How to Make a Monster 1958
"See the Ghastly Ghouls in Flaming Color!"
Set against the neon-lit backlots of 1950s Hollywood, *How to Make a Monster (1958)* plunges into the shadowy world of horror where artistry turns to vengeance. Directed by Herbert L.
Director: Herbert L. Strock
Cast
Robert H. Harris
Pete Dumond
Paul Brinegar
Rivero
Gary Conway
Tony Mantell (Teenage Frankenstein)
Gary Clarke
Larry Drake (Teenage Werewolf)
Malcolm Atterbury
Security Guard Richards
Dennis Cross
Security Guard Monahan
Morris Ankrum
Police Capt. Hancock
Walter Reed
Detective Thompson
John Ashley
Himself
Paul Maxwell
Jeffrey Clayton
Frequently Asked Questions
What is How to Make a Monster (1958) about?
The film follows Pete Dumond, a legendary monster makeup artist who loses his job when American International Studios replaces him with new leadership. Consumed by betrayal, he weaponizes his creations, using his ghoulishly lifelike monsters to terrorize the studio bosses who fired him. It's a dark twist on Hollywood ambition where artistry becomes a tool of vengeance.
Who directed How to Make a Monster?
Herbert L. Strock directed this 1958 horror-sci-fi hybrid, bringing a blend of atmosphere and tension to the revenge-driven plot.
Who stars in How to Make a Monster?
The cast features Robert H. Harris as Pete Dumond, Paul Brinegar, Gary Conway, Gary Clarke, and Malcolm Atterbury, with Dennis Cross rounding out the ensemble.
Is How to Make a Monster (1958) worth watching?
While it flies under the radar, this 73-minute gem offers a unique blend of horror, sci-fi, and backstage drama that horror fans will appreciate. Its practical effects and retro charm stand out, even if it's not a household name. If you love 1950s creature features with a vengeful twist, it's absolutely worth a watch.
How long is How to Make a Monster?
The runtime is 73 minutes, making it a brisk, punchy horror experience that packs a punch in under an hour and a half.
🎥 Trailer
About How to Make a Monster (1958) — A 1950s Horror Classic of Vengeance and Mad Genius
Set against the neon-lit backlots of 1950s Hollywood, *How to Make a Monster (1958)* plunges into the shadowy world of horror where artistry turns to vengeance. Directed by Herbert L. Strock, this cult gem weaves a tale of betrayal and mad creativity as its protagonist, a masterful makeup artist, unleashes his monstrous creations upon the studio executives who wronged him. Blending eerie sci-fi elements with classic monster-movie tropes, the film drips with atmospheric tension, juxtaposing the glamour of Tinseltown with the grotesque results of unchecked rage.
At just 73 minutes, this underrated horror flick delivers big on atmosphere and retro charm, wrapping its vengeful plot in vibrant color and practical effects that still impress today. The story isn't just about making monsters—it's about what happens when the line between creator and creation blurs horrifically, leaving audiences questioning who's truly monstrous in this twisted tale of backstage drama and cinematic payback.
