')and the fact that UNIVERSAL - the studio putting up the money, called all the shots. They told DON COSCARELLI to deliberately leave out flashbacks, dream sequences etc and just play it straight so the movie would be more coherent for other movie goers! That sucked! The fact that you weren't sure what the fuck was going on/whether it was a dream or not made PHANTASM what it is! With a creative director such as Don, you need to just let him do his thing! I also heard that was one of the problems when he was doing THE BEASTMASTER. Apparently, the producer? was always trying to change scenes, disagreeing with Don etc he just wouldn't let him take control.
P.S. The reason why Mike A. Baldwin didn't reprise his role as Mike in PHANTASM 2 was that UNIVERSAL told Don he could either have Reggie Bannister or Mike (they wanted a 'proper' actor who had experience in the industry) - and seeing as though there weren't many middle aged balding guys with ponytails to replace Reggie, Don decided to run with a different actor for Mike. Don has gone on record to express his disappointment with this hard decision - he obviously wished he could've had both but he wasn't gonna argue cos UNIVERSAL would've just pulled the plug!

[JoBlo]

Reggie Bannister has just done an in-depth interview revealing the plot for the fifth PHANTASM movie here:
http://home.beseen.com/hobbies/jacktheripper88/reggie.html

[Skaboy18]

I think that Phantasm V would be a great idea, but there is only one thing I don't think will be good with the film. And that is the fact that Micheal is dead. He died in the end of Oblivion when The Tall Man took the orb out of his head. It just won't be right without him. Just like in Phantasm 2 when they got someone else to play Micheal. It just didn't feel right. I would without a doubt go see a new Phantasm, but I don't really feel it will live up to the rest of the series. Especially compared to Oblivion. The lack of action really helped that film. I loved the story.

[Danzig Misfit]

WOW, I really am not the only one who enjoys the Phantasm series, I appreciate the participation on this topic.
Skaboy . . . so you think that Michael is dead? All I can say is think again. How many horror movies have we seen characters die in and they weren't dead? We also never really were too sure that Mike was totally dead, in classic Phantasm fashion, they left it totally open to speculation at the end of the film. You tell me, do you think that they will really kill off one of the key reasons for the series?
Think about it. For the most up to date info on PHANTASM V, check out Jo Blo's link on his reply . . . it was insightful.

[Danzig Misfit]

Phantasm V, is it a boast or a joke? I got to talk to Angus, Reggie, and Michael about the new Phantasm at Golden Apple Comics this weekend, and I can say that it is not a joke. As a matter of fact, the only actor that was to be ther that wasn't was Bruce Campbell, as I am sure that he had a good reason not to show.
Just so you all know, yes Bruce is in the new PHANTASM film, as of yet untitled (Angus jokingly calls it the Mormon chronicles.). I must say that I was very impressed with the few scenes that I did get to see, as well as the fact that this one will see limited theatrical release. PHANTASM V is not finished yet, but it almost is, if you are a fan, check it out when it is, also, just for FYI, John "The Man" Carpenter helped with this one!!!

[!MorganOnyx!]

Just read the REGGIE interview. I'm quite pissed that he doesn't like Gangsta Rap! I could imagine him performing as a 10th member of the WU TANG CLAN anyday!!!

[Prairiedogking]

Bruce Campbell is gonna be in PHANTASM 5? Sweet! That's awsome! I can't wait for it. Question though....why did he call it the Mormon Chronicals? I don't get it.

[Danzig Misfit]

I don't know either . . . as far as I know, the Tall Man is taking over Mormon country as we speak. Wait for the film.

[zombiejason]

God,I feel like a f**kin idiot!I havent seen ANY of the Phantasms,and after reading all these posts,I really want to!

[Danzig Misfit]

zombie jason, please see at least the first Phantasm, you won't be dis satisfied, as it is a classic.

[A.J. Hakari]

"Phantasm" was a work of art, #2 was barely interesting (aside from the kick-arse four-barreled shotgun), and #4 just plain stunk; #5 had better be the last, and it had better be good!

[Danzig Misfit]

Guys, I know that the PHANTASM films have lost that spark since the first, but hey, this one looks like it's gonna' be a party all in it's own.
I just want to see how Bruce "Hail To The King, Baby" Campbell sorts into all of this.I think that this one will be a great movie, especially compared to the other ones.

[pizowell]

I liked the first two Phantasms, but the third and fourth weren't good. Especially Oblivion, it was sucktastic. Part 5 should be the finale to the series. Put the tall man to rest.

[Cyclonus]

I am ashamed of myself.

I have not seen any of the Phantasm films. /ubb/frown.gif

I will check them out. All in good time...

[DEEM]

Danzig wrote: "...unfortunately, this will by all means be the last one because Michael Baldwin has colon cancer..."

Michael was kind enough to email me a speedy response today to refute this ludicrous rumor: "So happy to tell you that I do not have cancer of any kind!"


[This message has been edited by DEEM (edited 06-23-2001).]

[!MorganOnyx!]

HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!
DEEM - If you're lying, i HATE YOU, cos i'm so glad that ANGUS is in good health and MIKE has NOT got cancer!! That's brilliant news! I'd hate it if anything happened to them. You seem to know what you are talking about so I BELIEVE YOU!

I AM THE BIGGEST PHAN OF THE PHANTASM MOVIES IN THE WORLD!

