Inside the Old House/Issues 31-40

Issues 01-10 · Issues 11-20 · Issues 21-30 · Issues 31-40 · Issues 41-50 · Issues 51-65

Issue 31

cover of issue #31

centerfold from #31, Mary Overstreet

Inside the Old House 31 was published in 1987/1988 and contains 48 pages.

• The Collins Story, fiction by Kathy Resch
• Remembrance, fiction by Virginia Waldron
• Equinox, fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson
• Night People, fiction by Marcy Robin
• Fan Page, and Fan Focus by/about Dave Brown
• From the Cellar, LoCs
• lots of photos and flyers

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 31

I just got my first issue of ITOH (#31) today, and I wanted to congratulate you on a great magazine. The fiction was great, especially "Remembrance" - I've read a lot of DS fiction in TWODS, and such an unforgiving portrayal of Barnabas is very rare, and refreshing after a hundred "Oh, how I have suffered" stories. Also, the friendship between Willie and Sarah was wonderful to see. The only criticism I might have is that you need captions for your pictures. For example, where are the pictures on pages 15, 38 and 39 from? Jonathan Frid and David Selby look too old on page 38 to be from the show, but I'm not sure - you should put dates on these!

I'm very glad that you're running Kathy Resch's serial "The Collins Story". I agree with your comment in ITOH #28 that it has a flavor very close to that of the series. I think I mentioned this last time I wrote but it is worth saying again that I really like your selection of pictures for the cover and inside of the zine. I am also finding the comments on the Fan Page very interesting. I have not yet seen the other Vickis (Betsy Durkin and Carolyn Groves) and so have no information with which to make a comparison with Alexandra Holtke. Given the widely differing views expressed by Dave Brown and Charles Ellis. I imagine that a few more people will be sending their views to you and I am looking forward to seeing what they say.

I guess Alexandra Moltke was not one of my absolute favorite characters, because she was only featured in the first 2-3 years, and since the first year isn't available, it's hard to really remember her now. However, I think Dave Brown is a bit harsh when he terms her Alexandra, as "very annoying--a goody-two-shoes, etc." Vicki, on the other hand, could be very annoying, a goody-two-shoes, etc. I remember reading an old Saturday Evening Post article about DS, where Alexandra actually says, "Victoria is so dumb. [Then she runs down all the awful things that have happened to her.] All she does is stand around wringing her hands, saying, 'I don't understand! '" Could it be that Alexandra felt that the part of Vicki wasn't growing, and for that reason she asked to quit entirely instead of taking a leave of absence? I think Alexandra was a good actress -- she played the part of a young, naive, 19-or-20 year old girl who had been raised in a foundling home. When I taught college, I dealt with 19-20 year-old girls. Believe me, Vicki was more mature than most!

#31 -- an excellent issue all the way through. Some excellent photos, like the cover photo (great shot of Barnabas himself --though frankly I never did care for the oil portrait. It didn't do justice to Jonathan Frid -- the forehead and around the eyes looked "pinched". The portrait in Collinwood's foyer was a little better, but I never thought it was all that flattering, either. Does Jonathan Frid not "paint" well, or what?), the photo of Barnabas and Vicki on page 15 (one of my favorites), and the wonderful photo of Frid and David Selby on page 38. The stories by Virginia Waldron, Jimmy Hutcheson, and Marcy Robin were all marvelous. I found Virginia's story to be somewhat depressing-- here was Barnabas, all set to marry Maggie, his dreadful past supposedly behind him, and the appearance of Willie and Sarah brings all of it back. I found myself wondering why it had to be that way, why Barnabas wasn't allowed to find happiness. All the remorse and regret he may feel will never bring a single one of his victims back. What amends can he possibly make now? He can never really forget, anyway. The ending of this story is truly sad. But Jimmy Hutcheson's story, "Equinox", with its hopeful, upbeat ending, balances this out nicely. Jinuny does an excellent job here of reviewing all the women in Barnabas' life, and having Barnabas remember in detail his feelings for each one. And at the end, Barnabas realizes that he is indeed loved and respected by many people, and that he cannot hurt them by killing himself. He begins to see that his long life and his suffering have perhaps had a purpose. The ending is upbeat and optimistic. Nice work, Jimmy! Marcy's "Night People" -- also good. I had often wondered about Barnabas' first "experience", and this seems like a very likely scenario for a young man of that era. Great job, Marcy, as usual. Can't particularly say I agree with Dave Brown's comments on THE FAN PAGE. I always liked Alexandra Moltke, myself. But to each his own, I guess. ! noticed there was no poetry in this issue. I always like to see and read good DS poems, though the contents of the issue made up for the lack.

The cover was wonderful as were the stories. My favorites were "Remembrance" by Virginia Waldron and "Equinox" by Jimmy Hutcheson. They were both fascinating. I 've a lways liked the character of Willie Loomis and it was nice to see him win out for a change. The uncertainty of Barnabas was captured beautifully in the latter story. Re: THE FAN PAGE: I think Alexandra would have made a wonderful villaness, unfortunately it is something we'll probably never see, except in prose stories. I have a question to throw out to fandom. What is the continuing appeal of Dark Shadows some twenty years later? I feel that there is a certain uniqueness about it. It evokes the sixties and yet it also seems so much older than that; when it was in black and white, it had the quality of an old movie out of the thirties and forties. Some of the cast members had a chemistry between them that still shows. Mostly it has the grand feeling about it as if I were watching a play in some majestic old theatre.

