When he’s not busy churning out tunes on esteemed D&B labels such as Hospital, New Playaz, and his own Grindhou5e Audio imprint, you can bet T-Dot native NC-17 (Peter Aldan) is kicking it in his lux home theater enjoying his favorite spine-tingling films. Bassrush nabbed an exclusive look into his personal collection just in time for Halloween.
What sparked your interest in collecting films and memorabilia?
I’ve been a fan of cinema from a very early age. It started with laserdiscs in the early ‘90s, but now I collect all sorts of film memorabilia. My specialties are laserdiscs, DVDs, Blu-rays, 35mm film prints, and posters.
What are some of the most prized pieces in your collection?
There are a few. I have a Revenge of the Jedi poster, which was later changed to Return of the Jedi. That’s mega rare; it’s been featured on a few shows from other collectors and is very sought after by Star Wars fans. I have a two-disc Zombie and Gates of Hell Japanese laserdisc, which is considered to be one of the most rare laserdiscs in the world. I paid an arm and a leg for it and was after it for years! I get offers from people wanting to buy that disc all the time. I have a UK original quad of Clockwork Orange’s first run, super rare and pricey.
Then from my 35mm prints I have an original Zombie 35mm archival print—who knows how many [of those] are around—and a 35mm print of Burial Ground. To my knowledge I am one of the only people to have one still in working condition. These are super rare, as most 35mm features films are pretty much nonexistent.
Wow, what a massive collection. About how many films would you say you own?
I have close to 5,000 titles on laserdisc, VHS, DVD, Blu-ray and 35mm.
Dawn of the Dead (1978)
I consider Dawn of the Dead—George Romero’s terrifying sequel to Night of the Living Dead—to be one of the very best horror films of all time; an absolute epic. At first glance it can be seen as a standard zombie horror film, but at heart Dawn of the Dead is a satirical look at society and consumerism. It captures the spirit of its era with a message that resonates today. Dawn of the Dead is brutally violent with extreme gore but also funny at times. That contrast of different tones is what makes it such a brilliant film.
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist is the scariest film ever made. The sheer terror that is displayed on screen has stuck with me all my life. From the opening credits you know that The Exorcist is something really special and creepy. William Friedkin’s direction is marvelous as he sets the perfect tone for a slow build. The performances are Oscar caliber, the score is haunting, and the cinematography is masterful. At heart, The Exorcist is a time old story between the battle of good and evil, but it also explores the mysteries of faith and religion. This is a carefully crafted piece that will have you asking questions way after you watch it. I consider it the best horror movie ever made and one of the best films of all time.
Zombie (1979)
Meant to be the unofficial sequel to Dawn of the Dead, this Italian zombie picture—also known as Flesh Eating Zombies—is a gross, campy and atmospheric rollercoaster directed by the godfather of Italian gore Lucio Fulci. As silly as Zombie is there are so many brilliant elements to it. Countless filmmakers have paid homage to it and to this day it’s considered one of the best Italian horror films of all time. Technically it’s a masterpiece, as it’s visually stunning to look at. It’s not going to change people’s lives but it sure is a fun journey–one of my very favorites.
It’s Alive (1974)
One of my go-to horror films. I consider Larry Cohen one of the unsung heroes of the horror genre who never really got his respect apart from very small circles. It’s Alive is a campy but very effective horror film, which pays homage to the genre pictures of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Like all vintage Cohen it’s off the wall, but it still takes a very serious tone and is surprisingly scary at times. A real a gem of a film that I highly recommend.
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)
Henry is a very disturbing piece of cinema but an essential film that everyone who is a fan of the genre should watch. In an age of slasher films glorifying murder, this shows the viewer how truly disturbing murder is. Michael Rooker is absolutely chilling in it, and its documentary style of filmmaking gives it that extra edge of realism. Henry is very disturbing and not easy viewing, but it is essential.