513 : Book Club of Blood - Son of Celluloid

In Episode 513, Ryan and Jose are joined by David Blair for another Book Club of Blood. This time, we cover "Son of Celluloid". 

This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff.  This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.

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Book Club of Blood Discussion:

• Books. Of Blood Vol. 3 | Son of Celluloid

 

Show Notes

• Eclipse Graphic Novel adaptation
• Les Edwards' Site
• Son Of Celluloid on Revelations & early attempt at Film Adaptation

 

Feedback / Questions

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Coming Next

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• Interviews and news
• Book Club of Blood: Rawhead Rex

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AI Summary

 

The group began transitioning into an in-depth analysis of Clive Barker's "Son of Celluloid," exploring its narrative structure, themes, and character development. They examined various aspects of the story,

including its cinematic references, character motivations, and the decline of traditional movie

theaters, while sharing personal memories of past theater experiences. The discussion concluded

with an exploration of the story's themes of illusions and reality, monster encounters, and the

challenges of adapting Barker's work into different media formats.

 

 They then began analyzing Clive Barker's "Son of Celluloid,"

discussing its narrative structure divided into three acts and its themes of ambition and cancer as

metaphors. The story follows Barbario, a fugitive criminal who hides in an old movie theater and

watches a Fellini film while bleeding to death, unaware that his cancer is the result of his dangerous

lifestyle. The group noted that while the story contains dated references to Marilyn Monroe and John

Wayne, it effectively captures the nostalgia of old movie theaters and the magic of cinema.

 

 

The group discussed Clive Barker's story about a theater that became haunted after changing from a

place of worship to a cinema, with José explaining how the building accumulated decades of

audience emotions and became a "cathedral of collective dreams." They explored the character

development of Birdie, the ticket lady who is bored and self-conscious about her weight, and how

her intelligence becomes her strength when facing the antagonist. The conversation also touched on

the decline of cinema attendance and the specific details of the Tron Ares movie, including Bruce

Boxleitner's decision not to reprise his role as Tron.

 

Memories of Classic Movie Theaters

The group discussed their memories of old movie theaters, including the smell of cigarettes and

popcorn, torn seats, and pre-movie slides advertising local businesses. They shared their first movie

theater experiences, with Ryan remembering "Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger" and Blair recalling

"Star Wars" at a drive-in. José shared his fond memories of watching "E.T." as a child and mentioned

the original darker treatment for the film. The conversation then shifted to Ricky's investigation of

Lindy Lee's boyfriend in the bathroom, where he unexpectedly finds himself in a Western-themed

setting.

Monster's Failed Illusion Tactics

The group discussed the story's themes of illusions manifesting in reality, particularly focusing on a

scene where a monster creates a John Wayne illusion to threaten characters. They analyzed how

the monster's aggressive approach failed when Ricky punched the illusion, leading to its dissolution.

The discussion highlighted Ricky's character contrast with Birdie's correct choices, and noted that

the monster would likely try a different tactic after this failed attempt at intimidation.

Horror at the Movie Theater

The group discussed a horror story involving a movie theater, where Birdie discovers a bloody scene

and an unconscious man, while Lindy Lee disappears after seeing a bunny. Birdie attempts to call for

help but is thwarted by a mysterious voice that locks the doors, forcing her to retrieve keys from

Ricky. Despite her initial fear, Birdie wisely decides to seek help rather than stay trapped, and she

eventually finds the body of a victim whose eyes have been violently removed.

Marilyn Monster Seduction Analysis

The group discussed a scene from a graphic novel where a monster in the form of Marilyn Monroe

seduces Ricky, leading to his death. They analyzed the visual and narrative elements, including the

use of flickering lights to create the illusion and the monster's need for attention. The conversation

touched on themes of immortality through pop culture icons and Ricky's foolish decision to engage

with the monster despite the danger. They also briefly mentioned Birdie's attempt to defend herself

with a crowbar.

Psychic Monster Comic Adaptation

The group discussed the comic adaptation of a story involving a monster that feeds on psychic

energy from moviegoers. They analyzed key plot points, including Birdie's armed defense against

attackers, her escape attempt through a theater fire exit, and her confrontation with the monster.

José highlighted the monster's transformation and its connection to the character Barbario, while

Ryan and Blair noted the story's exploration of themes like ambition, waste, and the impact of

movies on people's lives. The discus

Adapting 'Son of Celluloid

The group discussed Clive Barker's "Son of Celluloid," focusing on its themes of body horror,

celebrity worship, and the dangers of spectatorship. They explored the challenges of adapting the

story into a film, particularly regarding the use of real celebrities' likenesses. José shared insights

from Barker's early attempts to pitch the story to studios and the eventual difficulties in securing

funding. The conversation also touched on the graphic novel adaptation by Steve Niles and Les

Edwards, highlighting its painted artwork and the availability of original pages for sale. The group

agreed to explore the story further in their next episode, which will focus on "Rawhead Rex."