VIY (1967) – Soviet Witchcraft Horror Classic presented by Cinemancers!

As the most hallowed night in horror approacheth, Cinemancers (small press Bibliomancers' monthly film club, with an emphasis on fantasy, sci-fi, and the surreal) Cinemancers beckons you to The Philosophical Research Society to experience their unholy October selection — a visually sumptuous, exceptionally eerie, gothic horror fantasy film like none other! A tale of witchcraft and desire! The first (and perhaps only full-on) horror film ever produced in the Soviet Union!: VIY (1967)! 

Based on the classic novella by Nikolai Gogol – and previously adapted by Mario Bava as BLACK SUNDAY – the macabre masterpiece managed to make it past Soviet production restrictions thanks to its “folk tale” story and venerated source material. What resulted remains “genuinely frightening” (1001 Films You Must See Before You Die), “a visual grab bag of terror” (FilmInquiry.com) and “one of the best horror films of all time.” (IndieWire): In 19th century Russia, a seminary student is forced to spend three nights with the corpse of a beautiful young witch. But when she rises from the dead to seduce him, it will summon a nightmare of fear, desire and the ultimate demonic mayhem. Bursting with startling imagery and stunning practical effects (including a host of demons and the unforgettable titular monster!) by directors Konstantin Yershov and Georgi Kropachyov, this “overlooked classic” (Paste Magazine) has influenced generations of directors for more than half a century and is still unlike any horror movie you’ve ever seen! (Synopsis by Severin Films)

Rarely screened and underseen, this is a creepy cinematic marvel that demands to be seen on the big screen. Join PRS and Cinemancers as we summon the great VIY!

Dirs. Konstantin Yershov & Georgi Kropachyov, 1967, Soviet Union, 76 mins, Unrated, Russian w/ English subtitles, Digital.

Special thanks to Kier-La Janisse and Severin Films

ABOUT CINEMANCERS

“Bibliomancers is excited to announce our new film club: Cinemancers. Working with our favorite place in Los Angeles – Philosophical Research Society – we will be presenting LIVE & in-person screenings of rare and unique films – with an emphasis on fantasy, sci-fi, and the surreal – curated by Bibliomancers (@astraleyez & @speedgallery666)

ABOUT BIBLIOMANCERS

Bibliomancers is a small press created and owned by the Los Angeles based occult collage artist Astraleyez. Working with his longtime friend & partner in crime, curator, designer & concept artist Eric Nordhauser they have created a series of esoteric themed books documenting their obsessions.

Bibliomancy is the practice of divination through books by allowing a seemingly randomly chosen passage the seeker can apply its wisdom or symbolic meaning to provide guidance. Astraleyes has been collecting books using bibliomancy for almost 30 years.

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Please email [email protected] or phone 323-663-2167 with any questions.

ACCESSIBILITY

PRS wants all guests to be able to enjoy our events safely and comfortably. If you require any accessibility accommodation, please reach out to [email protected] before showtime and we will be happy to assist you.

REFUND POLICIES

All sales are final. There are no refunds for PRS events , except in the event of a medical emergency, including but not limited to a positive COVID-19 test. Ticket exchanges may be granted on a case by case basis, pending circumstances.

In the event that PRS is forced to cancel an event entirely, tickets will be refunded or vouchers offered for a rescheduled event.

PARKING

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Host or Publisher The Philosophical Research Society