Happy New Year!

Since the early days of this newsletter (all the way back to when it was known as The Phantom Lake Almanac), the first newsletter of every year has contained a look back at all the significant events that shaped the Mihmiverse in the previous twelve months. We continue this tradition with a look back at 2013...

With what has become a trend, January 2013 was a quiet month with one significant event toward the end: writer/director Christopher R. Mihm finished his "first-draft" edit of "The Giant Spider."

In February, the official trailer for "The Giant Spider" was released on Valentine's Day and advance tickets to the premiere went on sale exactly one week later. Shortly thereafter, "House of Ghosts" was nominated for a Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Award in the "Best Independent Film" category.

Just ten days into March (only seventeen days after advance tickets went on sale), the world premiere of "The Giant Spider" sold out completely. In response, a "premiere overflow" screening at the Trylon Microcinema was scheduled for the following day. In addition, the official poster design and a set of lobby cards for "The Giant Spider" were revealed and copies of "The Monster of Phantom Lake" and "House of Ghosts" on DVD were in short supply.

April turned into a BIG month for the Mihmiverse. The month began with another prank: the reveal of a false synopsis for the "next" Mihmiverse film entitled "The Maniac," a half-sequel to "Destination: Outer Space" that would find writer/director Christopher R. Mihm playing 13 roles. To extend the joke even further, a false contributor page was set up that revealed the truth when folks attempted to donate to the production. Four days later, the REAL title of the next Mihimverse film was revealed: "The Late Night Double Feature," a double-bill of shorter films to include "Reform School Girls vs. the Space Monster" and "The Wall People."

On April 9th, it was revealed that "House of Ghosts" won the Rondo award for which it was nominated! April also saw the completion of the authoring process of the "The Giant Spider" DVD and the release of "Attack of the Moon Zombies" lobby cards.

May became the month of "The Giant Spider" when the film premiered at the Heights Theatre and was very well-received by an enthusiastic crowd of Mihmivites and newcomers. Several well-attended screenings followed and the Phantom Lake Paddle Girls patch collectible was made available.

Several positive reviews of "The Giant Spider" appeared in June and, for the first time ever, two Mihmiverse films, "The Giant Spider" and "House of Ghosts" were released on Blu-ray.

"The Late Night Double Feature" underwent a big change in July when, due to writer/director Christopher R. Mihm's dissatisfaction with the finished script, the "Reform School Girls vs. the Space Monster" half of the film was replaced with "X: The Fiend from Beyond Space." Also in July: a good number of Mihmiverse-related events were added to the schedule, the first set for "The Late Night Double Feature" was erected and the fabled "Star Wars" Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast episode was released.

Principal photography of the "X: The Fiend from Beyond Space" half of "The Late Night Double Feature" began in early August and continued in earnest throughout the month.

Only a week into September, writer/director Christopher R. Mihm released a statement regarding the exact date of the world premiere of "The Late Night Double Feature," specifically that it would take place a month earlier AND on a Saturday! Toward the end of the month, writer/director Christopher R. Mihm saw his face on a billboard for the first time (promoting the 2013 Edgerton Book and Film Festival at which he was a featured guest) and it was announced that frequent contributor Peter Flynn would be providing custom "electronic tonalities" for "The Wall People" half of "The Late Night Double Feature!"

In October, "The Giant Spider" scored a "hat trick" at the third annual Highway 61 Film Festival by scoring first place in the "Action/Horror Feature" category, the third Mihmiverse film in as many years to do so. After a grueling month of screenings and events, and in spite of the ongoing production of the next film, a scene from "The Wall People" was posted on YouTube for Halloween—but purposely disappeared after only 24 hours!

Supplies of Mihmiverse DVDs, specifically "Cave Women on Mars" and "Destination: Outer Space," began to run critically low near the beginning of November—both titles have since sold out! After being introduced in "The Giant Spider," Uncle John's Burger Dogs became a reality! Made from the finest farm-raised beef and pork by Center Cut Meats in Albertville, MN, Uncle John's Burger Dogs were made available to the general public!

Finally, as the holidays approached and the 'verse quieted down, it was announced that Team Ineka became the first official Iditarod dog sled team of of Mihmiverse (donate here!) and, most importantly, principal photography on "The Late Night Double Feature" was finally complete—and all was right with the world!



With the new year upon us, we look forward to an amazing year full of excitement."The Late Night Double Feature" is on track for its April release. Screenings, events and appearances are already being added to the calendar and lots of fun things are being plotted and planned for you, friends and fans! With so many fantastic things coming up, we wish you the happiest of new years and hope to see you all at some point—and meet some new folks along the way!




 
A new collectible has arrived!

Become a part of the All for George Productions / Saint Euphoria Pictures "team" with this limited-edition baseball cap!

