News release
College of the Canyons professor and Santa Clarita resident Sara Caldwell has authored an updated edition of her book, “Splatter Flicks: How to Make Low-Budget Horror Films,” which will be released on Halloween Day everywhere that books are sold.
The book serves as a hands-on guide for aspiring filmmakers looking to turn their passion for horror into professional-quality films on a tight budget, said a news release from the author.
Caldwell teaches courses in the media entertainment arts department at COC, including introduction to cinematography and stop-motion animation. The book walks readers through every stage of the filmmaking process from concept and funding to production, post-production and distribution.
The updated edition of “Splatter Flicks,” published by Encyclopocalypse Publications, includes new interviews and contributions from working professionals across the horror industry, including producers, directors and special effects artists, the release said. Among them is Santa Clarita costume designer Lynn McQuown, who has worked on many local theater and film productions at venues such as the Canyon Theatre Guild and Santa Clarita Shakespeare Festival.
“Santa Clarita has a thriving creative community, and I wanted to provide a resource that demystifies the filmmaking process for students and independent artists alike,” Caldwell said in the release. “Horror is one of the most accessible genres for emerging filmmakers, and this book shows how to channel passion and creativity into films that resonate with audiences.”
