Women in Horror: Featuring The Horror Honeys

As you may know, February is "Women in Horror" month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a "Woman in Horror." This time we have a group of the women who were kind enough to answer our questions, the fantastic Horror Honeys. Lets see what they said about being a “Woman in Horror”…

-When did you first become a horror fan?

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: Junior high

Horror TV Honey Lisa: I was around 12 when I saw A Nightmare On Elm Street 4 and there was no going back from there.

Supernatural Honey Suzanne: Elementary school. My babysitter introduced me to Stephen King.

Revenge Honey Linnie: When I was little, I would sit outside the door to my grandpa's TV room and secretly watch Stephen King movies along with him. So probably when I was 6 or 7.

Slasher Honey Chassity: Since 10. My uncle snuck me a copy of Scream, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

Head Honey Kat: I was a bit of a creepy kid, at 4 I was determined that I was going to marry Vincent Price.  

-Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: Happened naturally after I hooked up with my original sister in screams, Linnie, and her passion increased mine!  

Horror TV Honey Lisa: Completely happened by accident via a random Twitter interaction.

Supernatural Honey Suzanne: I always wanted to do something in the genre, but writing really happened through my twitter connections.

Revenge Honey Linnie: I'd been writing about darker things since I was in middle school, but I didn't have an outlet for it until I met Jocelyn, and then we eventually both became Horror Honeys! The environment encouraged me to pursue more work in the horror world

Slasher Honey Chassity: Happened naturally. I talk about horror all the time on social media. Then I met Lisa and she’s been hooking me up with amazing horror opportunities ever since.

Head Honey Kat: It kind of just... happened. I never really had a plan to be a horror writer/journalist/author/movie-obsessed weirdo, but itsbeen a wonderful rollercoaster ride.

- What does having a "Women in Horror" month mean to you?

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: Not sure yet, seems like a fairly new construct?

Supernatural Honey Suzanne: In theory, it’s great, but since women are really making huge headway in horror, it seems a bit… insulting.

Revenge Honey Linnie: I think Hannah Neurotica did a fabulous thing when she spearheaded the movement. But it's up to all of us to make sure people remember we're here all year. Not just in February.

Slasher Honey Chassity: I feel like it’s existence shows good intentions, but draws attention to how unfortunately rare women in horror are.

Head Honey Kat: The goal of WiHM is to eventually cease to exist, and I applaud that wholeheartedly. The struggle that women in horror face to be recognized on the same level as our male counterparts is sometimes a painful one and we put up with a lot of shit. I hope that WiHM will open people’s eyes to the fact that it really shouldn’t be necessary to highlight our gender when it comes to horror, but celebrate the fact that the genre is growing in diverse ways and that we have something valid and unique to contribute.

-Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: Locally I love Jill Sixx(Call Girl) who is doing her own thing big-time!

Horror TV Honey Lisa: Dpyx-I think we will all be hearing a lot from them in the future. Also, more people should know what Stacy Pippa Hammon is doing.

Revenge Honey Linnie: Gale Anne Hurd is a huge role model of mine. She has been the unsung hero behind so many horror and sci-fi films over the years, and rarely gets the credit she deserves. Also, Emilie Autumn because she's pure magic.

Slasher Honey Chassity: For me, this is an impossible choice.

-How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: I hope less victimhood, more independence (i.e., You’re Next, which I LOVED).

Horror TV Honey Lisa: I don't feel that it has changed very much. I think what has changed is the amount of women who are vocal about being a part of it and that is what will begin to shape things for the better.

Supernatural Honey Suzanne: I think women writers and directors are proving that they can create smart, thought provoking and scary films that don’t have to rely on gore or pointless nudity to draw an audience.

Slasher Honey Chassity: Women are becoming more and more heroic, to me. And by that I mean that they dominate sometimes and even rescue the men. Positive moments for women in horror are less and less accidental and coincidental. Final Girls are more and more proactive. These days, we get strong women who have always been strong, versus seeming to luck into their roles and their strengths because of circumstances.

