Clive Barker's A-Z of Horror

Clive Barker looks into the story of Ed Gein, a farmer from Wisconsin who turned serial killer and whose story was the inspiration behind three films, PSYCHO, THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE, and, THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS. Directors and some of the stars of the films talk about the factual basis for events or scenes in the films.

Clive Barker looks at the story of the making of the film THE EXORCIST and the reactions to the film and its subject matter. Includes comments from the actresses Ellen Burstyn and Mercedes McCambridge, and the producer William Friedkin. He also considers some of the low-budget B horror movies and directors John Landis and Joe Dante talk about some of the gimmicks, scenes and absurd titles they worked on and remember. The programme also explores the nimd and madness of 18th century sculptor Franz Xavier Messerschmidt and the 48 busts he sculpted representing his own head in various transformations. Barker also looks at the work of writer Shirley Jackson and the film THE HAUNTING which was based on her novel.

The third of Clive Barker's guides through the A-Z of Horror. This edition looks at the cult classic film NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, plus a visit to the home of film director Roger Corman, and the connection between English castles and American novelist Edgar Allan Poe. Programme also traces the use of blood to provoke chills and atmosphere.

Documentary exploration of the macabre and the horrific. Director John Carpenter explains how that night can turn the serenity of suburban streets into a scene of fear and carnage. Plus techno-horror movies in Japan and the subversive power of evil children in horror stories.

Documentary. Clive Barker uncovers the supernatural but very English world of novelist Dennis Wheatley; explores the horrific world of children's fairy tales; and tells the tragic, true story behind the cult film THE CROW.

Clive Barker concludes the series by profiling horror-actress Barbara Steele. He also investigates the world of ROSEMARY'S BABY, and the links between novelist H.P. Lovecraft and a small town in New England.