Chiller: Fall 2000

By Craig Cardimon

As a Chiller attendee for several years now, I've learned to concentrate my efforts on just a few people. Meeting and talking with them, that is, and asking for their autographs.

One of my favorite people is Dave Friedman, affiliated with Something Weird video. He's a director/producer/writer from way back, and a wonderful person to know. He attends only the October Chiller, so if you want to see him, that's the one to attend.

I always buy something from him, or bring something with me, and ask for his autograph. He does not charge for signing, and I get to hear a film industry anecdote to boot! You can't ask for more than that.

I also met Tina Krause, who appeared in many WAVE video productions until receiving her SAG card. She now does her own thing. I bought an 8x10 from her and got her autograph. She did not charge for signing. I spent a few precious moments chatting with her. In addition to her striking good looks, she is also warm, friendly, and personable. A winning combination. Very easy to talk with.

Finally, I met Misty Mundae, who is affiliated with Factory 2000. I saw her across the room at a convention a few years back, and said to myself, "That is one cute chick." She still is. After seeing she was indeed there, I bought an issue of Draculina that had her name listed on its cover. I handed it her, saying I didn't know where she was in the magazine, but would she please sign it. She did so, more than once, no less! I asked her what she charged for signing, but she shook her head no, with a beautiful smile. She is quite pretty, approachable, and nice to talk with.

I left the convention with paperwork for joining the fan clubs for both Tina Krause and Misty Mundae. It's affordable and, besides, life is short. I would have joined Dave Friedman's fan club two years ago, but he doesn't have one.

The upside was, as usual, meeting the people you want to. I love seeing my "regulars." They are starting to remember me, too! That's cool.

The two downsides were the huge crowds and the many cigarette smokers. The surging mass of attendees means Chiller Theatre is alive and well. The fact that the vast majority seemed to be smoking, well, maybe the crowd isn't quite as healthy, but their enthusiasm was unmistakable.

I look forward to the spring Chiller eagerly. I've got another Draculina to ask Misty Mundae to sign.