Head Honey Kat: I think being vocal is a big part of the change. Women make up a HUGE percentage of the horror audience, and we’re not afraid to express ourselves when it comes to what we love and hate about the genre. The best and most organic kind of change comes from within, and bringing a different perspective to the genre is a key element of female voices in the horror arena.

-What do you think the future holds for women in horror?

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: More women writers and directors, ideally!!!  

Horror TV Honey Lisa: I think that depends entirely on how we choose, as a group, to direct that.

Revenge Honey Linnie: Hopefully, we will get to a point when "women in horror" is no longer a distinction that needs to be made. We just are horror.

Slasher Honey Chassity: I think that with more and more women in horror, we’ll see a change. A shift to more unique, defining roles and more creative, never-before-seen ideas for horror films, and moving away from a time when everything is regurgitated.

Head Honey Kat: Horror is a genre that is constantly in flux, and I hope that women can find not just their niche, but a platform to share their unique experience that isn’t pushed aside, dismissed or discounted on the basis of gender. Equality is always the goal, however far away it might be.

Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project.

You can find The Horror Honeys at www.thehorrorhoneys.com for news, reviews, podcast, and attitude!

They also have a crowdfunding campaign to help fund the Haunted Honey Roadtrip! ~ http://igg.me/at/honeyroadtrip/x/8208537

The Horror Honeys is a collection of strong minded, badass women with foul mouths who are in love with all things horror. We write, live tweet, interview, rant and rave about everything we love (and hate) about the horror genre. 

The Horror Honeys are Full-On Female Fronted Horror, without all that bullshit about being a victim. (bio from their site)

For more information, again please visit:

www.thehorrorhoneys.com

Twitter handles for the Honey's who supplied answers:

Hardcover Honey Jocelyn: twitter.com/jbrivard

Horror TV Honey Lisa: twitter.com/lcfremont

Supernatural Honey Suzanne: twitter.com/suzebee04

Revenge Honey Linnie: twitter.com/linnieloowho

Slasher Honey Chassity: twitter.com/ChassMM

Head Honey Kat: twitter.com/horrorhoneys

You can also find them on Facebook!

Women in Horror: Featuring Nadine L'Esperance

As you may know, February is "Women in Horror" month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a "Woman in Horror." One of the women, who were kind enough to answer our questions, was the awesome writer/director Nadine L'Esperance. Lets see what she said about being a “Woman in Horror”…

-When did you first become a horror fan?

I became a horror fan at the age of 7 when my Uncle snuck me into the theatre to see Creepshow. I was shocked that there were such cool movies out there and I was hooked right away.

 -Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?

It really happened naturally when I wrote a script for a local zombie movie contest and realized this is what I love doing. Making films from your own ideas and doing it all by yourself is a very invigorating feeling. I'm learning as I go and I know I'm far from knowing it all. I love filmmaking.

-What does having a "Women in Horror" month mean to you?

In a film world dominated by men I see it to be important to realize how many talented women filmmakers there are out there. I think so many people don't realize that women can bring on the gore, guts and blood just as well, sometimes even better than men. So showcasing women who cross boundaries and make some noise should be recognized and open peoples eyes to these awesome ladies who kick ass.

-Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?

I am highly inspired by the Soska Twins since they live in my home city. I went to Dead Hooker in A Trunk premiere in Vancouver and the after party. They both are extremely hard working and super friendly. I love them they're great.

-How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?

I think with all the hard work that Founder for Women in Horror Month Hannah Neurotica she has put a huge spotlight and movement onto this subject. So I have noticed a change that these women are getting the attention they deserve.

-What do you think the future holds for women in horror?

Women WILL be the future of horror. Fuck yeah!

-Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project.

