RIP, Julie Adams

With Julie Adams in 2010.

Word has circulated that Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) star Julie Adams has passed away. I had the privilege of meeting her twice at L.A.-area conventions. The first time (in May 2009) wasn't very memorable; it was a just brief encounter. The second time (in April 2010) was much better, as I got to spend quite a bit of time at her table and talk to her about a variety of subjects, most of which had nothing to do with Creature. (Confession time: I'm not a big fan of the movie.) She was enormously friendly, and even though I met a lot of guests at that convention, she essentially tied with Son of Frankenstein's Donnie Dunagan as my favorite. I'll always appreciate the kindness she showed me.

Rest in peace, Ms. Adams.

Monsterpalooza

Meeting Susan Gordon, from Attack of the Puppet People and Tormented.

Last night I returned home from two days at Monsterpalooza, which was held at the Burbank Marriott in (where else?) Burbank, CA. I had a great time meeting the guests and seeing some old friends, like Don Glut. I even ran into a costuming thread volunteer who regularly attends G-FEST. Small world!

Since Dennis Druktenis asked me to review Monsterpalooza for his excellent magazine Scary Monsters, I'll save the majority of my comments for my review. Plus, as the only regular G-FAN contributor in attendance, I'll also need to do a write-up for G-FAN. So I have to keep my powder dry for now. In the meantime, here are some photos from the event.

With Ann Robinson of War of the Worlds (1953). I watched her movie all the time in fourth grade.

Meeting William Schallert, who was a true gentleman.

One of the highlights for me was getting to spend more time with Julie Adams. I spoke to her at length about her acting career.

That's me with Donnie Dunagan, from Son of Frankenstein. He also supplied the voice of Bambi!

Another highlight was meeting Bert I. Gordon, whose '50s sci-fi films have been favorites of mine.