When you prefaced THE FAN PAGE with a subtle warning, I'll admit I was expecting something radical. Instead I found myself in general agreement with Dave Brown's opinions on the many actresses who played Vicki Winters. I, too, found the character an annoying bore -- through no fault of Miss Moltke, I might add. Let's face it, how many ways can one interpret lines like "I don't understand!" and "What's happening to me?" The DS writers created the sterotypical damsel in distress with just enough backbone to hold her upright but never enough to cut and run. Vicki was jerked around by everybody who blew through Collinsport. Reminded me of one of those kids in high school with a sign that said 'kick me' taped on his back. I guess the point was to make Vicki so vick-timized (yuk, yuk!) that viewers just had to sympathize with her. After she disappeared into the past during the original run of the show, it took me several weeks to realize she wasn't coming back. And I didn't miss her. I felt the character had been pretty well exhausted. However, I would have liked to see Alexandra play a villainess. Any good actor/actress can convincingly play an evil character if it's well-written. Dan Curtis didn't think the audience would accept Alexandra as a villain. On the other hand, he gave us Bramwell and Catherine - two watered-down characters that, in my opinion, fell flat on their faces compared to Barnabas and Angelique. It appeared to be an obvious case of 'let's-do-something-different"! Two actors, perhaps a little tired of their long-running roles, desired to play polar opposites of their characters. If Alexandra had played a villainess simply for the sake of change , then, no I don't believe she would have been plausible. Liked Marcy Robin's "Night People". It confirmed my belief that Barnabas was a man who seperated love and sex. There were women one used and women one married and never the 'twain shall meet.

I especially enjoyed the letters and THE FAN PAGE. It's interesting to hear what other Dark Shadows people have to say . I'd l ove to read a thorough criticism/analysis of the show i f it were available . Of the fiction in #31 , I was impressed with Jimmy Hutcheson's 'feel' for the character of Barnabas and knowledge of his storyline i n "Equinox". Barnabas ' conClusion was touching and uplifting.

From Charles Ellis: This is actually a rebuttal to Dave Brown's rebuttal of the editorial I wrote for ITOH #30. I have heard from several DS fans regarding the piece I wrote on the situation regarding Alexandra Moltke's departure from the series. The reactions were mostly the same: Dan Curtis did handle the problem very badly, and Betsy Durkin, according to one fan's letter to me, "really sucked raw eggs"! Yet, Mr. Brown actually has the nerve to defend "Betsy-wetsy" Durkin at Alexandra's expense!!I Let's examine his "complaint" bit by bit… Dave says that Alexandra wasn't much beloved by the fans and that her performance as Vicki Winters was terrible. Gimme a break! Alexandra Moltke Isles had the honor of being the first "Dark Shadows" star to have his/her own fan club: in January 1968 Grace Pichardo formed Alexandra's fan club, which only ended in October 1969 at Alexandra's request. By that time, the Alexandra Moltke Fan Club had over 500 members!!!! Also, ABC was deluged with angry phone calls by fans who were mad as hell by the abrupt replacement of Alexandra by Durkin. ...when I saw Betsy's "character" marry Jeff Clark with Liz Stoddard as a witness, I only saw the unbelieving look on Joan Bennett's face. I bet she was wishing that it was Alexandra up there with Roger Davis. Considering how close the two were off the stage, I would not be surprised. I do concede to Dave that Alexandra would only return to the show if she were a villainess. It might have worked--God knows that she had the talent. As to Carolyn Groves, a sincere performance from her in one episode easily outclasses all of Durkin's performances in several weeks of episodes! Unlike Betsy Durkin, Miss Groves did not threaten the viewer like a tornado. Vicki was a demure person, and that was how both Alexandra Moltke Isles and Carolyn Groves portrayed the character. Seeing Durkin as Vicki was like seeing Marlene Dietrich in "The Mary Pickford Story" - as the title character! Dan Curtis should have known better to have such a pivotal character like Vicki horribly miscast…

Issue 32

cover of issue #32

centerfold from #32, Warren Oddsson

Inside the Old House 32 was published in 1988 and contains 42 pages.

• The Collins Story, fiction by Kathy Resch
• Contrasts, poem by May Sutherland
• The Fan Page, column by Jimmy Hutcheson
• centerfold artwork by Warren Oddsson
• The Gift, fiction by Michelle Elin Carter
• From the Cellar, Letters of Comment
• Fireside, fiction by Marcy Robin

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 32

[Kathy Resch's] latest installment was very intriguing, although having jumped into her series in the middle, I'm not always sure who is who. I guess I'll have to work my way backward with some back issues. As for Marcy Robin's story, "The Fireside" -- Wow! The heat in this story certainly didn't come from the fireplace alone! still, it was very good, underscoring the fact that while we may occasionally feel some sympathy for Angelique, she was, after all, a witch, cold and calculating. Jimmy Hutcheson's column on Barnabas' women is sure to generate reader response. I enjoy reading this sort of speculative article. Last, but certainly not least, I was very impressed with the poem "Contrasts" by May Sutherland. Great construction, her expression of the deep feelings of two such dissimilar women was wonderful.

I absolutely loved the cover photo of Angelique on ITOH #32, especially since she has a typical Angelique look on her face — how perfect! My favorite piece in this issue was "Contrasts" by May Sutherland. Her poem was simple in its parallel structure but complex in the emotions it expressed. By the way, who is that a photo of on page 17? ((That's Angelique after being hung in "Night of Dark Shadows" — DC)) There was one thing that Jimmy Hutcheson said in his FAN PAGE article that bears repeating: "A show that can get you this involved with the storyline and make you think about this much detail and speculation is something special. Being able to talk to others like you who are also involved, and that may have different or the same views as yours, is also something very special," I think Jimmy summed up the appeal of "Dark Shadows" very nicely. The only thing I have to say about Marcy Robin's "Fireside" story is: I'm glad this issue arrived in a plain brown wrapper! —no, really, she always presents with a unique psychological look at the inhabitants of Collinwood.

