Creature Feature: 50 Years of the Gill-Man (2004)
First surfacing in 1954, the Gill-Man from CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON has been one of the most influential screen monsters. This documentary fondly recalls the history of the 3-D horror film - which spawned several sequels and countless imitators - and the behind-the-scenes story of its making as told by cast and crew.
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Wonderful Movie
People are voting emotionally.
A story that's too fascinating to pass by...
The plot isn't so bad, but the pace of storytelling is too slow which makes people bored. Certain moments are so obvious and unnecessary for the main plot. I would've fast-forwarded those moments if it was an online streaming. The ending looks like implying a sequel, not sure if this movie will get one
This is a great documentary. Like most documentaries I see, I knew little-to-nothing about the subject matter, but I was fascinated and captivated by the Gill-Man's story from beginning to end.The classic film footage cut with the old NBC "Abbott & Costello" commercials and publicity stills are all priceless. The interviews with today's collectors and super-fans are beyond interesting...to call them 'Trekkie-like' would almost be fair if it wasn't also almost insulting.I would have liked to have seen more footage with the surviving actors, writers and producers (a la "Rico almost drowned on the first day")- and maybe even more of the latter day reunion in Florida- but what was there was obviously carefully crafted and very well put together.I'd see it again and I'd definitely add it to my collection. I hope to see this documentary as part of any DVD anniversary and/or remake add-on, at the very least.
Looked great Sam. Looked just like a first look and the production value was great. Very informative and now I want to stay up till 3 am to watch it some night. Maybe I ll just go down to the local video store and rent it. I can't wait to see the next thing you do. Hopefully you remember me to cast me. J/k With Hollywood in the midst of a bunch of redo's or do over. I bet it won't be long till we see the creature back up on the main screen. I think your first look will be enough to prompt so action from the suits in Hollywood. I would definitely buy a ticket to go see it. If you guys don't already know it Sam is the new up and comer. I can't wait to see whats next.Great job
In modern Hollywood, it's too often that the major media pays WAY too much attention to the newest film releases and contemporary celebrities without regard to how or why films have gotten to where they are at this point in time. As a result, documentaries which provide a point of reference and framework for the genesis of classic Hollywood characters are essential viewing for anyone who stops to think about the evolution of films in the 100+ years of cinema. All of which brings us to CREATURE FEATURE: 50 YEARS OF THE GILL-MAN. In this absorbing and entertaining documentary, Sam Borowski's deftly crafted script offers a historical context for the beloved Gill-Man from the original 1954 Universal classic, THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON, explaining how the character came into being, why he has persevere, and lays the groundwork for explaining both why and how the character has influenced so many screen monsters who have come after him.Notably, films in the sci-fi, fantasy, and horror genre were profoundly affected by CREATURE and its two sequels, and the impact of these 1950s landmarks is still felt today. Borowski and Matt Crick's film provides the viewer with accurate anecdotes about the making of the films, their impact upon audiences (including a bevy of celebrities - some unexpected), and the extended fan base which has succeeded the films, now 50 years following them. Their documentary is vital for all fans of classic films, sci-fi or otherwise, and anyone curious as to the nature of staying power for legendary screen characters.Expertly narrated by Keith David, featuring interviews with many of the participants, filled behind-the-scenes and archival photos, audiences are sure to get the full scope of the Gill-Man's proper place in history - both cinematic and American pop cultural to boot. A footnote to the CREATURE's legacy is that Universal curiously quoted from the documentary on the back cover of the new CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON DVD Legacy Collection box set that was released in October, 2004.
Usually when I get the chance to sit in a comfortable seat and the lights are dim, I fall asleep. However, The 50 Years of the Gill-Man kept me thoroughly entertained the entire length of the film. This well-constructed documentary is not only informative but a comic treasure. Filled with colorful commentaries of creature memories, the film seamlessly details the evolution of the Creature and how the movie and character have remained at the forefront of pop culture for the last 50 years. And if enough people have the pleasure of seeing this documentary, I am positive the Creature will honored for another 50 years.