A movie that scared me as a kid was “KISS Meets The Phantom of the Park,” starring the rock and roll band KISS. They are one of the most influential hard rock bands, known not just for their music but also for their showmanship. Wearing dark, over-the-top costumes tailored to their characters, using explosive stage effects, and sporting their iconic face makeup, they made a big impression. At the height of their fame, (1976), the band starred in a made-for-TV movie about how they come to battle Abner Devereaux, a mad scientist jealous of their success who wants to destroy them with twisted, evil robots. It’s through their mystical abilities and music that they defeat the villain.

I had never seen amusement parks as twisted places full of nightmares where bad things could happen. Now I know better. Creepy robots, sinister doppelgängers, dark views of the park at night — the whole thing just terrified me more than I enjoyed it. Years later, looking back, I realize the movie is so bad, it’s almost amazing. The chaos, c-rate campiness, a total cinematic misfire! That said, it’s definitely worth a watch on YouTube. I also mention KISS because lead guitarist Ace “The Spaceman” Frehley just passed away. An incredible musician who has given so much to the rock and roll world. Among all the band members and their characters, he was the most mysterious but also the most interesting. Rock on, Spaceman! Enjoy your journey into the void!

"By the time I'm 40, interplanetary travel will be common. Nobody will want to talk to me at that age, anyway." - Ace Frehley