Women have always been huge part of horror films and the horror universe in general, but sometimes female fans of the genre are not as well represented as the rest of us men. Don't be fooled though, there are swarms of girls who love horror just as much, if not more than, the next dude in a Dawn of the Dead t-shirt and we here at OMGHorror want to pay tribute to all the females out there who live for scary movies. Join us in the first edition of Girls Who Love Horror where we talk with certified horror fiend and actress Lissa Slasher.
LIssa: I grew up watching Dracula with Bela Lugosi. We also watched a lot of Kung-fu and Columbo.. which in retrospect is a pretty odd combination.
Speaking of influential horror films, what are some of your favorites?
Dracula with Bela Lugosi, also Dead Alive, Nightmare on Elm Street, and The Shining
What is it that draws you to the horror genre?
My Soul! (laughs). Honestly I have no idea but I've been attracted to it ever since I can remember.
Zombies or Vampires?
I must say, I'm capable of being a pretty mean zombie since I've polished the fine art of twitching and growling, but in my heart I'm still more about vampires. Aren't all the ladies? There is a dark and erotic quality about them that women find irresistible. Actually, I have yet to play a traditional vampire role. You would think that I would be flooded with offers being so fair skinned and half Hungarian. Damn it, what the hell is wrong with you people? (laughs)
It's been said that there is a connection between horror and the sensation of fear to being sexually aroused. Do you think there's any truth to this?
So that's why I'm always aroused (laughs). Just kidding... Yes, I definitely think there is a connection and it goes for both sexes. Both fear and sexuality stimulate people each in their own way. But I also think the fantasy aspect of it is a big part of the intrigue. The viewer has the chance to indulge their curiosity without the risk of reality. It allows them to feel the titillation of the hair standing up on the back of the neck. Did I just say titillation?
You've starred in a number of cult films such as Transmorphers and Dracula's Curse and Son of Sam. Do you have a particular favorite film you've been in?
I've played some interesting roles. Doing those films gave me the opportunity to completely submerge myself into some amazing characters. Unfortunately I haven't seen the finished product as many of the films I've been in haven't been released. There are five right now that I can't wait to see: Psychosomatika, Live Evil, Diary of a Serial Killer, and Death Racers which I'm told will be premiering on the Sci-Fi Channel this September.
Could you tell us any funny or interesting stories from behind the scenes of the set of a movie you've been in?
I'm not really one of those people who likes to kiss and tell especially about things that go on behind the scenes. Generally, my personality on the set is to remain drama-less. I like to keep things light and fun but I also understand that not everybody works that way. There is a wide spectrum of processes that directors and actors must to do in order to deliver a good performance and everybody does it in their own way. I prefer working with the mature actors and directors because I've found that their performances seem to come from a common, comfortable place. But I also believe that whatever it takes to get you there is cool as long as you get there.
If you could play any part in either an upcoming sequel to a favorite film of yours or a remake of a classic, what part would you play and why?
If I could cast myself in any upcoming film, I'd love to take part in the Kurt Cobain project that's in development with Paramount being produced by Courtney Love. My ideal Horror role? Well who wouldn't jump at the chance to play Nancy in the remake of Nightmare on Elm Street? That is of course if Robert Englund is attached. I understand he is also directinga film called The Vij, that I'd also love be a part of. I really admire his work and I can honestly say that he is the only man in horror that ever successfully terrified me. There are a lot of amazing directors I'd die to work with who never disappoint you (or at least me) like Quentin Tarantino, Tim Burton and M. Night Shyamalan. I also hear there is also a sequel to Spider Baby in the works that I'm hoping will include Sid Haig because I think he was crucial to the original. I wouldn't mind having the chance to work with him either--I think he's super talented.
We've heard from girls we know that sometimes people will treat you differently for being into horror movies. Sometimes they either don't take you seriously as a genuine fan of the genre or think that something is wrong with you (usually from non-horror fans). Have you ever encountered this?
Funny you should mention that. I actually dealt with that situation the other day. I can accept the non-horror fans that don't understand the attraction to horror. But it's really lame when I see horror hierarchy. When horror fans and filmmakers bicker with one another over petty stuff. I just don't get it when people in the same community let their egos dictate how they react to one another's work and things like who has the biggest budget. Geez, what did you think I was going to say? Why don't we all just get along? Wow, I sound like a hippie.
Are there any upcoming projects you're involved in that you'd like to let everyone reading this know about?
At the moment I'm shooting film called Crustaceans. I've got several things in development. I can't say too much about them yet but I promise you will be seeing a lot more of me.
Comments
Crustaceans huh? Damn, I hate crabs! Solid interview though - And I'm pretty certain an affinity for horror films stems from a general interest, irrespective of gender. I know my own sister is as big a horror fan as myself, so they're definitely out there. Rock on Lissa!
Nice idea and good interview. It'll be cool to meet different girls from the horror community. Lissa seems cool. I'll keep an eye out for her in the movies she mentions being in.
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