I loved the FAN PAGE by Jimmy Hutcheson regarding love and Barnabas Collins. Love to read what the fans think, so of course I have to tell you what I think, and truth is I can't decide.... See, the romantic in me says Josette. The Barnabas of 1795 seemed a kind and gentle man and Josette sweet and innocent. I picture them happily married raising a brood of dark-eyed, dark-haired children in the sunshine (no thunder or lightening in this fantasy). A prosperous, happy Collins family. Hokey, yes, but one of my most vivid memories of Dark Shadows back when I was viewing it as a child was Barnabas always crying "Josette" -- so let him have her. However, the kinky side of me says Angeligue. Gorgeous and lethal, their strange love me/hurt me relationship. It would never be baring. They could antagonize each other to their hearts content, besides I always enjoy those Parker/Frid scenes - sparks do fly! The practical side of me says Julia Hoffman. They were in the same age range. She loved him dearly and literally would go through Hell and high water for him. Smart, a modern woman and perhaps as Adriana Pena has noted, too damn good for him. Victoria Winters I never considered. She never loved him. And Roxanne Drew - it's been too long since I've seen those episodes, so I can't comment on those. So as you see, I can't really say. The fun is just speculating and reading what other fans imagine. Imagination - a wonderful thing; speaking of which, "Fireside" by Marcy Robin was great. Marcy can take a moment or a line from Dark Shadows and expand on it
 beautifully. Powerful story. "Contrasts" by May Sutherland was a good poem. Enjoyed that, and "The Gift" by Michelle Elin Carter was an excellent story. I always enjoy Kathy's "Collins Story". All in all a very enjoyable issue.

I especially enjoyed May Sutherland's poem "Contrasts" because it dove-tailed nicely with the FAN PAGE article about who is the right woman for Barnabas. Some may disagree, but I believe May accurately port r ayed the love of two women. One is a giving, healing kind of love, the other selfish and destructive. True, Angelique did change a bit towards the end of the series but one can't help wondering how long the transformation would last. I 'll even go out on a limb and imagine the two of them married… .but I can also imagine Barnabas dutifully toeing the line, knowing what's in store for him should he stray. Besides, a reformed Angelique would be as boring as a human Barnabas. No wonder Dan Curtis was always searchfng for ways to turn him back into a vampire again. Generally, I found the article to be full of contradictions... [much snipped]... In the end it comes down to that special feeling a person develops in identifying with one character. To put it bluntly, no article, editorial or essay will ever change my feeling that Barnabas and Julia belong together. To some it's the most outrageous pairing, to others like me it's as natural as rain in the springtime and no amount of analysis, logic or proof will change my heart.

I've waited a long time, but I finally decided to write since I have some comments on the FAN PAGE article in ITOH #32. I realize each person has their own choice of a woman for Barnabas and there is really no right or wrong. Barnabas problem has always been his obsession with Josette. Until he puts this obsession behind him, a true love relationship with any other woman would be almost impossible. Someday, though, he will abandon his obsession and turn to someone else. I cannot agree that Angelique would be that person. The article states that if Barnabas turned Vicki or Maggie or Josette into a vampire, they would hate him. True. But Angelique turned Barnabas into a vampire and he could hardly forgive that or any of the many things she has done to.him. If Angelique truly loved Barnabas, she could not have sought the revenge she exacted. Even when Angelique seemed to change, she always reverted to type and initiated some revengeful action. I think Barnabas would turn to someone who has always been there for him - Julia. She has been his friend and confidant and she loves him. And Barnabas can love Julia as much as she loves him once he has abandoned his Josette obsession. The article also suggests that Barnabas and Julia should remain "the best of friends". Would this be possible if Barnabas chose another woman. I think not. Angelique would not want Julia waiting in the wings. And I don't think the friendship would survive if Barnabas chose another woman. There would be too much pain for Julia to stand by and watch Barnabas enter into a permanent relationship with someone else .

The never ending search for a woman for Barnabas. His problem was that he couldn't forget Josette - for a long time. But he finally did come to terms with this fact, as evidenced in the Leviathan sequence when Josette tells him goodbye and that he must find another. Finally, he realizes that they wil l never be together , though he may wish otherwise. He also gets Josette's blessing to find another woman with'whom he can live a full life. His attitude changes completely after this, which is why when he meets Roxanne Drew, he falls in love with. Not someone he can turn into Josette, but a completely different person. He even began treating Maggie differently, perhaps seeing for the first time what a lovely woman she was in and of herself. - As for Barnabas and Julia - sure they made a great team. So did Starsky and Hutch, but I can't see them getting married either. Barnabas had very strong feelings for Julia. Julia, chief among them was respect, but I don't think he had ever fallen in love with her or ever WOUld. After all, Angelique's curse stated that whoever he loved would die. Julia was definately alive. Angelique obviously didn't feel t hr eatened by J ulia because, aside from one time in 1840, she never really did anything to harm Julia. And the Angelique of 1840 didn't know what the relationship was between Barnabas and the good doctor. Once she found out, she realized that Julia was no threat as far as Barnabas' affections were concerned.

The latest issue of ITOH was very enjoyable and I particularly liked the eloquent way May described the contrasts between the two most influential women in Barnabas' life. Can't you just see Anqelique in front of the fireplace, staring into the flames, scheming to get him back while Julia, alone, sits in her sterile laboratory, surrounded by heartless equipment, longing for the day when Barnabas will consider her more than a "good friend"? Marcy's "Fireside" WAS good too, tho' I did chuckle over the purple prose title of Will's novel. He's plenty of material for several sequels. Nicholas Caputo's question - What is the enduring appeal of DARK SHADOWS after some 20 years is atrribut able to the fact that everyone connected with the show took it seriously and did their utmost to give their audience a quality production, even on a shoestring budget. Even though their gothic (and later supernatural) premises would appear a most unlikely one, the cast did not play down their roles and we really came to care (one way or the other) about these unusual characters. It's multi-faceted also, appealing to the romantic in us, or those out for vicarious thrills, suspense seekers, or fans searching for the out-of-the ordinary. There's something for everyone on DARK SHADOWS. But best of all, it's so much fun! And I mean "camp"! Is it any wonder it has endured? Parts of Jimmy's FAN PAGE article are right on the money but I couldn't sit back and accept his theory about Angelique being the best woman for Barnabas, so I'm sending along an article. I wish ITOH appeared much more frequently. Sometimes it seems forever between issues. The quality is excellent though I wish you could afford more pages.