Today I finished editing the film Granny Fuckers I was working on with Trevor Hagen aka SPUD from the Dayglo Abortions. We concocted this hilarious, gross idea while on BC Ferries on our way from docking to the bus stop.. So literally a 10 minute discussion turned to a hilarious trashy film. While it is a big switch over from my usual Blue Girl Production stuff doing comedy trash was a total blast. As usual I used people I know. Deb Graf, who did the award winning make-up for No Pets Allowed, did the SPFX as well as acted as Granny Fucker #3.Gerrid Jonathon, her partner in crime, played Granny Fucker #2 and helped around on set. He also played the alley victim in No Pets Allowed. Aaron Foster, bassist from Legion of Goons, played Granny Fucker #1. His band is popular in the local punk scene here in Vancouver. I seem to always use musicians for actors..HAHA! And the co-creator of Granny Fuckers SPUD from the Dayglo Abortions, who plays Granny herself!! He's so fucking funny and makes the ugliest Granny ever. These are the stars but I certainly can't forget to credit the awesome Samantha Mack who plays the ditsy news reporter at the end. She's so hilarious and fun! I must say I know the coolest most bad ass talented people. I'm stoked they are in my life. You guys ROCK!! THANK YOU! (from her site)

Granny Fuckers Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI-uvTzCWec&list=UU_m45Pme7ly479wi6LTzH8A

Thank you for this cool piece. I enjoyed it!!

Remember..Granny Fuckers...Some things can't be unseen...

Nadine L'Esperance runs Blue Girl Productions, a DIY No-budget B-movie horror film company. It currently has 4 short films under this name, Maya's Journal, Madame Soleil's Tea Party and The Unknown Alter Ego and No Pets Allowed. (from her site)

For more information about Nadine, please visit:

http://bluegirlproductions.blogspot.ca/

You can also find more on Twitter, and Facebook!

We thank Nadine L'Esperance for taking the time to answer our questions, but more importantly for her contribution to horror!

Women in Horror: Featuring Lynne Hansen

As you may know, February is "Women in Horror" month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a "Woman in Horror." One of the women, who were kind enough to answer our questions, was the fabulous writer/director Lynne Hansen. Lets see what she said about being a “Woman in Horror”…

-When did you first become a horror fan?

I remember being so sad when I started kindergarten because I had to go to bed at a reasonable hour and couldn’t stay up to watch scary movies with my dad and big brother. My first drawings were of monsters, and my first story I remember writing was about an evil sentient teddy bear. I guess you could say I’ve always been a horror fan.

-Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?

It’s just the way I’ve always been. I loved being scared, so as a storyteller, both in film and before it novels, I delighted in making other people feel the way I do when I curl up with a creepy book or movie.

-What does having a "Women in Horror" month mean to you?

It’s a time when people get the opportunity to see just how diverse the horror community is—art, writing, film—and to showcase some of the lesser-known names with in it. I will always be a horror gal, and I love getting see what else is going on in the genre. It inspires me.

-Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?

For fiction, Ellen Datlow. When I was first starting out as a writer, she was the fiction editor for Omni Magazine—the dream professional market at the time. She was always professional and had high standards, and even now she continues to give back to the genre on the board of directors of the Horror Writers Association.

For filmmaking, Devi Snively. Her micro-budget indie films changed my life. Watching shorts like “Teenage Bikini Vampire” and “Raven Gets A Life” I realized that the best indie films focused on story, not on what kind of high-end gear you had. It really empowered me as a filmmaker. If I could be clever, I could make a good film. I hope that's what "Chomp" is, too.

-How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?

There are more of us—that’s for sure. And thanks to the Internet, we can find each other a lot easier and support and learn from each other. I think that’s really important.

-What do you think the future holds for women in horror?

Whatever we want it to hold for us. There aren’t any limits when you work hard and follow your passion.

-Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project.

Right now I’m making the film festival circuit with my directorial debut Chomp. It’s a short horror comedy about a little old lady who is determined to prove to the world that she’s captured a zombie—even if he’s not one. 