I have some questions for you:

1. HOW DID DON GET THE CASH FOR THE ORIGINAL? I, TOO, AM LOOKING TO MAKE A MOVIE WITH A SIMILAR BUDGET ($300,000 is that right?) AND I KONW HE WAS REALLY YOUNG WHEN HE MADE IT.

2. IS IT 100% TRUE THAT JAMES LE GROS WAS MIKE IN THE SEQUAL COS UNIVERSAL SAID TO DON THAT THE 'LEAD' NEEDS TO BE PLAYED BY AN EXPERIENCED ACTOR, SO THEY GAVE HIM THE ULTIMATUM OF REGGIE OR MIKE?!

Thanx - i'll be back with more.

[DEEM]

To answer your questions:

1. Don's father Dac Coscarelli was executive producer on Don's earliest films (Jim, the World's Greatest, Kenny & Company and Phantasm) and helped Don obtain the financing for these. I don't know what to advise in your case, except if the film is good enough, I know there's a thing called "Product Placement" in which a company will contribute a sum of money towards a film if their product is visibly displayed in the film. Come to think of it, they even did this with the first Phantasm: notice all the Dos Equis beer bottles? The crew had cases and cases of them around!

2. It's 100% true that Universal gave Don the ultimatum about both Mike and Reggie--choose one, not both. I know because I was working for a month at the casting director's office, and saw all the actors auditioning for both Mike and Reggie. It made me really angry deep down to know Universal was putting Don's back to the wall like this. Replacing the character of Mike was more logical in that, now, he was an adult and could be played by another actor. And James LeGros did a wonderful job in the role. But I still wish Michael had been in the film instead--he even flew out to audition for the part--his OWN part--and gave it his all. But the suits didn't care. I still feel bad to this day about it. But it was great to work with Michael on 3 and 4, seeing him reprise his role. He gives Pearson a pathos, an edge, that only Baldwin can do so well!

[This message has been edited by DEEM (edited 04-23-2001).]

[septithol]

I think that stinks that Michael Baldwin didn't get his own part, even when he auditioned for it. That must have been really depressing for him. Although James Le Gros was pretty good, I think Mike would have been even better. I didn't know they were trying to replace Reggie as well, I thought they were only going to replace one of them, but not both. Jeez! I'm surprised they didn't try to replace the Tall Man while they were at it! What a bunch of ding dongs!

I don't know how beginners get started in movies, I guess you have to have a lot of money. It's too bad there isn't some sort of program where if someone has a good idea for a movie they can work with an established director or someone who does have the money, and split the profits 50-50.

[!MorganOnyx!]

DEEM -

Sorry i've been absent for a while. Anyway, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THAT INFO. It's a BIG HELP! I want to know everything possible about these movies, especially the original which is the most original, captivating, surreal pieces of movie making EVER! Anyway, if you don't mind, i have some more questions if you can help:

1. WHAT HAPPENED TO THE LADY IN LAVENDER? SHE WAS REALLY EERIE. AS I RECALL, I DIDN'T SEE HER IN THE SEQUALS.

2. WHY DID DON DECIDE ON HAVING ROCKY LEAVING RIGHT AT THE END OF LORD OF THE DEAD? WAS IT BECAUSE SHE WOULDN'T BE THERE TO BACK REGGIE UP WHEN HE WENT BACK INSIDE THE MASOLEUM? (therefore, mkaing it scarier for the viewer realising Reg had no help) OR JUST BECAUSE HE COULDN'T SEE HER CHARACTER IN THE 4TH FILM? I THOUGHT ROCKY WAS A COOL CHARACTER. IF THEY MAKE A FIFTH, THEY SHOULD BRING HER BACK!

3. HOW DID DON COME ABOUT GETTING MYROW/SEAGRAVE TO MAKE THE MOST INSPIRING PIECE OF THEME MUSIC IN THE MOVIE WORLD? (even better than CARPENTERS' HALLOWEEN score)DID HE KNOW THEM OR JUST HIRED THEM OR WHAT? THEY ARE TALENTED DUDES.

4. EXACTLY WHEN DID PRODUCTION OF THE ORIGINAL START? AND HOW LONG DID IT TAKE? I HEARD THE PROJECT LASTED ABOUT 2 YEARS AND SHOOTING STARTED IN 1977, BUT THE FILM CAME OUT IN 1979! I ALSO HEARD THAT DON HAD ABOUT 3 HOURS WORTH OF MATERIAL, BUT OBVIOUSLY HAD TO CUT A LOT OUT (including an ice cream fight scene between Reg, Mike and Jody)

5. I HAVE TRIED EVERYWHERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH MONEY THE ORIGINAL MADE. WAS IT A LIMITED THEATRICAL RELEASE? I ALSO WATCHED IT ON TV ABOUT 4 YEARS AGO AND THEY HAD A BLOKE INTRODUCING IT SAYING IT WAS CLASSED AS ONE OF THE WORST FILMS OF 1979! WAS IT REALLY GREETED WITH POOR REVIEWS? I WOULD'VE IMAGINED THAT IT BE HAILED AS A GOOD FILM COS NOTHING LIKE THAT HAD EVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE.

I DON'T KNOW ANY OF THIS BECAUSE I WAS BORN IN 1981 SO I OBVIOUSLY WON'T REMEMBER IT BEING RELEASED!

ANY HELP WILL BE MUCH APPRECIATED. THANK YOU.