Issue 33

cover of issue #33

Inside the Old House 33 was published in 1988 and contains 50 pages.

• The Collins Story, fiction by Kathy Resch (4)
• Partners in Crime, art by Warren Oddsson (10)
• Did You Remember Your Riding Hood, art by Warren Oddsson (11)
• A Stranger Comes to Town, art by Warren Oddsson (17)
• Folly, fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson (18)
• centerfold, untitled, by Warren Oddsson (28)
• The Stockbridge Winter, fiction by Lori Paige (28)
• art by Jane Lach (31)
• Inner Thoughts, fiction by Dave Brown (35)
• The Fan Page, column by Melody C. (36) (subject is a fan named Debra Wilson)
• Sweet Dreams, fiction Marcy Robin (42)

• 

  interior pages from #33, Warren Oddsson

• 

  centerfold from #33, Warren Oddsson

• 

  interior pages from #33, Jane Lach (artist)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 33

At last! A new issue of ITOH. It was a--Iooonnnggg dry spell between issues this time. I don't mean to complain (although I am) it is just that there are too few good DS 'zines out there.

On to the critique: THE COLLINS STORY continues to be more and more intriguing. I'm glad to see that Caleb Collins is going to come into the story now. That's one of the things I like so much about DS fiction - it fills in the gaps. And there certainly were gaps to be filled in. We only saw less than five years worth of story covering over three hundred years of characters! Plenty to work with there. I also like how the fan fiction contributors will "flesh out" characters and plots which were only hinted at on the show. To my knowledge, Caleb was only mentioned ( and never shown) a couple of times in 1967, yet here he is becoming a main character. Only in fandom. I will be interested in seeing how all of this ties in with what is going on with the present day family. I haven't read any of those issues so I'm really in the dark. ((Hopefully this issue's summary will enlighten a lot of people who haven't been fortunate enough to read the earlier chapters of TCS. DC))

I really enjoyed the artwork this issue. How does Warren Oddsson do it? Talented and prolific. I hope his work will continue to appear in ITOH. I also liked Jane Lach's work which accompanied Lori Paige's STOCKBRIDGE WINTER. And speaking of Lori's stories, I think she is one of the best fan fiction writers around. You can always count on a good story told well with Lori. I've always wondered about the early years of Joshua and Naomi's life. What would ever possess Naomi to marry Joshua, anyway? From his point of view, it would have to have been a lucrative business deal. Or, maybe he wasn't always as rigid as he became in his later years. Can anyone picture a warm-hearted Joshua Collins?

Particularly liked THE COLLINS STORY this time around. I could never really believe that all went well at Collinwood after Barnabas, Julia and Stokes left 1840. It seems that the Collins' of the 1860's are as troubled as any other time period. . .if not more so. Some very good fiction this time around. Lori Paige continues to write wonderful period pieces. Lots of detail . Lots of character. When do we see some fiction from you, ye edi tor? Once upon a t ime you used to put out some fairly decent DS fiction. You've been threatening something since RESOLUTIONS IN TIME.

Issue 34

cover of issue #34, Warren Oddsson

centerfold from issue #34, Warren Oddsson

sample pages, artist is Jane Lach

Inside the Old House 34 was published in August/September 1989 contains 50 pages.

• The Collins Story, summary by Dale Clark (4) (Kathy Resch, the author of this story, is "out of commission" for a bit, and the story is taking a hiatus.)
• From the Cellar, LoCs
• Forever Free, fiction by Marcy Robin (14)
• Treachery, fiction by Lori Paige
• art by Jane Lach (22)
• art by Warren Oddsson (centerfold)
• Into the World, fiction by Jane Lach (28)
• art by Jane Lach (31)
• For Eternity, fiction by Kathy Resch (35)
• The Fan Page by Charlotte Monroe (44)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 34

Number 34 was a good one this time around, although I did miss "The Collins Story". Although I had a preview of Lori's story, "Trechery", I enjoyed reading it allover again. It's a joy to illustrate her stories because she writes so vividly that an image just pops into mind which I then sit down and draw. I want to thank you for THE DARK SHADOWS BOOK OF QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. It's great to have all this information condensed in one book. Not to mention all the great photos to carefully study. I had a great time reading it. Who knows? It may even spark a story idea!

Thanks for starting the summary of [Kathy Resch's] "The Collins Story". I've enoyed her Collins family saga, but I had been very curious about "what had happened before". And speaking of [Kathy], what a deliciously wicked story "For Eternity" was! Lots of nice bizarre twists in that one -- plus she added more insight to the Sarah Castle/Carlotta Drake character. Charlotte Monroe certainly had some very valid points in her FAN PAGE article -- even Quentin as a ghost was definitely sexier than plain, old "immortal" Quentin!

I enjoyed ITOH #34 very much. In regards to the FAN PAGE, I think saying that Quentin in the present day was a 100% bore is going a little too far. Maybe close, but not a whole 100%. I mean, he did do some things, like going through Death's test and being buried alive twice along with the various methods which were tried to bring back his memory, so he wasn't completely boring. Barnabas' non-vampire 98% boring score may be going a little too far also.

