Famous Monsters of Filmland Magazine Cover

This is the 100th issue of Famous Monsters of Filmland published in 1973. This magazine began in 1958, and it has played a crucial role in celebrating horror and monster movies through iconic cover art, distinctive typography, and fan culture. 

Basil Gogos created many of the monster illustrations (including this cover) that bring a sense of nostalgia, and collectors now seek out the vintage issues for their art and design.  The vibrant cover art pulled many in with the often hand-painted illustrations of iconic monsters. The typography of the magazine is eerie and gothic, providing memorable and recognizable headlines.

Monsters of Filmland featured articles, interviews, and visuals related to horror films. It is a strong example of how design enhances the identity of a publication, specifically to fans of horror. 

3  Sources - Horror Art, Artists, and Fandom

Draper, David. 2018. “Feast Your Eyes: Basil Gogos - NowJersey Digital Magazine - Medium.” Medium, June 18, 2018. https://medium.com/nowjersey-digital-magazine/feast-your-eyes-basil-gogos-c2a70f52bd7a.

Rehak, Bob. 2012. “Materializing Monsters: Aurora Models, Garage Kits and the Object Practices of Horror Fandom.” Journal of Fandom Studies 1 (1): 27–45. https://doi.org/10.1386/jfs.1.1.27_1.

Ritsma, Natasha. 2012. “Lurking in the Shadows: Famous Monsters of Filmland and Its Female Fans.” Journal of Fandom Studies 1 (1): 47–64. https://doi.org/10.1386/jfs.1.1.47_1.