[Elgyn]

I`m very happy to hear that Michael Baldwin doesn`t really have cancer. Death to stupid rumors!

[DEEM]

Dear Morgan,

Glad to be of help. Okay, more answers...

1. WHAT HAPPENED TO THE LADY IN LAVENDER? SHE WAS REALLY EERIE. AS I RECALL, I DIDN'T SEE HER IN THE SEQUALS.

Kathy Lester, or "Kat" Lester as she prefers to be called, got married, had a family. However, she is very passionate about songwriting and even performs a few times a year here in Hollywood at local places (she's always kind enough to send me invites). She's still as seductively beautiful now--perhaps even more so in a mature, elegant way--than when she did "Phantasm" (she once told me she was 19 when she filmed this). She has a CD out, though not sold in stores. She also had a cameo role at the beginning of "Phantasm III." Note the scene at Mike's hospital bed where a blond nurse and tall doctor (Angus Scrimm in his normal appearance)are leaning over an unconscious Mike, examining him for a split second! Finally, Kat and several of the other "Phantasm" actresses got together for a photo shoot for FEMME FATALES a few years back and FANGORIA also published a photo I'd taken of Kat. /ubb/smile.gif

2. WHY DID DON DECIDE ON HAVING ROCKY LEAVING RIGHT AT THE END OF LORD OF THE DEAD? WAS IT BECAUSE SHE WOULDN'T BE THERE TO BACK REGGIE UP WHEN HE WENT BACK INSIDE THE MASOLEUM?

Rocky has become very popular, and a lot of fans ask about the fates of both Rocky and Tim. Rocky actually is one of the few characters ever to get out alive if you think about it! lollol I think Don wanted a comic ending ("Ever tried vanilla?") and to fool the audience into thinking everything was fine because a character was able to leave, unharmed. "Proof" that the Tall Man was vanquished... By the time we started P4, it was apparent the story should focus on Michael--as the original "Phantasm" had been mostly about Mike. There has always been a theory (one of many) that everything was "all in Mike's head," with the Tall Man and Mike's memories all an elaborate dream as Mike lays dying... (The Tall Man representing the Grim Reaper come to take Mike's soul--the sphere in his head.) Introducing Rocky and Tim seemed more complicated and unnecessary in this regard. At this point, Rocky won't be in P5.

3. HOW DID DON COME ABOUT GETTING MYROW/SEAGRAVE TO MAKE THE MOST INSPIRING PIECE OF THEME MUSIC IN THE MOVIE WORLD? (even better than CARPENTERS' HALLOWEEN score)DID HE KNOW THEM OR JUST HIRED THEM OR WHAT? THEY ARE TALENTED DUDES.

Alas, I don't know much about Seagrave, except that he was well respected in the world of classical music (as a conductor and composer). He and Myrow were both college friends during their days at USC.

Fred Myrow has long had an association with Don. Myrow worked on the scores of Don's first two films "Kenny & Company" and "Jim, the World's Greatest." I honestly don't know how Don first met up with Fred Myrow, but I agree with you that "Phantasm's" score is haunting, beautiful and quite remarkably brilliant! I had the honor of meeting Fred during post production on P2 and P3. One of Fred's most notable scores aside from "Phantasm" is "Soylent Green." Sadly, Myrow passed away in 1999. http://www.phantasm.com/hpages/Fredobit.html

4. EXACTLY WHEN DID PRODUCTION OF THE ORIGINAL START? AND HOW LONG DID IT TAKE? I HEARD THE PROJECT LASTED ABOUT 2 YEARS AND SHOOTING STARTED IN 1977, BUT THE FILM CAME OUT IN 1979! I ALSO HEARD THAT DON HAD ABOUT 3 HOURS WORTH OF MATERIAL, BUT OBVIOUSLY HAD TO CUT A LOT OUT (including an ice cream fight scene between Reg, Mike and Jody)

Yes, the original began filming very early in 1977. For the most part, it was finished in 1978. Don spent the latter part of 1978 and early 1979 reediting the film based on audience feedback at test screenings (the very first test screening, I'm told, was on the lot of 20th Century Fox). "Phantasm" opened in March 1979 in Los Angeles theatres, then made its way gradually east across the U.S. (It opened in N.J./New York on June 1st.)

You are correct. A lot of footage was filmed then edited. Most of it can now be seen in "Phantasm Oblivion." Other scenes (such as the ice cream fight), are included in a special edition release of PHANTASM on DVD (originally on laserdisc). Another cool edited scene, involving zapping the Tall Man with a fire extinguisher as he threatens Jody ("You think that when you die, you go to Heaven...") is available on a special videotape release of PHANTASM.

5. I HAVE TRIED EVERYWHERE TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH MONEY THE ORIGINAL MADE. WAS IT A LIMITED THEATRICAL RELEASE? I ALSO WATCHED IT ON TV ABOUT 4 YEARS AGO AND THEY HAD A BLOKE INTRODUCING IT SAYING IT WAS CLASSED AS ONE OF THE WORST FILMS OF 1979! WAS IT REALLY GREETED WITH POOR REVIEWS? I WOULD'VE IMAGINED THAT IT BE HAILED AS A GOOD FILM COS NOTHING LIKE THAT HAD EVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE.

I don't know how much PHANTASM has made over the years, but I'm sure, with overseas releases, VHS & DVD sales, etc. it's done pretty well...

