Shudder has released the trailer and key art for “Cursed Films II” and details around the first two episodes of the five-part documentary series, which explores the myths and legends behind some of Hollywood’s notoriously cursed horror film productions.
In “Cursed Films II,” the myths and legends surrounding five new films are explored: “The Wizard of Oz” (1939), “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968), “Stalker” (1979), “Serpent and the Rainbow” (1988) and “Cannibal Holocaust” (1980). The new season will premiere on Shudder on April 7 with “The Wizard of Oz.”
One of the most beloved films in the history of cinema, “The Wizard of Oz,” is continually trailed by a mysterious darkness that seems at odds with the fanciful images presented on screen. Authors Aljean Harmetz and Stephen Cox discuss Margaret Hamilton’s fiery mishap and address the rumors of drunken Munchkins tearing up the Culver hotel. Special effects designer and famed mythbuster Adam Savage explains how the Tin Man’s makeup nearly killed the actor originally cast in the role. Certified Oz expert Gregg Turkington breaks down the notorious legend of the hanging munchkin, while Lorna Luft sets the record straight on the treatment of her mother, Judy Garland, by the studio behind the production of Oz.
New episodes will roll out weekly, with the second episode premiering on April 14 with “Rosemary’s Baby.” “Rosemary’s Baby” hit theaters in 1968 amid a political and cultural revolution in America. Its young director, Roman Polanski, created one of the most iconic horror films in history, seemingly drawing upon his own dark past in a film that’s strangely connected to several tragic stories, starting with an unexpected death of a composer and leading to one of America’s most notorious true crime cases: The Manson Family murders. Dianne “Snake” Lake recounts her time with the family and its connections to “Rosemary’s Baby,” while photographer Julian Wasser shares his experience photographing Polanski as he explored the crime scene of the murder of his wife, Sharon Tate, and their unborn child.
“Cursed Films II” is written and directed by Jay Cheel, who also serves as executive producer alongside Brian Robertson, Jonas Prupas, and Courtney Dobbins. “Cursed Films II” premieres Thursday, April 7, on Shudder and via the Shudder offering within the AMC+ bundle.
