Beast Wishes

Beast Wishes is an engaging 2012 documentary that centers around Bob Burns and his wife Kathy Burns, who both have a profound influence and long-term impact on the Hollywood horror and science fiction genres. The film, directed by Frank Dietz and Trish Geiger, stars renowned special effects artist Rick Baker, along with the Burns themselves, and many other significant figures within the industry.

The documentary opens by introducing us to Bob Burns, a man who began his career in the entertainment industry as a stunt double and actor before moving into special effects. He is most famous, however, for his extensive and rare collection of film memorabilia, a unique assortment that speaks volumes about the evolution of horror and science fiction cinema over the decades.

Bob’s wife Kathy is also extensively featured in the movie. Like her husband, Kathy showcased an early fascination with the timeless and captivating worlds of horror and sci-fi. She shares her husband’s passion and love for the cinematic universe and has played an instrumental role in building and maintaining their impressive collection.

Together, Bob and Kathy have fostered an inclusive and open-hearted community around themselves in Hollywood, which is warmly depicted throughout the film. They open their home and collection to fans, industry professionals, and budding artists alike, earning them a lovable reputation within the community. This warm-hearted generosity forms the backbone of the film, showcasing the intimate and friendly atmosphere of their household.

Special effects legend, Rick Baker, joins the cast to share his impressions and interactions with the Burnses. Known for his remarkable contributions to the special effects industry, Baker's perspective offers a deeper insight into the world of horror and science fiction from behind-the-scenes.

Where the documentary truly shines is in its unwavering focus on the passion Bob and Kathy Burns have for the cinematic universe. The movie delves into the history of their collection, how it started, and what it took to amass such an assortment. The emphasis on the story behind each item tells the deeper narrative of a couple who have fully immersed themselves into the world of fantasy, devoting their lives to collecting memories, tokens, and relics from the industry they love and reverence.

The documentary also explores Bob's fascinating personal history in the entertainment industry. From his involvement in set designs and costumes to anecdotes about his interactions with stars and creators, these stories offer delightful insight into a segment of Hollywood seldom seen.

Beast Wishes isn't just a documentary about an impressive collection and the couple who dedicated their lives to building it; it’s also a heartfelt love letter to the science fiction and horror genre. It encapsulates the intrigue and love that fans have for the film industry, testifying to the art’s ability to captivate and engage, to inspire awe and admiration, and most importantly, to bring people together.

Bob and Kathy Burns are a testament to the ways films can shape our lives and mold our dreams. In them, we see what can happen when passion is coupled with dedication and perseverance. They embody the spirit of fandom at its most irresistible, turning their appreciation for movies into shared joy and inspiration for others.

Beast Wishes is a documentary made with love and respect, crafted in tribute not only to Bob and Kathy, but also to the brilliant minds behind the scenes who have created cherished classics that resonate with audiences worldwide. It's an affectionate journey that's both enchanting and nostalgic, one that will be cherished by fans of sci-fi, horror, and cinema as a whole.

What this movie accomplishes most successfully is the depiction of pure, raw passion for film. It goes behind-the-scenes, giving us a glimpse not just into the minds of these passionate industry devotees, but into their hearts. It testifies to their years spent in loyal service to the industry they love, making it a must-watch for any fan of film history, special effects, or anyone who can appreciate the lengths love and passion can reach.