I do remember all the godawful reviews I read in the newspapers and magazines about PHANTASM in 1979. It really was upsetting for me because I was so entranced by the film. But it seemed like I was its only fan in the world, and the only one with an appreciation for it (Angus tells me I was the first female fan to ever write him, in fact). Even movie review books, for years, trashed PHANTASM. No one could even get Angus' name correct: It was always Grimm, or Angus Duncan, Agnes, you name it! It has only been in the past 10 years that I've seen a sudden reversal in attitudes, and critics, viewers, fans, etc. now hail it as a cult classic. I think what's really happening is that the kids my age that saw and adored the film back in 1979 (but were unable to voice THEIR support at so young an age) are finally grown up and able to voice THEIR opinions of the film--they are now the filmmakers, film critics, magazine editors, etc. of the biz. I'm very glad that Don and cast never stopped loving this film and pushing for a sequel. It took a lot of courage to launch "Phantasm II" in 1987, not knowing if we would succeed or totally fail, considering the mixed fate of "Phantasm."

By the way, 1981 (your year of birth) was a very good year for me. I had lunch with Angus for the first time in July 1981, and it changed my life. /ubb/smile.gif

[Elgyn]

DEEM -- what about the cut footage from the original with Jody visiting his girlfriend and the bank his father owned. Were those scenes actually shot, or were they just part of the screenplay? And if they were shot, will we ever see them? Also, is there any way to obtain a copy of "Kenny & Company"?

[DEEM]

The scene with Jody (dressed in suit) fooling around in the Bank Manager office with his girlfriend--joking about "making a deposit"--is also on the Special Edition DVD of "Phantasm" (I think). It was definitely on the Image Laserdisc collectors edition of "Phantasm."

I don't know that all the stuff with Jody at the bank (pretending to rob the bank) or with Mike's aunt was filmed. At least, I've seen a little more footage than has been released, but not those scenes... I think early on Don realized that a lot of the filler scenes establishing the normal everyday life of Mike and Jody were just that... filler. These scenes were distracting, taking up too much time, when in fact the movie really gets going with the Tall Man/mortuary plot... I don't think that everything in Kate's novelization was actually filmed.

[DEEM]

P.S. "Kenny & Company" has not been commercially released on VHS, alas. Fox has no plans to do so, either, as far as I know. I have, however, seen pirate copies being auctioned on eBay.

[Skaboy18]

DEEM-You are the man...damn, wish I knew the phantasm cast...

[septithol]

<You the Man, Deem.>?
Kristen, you been holding out on me? I didn't figure you for the trans-gender type :-O
Ann

[Elgyn]

Thanks for the info DEEM. You`re right, the part with Jody messin` around with his girlfriend in the office is on the DVD, but only that one little part.

[!MorganOnyx!]

DEEM -

You are OFFICIALLY the COOLEST person i've met on the net ever! How one person can tell me so much of the information i've wanted to know for ages is amazing. And the fact that you are female! Wow! I wish my girlfriend showed as much interest in PHANTASM as you do (i know you work with the cast, but still - i don't show an interest in my job!lol). Thank you so much for the info! I'm starting to feel like i know almost everything about this excellent saga. I pray to god everyday that a fifth movie is made!

Oh, yeah another thing i wanted to say is that UNIVERSAL are stupid! Because they were putting up the money for the sequal they called the shots! Is it true that they told Don to shoot the flick like a straight horror, and have no flashbacks, dream sequences etc to make it more coherent, therefore attracting horror lovers who haven't seen the original, but can still enjoy it?!! It looks that way! Is that why JODY wasn't in it?! Cos the audience wouldn't understand?! Cos even though i love the sequal, it is my least favourite of the four because of that reason. The PHANTASM films are so original, and i think what made them work so well, especially in the original was because of the strange occurances, extaordinary circumstances and general downright weirdness! The fact that you are watching it wondering whether it's all really happening or whether it really is a dream! And after the ending of the first, you still think "Wow! Was it all a dream, and that part was real, or the other way around?!" Just for the record the ending to PHANTASM is the BEST ENDING in movie history, even better than the ending to HALLOWEEN.

P.S. - You said about that meal you had with ANGUS in JULY the year i was born (1981). I was born in JULY! Strange or what?!

P.P.S. - Tell BILL and REGGIE that 'SITTIN' HERE AT MIDNIGHT' sounds like a great song. They should record a full version and release it (i know REG and his group release albums but they haven't released this, have they?!)

P.P.P.S. - Tell DON that his use of the unused scenes from the original made OBLIVION mind blowing! It was so great seeing all these scenes that i'd never seen before! It really made me believe the whole saga had been planned over the years, and the unused scenes from the original were more like scenes that were shot with the intention of being shown 20 years later! The ending is a really nice touch, with REG and MIKE in the truck and MIKE can hear that whispering! Genius!

Later.X

[Elgyn]

Yeah, the ending in "Oblivion" was really cool, where Mike hears something and Reg says "It`s just the wind..."...and then it just fades out with the ice-cream truck driving into the night. It was really spooky, and reminded me of the mood from the original "Phantasm". Too bad the rest of "Oblivion" was pretty sub-par, IMO.