This high-quality, one-size-fits-all (velcro adjustable) hat comes in "chocolate" with "stone" accents and includes the official company logo embroidered on the front! Each hat costs $19.99 plus $3.00 shipping and handling.

Supplies are EXTREMELY limited (we literally only have TWO left) so DON'T WAIT!

Order yours TODAY!



As seen in the Mihmiverse fan-favorite film, "The Giant Spider," Uncle John's Burger Dogs are the tastiest "collectibles" to come out of the Mihmiverse since... EVER!

Based on a recipe created by writer/director Christopher R. Mihm and brought to you by TCR, LLC and Center Cut Meats, these one-of-a-kind, meaty masterpieces are perfect for any meal!

Made from the finest farm-raised beef and pork, Uncle John's Burger Dogs are not only unique and incredibly delicious, they harken back to the nostalgic "drive-in days" of the 1950s and '60s captured so well in the films of writer/director Christopher R. Mihm.

Best of all? They're now available by MAIL ORDER in packs of eight! Center Cut Meats has the ability to ship them DIRECT TO YOUR DOOR. All Uncle John's Burger Dogs are vacuum sealed, frozen and shipped in special containers that will keep them that way for up to three days, thus making it possible to ship them to anywhere within the contiguous United States without the need for dry ice!

To order, visit the Uncle John's Burger Dog website at unclejohnsburgerdog.com and click the ORDER BURGER DOGS link!

SPECIAL DEAL! For a limited time, when you order three packages of Uncle John's Burger Dogs, you AUTOMATICALLY get a fourth package FREE!



The latest episode of the Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast is now available for download!

The Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast Holiday Spectacular 2013 has arrived!

Hosts Rhuby 'n' Hater make merry by welcoming a crowd of revelers to their palatial estate including writer/director Christopher R. Mihm, first lady of the Mihmiverse Stephanie Mihm, monster-maker Mitch Gonzales, the first-ever Mihmiverse intern Shane "The Angry Leprechaun" Donahue, Tori Fox (Eleanor), Paul Hansen, monster-of-all-trades Michael Kaiser, Kira Pontiff (young paddle girl), Warren Porter (farmer with flashlight), James Norgard (Dr. Gabriel) and Maggie Schultz (Dr. Deering)! Good times are had by everyone in attendance (some more than most)!

Alcohol! Uncommon Christmas carols! Entertaining stories of holidays past! A Christmas reading by James Norgard! AND, a heartfelt message directly from Christopher R. Mihm to you!
 
Click to download part 1Click to download part 2Click to download part 3

The Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast was created as a supplement to this newsletter and will be released on or around the 15th of every month. Moderated by hosts Rhuby 'n' Hater, this free-to-download monthly audiocast offers exclusive news, interviews with the folks who make the Mihmiverse possible, shameless self-promotion, and original recurring content!

If you'd like to ask a question of the hosts, writer/director Christopher R. Mihm, or any of the show's upcoming guest(s), click HERE to submit your queries! If we like them, we may even include them in a future podcast! OR, you can "like" the Mihmiverse Bonfire Podcast page on Facebook and "participate" by posting to the podcast's wall during recording!



Every month, the Mihmiverse Monthly, the official newsletter of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, includes an ever-changing array of guest-written columns.

This month you'll find:
  • The Trivia Corner
    Mike Cook (Gustav/Dr. Edwards) uses the skills learned when he was the coordinator of AOL's Trivia Channel to bring you trivia with a Mihmiverse twist!
     
  • From the Mihmiverse Test Kitchens
    The first lady of the Mihmiverse, Stephanie Mihm (Rosemary/Ursula), shares her favorite recipes that are sure to satisfy any monster-sized appetite!
If you have any questions, comments or suggestions for other columns, OR if you're interested in writing one, please contact us at info@sainteuphoria.com and let us know what you think!



The Brain from Planet Arous (1957)
Directed by Nathan Juran
Starring John Agar and Joyce Meadows

After an alien spacecraft crash lands in the desert, a friendly, mild-mannered scientist (played by B-movie regular John Agar) discovers a brilliantly-awful-looking floating brain creature (with glowing eyes, naturally). The extraterrestrial quickly takes over the scientist's mind and body... and gets inexplicably and uncontrollably horny for the man's girlfriend. Of course, this unusually lusty behavior tips her off that something's not right with her man. Most of the time, the guy looks and seems almost normal, BUT, when the alien manifests its telepathically destructive (and seemingly unlimited) powers, the actor dons a pair of shiny silver contacts that make it clear this cheesy brain creature is NOT to be messed with! Needless to say, the story is ridiculous. The performances are over-the-top, atomic weapons are involved (sort of), death and destruction rains down upon the human race and the alien meets a rather gruesome end involving an axe. Overall, this is one of the best of the worst I have ever seen. The silver contact lenses scared the living heck out of my son when he was six, but most people will simply find them to be just the right amount of B-movie "awful!" If you like your "drive-in era" films with extra cheddar (and a side of chili-cheese fries), this one is definitely for you!
— Christopher R. Mihm



Since so many fans and supporters have become Mihmiverse contributors, we wanted to take time to highlight some of these wonderful people! Thus, every month between now and the release of "The Late Night Double Feature," we will randomly choose and interview one of them.