It took a lot to get Chomp made, and I think it’s really important to submit it to as many film festivals as possible so I can share the hard work and talents of all the folks involved with as many people as possible. Last weekend we screened at the GeekFest Film Festival at Shock Pop Comic Con in Fort Lauderdale where we won Best Short, and our first ever Best of Fest. I’m crazy proud of Team Chomp. This coming weekend we’re in Durham, North Carolina for the Nevermore Film Festival. (www.NevermoreFilmFest.org). The weekend after that, we’re screening at the GeekFest Film Festival (www.GeekFestLA.com) at the Long Beach Comic Expo. Good thing I like talking horror and film or I’d be in trouble!

Chomp Website: ChompMovie.com

Chomp Trailer: http://youtu.be/bem-fvFr1uI

Chomp FB: https://www.facebook.com/chompmovie

Twitter: @ChompMovie

Lynne Hansen is a storyteller who, after directing her first short film Chomp, discovered that she had been studying her entire life to become a filmmaker. She developed a love of all things creepy huddling beneath the covers watching Acri Creature Feature with her dad and big brother. She honed her knowledge of story during her six-year tenure as senior editor for a small press publishing company and as an award-winning author. She developed her eye for visual storytelling designing book covers that required condensing an entire story into a single image. She shepherded her own creative endeavors into the world, and those of others, as a marketing professional, including working with a historic non-profit art-house theater. Having struggled to find her own voice as an artist, Lynne has spoken to students at over 200 schools about how to nurture their own creative spark. She was awarded the 2014 Buffalo Dreams Fantastic Film Festival Filmmaker to Watch “Dreamer” award. (bio from her site)

For more information about Lynne, please visit:

WithoutWarningMedia.com

You can also find more on Twitter, and Facebook!

We thank Lynne Hansen for taking the time to answer our questions, but more importantly for her contribution to horror!

Pics from top down: 

-Lynne Hansen at GeekFest Film Festival at Shock Pop Comic Con

 -Lynne Hansen working with four-year-old Ellah Durliat on her next big scene in Chomp.

 -At the GeekFest Film Festival at Shock Pop Comic Con with the PromoteHorror crew and Team Chomp!

-Poster for Chomp

 -At the GeekFest Film Festival at Shock Pop Comic Con after the awards ceremony with Daryn Murphy (Winner, Best Web Series for Time Keeper), Lynne Hansen (Winner, Best Short and Best of Fest), and Sterling Gates (Winner, Best Feature.)

Women in Horror: Featuring Nowal Massari

As you may know, February is "Women in Horror" month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a "Woman in Horror." One of the women, who were kind enough to answer our questions, was the terrific writer/performer Nowal Massari. Lets see what she said about being a “Woman in Horror”…

-When did you first become a horror fan?

I became a horror fan at the ripe old age of three. My family was in the basement, watching Hellbound: Hellraiser II, I was supposed to be in bed, however, I don't like being told what to do. I snuck downstairs, hid behind the couch (so the adults wouldn't force me to go back to bed) and watched the nearly the entire movie without being detected. Pinhead fascinated me. After that, I made my aunt take me to see horror films in theaters and I rented them every weekend at my local video store. 

-Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?

For me, it just sort of happened naturally. About three years ago, I began writing for a website and that led to meeting lots of different people and brought me tons of opportunities!

- What does having a "Women in Horror" month mean to you?

When most people think of horror films, they tend to think of the slashers. With WIHM, it gives people a chance to celebrate the strong females in the genre, or if they are unfamiliar, the chance to learn about them. Viva la Scream Queens and Final Girls!

-Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?

It's hard to pick just one woman as a role model, because they all mean something different to me. Though if I had to choose one, I would have to go with Marilyn Burns. She was one of the sweetest women I've ever met and her performance in the Texas Chainsaw Massacre will forever haunt me. Underrated and absolutely, bone-chillingly brilliant!

-How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?

