#universal classics

THE WOLF MAN (1941)

...images from the lost continent of cult films, b-movies and celluloid dreamscapes

Locations from Classic Universal horror films

Yes, it's a great place to live - apart from the screams, the bloodshed and the astronomical energy bills...

THE MUMMY (1932)

Universal Classics like E.T. and Back to the Future coming to Zen Studios’ Pinball Platforms

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Did you know…

Two actors portrayed the famous Creature character from The Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954)? For all sequences taking place on-land, stuntman Ben Chapman served as the man in the Gill-man costume. For all sequences taking place underwater, champion swimmer Ricou Browning served the role.

Conceptualized and designed by Millicent Patrick with credit going to legendary make-up artist Bud Westmore, the Creature’s costume featured foam rubber construction with a latex skin. Due to the detailed design, both Chapman and Browning had their own unique challenges with the costume. With his looming 6’5” frame, Chapman had trouble seeing out of the Creature’s well-crafted mask, thus making it difficult to coordinate movement for action sequences. Julie Adams, lead actress from the film, even recalled a time when Chapman was carrying her and he inadvertently bumped her into a plaster rock, skinning her head.

Browning on the other hand, had the difficult task of bringing the Creature to life underwater by swimming with the costume. To provide a better sense of movement and appearance, Patrick and Westmore lightened the texture and color of Browning’s costume for his action sequences. The one major setback with Browning’s costume was the lack of a direct air supply, however. For certain prolonged takes, director Jack Arnold required Browning to hold his breath for up to four or five minutes.