This month Obscuro salutes actor James Karen and Stuntman extrordinaire Jim Winburn.

James Karen has been involved in film & television acting since 1962. He has played in everything from light comedies to gruesome horror films. Some of his most notable films include The China Syndrome, Capricorn One, Poltergeist, Return of the Living Dead, Wall Street, Nixon, 13 Days, Mulholland Drive, and many, many more. James was a close friend of Buster Keaton and toured with him on stage in “Merton of the Movies” and the Samuel Beckett film titled “Film.” Even at age 83 his career hasn’t slowed down, he acted in Superman Returns (scenes deleted by studio, watch for em on DVD!) and in the upcoming Will Smith film The Pursuit of Happyness. (not a typo, that’s the title!) Not to mention he’s a hell of a funny guy and a real gent. See his resume here

Jim Winburn has made a living as a Hollywood stuntman and stunt coordinator for nearly 40 years. His credits are legion: Halloween, The Fog, Escape From New York, Knight Rider, Tron, Pale Rider, Sword & the Sorcerer, Magnum PI, The Fall Guy, and the list goes on. Jim has retired from heavy stunt work, but continues to be involved in low-budget films, seminars, and more. Hollywood’s full of backstabbers, but Jim is an honest, hardworking cat with track record to prove it. Check out his website at website for more info.

Both of the fellows above were kind enough to make an appearance at the recent Thriller Chiller show in Muskegon. If you missed the show you missed out! An extra shout out to Reggie Bannister and his wife Gigi for dropping by as well. Reg already has an Obscuro tribute, but he’s so cool he deserves a second salute. Gigi is an excellent special effects makeup artist in her own right. Check Reggie and Gigi’s website here

And one last plug for Thriller Chiller. This year’s is over….but next year…
Happy Halloween, Noiz-Heads!
Jason