Unveiling the Notorious Video Nasty "Mayhem": A Chilling Dive into Vipco's Dark Underbelly

In the annals of cult cinema, few names evoke as much controversy and fascination as Vipco. This enigmatic video distributor became synonymous with the infamous "video nasty" era of the 1980s, releasing a chilling catalog of horror, exploitation, and violence that sparked a moral panic and led to a landmark censorship battle in the United Kingdom.

Video Nasty Mayhem: The Inside Story of VIPCO

by James Simpson

4.5 out of 5

FREE

Now, for the first time, the inner workings of Vipco are laid bare in an explosive new book: "Video Nasty Mayhem: The Inside Story of Vipco." Written by Dr. David Flint, a renowned expert on British exploitation cinema, this meticulously researched account delves deep into the company's shocking history, unveiling the truth behind its most notorious releases and the controversial figure at its helm: John Dunning.

A Descent into Darkness: The Birth of Vipco

Vipco's origins can be traced back to 1974, when Dunning, a former convict with a troubled past, established the company in London. Initially known for its low-budget pornographic films, Vipco quickly realized the potential in distributing home video rentals. With the advent of VHS technology, a new market emerged for horror and exploitation genre films, and Vipco was well-positioned to capitalize.

In 1979, Vipco released its first "video nasty," a splatter film titled "Maniac." The film's graphic violence and disturbing content sent shockwaves through the British public, sparking a media frenzy that would ultimately lead to government intervention.

Controversy and Censorship: The Video Nasties Panic

As Vipco's catalog of extreme horror and exploitation films grew, so too did the public outcry against them. Conservative politicians and moral crusaders labeled the films as "video nasties," claiming they corrupted the minds of viewers and incited violence. In 1984, Parliament passed the Video Recordings Act, a draconian law that imposed strict censorship on home video releases.

Vipco became a prime target of the censorship campaign. Many of its releases were banned outright, and the company faced numerous obscenity charges. Dunning, never one to shy away from controversy, defiantly vowed to continue releasing "video nasties" despite the legal threats.

John Dunning: The Enigmatic King of Video Nasties

At the heart of Vipco's story lies John Dunning, an enigmatic and divisive figure who remains shrouded in mystery. A former nightclub owner and wrestler, Dunning had a reputation for being both ruthless and charismatic. His unwavering determination to challenge censorship and his unwavering belief in the freedom of expression made him a polarizing figure in the film industry.

Dr. Flint's book provides an intimate portrait of Dunning, revealing the complexities and contradictions that shaped his life and career. From his troubled childhood to his controversial business practices, "Video Nasty Mayhem" offers a nuanced and revealing look at the man behind the notoriety.

The Films: Notorious Classics and Exploitation Excess

Vipco's catalog of "video nasties" became a cornerstone of cult cinema. Films like "Cannibal Holocaust," "The Evil Dead," and "The House by the Cemetery" continue to be revered and reviled in equal measure by horror enthusiasts around the world.

Dr. Flint's book meticulously dissects Vipco's most notorious releases, providing in-depth analysis and behind-the-scenes stories. From the groundbreaking special effects of "Maniac" to the shocking gore of "Cannibal Holocaust," "Video Nasty Mayhem" paints a vivid picture of the extreme cinematic landscape that Vipco inhabited.

Legacy and Impact: The Aftermath of the Video Nasties

The video nasties era left an indelible mark on British cinema and culture. The censorship battle over Vipco's releases ignited a heated debate about the limits of free speech and the role of government in regulating artistic expression.

"Video Nasty Mayhem" examines the lasting legacy of the video nasties, exploring their influence on subsequent horror films, the rise of home video, and the evolution of censorship in the digital age.

: A Must-Read for Horror Enthusiasts and Censorship Scholars

Dr. David Flint's "Video Nasty Mayhem: The Inside Story of Vipco" is a comprehensive and engrossing account of one of the most controversial chapters in cinema history. Through meticulous research and incisive analysis, the book unravels the dark underbelly of Vipco, revealing the complexities of the video nasties era and the enigmatic figure at its center. Whether you're a seasoned horror enthusiast or a student of censorship, "Video Nasty Mayhem" is an essential read that offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into a world of forbidden thrills and cinematic excess.

Video Nasty Mayhem: The Inside Story of VIPCO

by James Simpson

4.5 out of 5

FREE