PopHorror Let's Get Scared
So far, Women in Horror Month has been an amazing experience. I’ve talked with some talented ladies, reviewed quite a few female-driven films, and have learned a lot about what makes these women such huge horror fantaics. I’m not the only one who feels strongly about this month, though. Many other female journalists love it as well, including the lovely Patti Pauley. We talked with Patti about her love for horror, how she got involved with iHorror, her career, and what this month means to her.
PopHorror – Thanks for taking the time to talk with us, Patti! How old were you when you first fell in love with horror and what movie did it for you?
Patti Pauley – Well, it was definitely before the age of 5! I come from a family of horror nuts and they had no issues with me sitting in with them during a horror movie. We watched a lot of the old universal monster movies together. Bride of Frankenstein was my first introduction to the series and I guess I was just a strange child because I was very much into these black and white films. Shortly after, my dad let me watch Halloween and I was totally enthralled with this film. I had never seen anything like it, which led me to discover the horror section at the video store. I don’t think I ever looked at any other genres during the family trips to rent VHS tapes (laughs).
PopHorror – I love that your parents let you watch horror at a young age – so did mine! There’s definitely no other genre quite like it. How long have you been writing for the horror industry?
Patti Pauley – I’ve been doing this for 3 years – and then hopefully another 30. As long as people dig it, I’ll keep doing it.
PopHorror – That’s a great way to look at it! You write for iHorror, one of the most popular horror sites around. How did you get involved with that?
Patti Pauley – By total accident! (laughs) A friend notified me that they were looking for writers, knowing what a huge horror nut I am. I kinda laughed at her. I had zero experience and didn’t know what the hell I was doing (laughs). But I figured, “What the heck, I’ll do it for shits and giggles.” Turns out the CEO (Anthony Pernicka) really liked what I had sent him and I was immediately installed as part of the team. I was like, “Woah! Ok, this is rad.” I haven’t looked back since.
PopHorror – I guess they know talent when they see it! Above all, what’s your favorite topic to write about when it comes to horror?
Patti Pauley – Oh man. Anything retro. I love writing about ’70s and ’80s horror, retro horror toys, TV, and video games. It’s the most fun.
PopHorror – Hell, yes! Those were the good ol’ days. Have you done any interviews, and if so, who has been your favorite so far?
Patti Pauley – I’ve done quite a few interviews, and have been blessed to have the chance to speak with some really big names. Hands down, my favorite was Michael Rooker. He’s the most welcoming and all around fun guy to talk to. He really loves his fans and the industry. I was scheduled to interview him at Wizard World in 2015 and ran into him at the media party the night before. He was just hanging out in a room with almost no one around. I just went in there and said hello, and we ending up shooting the shit over a cocktail. It was pretty much the coolest thing ever!
PopHorror – That’s freaking amazing! I’ve always heard good things about Michael Rooker, so I’m glad to hear that you had a cool experience with him. Do you plan to go to any cons this year?
Patti Pauley – Oh, yes. I’m looking at you Monsterpallooza and Texas Frightmare!
PopHorror – Those are both fantastic! I can’t wait to see hear about your experience at them. Which horror films are you looking forward to this year?
Patti Pauley – Well, I was looking forward to another Friday the 13th! Grumble. However, I’m super excited for Kong: Skull Island, and Alien: Covenant.
PopHorror – Me, too! They both look epic and have great casting. In honor of Women in Horror Month, who is your favorite female villain?
PopHorror – They both kickass and Regan counts because she was pretty fucked up, even if under the influence. Which female in horror do you look up to or admire the most?
Patti Pauley – Oh, I love Cassandra Peterson and Dee Wallace. Both are just the sweetest ladies and love this industry. They have really paved the way for many women in the business. They’re both beautiful and inspiring.
PopHorror – Yes, they are. I couldn’t agree more.!Do you recommend any horror movies that are directed by a woman?
Patti Pauley – The Love Witch written and directed by Anna Biller. Check it out if you haven’t!
PopHorror – I have and I absolutely loved it! Most importantly, what does Women in Horror Month mean to you?
Patti Pauley – Honestly, it means so much to me in this male-dominated industry. It’s so wonderful to see so many women now, more than ever, in all areas of the business kicking so much ass. I believe it’s important to shine a light on those women and films that may have not been seen otherwise, and it’s truly a beautiful thing. To even be mentioned alongside some really big names in this business is beyond anything I ever imagined. It’s like a Keanu Reeves “Woah!” moment! (laughs)
