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Scarlet Salem: Indie horror’s local scream queen
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For as long as horror films have existed, so too has the “scream queen.” Although the term was most popularized (and defined) by the flood of low budget slasher films in the late 70s and early 80s, a “scream queen” is generally considered any actress whose reputation has been established in some degree from roles in horror films (often, but not always, as a victim), a definition that is usually extended all the way back to Fay Wray for her work in horror films, most notably 1933’s King Kong. The only other firm criteria is that the actress be attractive and possess a shriek piercing enough to wake the dead. Being able to do both whilst attired in little more than a slathering of gore also helps, of course, a truism verified by local model/actress Scarlet Salem.
Since her debut in 2007’s You’re Next 3: Pajama Party Massacre, Scarlet Salem has been a ubiquitous figure in the independent horror scene, appearing in 14 films over the next 3 years, many produced by the St. Paul based genre filmmakers, Not for the Squeamish Productions. Relentlessly traumatized in such films as Tales of the Dead, Terror Overload, and Camp Kill, Salem has swiftly established herself as an emerging scream queen of indie horror. With her latest project Strip Club Slasher slated for an early 2010 release, a full schedule of upcoming projects, and numerous appearances at genre conventions (including the Minneapolis Crypticon from 11/6 – 11/8), Salem somehow found the time to share her thoughts on being a local scream queen.
The IMDB lists you as being cast in 14 independent horror films since 2007, most locally produced. Do you ever catch a break from the homicidal maniacs, demonic ghouls, and malevolent spirits?
Occasionally. Although, since it's my passion and what I love to do I like to stay busy...and since I'm such a huge horror fan I like to stick to the genre I know and love. Horror is such a great genre to work in. You get to showcase so many emotions.
What dark secrets drove you from the idyllic wholesomeness of Melrose, MN to the demented debauchery of independent horror cinema?
I grew up on horror and have always loved it. My friends and I made our own camcorder horror films growing up. I guess I've always been drawn to it.
Any favorite roles so far and why?
Honestly, there are so many, but since I have to choose… I’d say my newest film, which isn’t out yet… 2010, would be Sara in Strip Club Slasher. In this film, I get to showcase many emotions and levels of acting. It’s amazing! Let’s just put it this way, I was very proud of myself at the end of filming. I’ve grown so much in the last 2 years and it shows in this film… so, it’s defiantly not one to miss!
The term “scream queen” has had many connotations over the years, some good and some bad. How do you feel about the term? Does it suit you?
I love it. I don't think it's negative at all. More often than not people see the film for the scream queens. As long as you have a level head and know what you are getting into it can be very rewarding. I've always been treated with respect by those I've worked with. I'm proud to be called a scream queen. I wouldn't change it.
One of the earliest “scream queens,” Barbara Steele (Black Friday, Castle of Blood) once remarked, “I never want to climb out of another freakin’ coffin again.” Do you ever worry about being typecast?
I think every actress worries about that. I try to play as many varied roles as I can to stretch myself. I'm a work in progress. I've learned so much on the films I've done and I'm constantly growing. I love horror films, though, and if I can have a career doing those and people call me type casted… well so be it. To be able to do what I love is amazing.
You’ll be a guest at Crypticon alongside luminary “scream queen” Linnea Quigley. Will you be seeking any advice on looking terrified in compromising situations – such as when being impaled on deer antlers ala (the memorable fate of Quigley’s character in) Silent Night, Deadly Night?
(Laughs) Probably not. I'll probably go up and talk to her though. She's been in so many great films, I love her!
Speaking of conventions, they’ve become a popular way to self-promote amongst genre fans. Do you enjoy the meet and greets? Any memorable encounters with overzealous fans?
I love going to the conventions. I've made so many friends, plus, you're right, it's the best way to promote your work. Especially as an indie actress. I love meeting the fans. It feels so good to be appreciated for what you do. Horror fans are so passionate and that's great...cause I'm one of them too. Everyone is so nice. Horror fans get a bad rap but they're some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. No major overzealous fans yet. So far so good. Fingers crossed.
Conventions also give a chance to network with industry figures. Have you met any of your personal icons? Is there anyone you’re looking forward to meeting (or working with) down the road?
I’ve met so many of my icons in the last few years its sick! Some great people I’ve met were… Lloyd Kaufman, Gunnar Hansen, Tony Todd, Ken Foree, Tom Savini, Bill Moseley, Sid Haig, John Kassir, and so many other great people! I’m looking forward to meeting Cassandra Peterson (aka Elvira), George Romero, and so on… I’ll be attending more conventions next year, so we’ll see who else I get to meet!
Rumor has it that you’ll soon be working with some of those iconic genre names during your first large scale production, Hallow Pointe. Can you reveal anything about the project?
I can't say too much, other than the script by Joe Knetter is amazing. The characters are so well written. I can't wait to shoot it. It's being shot in Louisiana next year with a ton of great genre names. I'm really looking forward to that one. Oh...and it's a werewolf film.
Finally, as someone that makes a living by conjuring horrors, what scares Scarlet Salem?
Interviews....just kidding. I would tell you and your readers that...but I'm afraid I'd be giving away my kryptonite and I can't do that. I will say that the real world is much scarier than anything you see in a horror film.
Scarlet Salem will be appearing at the Minneapolis Crypticon 11/6 – 11/8.
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