If Chins Could Kill

1. Embrace the "B-Movie" Path: Find Opportunity in Overlooked Spaces

Therefore, this is not a memoir about what I said to so-and-so at the Beverly Hills Hotel. It's also not about an actor's "meteoric" rise, or "tragic" fall. Rather, this book is dedicated to the players on the second string, the "B" people, if you will, and I cheerfully include myself in that lot.

Focus on the Underdog. The book celebrates the unsung heroes of Hollywood, the "B" movie actors and crew who toil in the trenches, far from the glitz and glamour of A-list celebrity. Campbell positions himself as one of these "B" people, finding value and camaraderie in their shared experiences. This perspective offers a refreshing alternative to the typical Hollywood memoir, which often focuses on fame, fortune, and celebrity encounters.

Opportunity in Limitations. The "B-movie" world, while lacking the resources and recognition of mainstream Hollywood, provides unique opportunities for creative freedom and experimentation. Campbell and his friends learned to make the most of limited budgets, using ingenuity and resourcefulness to overcome obstacles. This approach fostered a DIY ethic and a willingness to take risks, which ultimately contributed to their success.

Authenticity over Artifice. By embracing the "B-movie" path, Campbell and his collaborators were able to create films that were genuine and unpretentious. They focused on telling stories that resonated with them, rather than trying to conform to Hollywood's expectations. This authenticity, in turn, attracted a loyal cult following that appreciated their unique brand of humor and horror.

2. Childhood Imagination: The Genesis of a Creative Life

Bilbo Baggins would have felt right at home in my neighborhood -- it was a magical place.

Suburban Playground. Campbell's childhood in suburban Detroit was a fertile ground for imagination and adventure. The woods, fields, and construction sites surrounding his home provided endless opportunities for exploration and play. This environment fostered a sense of unlimited possibility and encouraged him and his brothers to create their own worlds.

Sibling Rivalry and Collaboration. The dynamic between Campbell and his brothers, Mike and Don, was a mix of competition and collaboration. They constantly challenged and tormented each other, but also worked together on elaborate projects like building a tank, digging tunnels, and staging epic battles with toy soldiers. This interplay of rivalry and collaboration honed their creative skills and laid the foundation for their future filmmaking endeavors.

Early Exposure to Film. Campbell's early exposure to film, through his father's work in advertising and the family's 8mm camera, sparked a lifelong passion for the medium. He and his friends spent countless hours experimenting with special effects, creating elaborate stories, and honing their filmmaking skills. This early immersion in the world of cinema shaped his creative vision and set him on the path to becoming a filmmaker.

3. Community Theater: A Crucible for Aspiring Actors

Theater was the great equalizer -- I changed clothes in the same damp, concrete room as CEOs from Fortune 500 companies.

Democratization of Art. St. Dunstan's, the local community theater, provided Campbell with his first taste of acting and a valuable lesson in the democratization of art. He shared the stage with people from all walks of life, from CEOs to garage door salesmen, all united by their passion for theater. This experience taught him that acting was not just for the elite, but for anyone with a desire to express themselves.

Practical Training. Community theater provided Campbell with practical training in all aspects of acting, from memorizing lines to projecting his voice to interacting with other actors. He learned from experienced performers and directors, picking up valuable tips and techniques that would serve him well in his future career. This hands-on experience was invaluable in developing his skills and building his confidence.

Passion and Dedication. Campbell was inspired by the passion and dedication of the people involved in community theater. He saw firsthand how much they cared about their craft, even though they were not getting paid for it. This passion instilled in him a deep respect for the art of acting and a commitment to pursuing his own creative vision.

4. The Power of "The Boys": Collaboration and Shared Dreams

Michigan is surrounded by the largest supply of fresh water in the world -- hence the nickname of "the Great Lakes state." But there must have been something more to the water of southeastern Michigan, something that caused half a dozen young men to throw caution to the wind and pursue the film business.

The Detroit Mafia. The book highlights the importance of collaboration and shared dreams in achieving creative success. Campbell and his friends, dubbed "The Boys," formed a tight-knit group that supported and challenged each other's filmmaking aspirations. This collaborative spirit allowed them to pool their resources, share their knowledge, and push each other to greater heights.

Diverse Talents. Each member of "The Boys" brought unique talents and skills to the table. Mike Ditz was a technical whiz, Scott Spiegel was a master of horror and comedy, Josh Becker was a film historian and writer, Sam Raimi was a visionary director, and John Cameron was a master of dark humor. This diversity of skills allowed them to tackle a wide range of filmmaking challenges and create truly original works.

Mutual Support. The "Boys" provided each other with unwavering support and encouragement, even in the face of setbacks and failures. They celebrated each other's successes and helped each other overcome obstacles. This sense of camaraderie and mutual support was essential to their long-term success in the film industry.

5. Super-8 Filmmaking: A School of Hard Knocks

There's No Budget Like Low-Budget

Learning by Doing. Super-8 filmmaking was a hands-on, learn-by-doing experience for Campbell and his friends. They had to figure out everything themselves, from writing scripts to building sets to operating cameras. This process forced them to develop a deep understanding of all aspects of filmmaking and to become resourceful problem-solvers.

Creative Constraints. The limitations of Super-8 filmmaking, such as limited film stock and primitive equipment, forced them to be creative and innovative. They had to find ways to achieve their vision with minimal resources, which often led to unexpected and ingenious solutions. These constraints ultimately fueled their creativity and helped them develop a unique visual style.

