Monster Mania Hunt Valley Review (2016)

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I had another fantastic time at Monster Mania Horror Movie Convention 2016 in Hunt Valley, Maryland. This year, it even rained just like last year.

Regardless, the crowd was immense on Saturday, and I believe Dave Hagan, the founder, is getting quite a following.

The horror convention descended upon horror enthusiasts like a dark and delightful curse, casting a spell that left us bewitched by an unparalleled lineup of actors and a spine-chilling costume contest to cap off the terror-filled weekend.

The star-studded cast, including William Zabka, Bill Moseley, Robert Englund, Ric Flair, Chris Sarandon, William Ragsdale, John Heard, Father Evil, Shannon Elizabeth, Danielle Harris, Ronee Blakely, and Amanda Wyss, turned the convention into a star-studded horror extravaganza.

Engaging with these genre legends blended reverence with excitement, making every moment a hauntingly unforgettable encounter.

The convention floor was a treasure trove of horror wonders, with vendors showcasing an array of macabre delights.

Creeper Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley
I found a new babysitter for my son!

Delta Marriott Hotel, Hunt Valley, MD

Collectibles, memorabilia, and handmade treasures beckoned from every corner in the hotel, tempting fans to indulge their darkest desires. My haul of horror memorabilia expanded once again, a testament to the horror con’s irresistible offerings.

The haunted attractions continued to push the boundaries of fear, with immersive experiences that left attendees screaming for more.

The combination of iconic actors and terrifying mazes created an atmosphere of pure horror bliss, offering a visceral connection between the on-screen scares and the real-world chills of the convention.

The Movie Marathon provided a cinematic journey through the chilling tales of horror’s past and present.

The programming, featuring films associated with the attending actors, added an extra layer of excitement, tying the on-screen narratives to the live experience.

As the convention reached its climax, the Costume Contest emerged as the pièce de résistance, a mesmerizing display of creativity and horror fandom.

Attendees transformed into their favorite monsters, killers, and creatures, parading across the stage to the delight of the roaring crowd.

The judges, including some attending celebrities, faced the challenge of selecting winners from the sea of terrifyingly impressive costumes.

From meticulously crafted Freddy Kruegers to spine-chilling original creations, the Costume Contest showcased the attendees’ passion and dedication.

The atmosphere was electric as each contestant took the stage, with cheers and applause echoing through the convention center.

The winners were crowned amidst thunderous applause, receiving accolades for their outstanding costumes and creativity.

Prizes ranged from coveted memorabilia to exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with the attending celebrities, adding extra excitement to an already thrilling contest.

Jason Vorhees Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley

Monster Mania 2016

This year’s Monster Mania in Hunt Valley, Maryland, had a great line-up of horror icon celebrities, a musician, and my all-time favorite wrestler. This year, I got pics with two stars, Bill Moseley and William Zabka.

I’ve been a fan of Bill Moseley since I saw him in Rob Zombie’sHouse of 1000 Corpses. At the time, it didn’t occur to me that he also played Chop Top in 1986’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2.

He was the guy with the metal plate in his head who kept lighting the end of the coat hanger and would scratch his scalp and eat the dead skin. YUMMMY!!!!

The ‘Chop Top character was permanently embedded in my brain forever. Bill did an excellent job with his character, Otis Driftwood, in House of 1000 Corpses.

Bill can pull off “crazy” with a character like another of my favorite actors – John Malkovich.

It was great meeting Bill. He was friendly and laid-back, and I sincerely thank Dave Hagan for bringing Bill Moseley this year, as I had requested several years ago.

I took my picture with Bill and bought an autographed photo from House of 1000 Corpses, in which Bill wrote his famous words “Run Rabbit Run” and signed it.

I had significant A.D.D. that day due to allergies – I blame it on the Ragweed in the air – and in my haste, I almost walked off without my autographed photo.

That was until Bill kindly picked it up, handed it to me, and said, “You want to take special care with this.”

Indeed.

Bill Moseley Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley
My son and I, with Bill Moseley

What Is The Convention About?

Monster-Mania Con refers to a series of horror-themed fan conventions that typically feature celebrity guests from the horror genre, including actors, directors, and other industry professionals.

These horror conventions allow fans to meet their favorite horror icons, attend autograph sessions and Q&A panels, and immerse themselves in various horror-related activities.

The events often include vendors selling horror memorabilia, collectibles, and merchandise. Attendees may also have the chance to dress up in cosplay and showcase their favorite horror characters.

