SATURDAY, JULY 16, 2011
'The Origin of Vampirella'
from the UK first issue of Vampirella magazine, February 1975
While the first issue of Vampirella appeared in 1969 and featured an 'origin' story, for the premiere UK iteration of the magazine, a newer, slightly modified origin story was printed (below). Vampirella was a rehash of Vampira-the pre Elvira and Queen of Blood. Maila Nurmi aka Vampira-Legendary horror host and Ed Wood, Jr. Plan 9 actress; perfected Gothic undead hotness decades before Elvria
The plot by J. R. Cochman remains barely coherent, but the artwork by Jose Gonzalez is distinctive, and possesses great 70s flavor.
'Vampirella' was the brainchild of 'Famous Monsters of Filmland' creator Forest J. Ackerman.
A little-known, but thoroughly creepy, segment of Ackerman's life revolved around a pubescent girl named Heidi Saha, who came to 70s geek conventions in a Vampirella costume....(!)
