This book chronicles the American horror film genre in its development of remakes from the 1930s into the 21st century. Gus Van Sant's 1998 remake of Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho (1960) is investigated as the watershed moment when the genre opened its doors to the possibility that any horror movie--classic, modern, B-movie, and more--might be remade for contemporary audiences.

Staple horror franchises--Halloween (1978), Friday the 13th (1980), and A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)--are highlighted along with their remake counterparts in order to illustrate how the genre has embraced a phenomenon of remake productions and what the future of horror holds for American cinema. More than 25 original films, their remakes, and the movies they influenced are presented in detailed discussions throughout the text.

“well-structured.... He obviously understands his subject matter, and is therefore clear, direct and explicit in his manner of presentation”—Scarlet; “an incisive, in-depth exploration...excellent interviews...a valuable book”—Destructive Music.

James Francis, Jr., teaches English literature, composition, and technical writing at Texas A&M University, and is an internationally-published portrait, fashion and art photographer. He lives in College Station, Texas.