The work of filmmaker Don Dohler is, on the surface, pretty forgettable for anyone whose expectations have been framed by watching regular studio movies. But if you’ve ever tried your hand at movie making in any capacity, or just have an open heart to fan made films Dohler emerges as a fascinating character who deserves more recognition than he ‘s received in an industry known for hyping whatever comes along that has blood, boobs and beasts in it.
After a near death experience a young Dohler decided to do what he’d always dreamed of doing. The resultant DIY film magazine, titled Cinemagic, became a beacon for dozens of now industry professionals around the world showcasing basic filmmaking info and providing a format for the sharing of special effects secrets long before computers became part of the movie making mix.
And as the magazine became more successful Dohler decided to try his hand at movie making. The result, Alien Factor, won widespread distribution, riding the coattails of the new interest in science fiction created by Star Wars. That success meant Dohler could make another movie, and another, and another. Amazingly, all nine of his no budget made for the love of it features found distribution in a crowded field and the fanbase that built up around him made him a cult hero for a new generation. It couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy is what you’ll b thinking after watching this.
The genius of BBB is the way it showcases the tensions of making art, doing business and living life. Rather than paint Dohler as a saint it shows him struggling with the realities of having to include exploitation elements he found increasingly noxious in his work in order to get distribution. It also shows him as a concerned family man who doted on his wife, actively sought to involve his kids in his passions and even spoke of giving it up unless they could be a part. Perhaps most touching is Dohlers relationship with his mentally handicapped elderly sister that he worked so hard to maintain. The film even covers Dohlers diagnosis and fight to overcome the cancer that claimed him just after the shooting on Blood Boobs and Beast was concluded.
Fangoria just ran a great story on a charity run by Dohler’s former partner Joe Ripple who had taken over directorial reigns when Don moved into producing. The links below can tell you how to get involved. It’s a worthwhile cause. In an industry where people make movies for all the wrong reasons these two guys made a career out of doing what they loved and letting that be the best reward. You can also get in touch these ways."Scares That Care!" 18530 Falls Road Hampstead, MD., 21074 or Joe Ripple: Founder "Scares That Care!" 443-392-8207
Besides the dynamite doc you also get Dohler’s twonky Night Beast a low to the ground creature feature reminsicent of CHUD, Monster In A Closet and other man in a suit pics.
GREAT documentary, right up there with ANVIL!
I also highly reccomend ZOMBIE GIRL: THE MOVIE, a doc about a 12 year old girl who made her own feature length zombie flick. Review coming soon from yours truly.