Why So Blu?

Robert Englund and his ‘Hollywood Monster’

Horror films never really did much for me.  The Friday the 13^th franchise used to scare the bejeezus out of me when I was a kid, but the older I got, the more bored I got with those films.  I never did see the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre in its entirety and the more recent Drag Me To Hell was anything but entertaining.  However, there was one certain film that made an impression on me; Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street.  I think the reason why was because Freddy Krueger had such a personality.  Sure he was killing people in twenty ways of wonderful creativity, but this guy had pinache! 

As well all know, the dermatology-challenged mad man was portrayed by none other than Robert Englund.  While Englund is best known for playing Freddy in the Elm Street series, he also has quite the lengthy resumé both in front of and behind the camera, and you can read all about it in his recently released autobiography, Hollywood Monster: A Walk Down Elm Street with the Man of Your Dreams.  Sure it’s probably the longest subtitle you’ll ever come across, but its length is rivaled by the list of Hollywood’s who’s who when it comes Englund’s co-stars from projects past and present.  The part-time surfer/full-time actor has always been a go-getter and his occupational accomplishments have been nothing to laugh at (okay, aside from Freddy’s occasional one-liners).  Take it from me when I say Englund’s life story is a magnetically interesting and wildly fun read. 

Diving into Hollywood Monster reveals a look into Englund’s California childhood, his behind-the-scenes experiences and his spark for acting.  From broken relationships to a wild night with nuns to his time donning the infamous razor glove, this autobiography covers the little known through the widely popular, all surrounding the life and times of the classically trained actor.  You’ll even find flattering introductions by horror masterminds Wes Craven and Tobe Hooper (Director; original Texas Chainsaw Massacre).  Mark Hamill is quoted regarding his thoughts on the book, “Monstrously entertaining!  Robert proves as gifted and versatile on the page as on the screen.  Irreverent, uproarious, revealing!”  Hey, if it’s good enough for a Jedi Knight, you can damn well bet your lightsaber it’s good enough for me!  

 Bring home a “Monster” today!