[DEEM]

1. <<Is it true that they told Don to shoot the flick like straight horror, and have no flashbacks, dream sequences etc. to make it more coherent, therefore attracting horror lovers who haven't seen the original, but can still enjoy it?!!>>

Yes, Universal stepped in and gave us our new "orders" well into filming. We had shot most of the film already with some flashback and telekinetic dream sequences between Liz and Mike. The character of Kemy was originally much spookier because she was supposed to be like the Lady in Lavender, not so... real/human. Audiences were supposed to have this underlying sense that Kemy might be the Tall Man. Universal stepped in, told us to cut almost all of the dreams, etc. It was very frustrating for Don and the fans (including me) on the crew. PHANTASM means a dream according to the dictionary, but we're supposed to keep the movie REALITY? Come on! Why not change the title then too? But we had no choice. Don had to edit the film to Universal's specifications. He was not a happy man.

2. <<Is that why JODY wasn't in it?!>>

I don't recall Jody being in the first draft (or any later drafts) of the P2 script. It was sadder, but more appropriate, that Mike's brother was dead. It helped establish the necessary bond between Reg and Mike--both survivors who had lost all their families. (It also helped in later sequels, because when Jody DID return as a ghostly guardian, he was very creepy, his loyalties were always uncertain, and it became clear in P4 that he was either a puppet of the Tall Man OR another Tall Man in disguise.)


[This message has been edited by DEEM (edited 06-23-2001).]

[Wwl66]

I think a cool idea would be for Bruce Campbell to play his character Ash from THE EVIL DEAD in this movie.It would be a way cool cross-over since he and Reggie both fight zombies,even though Ashes are a little more hardcore.But that would be tight because it would be a sequel for both sides and they could sit around and make fun of each others one-liners

[DEEM]

Actually, the character Bruce would play in P5 is a bit like Ash, though tougher. And he does team up with Reggie. You can bet there would be humor.

[This message has been edited by DEEM (edited 04-26-2001).]

[This message has been edited by DEEM (edited 04-26-2001).]

[S. PLISSKEN]

Please tell me I am not dreaming. Bruce and Reggie in the movie together! I can't wait! I hope this is not a set up for a let down. Right now I can't help but thinking this will be the best sequel. It could almost be more of a comedy/horror than the others from the sound of it. I know it is a matter of preference but, there is no way in hell the ending from Phantasm is better than the ending for Halloween. DEEM your are THE SHIT!!!

[septithol]

Hi Kristen! I think it is really stupid that Universal told Don to do this and not do that when he was making Phantasm 2. Why did they think that they knew better than him how the movie was made just because they were funding it? That's really dumb. That's like if I paid a plumber to come to my house and fix the toilet, but then told him I didn't want him using a roto-rooter or unscrewing the pipes. If I'm going to hire a plumber in the first place, it's because I assume he must know better than I do how to fix the toilet! If I thought I knew best how to fix the toilet, I'd do it myself and save the money. So if Universal feels that Don knows enough about how to make Phantasm that they are willing to fund him to do it, then they shouldn't interfere with his creative ideas.

[septithol]

Hi Kristen! I think it is really stupid that Universal told Don to do this and not do that when he was making Phantasm 2. Why did they think that they knew better than him how the movie was made just because they were funding it? That's really dumb. That's like if I paid a plumber to come to my house and fix the toilet, but then told him I didn't want him using a roto-rooter or unscrewing the pipes. If I'm going to hire a plumber in the first place, it's because I assume he must know better than I do how to fix the toilet! If I thought I knew best how to fix the toilet, I'd do it myself and save the money. So if Universal feels that Don knows enough about how to make Phantasm that they are willing to fund him to do it, then they shouldn't interfere with his creative ideas.

[septithol]

S. Plisskin: <DEEM your are THE SHIT!!!> That is a a very rude remark!! And the Phantasm series are a much better movies than the Halloween series. I really despise movies like Halloween where the villian is supposedly a normal human being (physically, besides being a psychopath) yet survives injuries that would kill five regular people. And the victims in these movies all act like morons, and never try to get a decent weapon like Reggies very cool 4-barreled shotgun to fight with, or even a regular gun much less make sure that Michael Myers is really dead.

[S. PLISSKEN]

septithol, maybe you don't realize this, but being "the shit" is a good thing. Kind of like saying, "you are the man", "you kick ass", "you rule", "you are fresh". I was not being rude to any one. If you read my post, I state the word "preference". This means I, (let me repeat, I), like the ending of Halloween better than Phantasm. I don't know what the hell your point was about the guns. To say a movie is better because someone uses a 4 barrel shotgun is poor. I like Phantasm a lot. I just don't think you will find too many people who think it is a better film than Halloween. Halloween will always have element that, this could really happen. That is what makes it so scary still today. JC shoots it with such style as well. The Shape's mask appearing in the dark and the chase scene, just to name a few.

[!MorganOnyx!]