I have very much enjoyed your publication THE DARK SHADOWS BOOK OF QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. It is a handsome book and an invaluable asset to a newcomer to Dark Shadows fandom such as myself. As the series is not syndicated in my area, it has been a real challenge to me to piece together the Dark Shadows story. I would like to offer a few unsolicited suggestions and comments. To my mind, it might be more effective if the questions were arranged in chronological order of subject matter. For example, all the questions regarding the 1795 storyline would be grouped toget.her and so on. If this proved unworkable, perhaps a chronological notation after each answer would work Further, your selection of photographs is wonderful. However, as a neophyte some of the character's faces were unknown to me. How about placing identifying captions under each picture? The release of the series on video tape is, needless to say, welcome news. While I am anxious to see the entire run of the show released. I am very concerned about the lack of promotion regarding the series' release. If those out side OS fandom do not purchase the tapes, I am afraid the series will fail. I fear a golden opportunity is being wasted. Fans must qet aotive and support the re l ease by getting Dark Shadows into the public eye and conciousness. Fans should spread the word by requesting that local video dealers carry the tapes . Further, alerting comic book, fantasy, science fiction and horror fans through specialty book stores, newsletters and fan clubs will help. It M.P.I. won't push the series, we must! Apathy and complacency on the part of Dark Shadows fans will doom the series future.

IOH #34 was a nice issue this time around . Warren Oddsson's artwork is always great to see: he is so talented. Thanks for the summary of "The Collins Story" -- I've enjoyed the series very much but have only recently started reading it so what happened before is filling in some gaps. Especially liked the picture of Collinwood on page 17. "Into the World" was a very good story. I particularly liked the supernatural about it. Poor Carolyn, being a kid is rough enough, but being a kid from Collinwood would have to be the worst.

Issue 35

cover of issue #35

centerfold for #35 by Warren Oddsson

art for issue #35, May Sutherland

Inside the Old House 35 was published in February 1990 and contains 48 pages.

• Dark Shadows Movie/MPI Update by Dale Clark (3)
• The Collins Story, summary by Dale Clark (4)
• From the Cellar, LoCs (18)
• Gateway, fiction by Daniel Steele (20)
• art by Warren Oddsson (centerfold)
• Second Chance, fiction by Jimmy Hutchenson (28)
• art by May Sutherland (33)
• Circles, poem by Marcy Robin (41)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 35

It certainly is an exciting time to be a Dark Shadows fan! with the release of the series on video and the production of a revival film, it can be truly be said that Dark Shadows lives! It is in this exciting atmosphere that I received my first issue of INSIDE THE OLD HOUSE. Having previously purchased your fine publication THE DARK SHADOWS BOOK OF QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS my expectations for ITOH were very high . You did not disappoint. Beginning wlth the unusual cover photo through to the classified ads, ITOH was great fun to read! My only complaint is that the book is too short ; I closed the magazine wantlng more. I would however like to offer several specific comments and suggestions. WhiIe I enjoyed the cover photograph, I feel it could have been utilized more effectively. Perhaps it could have been bled off three edges or at least positioned vertically rather than horizontally. Also, your Old House Publishing logo is excellent. It is a shame not to incorporate it into a logo for the magazine. "The Collins Story" summary was very enjoyable. I assume that this is a summary of the ongoing series by Kathy Resch? If so, she has really captured the flavor of the original series. I particularly enjoyed the cast listing. It really helped to visualize the actors in my mind as I read. I look forward to new chapters! Your "from The Cellar" column is interesting. I would like to encourage you to include the addresses along with the letters. I am sure there are many fans seeking potential sources of correspondence. Daniel Steele's "Gateway" was very good. I enjoy pieces that build on events in the series and provide us with a new per s pecti ve on those events. I always wondered what happened to Phyllis Wick. "Second Chance" was chilling and struck close to home. I have a childhood friend who is facing an uncertain future in the grip of spinal cancer. I know all too well that the scourge of cancer is a deadly menace that any of us could find ourselves facing at anytime . The pain and helplessness that Julia was experiencing was convincing, as was Barnabas' inabiIity to face the ravages of her illness. His "cure" could be seen as being analogous to such extreme treatments as chemotherapy. While this story stands alone and a sequel would lesson it's impact, I can't help but wonder what Julia's response to Barnabas' actions would be. Marcy Robins' "Circles" was interesting. I have often found the reoccurence of the themes of reincarnation, Karma and synchronicity throughout Dark Shadows intriguing. My only problem was not with the poem but how you ran it. The impact of the piece was lessened by spreading it onto a second page. While I enjoyed your magazine tremendously I would like to offer a few suggestions regarding content. I was disappointed that ITOH did not feature any articles. Fiction is fine, however, articles of commentary and analysis would add much to the magazine. There is a wealth of material to draw from for possible article topics: character analysis, critiques of storylines, analysis of series continuity . . . the list of possibilities is endless. I hope you will encourage your regular contributors to consider writing something along these lines.

Issue #35 was my first and it won't be my last. I am confused by "The Collins Story" but I'm willing to hang in and try to figure it out. I do have a serious problem with Barnabas being married to Maggie and Julia being married to Elliot as I'm afraid I am a Barnabas and Julia fan and the idea of the two of them married to anyone else but each other doesn't sit well with me. "Second Chance" was well written and with great l ove and care for the characters especially Barnabas and Julia. I must confess at the first reading of this story I didn't have a clue that it was Julia that was ill until Barnabas turned up at the hospital and said "oh my poor, dear Julia." Carolyn did a good job of confronting Barnabas with his true feelings for Julia and she was right not to be subtle because he had to be made to realize what he really felt for Julia. At first I wasn't sure if I approved of Barnabas turning Julia into a vampire to save her and give himself a life with her.

