MONSTERPALOOZA: The Evolution of a Horror Spectacle
It’s almost summer time and many people have their heart set on the beach, getting a tan, no school, and just relaxing for the next few months. We as horror fans on the other hand know what June means more than anyone, its MONSTERPALOOZA season baby! That’s right, Monsterpalooza has turned into an annual event that gathers all who love horror and things spooky to come out of their crypts and coffins to Pasadena California for three days of spooky cool fun. This years event begins today June 2nd and runs through June 4th. Tickets are still on sale and we HIGHLY recommend you get them HERE.
Monsterpalooza, an annual event that was originally held in Burbank, has grown from humble origins as a mask convention into a celebrated gathering of horror enthusiasts and industry professionals. Over the years, it has evolved into a captivating experience that showcases the artistry and fandom surrounding the world of horror movies. This article explores the origins of Monsterpalooza, its transformation into an all-encompassing horror convention, and how its popularity gave rise to the spin-off event, Son of Monsterpalooza.
Origins as a Mask Convention:
Monsterpalooza first emerged on the scene in 2008 on the east coast as Maskapalooza and then moving to Burbank California in 2009. Created by Eliot Brodsky, a renowned collector of masks and special effects artist, the event initially focused primarily on the artistry and craftsmanship behind the creation of masks. It aimed to provide a platform for mask makers, collectors, and enthusiasts to gather, share their work, and immerse themselves in the world of movie monsters. We were fortunate enough to attend some of these earlier conventions and it was a completely different scene compared to what Monsterpalooza is now. Makeup effects are still highly featured in the con today but there were hardly any vendors outside of that realm and well today, there are tons of different horror goodies to get your ghost during the event.
Expanding into an All-Horror Convention:
As the years went by, Monsterpalooza expanded its scope beyond masks to encompass the broader horror genre. The convention began attracting a wider range of attendees, including fans of horror movies, makeup artists, prop makers, and industry professionals. The event featured special effects demonstrations, panels with renowned artists and actors, and an exhibition floor teeming with vendors selling horror memorabilia, collectibles, and artwork. More and more horror legends like Robert Englund, Bruce Campbell, and even Elvira, showed up to Monsterpalooza’s and greeted guests and signed autographs for the various horror hounds who attended. You could even spot TV, Film, and music stars walking around admiring the event like Robert Trujillo of Metallica and SLASH of Guns N Roses to name a few.
Celebrating the Horror Community:
Monsterpalooza became known not only for its impressive lineup of guests and vendors but also for fostering a sense of community among horror enthusiasts. Fans had the opportunity to meet their favorite horror icons, get autographs, and attend Q&A sessions. The event provided a space for like-minded individuals to connect, share their passion for horror, and celebrate the genre's rich history. With most expansion, things have to grow to fit demand and Monsterpalooza grew to become one of the best places to meet fellow horror fans and get the latest goodies from special effects teams such as KNB effects ran by Greg Nicotero, Howard Berger, and Robert Kurtzman. KNB EFX Group is a renowned makeup effects studio that has worked on numerous horror films, including classics like "Evil Dead II" and "Night of the Living Dead." Known for their exceptional creature designs and realistic prosthetics, KNB EFX Group often presents demonstrations and workshops at Monsterpalooza, offering attendees a glimpse into their creative process.
The Birth of Son of Monsterpalooza:
Given the overwhelming success of Monsterpalooza, Eliot Brodsky launched a spin-off event in 2012 called Son of Monsterpalooza. This event, held annually in Burbank as well, aimed to capture the same spirit and excitement of its predecessor while offering a unique experience. Son of Monsterpalooza focused more on the current state of the horror industry, featuring new releases, previews, and exclusive merchandise.
Popularity and Impact:
Monsterpalooza and Son of Monsterpalooza have both garnered a devoted following, attracting horror enthusiasts from around the world. These events have become essential destinations for fans, filmmakers, and artists to network, discover new talent, and showcase their work. Moreover, the conventions have influenced the genre itself, serving as a breeding ground for creative collaborations, ideas, and the exchange of knowledge between professionals and fans.
Monsterpalooza's journey from a mask convention to an all-encompassing horror event is a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural significance of the horror genre. These annual gatherings in Pasadena have created a haven for horror enthusiasts, bringing together fans, artists, and industry professionals to celebrate their shared love for all things macabre. As Monsterpalooza continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly maintain its legacy as a prominent destination for horror aficionados, inspiring future generations of filmmakers, artists, and fans.
We can’t wait to see all those smiling horror hounds this weekend when MONSTERPALOOZA takes over the Pasadena convention center once more for another year of frights, fun, and artwork.
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