Horror-Rama 2014

Toronto's newest fan convention dedicated to horror, and counter-culture film, has come and gone. Horror-Rama, which took place on November 1 & 2, was sponsored by Suspect Video and Fangoria magazine (with major support from Anchor Bay Canada). By all accounts, the show was a success, and they plan to have a follow-up con next year.

HWA selfie with actress/writer Barbie Wilde

I was there as part of the Ontario Chapter of the Horror Writers Association, and there were about twenty vendors overall. As often is the case, I ended up spending way more money than I made selling books; when I go to conventions (especially one dedicated to horror!), the fan in me still wins out. I picked up some cool Canadian film ephemera from Mike at The Hollywood Canteen, which I'll post at a later date.

Lynne Griffen, recreating her scene from Black Christmas

The fifteen or so special guests included actors and filmmakers, the most notable of whom was special effects make-up guru Tom Savini. Unfortunately, Barbara Steele had to cancel her appearance, yet there were a number of Canadian talents in attendance as well. I had a great time meeting and chatting with Lynne Griffin (Black Christmas, Curtains) and Lesleh Donaldson (Funeral Home, Happy Birthday to Me), two actresses who had roles in some of the most iconic Canadian horror films of the '70s and '80s (and are still working today).

For 2015, the Horror-Rama team will hold the convention at the same location (99 Sudbury), but expand into other parts of the facility in the anticipation of having more guests and bigger crowds. Here are a few more pictures from Horror-Rama 2014:

With writer/director Patrick McBrearty and actress Alys Crocker (The Door)

With George Mihalka, the director of My Bloody Valentine (1981)

With special make-up effects guru Tom Savini

Aside from a couple of zombies, there wasn't much cosplay

For many more photos, check out my Facebook author page!