JOB BOB BRIGGS | THE LAST DRIVE-IN | SHUDDER
There’s no denying that Joe Bob Briggs and horror go together like chocolate and peanut butter. Simply put, Briggs is synonymous with the genre and it dates back decades to his stint as host of “Joe Bob’s Drive-In Theater” on The Movie Channel in the mid-80s as well as his famed “MonsterVision” series on TNT in the mid-90s. More recently, this beloved syndicated film critic, writer, and actor would go on to host “The Last Drive-In With Joe Bob Briggs” on Shudder.
His gift of gab in the horror world has become the stuff of legend and it has rightfully earned him an iconic spot amongst horror fandom. In fact, he, Darcy the Mail Girl, and the entire Last Drive-In team bring an extra infectiously lovable layer of goodness when it comes discussions surrounding our favorite horror movies to the point that it’s a show worthy of watching even if, perhaps, the film they’re showcasing isn’t necessarily your cup of tea. It’s just a pleasure to listen to Joe Bob deliver his own goofy brand of horror insight and trivia.
Well, as fate would have it, Joe Bob Briggs and crew are going out on the road once more by way of the infamous Drive-In Jamboree! As was the case with the 2023 event, this year’s Jamboree will be held at the West Wind Drive-In in Las Vegas, NV. It’s the 4th year for this not-to-be-missed horror get-together overall, and it’s the second consecutive year the Jamboree will be held in Sin City.
Sadly, we were unable to attend in 2023 but the buzz from those who were in attendance was through the roof.
This is to say, there’s no way we’re missing the festivities this year. Particularly after we got a look at the spectacular lineup;
SPECIAL GUESTS INCLUDE ONE OF THE GREAT HORROR FILMMAKERS OF ALL TIME, A TRIO OF LEGENDARY SCREAM QUEENS, AND AN ICONIC HORROR HOST FOR THE AGES;
JOHN CARPENTER
Yep…That’s right! The legendary John Carpenter will be honored by the great Joe Bob Briggs. These two horror icons will sit down for what we have no doubt will be an epic conversation about Carpenter’s illustrious career. What’s more, given that this is an all-night affair, it’s safe to say that some of Carpenter’s unforgettable work will be part of the equation. No telling which films might be screened but I certainly have my hopes, “The Thing” and “The Fog” high among them. “The Thing” in particular is my all-time favorite horror film so that goes without saying. As for “The Fog,” that just seems like a great movie to watch in an outdoor setting like this. Regardless, whatever Carpenter films might make the cut, we’re completely game! Beyond that, the very idea of getting to kick back and bear witness to a tribute to the legendary John Carpenter in this kind of an environment has this horror fan grinning from ear-to-ear.
BRINKE STEVENS
Known for a handful of legendary B-movies of the 80s (SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE, SORORITY BABES IN THE SLIMEBALL BOWL-O-RAMA, and NIGHTMARE SISTERS high among them), the lovely Brinke Stevens is no stranger to horror fans. She goes way back with Briggs and has also shared screen time with the amazing ladies that make up the rest of this Scream Queen trio.
LINNEA QUIGLEY
As a massive fan of RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD, I positively adore Linnea Quigley. Of course, given that I was a teen of the 80s, it should be noted that, as was the case with many of my fellow horror-loving friends, I had a big time crush on her during that magical decade. To call her uninhibited would be a gross understatement, particularly where her work as punk rocker, Trash, in Dan O’Bannon’s seminal 80s zombie flick is concerned. Beyond that, Quigley would leave quite the impression by way of other noteworthy works of horror including NIGHT OF THE DEMONS. It’ll be an absolute treat to watch her wax nostalgic with Mr. Briggs.
MICHELLE BAUER
With legendary 80s B-movie gems like HOLLYWOOD CHAINSAW HOOKERS and SORORITY BABES IN THE SLIMEBALL BOWL–O-RAMA to her credit, Michelle Bauer has also rightfully earned her spot alongside the wonderful Scream Queens of yesteryear.
In addition to insightful conversations with this talented trio of B-movie greatness, it’s safe to say we’ll be treated to some of their finest cinematic work as well. If I were to venture to take a guess, I’d say that SORORITY BABES IN THE SLIMEBALL BOWL-O-RAMA is a strong possibility, particularly given that all three of these lovely ladies made appearances in that 1988 film. Personally, I’m also holding out hope for a RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD screening because that movie is an absolute crowd-pleaser of the highest caliber.
SVENGOOLIE
Two horror host titans come face to face in what promises to be an epic Drive-In Jamboree affair! Svengoolie was originated by Jerry G. Bishop in 1970. The baton was then passed on to Rich Koz in 1979. For several years, Koz’s iteration of the character would be known as the Son of Svengoolie but he’d eventually drop “the son of” in 1995. He’s been doing his thing on Chicago television for the better part of four decades and to see him face-to-face with Joe Bob Briggs is going to be quite the treat. In addition to sharing what I’m sure will be quite a few great horror war stories, it’s safe to say that we can also expect quite a Svengoolie movie marathon as well. What might this legend have as part of his playlist? No telling but for fans of horror, you have to believe it’s going to be one hell of a night!
Again, the West Wind Drive-In will serve as the venue for two day’s worth of amazing horror-centric festivities. For all event information including ticket details, click here.
On a final note, be sure to get your tickets sooner rather than later as the Drive-In Jamboree is expected to sell out.