DEEM -

Thanks again for some more wicked info on this cult classic. You are SO right! I always thought that the ending to NOES was a major rip off from PHANTASM. I bet you WES CRAVEN sat down to watch it one night and thought "Yes. That's a good ending! I'll steal it, and use the idea i got from reading the article in the paper about the kid who died from dreaming, and become a very rich man!" DON deserves to be 10 times as rich as CRAVEN. I would love to meet the whole PHANTASM crew! I'm sure you are all such nice, down to earth people without the big egos like the losers of Hollywood, TOM "I'm so brilliant and rich and famous you peasants can't look me in the eye!" CRUISE! Dickheads like him piss me off. The real talent always goes unnoticed. PHANTASM should've made $200 million at the box office and should be remembered as the most original movie of all time! While the suits are wasting millions making stupid stunts with CRUISE on a motorbike, DON and the rest of you guys could be making the 5th PHANTASM movie i would kill to see, on a tenth of the budget of one bloody stunt! I know that y'all have had many problems over the years when it comes to the budget. It's not like you're asking for $100 mil. Why can't these producers give the people what they want, and give you guys a modest sum (that's all you're asking for) so y'all can make a great movie?! I guess some things never change! Anyway, speak to you soon. X

[septithol]

S. Plissken: Well, if it's a good thing, then that's alright. But I still think the Phantasm movies are much better than the Halloween movies. The characters in Phantasm at least act like they have a brain in their heads. The characters in Halloween all act like idiots. You say that Halloween could really happen, but my own solution, the third time Michael Myers came after me after I thought he was dead, would involve:

1. Moving at least 1000 miles away from Michael Myers last know location.

2.Keeping a fully loaded revolver on my person at all times. As well as several speed loaders. I will also practice until I can hit an object the size of a man from at least ten feet away.

3. Getting really good burglar alarms, motion activated lighting, and an emergency generator for my house.

4. Should I be so unfortunate as to encounter Michael Myers a 4th time, I will not assume he is dead simply because he is laying on the ground and not moving. I will shoot him in the head several times until at least 90 percent of his head is gone before I feel justified in making such an assumption.

5. At no time, regardless of how tempting it may be will I hide from Michael Myers in a room with only one way in or out.

6. Likewise, I will not attempt to fight Michael Myers with a knife, crowbar or other object which in order to use means getting close enough to him to let him stab me with his knife.

7. I will purchase several BAY-GEN flashlights and keep them in various places throughout my house, car, and place of employment. Thus, should both the electricity and my emergency generator fail, I will still have a source of light.

8. I will tell Donald Pleasance to take a hike. I will then spend my time hanging out with more competent individuals, such as the local chapter of Hell's Angels.

[septithol]

MorganOnyx: LOL, we have something in common, my last name is Morgan :-D You are right about the Phantasm cast all being nice people. I met them when I went to Phantasm-mania last year, and got to go on a Bat-seeing cruise with Reggie! :-D He is a very nice man, and fun to be with. Don Coscarelli was going to go too, but he missed the boat! Kristen Deem (who was the one who got Reggie to go on the boat ride with me) pointed him out on the shore, where he went to watch the boat, and see the bats come out. I'm just glad the bats decided to come out, otherwise I woulld have been embarrassed, it was still early in the season for them. At least that is what the boat guys said, I live way up in Wisconsin and am not familiar with the wildlife of Texas. Angus was there too, although he did not want to go on the boat ride. I talked to him at Phantasmania though. He sounds like Jebediah when he talks, not the Tall Man, and also has a slight English accent.
Anyway, I don't know how Tom Cruise acts, having never met him. I'm not a fan of most of his movies, anyways. Did you ever go to see him and he treated you poorly?

[S. PLISSKEN]

Septithol, I think I should have clarified. When I said that Halloween could actually happen I was referring to the basic premise of the movie. I am quite sure most of us would run out of the house the first time Laurie stabbed Michael in the neck and sent him to the ground. That wouldn't make it a movie though. So yes, I agree, the last 15-20 minutes of the movie probably are not realistic. However, it is very hard to compare what the characters do in each movie. Halloween is a different style of horror. It may even be more of a suspense/thriller. Phantasm is more of a sci-fi/horror film. So one set of characters would behave in a different manner than the other. I personally am not so sure I would go after the Tall Man either. Wouldn't running after him constitute stupidity as well? I should also clarify that I was referring to just the original movies, not the series. I think I misunderstood your original post. I do think it is cool to find out that we are from the same state though.

[!MorganOnyx!]

SEPTITHOL -

Ha! Yeah that is cool about our names! I would love to be in a position where i could meet the PHANTASM crew! Man, that is such a dream, being able to ask them everything i've ever wanted! I live in the UK - and it blows. I'm coming out to the west coast in August, but i wouldn't have a clue where to start looking for any famous peeps, let alone the PHANTASM crew! No, i haven't met CRUISE, i just presume he's a dickhead! But loads of crew members he's worked with in the past have spoke up and said so, and the whole 'don't look in his eyes' thing is supposed to be true as well. What a fucking ego! And he can't even act that well either.

[septithol]

S. Plissken. You're from Wisconsin? Cool. What part of the state do you live in? I live about 30 miles west of Milwaukee.

[septithol]

MorganOnyx: :-P I tried not to talk too much when I was on the cruise with Reggie. I was afraid I would say something dumb. He was good at making me feel comfortable around him, and I did talk a little bit, though. I don't know what's up with the rule you told me about that Tom Cruise has that he doesn't want the crew workers on his movies to look at him. A lot of them are there because they like him, and making a snotty rule like that is just going to create hard feelings. And it's probably going to hurt him in the long run, because in 5 or 10 years down the road, at least a few of the lowly crew people are going to have more important positions, and Tom Cruise might want something from them, which he won't get, because they will remember how he treated them before.

Anyway, if Tom Cruise does not like people looking at him, he is definitely in the wrong line of work and may wish to consider changing his career to a light house keeper or forest ranger.