William Zabka Monster Mania Con Hunt Valley
William Zabka- Johnny Lawrence from The Karate Kid

Meeting William Zabka

William Zabka was undoubtedly one of the most iconic stars of the 80s. He plays the part of an antagonist so well. As many people have pointed out recently, perhaps he wasn’t the bad guy in The Karate Kid; Daniel LaRusso was the ‘real’ bad guy.

I met face-to-face with William Zabka. Yes, Johnny Lawrence, the archenemy of Daniel LaRusso in the Karate Kid.

The ’80s were the best time to grow up in. Almost anything related to movies and music from that time holds good memories.

So I didn’t want to miss my chance to meet and get my picture taken with someone who was probably the most iconic movie of the ’80s. – The Karate Kid.

I approached William while he was sitting alone and asked how much for a photo with him. He said $20. I thought, okay, how much for an autographed picture of you beating up Daniel LaRusso and a photo taken with you?

He said $50.

Being a frugal spender, I asked if he could do $40 instead, and he agreed. I had to get a selfie with him because his assistant stepped out, and I wasn’t about to let a stranger use my brand-new S7 to take a picture.

Overall, William is a great guy, and it was a pleasure to meet him on Saturday.

Here is the line-up of the actors

>Robert EnglundA Nightmare on Elm Street

>Shannon Elizabeth – Thirteen Ghosts, Night of the Demons (09)

>Chris Sarandon – Fright Night

>Will Ragsdale – Fright Night

Father Evil Monster Mania Con Hunt Valley
Father Evil

>Stephen Geoffreys – Fright Night

>Dennis O’Hare – American Horror Story, True Blood

>Kristy Swanson – Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Flowers in the Attic

>Danielle Harris – Halloween 4,5, – Urban Legend

>Bill Moseley – Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2, House of 1000 Corpses

>Bob ElmoreTexas Chainsaw Massacre 2,

>William Kratt – House, Greatest American Hero

>John Heard – C.H.U.D., Sharknado

>William Zabka – Karate Kid, Back to School,

>Ric Flair – Professional Wrestling Icon, WOOOOOO!

>Ronee Blakely – A Nightmare on Elm Street

>Amanda Wyss – A Nightmare on Elm Street

>Ricky Dean Logan – A Nightmare on Elm Street

> Phil Anselmo – Lead Singer Pantera, Down

David Arquette was supposed to attend this year’s MMC but had to cancel due to a family emergency. Maybe next year, Dave?

Massacred Memories at Screamland Farms Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley
Massacred Memories at Screamland Farms

I also love the horror Con for the Question-and-Answer segment. The Q&A gives us an insider’s perspective on the Moviemaking process.

There were two people I enjoyed listening to the most.

  1. Shannon Elizabeth
  2. Bill Moseley

Shannon Elizabeth

Unfortunately, I couldn’t meet Shannon or take a photo with her because she wasn’t at her table the entire time I went. I did pass her and her helper in the hallway on my way to the hotel’s Starbucks.

Shannon Elizabeth is drop-dead gorgeous; that is obvious. But little did I know she is very bubbly, full of positive energy, and compassionate. Shannon cares deeply for the Wildlife on this planet, and she created a charity called Animal Avengers.

I enjoyed Shannon’s Q&A because, after about 20 minutes at the table, she decided to get up, bring the microphone to the audience, and answer their questions face-to-face.

Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley

It was kind of like a talk show.

Bill Mosely

Bill Mosely was also enjoyable to listen to. Man, can he talk? I don’t think Bob Elmore said more than two sentences during the Q&A, LOL!!!

All the discussion during Bill’s Q&A was about The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2. I would have liked to hear stories about making House of 1000 Corpses.

Monster Mania is held twice a year in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and once yearly in Hunt Valley, Maryland. It is usually held at the end of September or October. In Hunt Valley, there is a three-day event: Friday (5 p.m.- 10 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m.- 7 p.m.), and Sunday (10 a.m.- 5 p.m.).

The Costume Contest was the perfect finale for an unforgettable weekend.

As the convention concluded, and I left with autographs, photos, and memories etched in terror, I couldn’t help but marvel at the event’s ability to capture the essence of horror fandom.

Monster Mania, you’ve once again proven why you reign supreme in horror conventions. Here’s to the nightmares that await in the years to come! ???

Related:

>>>MMC 38

>>>Monster Mania Oaks, PA

>>>Shadow People

Monster-Mania Con 35, 2016 – Hunt Valley, MD| YouTube.

Monster Mania Con Hunt Valley Maryland
Willy Wonka Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley
Willy Wonka
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Help. I’m getting choked by this Pig Butcher guy!
Nature Boy Ric Flair Stylin and Profilin Creeper Monster Mania Con 2016 Hunt Valley
Nature Boy Ric Flair Stylin and Profilin
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