Michael S. Rodriguez lends his many talents to give fans more of what they want in the new anthology “Last American Horror Show: Vol II”.
Prolific filmmaker Michael S. Rodriguez expands his resume by producing, co-writing, co-directing, and acting in Last American Horror Show: Vol II, the much anticipated sequel to 2018’s Last American Horror Show. To celebrate the release of his new anthology film, I chatted with Michael about filming multiple segments, why he loves horror, what’s up next, and more!
Morbidly Beautiful: You had several additions in The Last American Horror Show Part 2. What inspired your segments?
Michael S. Rodriguez: I’d have to say a little bit of everything. From the crazy Corman rip-offs of Star Wars to the interesting unsolved mythos of Jack The Ripper, I feel this sequel takes an eclectic turn for the better with diverse storytelling and execution. Pardon the pun!
Morbidly Beautiful: What were some of the challenges of filming more than one segment?
Michael S. Rodriguez: This time around, I felt a bit seasoned when challenges came up, but a majority of the time it’s the same challenges we all face in the independent world. That would be budget and scheduling. Overall I felt every segment I contributed was a learning experience and a wonderful opportunity to display my range with subgenres.
Morbidly Beautiful: What was your favorite scene to shoot?
Michael S. Rodriguez: I’d have to say making the miniatures and creating outer space for the opening segment of Terror at Station 13. It made me feel eight years old all over again.
Morbidly Beautiful: You’re no stranger to horror. What draws you back to the genre?
Michael S. Rodriguez: It’s like riding a roller coaster with no idea what loop or turn is next. I think no other genres do it better than horror and suspense. I’ve dabbled in Pulp Crime stories and found an audience there, but horror will always be home for me.
Morbidly Beautiful: What made you want to be a filmmaker?
Michael S. Rodriguez: Believe it or not, a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood when I was eight. My Grandparents took me there on vacation and I was blown away by the illusion of making movies. It’s stuck with me ever since.
Morbidly Beautiful: What’s up next for you?
Michael S. Rodriguez: I have lots of irons in the fire as far as acting, producing, writing, and of course directing. So to start, we are looking at Dead Community Guild starring Eric Roberts, releasing this year. That’s a Super 8mm feature film I produced. Realm of Shadows and The Dead Rose which I have roles in opposite Eric Roberts and Mel Novak. Last but not least, I’m directing and have co-written my current project titled Film Fiend starring Sally Kirkland, Sparkle Soojian, Felissa Rose, and many more.
Morbidly Beautiful: One last question for you today. What’s your favorite scary movie?
Michael S. Rodriguez: The Original Dawn of the Dead still scares me to this day. George A Romero was one of the Greatest Masters of Fear, period.
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