The Drive In - 'Tragic' Movies I Recall
January 27th 2011 05:22
But given the demise of the drive-in theatre around the world in the mid to late 70s and early 80s - operators resorted to some real 'clangers' when it came to screenings.
Sitting atop the list were a multitude of B-grade (almost C-grade) horror flicks, usually double features which some would argue were screened with the sole purpose of ensuring drive-in lots were half empty thereby making rational the arguement by accountants that mulit-plexes were a far more profitable alternative.
Some though, like The Brain That Wouldn’t Die were so tragic that there were not only entertaining but almost cultish almost 25 years after its initial release.
The same probably couldn't be said for Blackula or Invasion of the Blood Farmers.
There were exceptions though.
Texas Chain Saw Massacre. was made by Tobe Hooper for less than $300,000, it became one of the most influential horror films of the 1970s while John Carpenter's Halloween (1978), produced on a $320,000 budget, grossed over $80 million worldwide.
But the winners were overshadowed enormously by the losers - and among these were of course the big screen outdoor drive-in - which if I had my way would have a heritage listing slapped on the last remaining screen here to ensure this small slice of pop culture isn't lost to the greed is good cast.
So, if you've been privileged enough to enjoy a taste of what is almost certain to be an extinct beast within 10 years - and can recall some of the more tragic movies they've been forced to dish out - care to share?
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