[S. PLISSKEN]

Septithol, I live in Madison. You in the Johnson Creek area? That's about 30 miles west of Milwaukee, isn't it?

[!MorganOnyx!]

SEPTITHOL -

They are only rumours about CRUISE. It's not that i don't like him, it's just that i could imagine him off screen thinking he's the shit, which he ain't. So what if he's rich, people shouldn't have to kiss his ass.

Anyway, i'd probably be tongue tied if i met REG as well, or any of the other PHANTASM stars. I've never met anybody i consider to be really famous (i consider the PHANTASM crew to be really famous cos they are to me what NSYNC are to teenage girls!)

[Cyclonus]

Hey guys, I go to college in Milwaukee!

[septithol]

S. Plissken: You got me placed about 10 miles too far west. I live in OcOnOmOwOc, bOOOOOy!!

[MICHAELvoorhees]

helping this topic to be seen by newer peeps

[raphroehler]

A Phantasm 5 sounds pretty cool. Especially if they actually END it this time, and I really, really hope that Bruce Campbell will actually appear in the film. If this happens, this will difinately be the best Phantasm yet!

[spacemonkey]

I just made a complete fool of myself posting some "new information" on Phantasms ENd in General Horror...I blabbed all about Bruce campbell being in the film and the baggers and the apocaliptic future and yada yada yada..and here you people had been talking about it like forever..I feel like a complete ass... http://www.joblo.com/ubb/frown.gif but yeah cant wait for this to happen; im a die hard fan of this series..love it to death. And cant wait for this film to come out, anyone know if its true that will wheaton and alice cooper are gonna appear in it?

[HalloweenShape31]

I saw this film for the first time a few months ago and it instantly became my second favorite horror film of all time right next to my lifetime-favorite: Halloween. I now own all of the films. The Special Edition DVD of the first is one of my most treasured possessions! I hope Don does the same for the sequels! Love that Fangoria commercial with Angus! I want a commentary track to Oblivion so he can talk about the deleted scenes from the first film in it.

*** MINOR SPOILERS I THINK> JUST BEING SAFE***

My theory of when the Tall Man abducted Jody was, that they had just arrived from the mineshaft, and Jody finds the Tall Man in the bedroom. Then we cut to Mike in his bedroom where he finds the Tall Man in his room, and the All a Dream ending doesnt happen.

After seeing Part 2, I was so going nuts to see the third film, that i bought a VHS on eBay for 25 bucks!!! That's a hell of a lot for a VHS nowadays. Yes it is the worst of the series, but it does feature much important stuff with Mike and the Tall Man.

And Oblivion, I LOVED! I loved seeing the deleted scenes and the story I really enjoyed too. The only complaint that I have in this series other than the Reggie plot of Part 3 is:

SPOILER

The death of Liz! After seeing that film, I am so in love with Liz and was so pissed when she died pointlessly in Part 3! I want her back somehow. Wouldn't the Tall Man want her for the same thing he wants Mike? Maybe i'll write her return!

On eBay I have purchased myself a model of the awesome flying spheres, a Phantasm 2 1 sheet movie poster i couldn't believe I found, and an awesome Phantasm desk clock! I also just sent away for the Phantasm Limited Edition Soundtrack. I love its soundtrack just as much as Halloween's.

I LOVE THIS SERIES!!!! AND I WANT PHANTASM V!!!!

I think maybe comics could be a good way to continue the saga after the films, being that the actors (angus especially) can't go on forever. Does anyone know the format for writing comics? Don't you write it similar to a screenplay?

I would rather Phantasm V be a sequel to Oblivion, and answer the questions I have there, before skipping ahead to Phantasm's End! I would name it: Phantasm: ForeVer! (Yes I know the original title for Oblivion was 4-Ever.)

BRING ON PHANTASM V! I LOVE THIS SERIES SO MUCH THAT IT WOULD TAKE ALOT TO MAKE ME COMPLETELY HATE A SEQUEL!

"BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOY!!!!!!"

TALL MAN! TALL MAN! TALL MAN! TALL MAN!

Oh! And where the hell is a Tall Man Movie Maniac Action Figure!!!!???? I WANT ONE! And an 18" one that says: "BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOY!!"

[Elgyn]

HalloweenShape - welcome to the world of "Phantasm"! Glad you liked it, it`s my favorite horror film too. And yes, the music is awesome.

[HalloweenShape31]

For the guys asking about the deleted scenes on the Special Edition DVD, these are the following it includes:

1. Mike returning home from the cemetary after Tommy's funeral, telling Jody about what he saw. Him and Jody then get drunk on Mexican beer and go to Reggie's ice cream shop where they engage in the ice cream fight.

2. Jody visits his girlfriend at the bank before Tommy's funeral.

3. Mike thinks he's found Reggie in a locked casket. Mike tries hard to open it. When it gets it unlocked, Reggie walks in. They quickly close the casket.

4. I'm guessing an alternate ending of Mike and Jody destroying the Tall Man.

5. Mike and Jody in Mike's room talking about how they destroyed the Tall Man in the previous scene.

6. A shot of the Tall Man smiling at Mike after he flips the bike over.

As for a fully recorded version of "Sittin' Here at Midnight," a fully recorded version of the song by Bill Thornbury is on the DVD.

