On this day in 1985, “Re-Animator” meddled with the natural order for the first time! 

Loosely based on H.P. Lovecraft’s cl-Ass-Sick tale o’ terror, “Re-Animator” is a freaky Frankenstein fable that marries yuks and yucks in brilliant fashion. “Deadpan” and “Deadman” come together in a monsterpiece of the genre that shocks and amuses in equal amounts. Using magic show-like effects, it’s a showcase of the undying charm of practical F/X. With an eXXXceptionally odd performance, Jeffrey Combs established himself as an icon of creep culture. Barbara Crampton also does wonders in a performance that put her on the path to scream queendom. It spawned sequels, imitators, and a slew of Lovecraft pictures, but nothing can top this slice of mad genius!

“Re-Animator” shall never die!