An evening with Ib Melchior

Ib Melchior at work on his computer. Please note that you are not being shown Cinemagic in this photograph.

In July, I received an e-mail from Ib Melchior. He received his copy of G-FAN #88, in which my review of his book Melchior A La Carte appears. It turns out that Ib was very impressed with my review and invited me to stay over at his house whenever I was in Los Angeles. I was excited by the invitation and kept it in mind for my next trip to L.A.

A dragon-like creature hangs from Ib Melchior's office ceiling. Could this creature be Reptilicus?

My trip came in late September. I asked Ib if I could stay over on the night of the 29th, and he agreed. As I expected, Ib was an incredibly gracious host and told many stories about his film and television career. At the age of 92, he continues to write books at a pace that this 28-year-old couldn't even begin to fathom.

One of Ib Melchior's many novels alongside his copy of Reptilicus. Can you spot my socks?

I slept in his guest room, which contained a TV set with an 82" screen. He showed me how to work the remote while the "new" ECW played in the background on SyFy (which prompted Ib to quip that while wrestling may be fiction, there's not a lot of science to it). That evening, on this amazing home theater system, I watched Taxi Driver on TCM and Patton the next morning on AMC. All while a poster for Planet of the Vampires loomed over me.

Ib Melchior shows Brett his manuscript for Six Cult Films from the Sixties.

While there were many great aspects of my overnight stay at Ib Melchior's, I'd have to say that the most interesting of all was the sneak peek I had of his new book, Six Cult Films from the Sixties. The upcoming tome is a comprehensive look at Ib's sci-fi film career, illustrated by rare photographs, concept art, and assorted goodies. The wealth of information in this book was astounding, and I can't wait for it to be released. If you're a fan of The Angry Red Planet, Reptilicus, Journey to the Seventh Planet, The Time Travelers, Robinson Crusoe on Mars, and Planet of the Vampires, or even if you're a movie fan who loves to learn about the blood, sweat, and tears that go into filmmaking, you'll want to pick this book up. As soon as I learn more about the book's release, I'll be sure to post about it here.

I have to extend my sincerest thanks to Ib and Cleo Melchior for being excellent hosts. I was truly touched by the interest they showed in me, and I can't thank them enough for their hospitality.