Smoke and Mirrors: The Story of Tom Savini: A Must Watch
Smoke and Mirrors(the third documentary I’ve written about) covers Tom Savini from his childhood, his time in Vietnam, to his career as a Hollywood special effects genius. Tom discusses at length his highs and lows in life, his career, and why he won’t eat duck. What follows is a brief overview-not that any horror fan would need a reason to watch this incredible documentary!
Early Life
Tom was born in Pennsylvania, and grew up with much older siblings. Living in a poor household, Tom’s mother always made sure he had the money for the movies. Tom would make up the neighborhood kids as Hollywood monsters-sometimes to the consternation of their parents.
The Military
Photo credit: Tom Savini/Shudder
Tom served during Vietnam as a combat photographer. His pictures of the gruesome(body parts, bodies, etc.) gave Tom a rare perspective later in life as an effects specialist. Tom also brings up the effects of the war on his ability to feel.
The Theater
Tom worked as the theater director for his local theaters, doing makeup and acting in plays. After a scholarship, Tom left to pursue his career on film.
First Film
Tom’s first film effect was for George Romero’s vampire flick, Martin. From there, Tom has never looked back.
The Modern Horror Movement
Tom is credited with kickstarting the splatter movement, from Dawn of the Dead, Friday the 13th, to his remake of Night of the Living Dead, Tom’s skill with realistic effects have thrilled and frightened many an audience. And he did it with shoestring budgets most of the time.
Tom also put family first, becoming a single father to his daughter. Makes his star even bigger in my movie firmament.
Actor
As an accomplished swordsman and stuntman, Tom has spent a lot of time in front of the camera as well. His most famous role being Sex Machine in Tarantino’s From Dusk Till Dawn. Those whip effects were real, y’all.
Even Tom Savini is a collector/fanboy
Photo credit: Tom Savini/Shudder
The School
Tom has a school that teaches special effects in Pennsylvania. Its graduates are already making names for themselves on reality TV and in film.
See This Documentary!
Even if you don’t know Tom Savini’s name, you know his work. The iconic original Friday the 13th to Fluffy in Creepshow, to his role in as Mr. Callahan in The Perks of Being a Wallflower, your movie viewing has been affected in one way or another.
Tom as Mr. Callahan.
Photo credit: Shudder
This isn’t a how-to, but it is a glimpse of the man and his career. Smoke and Mirrors is on my must watch, repeat watch list.
Smoke and Mirrors: The Story of Tom Savini is available on Shudder and Amazon Prime.