There's a greater presence of women in the genre now. My favorite example is Jennifer Kent's "The Babadook." While a lot of people hated it, I adored every single moment. It was smart, atmospheric and beautifully done. With her success as both writer and director in the genre, I believe that even more female driven horror movies are heading our way. I can't wait to see what she does next!

-What do you think the future holds for women in horror?

Tough to say, but I believe that the next year is going to be HUGE for women in horror all across the board. Writing, directing, starring...you name it and women are going to do it. 

-Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project.

I don't currently have any big projects in the works, but you can catch me performing as a part of the Pacific Northwests "Grotesque Gorelesque" troupe, or my various musings on a bunch of different platforms!

Nowal is a Writer at Living Dead Magazine, Writer at Paranormal Pop Culture and Goldie Goodnight- Portland's Marvelous Masked Maniac of Burlesque at Grotesque Gorelesque (bio from FB)

You can also find her on Twitter, and Facebook!

We thank Nowal Massari for taking the time to answer our questions, but more importantly for her contribution to horror!

Women in Horror: Featuring Jennifer Nicole Stang

As you may know, February is "Women in Horror" month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a "Woman in Horror." One of the women, who were kind enough to answer our questions, was the magnificent director Jennifer Nicole Stang. Lets see what she said about being a “Woman in Horror”…

-When did you first become a horror fan?

I first became a horror fan when I was about 6 years old. My parents were careful about what I watched, so I never saw R-rated films at that age. I saw the "Child’s Play" movies at a friend’s house, and since those films were something I wasn’t allowed to see, they were all the more enticing. My mum introduced me to Hitchcock some years later, and his films really captured my imagination. I was hooked.

-Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?

For me it really happened naturally. I started working in films as an actress, and more and more I realized I preferred working behind the camera, coming up with stories and directing projects. Around Halloween time is when I am most inspired to dive into the realm of horror, so in October 2012 I came up with a story and shot my first horror short, The Devil’s Snare, inspired by the writings of Edgar Allan Poe, (of whom I'm a huge fan.) My film was selected to various festivals, and nominated in several categories, which was really exciting. Festivals always encourage a filmmaker’s work, and they’re a wonderful platform to share your ideas with others. 

- What does having a "Women in Horror" month mean to you?

I had no idea there WAS a "Women in Horror” month till recently. I think it’s a great idea, as the horror genre has always predominantly been a category dominated by men.

-Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?

I don’t really pay attention to whether or not a director is male or female. I focus on a film’s story, and how it’s told. However, there have been many women who have created great horror films, like Mary Harron (American Psycho) and Mary Lambert (Pet Sematary). 

-How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?

Honestly, I was never really aware that women directed horror films until I started to dig in myself. I think it has been really interesting over the years to see women’s horror films receive acknowledgment, and to experience a woman’s perspective in the horror genre. There seems to be a sudden wave of women directors recently who have been featured in various articles. In the past there was more of a focus on the “Scream Queens”.

-What do you think the future holds for women in horror?

I think the opportunities for women are blooming because of so much acknowledgment from many actresses in Hollywood supporting women in film in general. I think it is an exciting time seeing rising directors who are women sharing their own unique perspectives and ideas.

-Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project

My upcoming feature, Blackwood Falls, is currently in pre-production. I am really excited about this idea and to see where this story takes me. I would love for you to follow our journey as we make this movie. Fans are what make a movie matter, and these days with crowdfunding, fans are the ones that actually get a movie made! We would LOVE your support. You can follow us on Twitter: @BlackwoodFalls and Facebook: Facebook.com/BlackwoodFalls

Jennifer Nicole Stang was born on April 16, 1985 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She has lived in England, Canada, the U.S., and Spain. Jennifer has directed award-winning music videos and short films. Her short film, El Lago (The Lake) received various awards, including Best Fantasy Film at the Mexico International Film Festival, and 1st place at the Honolulu Film Awards. Jennifer also directed Les Nuages (The Clouds) starring Livvy Stubenrauch (young Anna from Disney's Oscar-winning film, Frozen). In addition, Jennifer produced the web series, Englishman in L.A., starring Ashley Fink (Glee), Eddie Jemison (Ocean's 11, 12, 13) and Cameron Moir (Non-Stop). The series received rave reviews from In Touch Magazine, and Broadway World, and won a number of awards at the LA Web Series Festival.