This month, we interview filmmaker (and two-time Mihmiverse contributor) Paul Bunnell!

Introduce yourself to the Mihmiverse!

My name is Paul Bunnell. I am a maker of movies in the Mihmiverse vein. I recently produced and directed the only sci-fi dark comedy musical romance you will need to see this year, called "The Ghastly Love of Johnny X." It's notable for being the last movie photographed completely on Kodak 35mm Plus-X black-and-white film stock before it was discontinued forever in 2010. It is also notable for being the lowest grossing film at the box office in 2012, but don't let that fool you; it's a fun time at the movies. For the adventurous among you, "The Ghastly Love of Johnny X" can be seen on Netflix Instant Video and on DVD through Amazon. If you have seen or plan to see my movie, you'll know why I am huge supporter of what Christopher is doing. You could say we are kindred spirits.

When and how did you discover the films of Christopher R. Mihm?

I was invited to screen "The Ghastly Love of Johnny X" at the StarFest/HorrorFest convention in Denver, Colorado in April 2012. It was there that I met filmmaker Christopher R. Mihm. His movie "Attack of the Moon Zombies" played right before mine. I arrived early to watch it—not knowing what to expect—and by the time it was over, I was hooked. I had to see more. The next day I went to his booth at the convention and purchased the film and a few others to get better acquainted with the Mihmiverse.

Which of the eight released films is your favorite and why?

I would have to say my personal favorite is "Attack of the Moon Zombies," probably because it's the first one I got to see. It has all the elements that make for a great 1950s style B-Monster Movie. I was especially impressed by Shannon McDonough's performance as "Dr. Hackett." She has a unique quality in the Mihmiverse and is a talented actress. My second favorite would have to be the first one I contributed to, "The Giant Spider."

Why did you contribute to the next Mihmiverse film, "The Late Night Double Feature?"

I know from experience how difficult it can be to raise money to make a movie. It took me six years to find completion funds for "The Ghastly Love of Johnny X" and that was probably the most difficult ordeal of my life. After chatting with Mr. Mihm at Starfest, I became an instant fan. I met a filmmaker who believed in what he was doing and who had a unique and creative vision. I "get" his films and wanted to lend my support in any way possible. Being a contributor on a Christopher R. Mihm project is a privilege and a bragging right—a credit I am delighted to have on my resume. I'm looking forward to "The Late Night Double Feature." I'm sure it will be GHASTLY!

Interested in becoming a contributor and seeing your name in the credits of "The Late Night Double Feature?" All contributors will get their name listed in the end credits of "The Late Night Double Feature," a ticket to the premiere, a copy of the film on DVD, and a frame-able certificate with their name and title—perfect for your own "wall of fame!"

Visit the contributor page at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm, for more information. Who knows? Maybe next month we'll be interviewing YOU!



In a Word...

All five of the horror movies below have one-word titles. Name them.

1. (1954) Giant ants!

2. (1958) Die of fright; get $1,000.

3. (1963) AKA "The Atomic Brain."

4. (1966) Shatner speaks Esperanto!

5. (1967) Golem of Prague, hidden scroll, Roddy McDowall.



Scroll to the bottom of the Mihmiverse Monthly for the answers.

— Mike Cook



Are you are having a get-together and want to serve a tasty punch that isn't super sweet? Check out this Muppet-tastic recipe that is sure to fit the bill! I have served this for parties and small family events and it is always a big hit.

Miss Piggys Precious Pink Punch

  • 4 cups cranberry juice
  • 2 cups pineapple juice
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen lemon juice
  • 7 cups ginger ale
  • lemon slices & mint
Chill all ingredients.

Just before serving combine ingredients and pour over crushed ice.

Garnish with lemon slices and fruit.

Makes 14 scrumptious (8oz) servings

It is delicious with any main course or appetizers. There's never a drop left when I serve this tasty beverage. 5 out of 5 "Miss Piggy karate chops!"