There were several standout pieces in ITOH #35. "Gateway" was a touching look at what happens to the victim of time-travel changes . Marcy Robin' s piece demonstrated that the Col linses have mastered the art of the vicious 'circle'. After reading "Second Chance" I can't help but think that Barnabas is going to have to deal with one peeved individual come nightfall. Somehow "you can always watch the sun rise, Julia does not strike me as placating advice!

Two things really stuck out. First, your continued summary of Kathy Resch's now-classic "The Collins Story". It served the purpose in refreshing my memory of scenes I had read before or had forgotten. The "castlist" at the end of the summary was a great bonus in getting those 1868 scenes in the "theatre of the mind". Second, Jimmy Hutcheson's "Second Chance" is alternately heartbreaking and triumphant in its message of love conquering death . Also, Daniel Steele's Peter Bradford story was a welcome change of pace. I like reading stories about characters whose lives have been barely touched by DS fandom writers - it fills gaps left by the series' writers. I'd like to see some stories based on Parallel Time 1970, Leviathan and maybe even the pre-Barnabas era.

I liked your summary of "The Collins Story". I missed the beginning plots as I started following it two years ago. "Second Chance" was great, it showed a natural cause for a character who has witnessed so much supernatural occurences....although I don't think that Barnabas would let Julia have his affliction but would want Julia to be free and die with dignity. Enjoyed the DARK SHADOWS BOOK OF QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. Finally, someone had the sense to tie up loose ends on the countless open plots the writers forgot to deal with. Can't wait for Volume II.

I really enjoyed ITOH #35, my very first issue! It's a great zine, especially because of all the fan input. I've started a local DS fan club where we meet monthly at a pizzaria to watch the videos of the show, and I' l l be sure to mention ITOH in our next club newsletter. My highest compliments to Jimmy Hutcheson for his story "Second Chance", about Barnabas and Julia. An absolutely beautiful and moving story - thanks, Jimmy. And Marcy's poem "Circles" was delightfully thought-provoking. I'm already anxiously awaiting #36.

I really enjoyed Daniel Steele's story, "Gateway". The problem of Peter Bradford and his trip through time explanation thereof, and Vicki's switch with Phyllis Wick is a tricky one, and it was touched here with sensitivity and depth. It was well-written, and I appreciated many of the colorful descriptive phrases, such as the "hate-filled tug" that the executioner gave to the rope. The story filled in an important gap that the DS writers left up to our imaginations, and maybe it really did happen just that way.

I can't agree with Julia's behavior in "Second Chance" on one point: Julia, knowing the warning signs of her illness, she would most definately have done something about it before it had a chance to get that far, if only for Barnabas ' sake . Why would she allow herself to die before she had cured him? His cure was the goal of her life, because she loved him and wanted to do that for him even if she could have nothing else. She would never sacrifice herself -- and him -- by allowing herself to die with him uncured. I also believe that Barnabas would have realized his love for her long before she is dying. I agree that it was most likely his fear of the Curse that kept him from voicing his true feelings toward her, or even admitting it to himself, for a long timer but I don't think it would necessarily have to be such a drastic situation that would make him realize it. Maybe it would take a drastic situation to make him ADMIT IT to her, because of his fear of the curse, but his realization of his feelings would happen long before that. However, I did like the ending. The scene was very touching, and reminded me of one I myself was writing a couple of years ago. Jimmy Hutcheson's descriptive phrasing is also quite good (a little too good, occasionally; the visual image of Julia's illness was too graphic for me).

Finally, thanks for printing the cast of characters in "The Collins Story". Now I can visualize original characters like Evelyn (I didn't know she was Kathy Cody!), and the twins.

Issue 36

cover of issue #36

Inside the Old House 36 was published in 1990 (sometime after July) and contains 48 pages.

• I Wonder, fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson (3)
• From the Cellar, LoCs (12)
• Epazote, An Herb, poem by Matthew Hall (son of Grayson and Sam Hall) (18)
• Bonding, fiction by Marcy Robin (20)
• Movie Comments Letters of Comments (28)
• Movie Update/MPI Video Update (45)
• Movie Cast List (45)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 36

While I enjoyed it very much (ITOH #37), I feel that this. issue feel a little bit short of the mark set by the previous one.

My dissatisfaction has primarily to do with the inordinate amount given over to fan's letters of comment. By my count, of 48 interior pages , 23 were devoted to responses from readers. While I realize that communication is tandom's life blood and that the new movie/seri es is cert ai nly worthy of letters of comment, I feel that issue 136 tilted too far in that direction and the magazine suffered as a result. The large amount of letters would have worked better in the context of a double issue (as you had apparently planned ). However, in this regular sized issue, they made the issue seem to lack substantial content. To my mind, an even bal ance between should be sought . fiction, articles and letters of comment Now don't get me wrong, lTOH #36 was not without numerous bright spots. I parti cularly enjoyed the fiction pieces. Jimmy Hutcheson's "I Wonder" was very good. I have only the most fleeting memories of the 1970 Parallel Time storyline, so reading a piece based on it really whets my appetite to view those episodes. Stories written from the first person perspective are often difficult to do effectively. Jimmy has done it very well here. He really puts the reader "into Julia's head" and gives us a unique glimpse into her personality and her sense of morality. The story also raises numerous questions implicit in the concept of parallel worlds/universes. Namely, how is a person to reconcile one's self when confronted with him/herself? Does one self have "priority" over another? What possible relationship could exist between two beings who are in essence one in the same? The mind boggles at all the implications. The nature of parallel worlds on Dark Shadows would be an excellent topic for an article. Any possibility of seeing one, you writers out there? "Bonding" by Marcy Robin was also very good. I always enjoy reading stories that take place in our favorite characters' lives before the series began in 1966. It was interesting to see the Collins in the midst of a joyous(?) family occasion. Laura and Roger's reactions (or lack thereof) to each other were interesting. I have always had a difficult time visualizing the two of them happily married in a cozy domestic situation. Well, what do you expect when you marry your reincarnated grandmother?