Jennifer grew up involved in the performing arts, studying with The Royal Conservatory of Music, The National Ballet School, The Royal Academy of Dance (Toronto, Ont.), and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (NYC, LA). Jennifer danced professionally with Opus 1 Contemporary Dance Company and Pasion Y Arte Flamenco Dance Company (Philadelphia, PA), and also worked as a singer-songwriter for many years, producing various CDs, DVDs, and music videos of her original music, and performing in the Tri-State area. As an actress, Jennifer has performed in film, television, and theatre, including South Coast Repertory's A Midsummer Night's Dream, directed by Mark Rucker. (bio from IMDB)

For more information about Jennifer, please visit:

www.jennifernicolestang.com

You can also find more on Twitter, and Facebook!

We thank Jennifer Nicole Stang for taking the time to answer our questions, but more importantly for her contribution to horror!

Women in Horror: Featuring Emilie Flory

As you may know, February is "Women in Horror" month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a "Woman in Horror." One of the women, who were kind enough to answer our questions, was the terrific writer/director Emilie Flory. Lets see what she said about being a “Woman in Horror”…

-When did you first become a horror fan?

I realized I was a horror fan at age 7, when Jaws came out…

I already had a thing for scary books, cartoons and games. Horror represented something very exciting to me. I lived in Saint-Tropez in a rich and sunny environment as pleasant as it was superficial. In this environment, horror was a form of escapism for me, a subversive force. I was irresistibly drawn to it: When you’re scared, you feel more alive. You have to find the courage to face this state of mind where you feel almost like you’re going to die. It’s horrible… But once the fear is gone, you feel just great. When Jaws came out and I saw the posters outside the Renaissance movie theater in Saint-Tropez, it was quite a shock. There was a catch line that said, “She was the first…” and this tiny figure of a naked woman swimming above a gigantic shark!

I lived in a seaside resort… I fantasized all summer about what the poster promised because, of course, I wasn’t allowed to see the movie, I was too young!

-Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?

That’s an excellent question, Promote. Thanks for asking. Actually, as a result of the exposure I have to bring to my movie Trauma Dolls, I realize that I contribute directly to promoting the horror genre: I’m plugging the world of horror in its entirety as well as the world of women in horror. Certain people in my circle are surprised and try to figure out where I got my liking for horror. This allows me to give them information concerning a world and realities they are totally clueless about.

We see some remarkable personalities militating for the horror genre on Twitter. Women are very active in that domain; I’m delighted to see this. There is a spectacular synergy, very tight bonds that are created in the horror community. It’s a world where there exists strong values, extraordinary friendships and mutual aide you don’t see anywhere else. I’m extremely happy to belong to this world.

-What does having a "Women in Horror" month mean to you?

It’s essential to have a month dedicated to women in the world of horror: Even if highlighting them only lasts a month, it allows everyone to become aware that, in this domain, women are bankable. They are an amazing strike force to be reckoned with. From the very beginning women have contributed to the emergence of the horror genre, especially thanks to scream queens which also had for a perverse effect to blur the image and the role of women in horror. Today women screenwriters, directors and producers showcase their talents; they are in every department and they are just as successful as men are.

-Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?

Denise Gossett is a model for me. She has all my admiration. What she did for the horror genre with Shriekfest is outstanding.

Shriekfest is a world famous, medium sized festival where each person selected becomes a full member of the family. Its selection is rigorous and the quality exceptional.

Denise fights for independent movies. She is uncompromising on this point. It’s really important so that things change and genuine artists can emerge.