From Jim Henson's Muppet Picnic Cookbook - 1981, Hallmark Cards, Inc.
— Stephanie Mihm


.
Now through January 12th, Mike Cook (Dr. Edwards/Harlan/Gustav) will be appearing as 3 different characters in "A Carol of a Christmas" at the Fanny Hill Dinner Theatre in Eau Claire, WI.
On January 7th at 7:30PM, Deanne McDonald (Elizabeth) will be playing Olivia in "Unrehearsed Shakespeare's Twelfth Night on Twelfth Night" at the Justin's in Chicago (3358 North Southport Avenue). To stay up-to-date on all things Deanne McDonald, visit her website!
On January 11th, Catherine Hansen (Mary/Yureena Null) will be performing in "24:00:00 Xtreme Theatre Smackdown" with Theatre Unbound at the Women's Club in Minneapolis, MN.
In February, Ware Carlton-Ford (Joe) and Catherine Hansen (Mary/Yureena Null) will be performing in "A Kind of Love Story" at Old Arizona in Minneapolis, MN
Mr. Zero's Hit List 2013

Here's what the greatest music/video game/movie/toy/memorabilia shop in Minnesota is looking to buy FROM YOU!

MUSIC: Vinyl Record LP & CD
Zappa, Neil Young, Yardbirds, Tom Waits, Stevie Ray Vaughn, T-Rex, Talking Heads, Smiths, Rush, Replacements, Ramones, Pink Floyd, Graham Parsons, New Order, Metallica, Megadeth, Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, Kinks, Joy Division, Iron Maiden Kiss, Jimi Hendrix, Gypsy, Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Dio, Cure, Costello, Clash, Bowie, Black Sabbath & Beatles, '60s R&B, '60s Blues & Jazz, '70s Reggae, '70s Punk, '80s Metal, '80s Technics & Sony Turntables

VIDEO GAMES
N64: Super Mario, Pokemon, Diddy Kong, Conker's Bad Fur Day, Kirby, Golden Eye, Perfect Dark, Star Fox, Zelda, Killer Instinct Gold.
SNES: Crono Trigger, Earthbound, Final Fantasy, Megaman X, Super Mario, Donkey Kong, Zelda, Metroid, Zombies Ate My Neighbors, Kirby, Rock 'N' Roll Racing
NES: Contra, Mike Tyson's Punch Out, Techmo Super Bowl, Bubble Bobble, Excitebike, Dr. Mario, Zelda, Metal Gear, Bucky O'Hare, RBI Baseball
GENESIS: Boogerman, ToeJam & Earl, Earthworm Jim, Vectorman, NHL '94, Phantasy Star IV, Shinobi III, Castlevania
PLAYSTATION: Final Fantasy VII, Soul Reaver, Suikoden, Oddworld, Silent Hill, Twisted Metal, Resident Evil, Tomb Raider
AND NeoGeo, TurboGrafx, Virtual Boy, Jaguar, Lynx, Sega Master System, 3DO, Gameboy Micro, & Pippin.

MOVIES: DVD & VHS
Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Scarface, Godfather, Dark Knight, Good Will Hunting, Reservoir Dogs, Evil Dead, Apocalypse Now, Big Lebowski, Good-fellas, Detroit Rock City, Jaws, Dr. Who, James Bond, Friday The 13th, Donnie Darko, Nightmare On Elm Street, Warriors, Let It Be, Princess Bride, Blade Runner, Shawshank Redemption, Fight Club, Exorcist, V for Vendetta, Wrath of Khan, Casino, 2 Lane Black Top, Forrest Gump, Labyrinth, Dark Crystal, Good, Bad & Ugly, Little Mermaid, Rocky, Lord of the Rings, High Fidelity, Empire Records, KISS Meets The Phantom, Decline Of Western Civilization #2, Harold & Maude, Karate Kid, Pride & Prejudice, Song Remains The Same, Anne of Green Gables, RAD, Godzilla, Heartburn.

TOYS: Transformers, '80s GI-Joes, He-Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Planet Of The Apes, '70s KISS, '60s Marx Soldiers, Mego Dolls & Doctor Who.

MEMORABILIA: Shirts, Posters, Etc.
Grateful Dead, Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Twisted Sister, KISS, Beatles, Monkees, Bob Dylan, Iron Maiden, AC/DC, Van Halen, Elvis, Marilyn, Johnny Cash, '60s Psychedelic, '80s New Wave, '80s WWF.




"The Monster of Phantom Lake," "It Came From Another World!," "Cave Women on Mars," "Terror from Beneath the Earth," "Destination: Outer Space," "Attack of the Moon Zombies," "House of Ghosts" and "The Giant Spider" DVDs are now available at SaintEuphoria.com, the online home of the films of Christopher R. Mihm.

In addition, exclusive movie posters, patches, collectibles and other merchandise are now in stock. Everything is available in extremely limited quantities, so get yours today before they run out!



The Trivia Corner answers:
1. "Them!," 2. "Macabre" (directed by William Castle), 3. "Monstrosity," 4. "Incubus," 5. "It!"

 


Copyright © and All Rights Reserved Saint Euphoria LLC 2014

If you no longer wish to receive the "Mihmiverse Monthly," send a blank email
with the subject "unsubscribe newsletter" to info@sainteuphoria.com