Film Alchemy

American filmmaker Ted V. Mikels holds a unique position as one of the most unconventional directors of exploitation cinema. Famous for his eccentric home life (he once lived with a harem in a castle with secret passage-ways) and promotional gimmicks (he was known for having nurses and ambulances on hand to assist 'scared-to-death' movie-goers), Mikels is considered a pioneering master of low-budget movie making. This unique work examines each of Mikels' 19 major film or video productions, beginning with his first feature Strike Me Deadly (1959). Each entry includes a full list of cast and crew credits, along with a plot synopsis and, frequently, behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Also included are a complete filmography, an overview of Ted V. Mikels memorabilia, and a transcript of the author's personal interview with Mikels.