Matthew Hall's poem to his mother was very touching. I am pleased that he shared it with us. I was very impressed with how you laid the poem and photograph. utilizing the closely cropped vertical picture was very effective and complimented "Epazote', An Herb" very well. Good job.

I enjoyed Jimmy Hutcheson's story "I Wonder" in #36, which took a different approach to the Parallel Time story. It was convincingly written without using any narrative, from the menacing atmosphere of the ruined estate to Julia's reflections at Hoffman's desolate graveside. The ties between the two worlds were thought to have been severed by the destruction of PT Collinwood -

but perhaps they were not. Julia would be just the person to discover this and venture back there on her own. Actually, though, it is hard to imagine someone like Julia nursing an almost morbid fascination with the life and times of someone she (accidentally) killed, since at that point in the actual story line Hoffman's death was only the latest of several which involved the illustrious doctor. But because this one concerned Julia's double, it would have hit closer to home. She would understandably have experienced more wrenching repercussions and a compelling need to assuage her guilt feelings. Still, the life and reality Julia enjoys, compared to what she might have had, is some consolation. She can change and "improve her life" - she has the power and the ability to do so, if she so chooses. Although routine time-travelling would probably become boring for both character and reader, story might be able to carry a sequel. There are several loose threads of ideas throughout, which could be used later and explored. In any case, I look forward to Jimmy's future work. Matthew Hall's poem was a welcome feature. It warmly described a side to his mother (the person) that most people probably didn't know about. If only he could contribute to future issues of ITOH, aside from his professional obligations - he could surely provide plenty of interesting DS-related fiction. I am another newcomer to ITOH who is confused by "The Collins Story", having missed the beginning chapters. The story itself is fine, but I have to take issue with the current relationships between some of the characters. For example, how did Barnabas' relationship and marriage to Maggie come about, especially after all the times he and Julia were forced to depend on each other for survival? Shared trauma is a powerful force in bringing people closer together. Julia and Elliot may be professional equals, but what chemistry is there between them. (Sorry to say, Elliot stokes always reminded me of a learned fish!) I think someone like Chris Jennings might have proved a more viable partner for Julia instead. We can debate and discuss who should be married to whom, but I'm curious as to what the relationships to a marriage would be like: how would the central characters cultivate and function in long-term, stable, emotional relationships? Since DARK SHADOWS focused primarily on destructive behavior and events, social bonding took a back seat to the action and we have had to rely on our imaginations to fill in the gaps.

However, marriages signify beginnings. "The Collins Story" can still take some unexpected twists and turns later. I'm curious to read on and see what happens.

Issue 37

cover of issue #37

Inside the Old House 37 was published in spring 1991 and contains 56 pages.

• The Collins Story, fiction by Kathy Resch (3)
• Cast Photos from the new movie (10)
• Man in the Moon, fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson (26)
• In the Air, fiction by March Robin
• art by Sherry Ledenbach (34)
• From the Cellar, LoCs (38)
• MPI Video Guide, article by Lum C. Edwards, III (46)
• The Fan Page, article by Danny Oliveira (52)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 37

All of the comments in "From the Cellar" were about the new NBC Dark Shadows series (most very negative).

Issue 38

cover of issue #38

art from issue #38, Steve Cawthon

Inside the Old House 38 was published in July/August 1991 contains 68 pages.

NOTE: the editorial says that this is a double issue (#38/39) and lists this table of contents. In actuality, it is a single issue (#38) which ends at page 68 after the Collins Family Tree article. The cover of the scan here on Fanlore has #39 covered over with a sticker.

The editor explains this mix-up in the next issue:

Last issue, which was a double issue (#38/39) when I took it in to the printer, mysteriously turned into a single issue (#38) when they lost 50 + pages. As if that weren't bad enough, they proceeded to print what they had without bothering to call me, thus I didn't find out about it until I picked up the issue on my way to the airport to attend the DSFEST in Los Angeles - far too late to make any changes. Needless to say, I won't be using that printer again.

• Escape, fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson (3)
• From the Cellar, LoCs (16)
• Immortal Lament, poem by Terri Cogliano (23)
• Eternity Awaits, poem by Terri Cogliano (24)
• Dead Asleep, poem by Winnifred McBeth (25)
• DS Festival 1990 photos by Dan Silvio (26)
• Brief Return, fiction by Adriana Pena (30)
• Barnabas and Quentin, art by Steve Cawthon (40)
• The Fan Page, commentary by Jimmy Hutcheson (42)
• Good Intentions, fiction by Andy Nunez (48)
• Collins Family Tree and Genealogy by Craig Clipper (58)
• Dark Shadows script #1171 (68)
• artwork by Terri Cogliano (115)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 38

I really enjoyed #38. My only disappointment was with ESCAPE. It was an interesting story, but the way it was written was very distracting. There were a lot of spelling errors, which were probably just due to the typist, but it also needed editing for grammar, sentence structure, etc. I realize that's hard to do though -- if you fix everything, it will be like you wrote the story instead of the actual author, and we'll get the false impression that everyone who submits stories doesn't make mistakes! ((Afraid I must take the responsibility for all typos, etc. in ITOH. In this case, Jimmy was kind enough to rush ESCAPE to me due to last minute changes in the contents of #38. Because I was working on a very tight deadline, it didn't get as thorough an editing job as other stories. - DC)) "The New Dark Shadows - What Went Wrong" was hilarious! Jimmy said exactly what I would have said - I just wouldn't have been able to do it in such a funny style. Good job. ((Re: other contents:» GOOD INTENTIONS was also written well- very descriptive and interesting. BRIEf RETURN was just what I've come to expect from Adriana. She has the character's feelings, attitudes, sense of humor, etc. down pat. Craig Clipper's COLLINS FAMILY HISTORY was very informative. I can appreciate all the work that must have gone into writing it. I don't usually like poetry, but all three of this issue's selections were good -- nice style and easy to understand.

