Poverty Row Studios.................

[Scott]

I've been reading recently about those films considered "Poverty Row". Most of you probably know about the early independent studios from the 30's and 40's like Monogram Studios, Republic Studios, and Poverty Row Studios.

It's and interesting part of film history when movies are being made outside the major companies. They made films like NABONGA, WHITE PONGO, DEVIL BAT, THE APE MAN, THE CORPSE VANISHES, VOODOO MAN and many more films and serials. They would be neat films for any collection. I'd like to see a TV marathon of such films.

Anyone here have favorite "poverty row" films that they could post about?

Andrew this might be a neat direction to go with you website. Putting the clips on your website.

[The Burgomaster]

I recommend BELA LUGOSI MEETS A BROOKLYN GORILLA. It's a cheapo film that takes places on an island. It co-stars the comedy team of Duke Mitchell and Sammy Petrillo (who basically ripped off Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis).  Mitchell sings and Petrillo talks in a goofy, squeaky voice and has a haircut like Jerry Lewis.

The "jungle" on the island consists of fake-looking trees, reminiscent of the sets used for GILLIGAN'S ISLAND.

This is a HILARIOUS movie.

You can pick it up on DVD (with surprisingly good picture and sound transfers) for under $6.00.



Post Edited (10-14-03 12:21)

[Scott]

I found out the PRC was Producer Releasing Corp. . Poverty Row Studios may have been just a nickname for the low budget films of the time.