Embracing Failure. Super-8 filmmaking was a trial-and-error process, with many failures along the way. Campbell and his friends learned to embrace these failures as learning opportunities, using them to refine their skills and improve their craft. This willingness to experiment and learn from their mistakes was essential to their growth as filmmakers.

6. The Real World: Navigating the Film Industry's Realities

Theater was the great equalizer -- I changed clothes in the same damp, concrete room as CEOs from Fortune 500 companies.

Apprenticeship and Humility. Campbell's experience as an apprentice at a summer stock theater provided him with a valuable introduction to the realities of the film industry. He learned the importance of hard work, dedication, and humility, and gained a newfound respect for the professionals who made a living in the arts. This experience helped him to temper his youthful enthusiasm with a dose of realism.

Commercials and Compromises. Working on commercials exposed Campbell to the commercial side of filmmaking and the compromises that often had to be made to satisfy clients. He learned how to navigate the world of advertising, where creativity was often secondary to selling a product. This experience helped him to develop a more nuanced understanding of the film industry and the challenges of balancing artistic vision with commercial demands.

The Grind and the Dream. Driving a cab provided Campbell with a stark contrast to the glamorous world of filmmaking. He encountered a diverse cast of characters and witnessed the struggles of everyday life. This experience grounded him in reality and reminded him of the importance of pursuing his dreams with passion and perseverance.

7. The Allure and Absurdity of Hollywood

I was convinced that there was a way out -- a way to avoid becoming an unhappy adult -- and I searched unconsciously for a profession that could perpetuate the concept of the endless summer.

The Dream Factory. The book explores the allure and absurdity of Hollywood, a place where dreams are both made and broken. Campbell encounters a cast of characters who are chasing fame and fortune, often at great personal cost. He witnesses the superficiality, the competition, and the desperation that permeate the industry.

The Spores of Hollywood. Campbell warns of the "spores" of Hollywood, a metaphorical disease that can infect aspiring actors and filmmakers, leading to vanity, insecurity, and a distorted sense of reality. He cautions against succumbing to the pressures of fame and fortune, and emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and true to oneself.

Finding Balance. Despite the challenges and absurdities of Hollywood, Campbell finds a way to navigate the industry while maintaining his integrity and sense of humor. He learns to appreciate the creative opportunities that Hollywood offers, while remaining critical of its excesses and superficiality. This balanced perspective allows him to thrive in a world that can often be toxic and unforgiving.

8. Cult Following: The Unpredictable Nature of Success

As long as it was captured on film, it was worth it.

Unconventional Appeal. The book highlights the unpredictable nature of success in the film industry. Evil Dead, a low-budget horror film made by a group of unknown filmmakers, achieved cult status despite its lack of mainstream appeal. This success defied conventional wisdom and demonstrated the power of originality and authenticity.

The Power of Word-of-Mouth. The success of Evil Dead was largely due to word-of-mouth, as fans spread the word about the film's unique brand of horror and humor. This grassroots marketing effort proved to be more effective than any traditional advertising campaign. The film's cult following grew organically, fueled by the passion and enthusiasm of its fans.

Embracing the Cult. Campbell and his collaborators embraced their cult following, recognizing that it was a valuable asset. They continued to create films that catered to their fans' tastes, while also experimenting with new genres and styles. This loyalty to their fanbase helped them to sustain their careers and maintain their creative independence.

9. The Importance of Mentors and the Value of Mentorship

Don't drink soda before you go on stage, kid. You don't want to burp during the climax of the play...

Guidance and Support. The book emphasizes the importance of mentors in navigating the film industry. Campbell benefited from the guidance and support of experienced professionals like Verne, who provided him with valuable advice and opportunities. These mentors helped him to develop his skills, build his network, and avoid common pitfalls.

Passing on Knowledge. Campbell also recognizes the value of mentorship, taking on the role of mentor to younger filmmakers and actors. He shares his knowledge and experience, offering guidance and encouragement to those who are just starting out. This commitment to mentorship helps to ensure the continued growth and vitality of the film industry.

Reciprocal Relationships. Mentorship is not a one-way street, but a reciprocal relationship. Campbell learned as much from his mentees as they learned from him. By sharing his knowledge and experience, he gained new perspectives and insights, and reaffirmed his own commitment to the craft of filmmaking.

10. The Enduring Power of Friendship and Shared History

Hard as you try, you will never kill the Classic...

The Classic Car. The book uses Sam Raimi's attachment to his "Classic" car as a symbol of the enduring power of friendship and shared history. The car, a beat-up Oldsmobile Delta 88, appeared in numerous Super-8 films and features, becoming a running gag and a reminder of the group's humble beginnings. This seemingly insignificant object represents the deep bonds that connect Campbell and his friends.

Inside Jokes and Shared Language. The book is filled with inside jokes and shared language that only Campbell and his friends would understand. These references create a sense of intimacy and camaraderie, inviting the reader to become an honorary member of "The Boys." This shared history is a source of strength and resilience, helping them to weather the storms of the film industry.

The Importance of Loyalty. The book celebrates the importance of loyalty and commitment in long-term relationships. Campbell and his friends have remained loyal to each other, even as their careers have taken them in different directions. This loyalty has allowed them to maintain their friendships and continue to collaborate on creative projects.

Last updated: April 14, 2025