ITOH #'s 37 and 38 were terrific. THE COLLINS STORY is always a treat. The photos of the NBC DS cast and the Classic DS shots were excellent. All the fiction was exceptional. I loved IN THE AIR by Marcy Robin. I never would have thought of telling a story from the viewpoint of one of those blasted ever-howling dogs! THE MAN IN THE MOON by Jimmy Hutcheson was very well written. Jimmy has a way of grabbing the reader's attention until the very end. The same goes for his story ESCAPE (#38). Both stories were very good. BRIEF RETURN was very interesting. THE COLLINS F AMIL Y TREE AND GENEOLOGY by Craig Clipper was wonderful and I'm sure that it will help me some, as I am also in the process of creating a Collins Family Tree, which I hope to have ready soon. By the way, Pansy and Carl were never married, at least according to Carl. "Pansy and I are going to be married." Pansy died before any marriage took place. The poetry and art were very nice (especially the sketch of Quentin by Steve Cawthon on page 41). My favorite piece was GOOD INTENTIONS by Andy Nunez! This was an imaginative story and I was greatly impressed by it. It had a stronger affect [sic] on me possibly because I read issue 38 of ITOH right after fmishing "The Picture of Dorian Grey"! The only thing which I was not too happy with were some of the negative comments made about the NBC DS. C'mon gang, support your own show, even if it isn't the original, it is Dark Shadows!

I loved GOOD INTENTIONS by Andy Nunez. It just goes to prove you can't mess around with fate. The Oscar Wilde/"Picture of Dorian Gray" bit was good. Couldn't help but wonder if the painter, Basil Ward, was supposed to be Wilde's inspiration for his character Basil Hallward? Many thanks to Craig Clipper and his Collins family tree. It filled in some blanks in my memory. You must've done alot of research!

Issue 39

cover of issue #39

Inside the Old House 39 was published in May 1992 and contains 50 pages.

• Destiny, fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson (3)
• Dear Cousin Millicent, poetry by Winifred McBeth (17)
• Culpable Conscience, fiction by T. Cogliano (19)
• The Fan Page, article by Anna H. Shock (23)
• You Can't Go Home Again, fiction by Dave Brown (33)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 39

I just received #39 in the mail yesterday and all I can say is that it was worth all the waiting. You deserve to be very proud of yourself for putting out such a first-rate copy. I read it completely through last night and then today I went back to re-read various parts. Being the sensitive and romantic that I am, I particularly enjoyed YOU CAN'T GO HOME AGAIN by Dave Brown. That was really a moving piece - and I hope it is a continuing story, as it seemed to be by the ending.

I did not agree with Daniel Oliveira's column, and I am sending you a rebuttal piece. One thing that I cannot accept is his calling Sky Rumson's killing "heartless". To my mind that was the most justifiable killing that Barnabas committed. Sky Rumson was a traitor to the whole human species. He served the Leviathans willingly, for what he could get. He never cared what they did, as long as he profited. He betrayed Barnabas to Jeb Hawkes, who lost no time returning Barnabas' curse to him. Barnabas had a strong grievance against him, but was willing to let him be until further actions on his part showed that he still served his old masters. With that background, I find Barnabas' behavior understandable -- even justifiable. I liked Jimmy Hutcheson's stories. He certainly can get into people's minds. It was also a nice piece by Marcy Robin with a story told from the point of view of one of the howling dogs.

Issue 40

cover of issue #40

Inside the Old House 40 was published in Aug/Sept 1992 and contains 52 pages.

• Secrets , fiction by Jimmy Hutcheson (3)
• Full Circle, fiction by Terry Cogliano (14)
• Shadowed Happenings/News by Marcy Robin (17)
• The Fan Page - The Personality of Barnabas Collins - by Adriana Pena (18)
• Premonition, fiction by S. Ramskill (20)
• preliminary sketches from "Innovation's" Dark Shadows #3
• The Past Returns to Claim Its Own, fiction by William J. Mann (28)
• From the Cellar, LoCs (44)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 40

ITOH #40 was a terrific issue. I thoroughly enjoyed S. Ramskill's "PREMONITION". I hope that we can look forward to more 1840 stories. Adriana Pena's rebuttal piece to my essay was very interesting, but I still cannot agree. For instance, Adriana is right in saying that Sky Rumson acted deplorably, but is it right to say that Barnabas' killing of Rumson was "justified"? Sky Rumson was basica1\y a coward. He finally did try to make up for his involvement with the Leviathans and Nicholas Blair by attempting to free Sabrina Stuart. He was discovered and harshly reprimanded. After this, Sky became a mere puppet for Nicholas Blair. His fear and insecurity are basically what made him a pathetic lackey towards the end of the Leviathan sequence. When Barnabas finally put an end to Rumson by forcing him to shoot himself, it was like watching a big school bully push around a pathetic second grader. Sure, Sky was a terrible and corrupt individual, but did he really have a choice? If he disobeyed Nicholas he knew what would happen to him (as I said, Sky had a large yellow streak). Sky Rumson was a pathetic sight in the moments preceding his death. Barnabas killing of Rumson was not "justifiable" but actually rather cruel.

I just read #40 of ITOH and I thought it was terrific. I really enjoyed William J. Mann's story called "THE PAST RETURNS TO CLAIM ITS OWN." That was an original and thought- provoking story. When I first became aware of DS in 1991 I had no idea that all the fandom and other organizations existed. I thought I was one of only a few who was still interested in the show. I'm amazed at the continued interest and I hope that it continues for many years to come.