As for the deleted scene at the end of Oblivion, with Mike and Reggie in the ice cream truck, Don mentions on the commentary during the shot of Reggie driving Mike to Jody's girlfriend's house, that the scene was much more developed in the script, but was cut down because the film was running long.

SPOILER

Kristen, could u please tell me why Don killed off Liz? I loved her and her character, why was she just quickly disposed of in the third film?

[Elgyn]

I have a feeling Liz was abandoned simply because either the actress wouldn`t return, or (most likely) Don just got bored with her character. He did the same thing with the kid and the dyke in "Oblivion" (thankfully).

[HalloweenShape31]

So Kristen, y exactly did Don quickly dispose the character of Liz? The character had much more potential and story to explore than Rocky and Tim did. What exactly was the reason?

[spacemonkey]

I dont know if you guys have seen this but check it out its how reggies supposed to look in phantasm V, chech out his funky monkey! http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif
http://www.angelfire.com/goth/phantasmsend/reggie2012.jpg

[This message has been edited by spacemonkey (edited 04-25-2002).]

[bulletproof]

No. Your not the only one who wants to see a good concluding chapter to my second favorite horror series.
I didn't care for the last one too much at all.Maybe if Don C goes to Deimension ,they will give him 12 million for #5

[XCoRyX]

bullettproof,any smart company wouldnt hand out 12 million dollars to phantasm.I mean if i had a company i might,just for the love i have of horror movies,but look at phantasm 3 and 4....both horrible movies.Most will imagine it will only get worse.

[Elgyn]

<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by bulletproof:

Maybe if Don C goes to Deimension ,they will give him 12 million for #5
</font>

Dimension? WHY?? They`d just screw with it and re-edit it a million times till it was a jumbled mess!


Also I hate to say it, but Cory`s right. I don`t think any of the big studios would risk working with Coscarelli!!
Maybe if "Bubba Ho-Tep" is a modest hit, Don might get somewhere with "Phantasm V".


[This message has been edited by Elgyn (edited 04-26-2002).]

[Sphinx]

Hi, Hallowe'en... Deem here. (Lost my password from my Deem signon.)

Amazing how some posts from a year ago are still alive and kicking! lollol A lot has happened in the past year--alas, not a sequel for P5. Yet.

I agree with your disappointed about Liz being killed off in the beginning of P3. I really liked Liz in P2--it was wonderful to see an intelligent, unstereotypical, compassionate female heroine. It didn't make sense to kill her off. And it was a great disappointment to Liz fans.

However, I think that, yes, there may have been a problem getting Paula back. She's done some soap operas, but mainly she's a mother now, with a family and private life. Did she decline? That I don't know. Somehow, I never felt quite right asking Don about this.

I liked Paula quite a bit--she had a warmth and genuine quality, a vulnerability that made her, and her character, quite appealing.

Then, from a story perspective, you need to realize that Phantasm was and always shall be Mike's story. Especially if it's "all in his head." We wanted to bring back Jody, as the original trio of Mike, Reg and Jody were what had made "Phantasm" work so well. Liz would have jumbled the works. The loss of Liz made Mike more willing to bond with his "returned" brother Jody. (Who is actually luring Mike to the Tall Man later in the series/P4.)

Also--and this is speculation--Universal was really pushing for a love story angle/romantic leads. That's why they brought in "hunk" James LeGros. I think Don wanted to return to the horror/angst element and to get away from the romance of P2. He also wanted freedom to experiment with new characters that might attract new audiences. Rocky to appeal to African-Americans. And Tim to win over younger audiences (note that he is similar to young Mike Pearson in P1).

[!MorganOnyx!]

I think DON made the right decision in scrapping LIZ. I just didn't like her or buy the whole romance thing between her and MIKE. It took the focus off MIKE on his own and the fact that the whole thing might be in his head etc. However, i really liked ROCKY. Not sure why, but her and REGGIE really clicked. I was disappointed to see her leave at the end of 3 but i trust DON knows what he's doing. He's a genius.

[HalloweenShape31]

Thanks alot Kristen for telling me! It makes a little more sense now why Liz was killed off. Thanks again. Really appreciate it!

[fastelk]

With the re=release of Phantasm OblIVion, we've had mucho interest of Phantasm V being in "pre=production" It is NOT. Do not believe all that you read on IMDB (http://www.imdb.com) No, Angus Scrimm is NOT in poor health. Yes, there are several scripts out there that Don would consider. There is no funding - the release back in 2002 from a "prominent" distributor was a BS stunt that we had nothing to do with. Bruce has nothing to do with P5 even if it did happen. :cool: Sorry to be an "arrowinthehead" but you folks know I'm a give-it-to-ya-straight kinda gal.... and... I should know.

[fastelk]

Also there's a behind the scenes you might enjoy:

Women of Phantasm: It's a Different Take (http://home1.gte.net/pmi/phantasm/phan1.htm):cool:

[g1ng3rsnap9ed]

I love the Phantasm movies and would love a p5! It's my number one anticipated film as of last week!!!

[Dream Slasher]

i'm a huge fan or phan (ok, thats super played out, lol) of the Phantasm series and would love a 5th. I don't know whats the current word on it but it don't look to good as of right now.

[MisterTwister]

I want a Phantasm V as much as anyone but we should all stop waiting. It's never going to happen.

[Dream Slasher]

ya, thats how i'm starting to feel. It's like we're setting ourselves up for disappointment.