Forrest J. Ackerman

As of this writing, Forrest J. Ackerman, otherwise lovingly known to all he touched as Uncle Forry, is resting at home in what appears to be his final hour. Nov. 22, 2008, if he survives it, will mark his 92nd year on this planet. Being the editor of the celebrated Famous Monsters Of Filmland magazine from years past, he has been the honorary historian and caretaker of films in the Classic Horror, Sci-Fi and B-Movie genres.

In our youth, along with Mad Magazine, Famous Monsters was required reading for my generation in our family. Every issue was revered and eagerly anticipated.

I had a chance to visit his Hollywood home and museum, which was known as the “Ackermansion.” He was a lively and accommodating host with many wonderful stories to tell. Every room in his home was filled with memorabilia, which included props from countless films.

Metropolis

Metropolis (1927) is a monumental silent film from famed German director, Fritz Lang. Uncle Forry professed it to be his favorite movie of all time. There was a room in his home specifically dedicated to it, and he said that he had seen it over 100 times. He was often sought out because of his authority on its history. KINO Video has released the most complete and beautifully restored version of the silent Sci-Fi film to date. If you only see one silent film in your lifetime, it should be Metropolis.

I also recommend looking Forrest J. Ackerman up at imdb.com for movies where he has appeared as an actor, and, more importantly, as himself in many documentaries. The Sci-Fi Boys (2006) is a fantastic documentary which features Forrest J. Ackerman, Ray Harryhausen and Ray Bradbury, to name a few.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience.  Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.