There is also a “film music” selection at Shriekfest; it’s an innovating festival on many points. Denise does a lot for artists. She’s extra ordinary on a professional and human level. I would like to add that she’s a wonderful actress and a magnificent woman.

-How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?

If we consider only the change that has come about with respect to actresses and the roles they are offered, things have changed tremendously. Woman’s status in horror movies has evolved at the same time as her status in western countries has. Women are no longer just pretty faces who scream while waiting to be saved. They act, attack their aggressors and even save their lovers. Sometimes, I even find it’sex aggerated by making them excessively mannish. I like women being strong but I find that if their strength hides their vulnerability and their sex appeal, we lose a great deal of what makes up the magic of the horror genre. Starry Eyes is a great success because it doesn’t forget that. Just like Crawl or Die whose heroine is a soldier. And I love Nurse 3Dbecause, thanks to exceptional acting, Paz de la Huerta proves that you can scare, thrill and move people by playing an unfortunate psychopath with an outrageously explosive sexuality!

-What do you think the future holds for women in horror?

The future is promising for women in horror but also for those in genre films in general, in action and sci-fi movies. Director Kathryn Bigelow, whom I personally consider as a genre director, brought about a real tour de force by making it in Hollywood as she did. Thanks to her, everything has become possible for women, especially for women who are in genre films: We see marvelous actresses like Maria Olsen, Alexandra Essoe and Nicole Alonso come into their own, we see young directors like Jessica Cameron bring down mountains and personalities like Jennifer Blanc-Biehn fight relentlessly to impose projects she believes in. All of that is very positive. Very constructive.

-Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project. 

Since my next project is in the writing stage, let me tell you about my horror movie project, my team and I are looking for producers and investors: Trauma Dolls is a slasher that takes place in the worlds of fashion and neuroscience. The movie treats the question of good and evil and the chances of finding love and light again even if it seems hopeless! The movie’s screenplay, which made it to the semi-finals in Shriekfest, made the finals in the Frightnight Film Festival (Fandom Fest) and the presentation trailer, a finalist at the HollyShorts Film Festival, was shown at the Chinese Theaters. We have a press kit, which includes a budget, available for people who are interested.

The Trauma Dolls’ Trailer was an official selection at the Holly-Shorts film festival 2014:

http://www.imdb.com/video/wab/vi2091035673

Thank you so much, Promote, for your invitation to take part in this month of horror. Thanks as well for the wonderful reviews, previews and interviews you treat us to, they all contribute to help genre movies move forward.

Emilie Flory was born in Paris on July 2, 1970. An admiral’s daughter, she spent her childhood in Saint-Tropez where she took her first acting classes and won the Queffelec Prize for best poem about the sea. 

She studied at art school, then joined Jean Périmony’s drama school. A great fan of genre movies, her first screenplay was a short fantasy film for photographer Jean Christophe Polien. 

She wrote for the Horror Show column in the French movie magazine L’Ecran Fantastique. 

She worked in the comic book business for two years before returning to the theater. In 2005, she directed a series of sexy, funny TV sketches that inspired her dark comedy screenplay Golden Bodies – Fitness is Business  two years later. 

Tariel Méliava, director of photography on Tzameti13 (Grand Jury Prize: World Cinema Dramatic at Sundance film festival in 2006) helped her with her projects. 

In 2009, Emilie Flory wrote and directed Process 5, a futuristic short movie, with Tariel Méliava as DP. It was screened at the HollyShorts Film Festival in Los Angeles. Emilie Flory currently has a horror film project in development based on a screenplay she wrote. And she has started writing a sci-fi screenplay. (bio from her website)

For more information about Emilie Flory, please visit:

http://www.iconelabelpictures.com/

You can also find more on Twitter, and Facebook!

Additional interviews:

Interview by Billy Crash for The Last Knock

Interview by Dean Sills for UK Horror Scene

Interview by Emory Slone For Malevolent (P16-P19)

We thank Emilie Flory for taking the time to answer our questions, but more importantly for her contribution to horror!