Joe Rogan Experience #1353 - Rob Zombie | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this video, Rob Zombie discusses his leap from music to horror films and his lifelong passion for movies and monster films. He talks about his experiences as an outsider, his love for punk rock and anti-society themes, and his attraction to ultra-violent and psychopathic characters. He reflects on his past films and the initial negative reception they received, and he discusses his love for old horror films and his extensive collection of movies.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did you transition from music to horror films?

I always wanted to make movies, it was my main goal in life. Music was a way for me to get into the entertainment industry and eventually make music videos. It was like film school for me, and I realized that I could combine my love for music and cinema in my own horror films.

Q: What made you attracted to horror and anti-society themes in your films?

As a kid, I felt like an outsider, and I always related to the monsters in films. They were often misunderstood and treated unfairly, just like me. And when I discovered punk rock, it further fueled my love for anti-society themes and rebellion. I wanted to create films that reflected that outsider mentality and challenged societal norms.

Q: How do you handle negative reviews and criticism?

At the beginning of my career, negative reviews would bother me. But then I realized that many critics are just bitter and unsuccessful writers themselves, so I stopped caring about their opinions. I make films that I enjoy, and I can't please everyone.

Q: What kind of films did you enjoy growing up?

I was a huge fan of monster movies, especially the older ones. I used to plan out my TV viewing schedule for the week, circling the films I wanted to watch in the TV Guide. I also loved punk rock documentaries and smaller independent films that had a unique and weird vibe.

Q: Do you still enjoy watching films today?

Absolutely. I try to watch everything I can, and I have a massive collection of movies in my own vault. I enjoy smaller films that are offbeat and have a different perspective. Sometimes I have to search for these films because they are not easily accessible on streaming platforms.

Q: How do you feel about the fanatical response to your films, like "Three from Hell"?

It's amazing and humbling to see the passionate response from fans. When my first film came out, it received negative reviews, but now people consider it one of my best films. It's interesting how opinions can change over time, and I'm grateful for the loyal fanbase that supports my work.

Q: Did you have any formal training in filmmaking?

No, I didn't take any classes or have any formal training. I believe in learning by doing, and I just figured things out as I went along. I've always been a hands-on person, and I learn best through trial and error. I can't learn by reading directions or studying manuals, I just have to dive in and figure it out myself.

Q: How did you approach making your first film "House of 1000 Corpses"?

It was a mix of naivety and determination. I had no previous experience making a film, but I had a vision and a title for the movie. I just went into the studio, pitched my half-formed idea, and somehow convinced them to let me make the movie. It was a huge learning experience and a rollercoaster ride.

Q: Have you ever been influenced by negative reviews or criticism?

No, I've never let negative reviews or criticism influence me. I don't care what others think as long as I'm happy with my work. I've always embraced my own style and have followed my own creative instincts. I believe in staying true to yourself and not trying to cater to everyone's tastes.

Q: What kind of films do you enjoy watching today?

I enjoy a variety of films, but I'm particularly drawn to smaller independent films that have a unique and distinct voice. I appreciate films that are well-made, whether they are comedies, horror films, or dramas. It's important to me that a film is visually appealing and tells a compelling story.

Q: How did you build your extensive movie collection?

I've always been a film enthusiast, and I wanted to own everything. So over the years, I've collected thousands of movies in various formats, including VHS, Laserdiscs, DVDs, and now digital copies. I love discovering new and obscure films, and having my own collection allows me to explore and revisit films whenever I want.

Takeaways

Rob Zombie's journey from music to horror films showcases his passion for movies and his distinctive style. As an outsider, he has drawn inspiration from monster films, punk rock, and anti-society themes. While his films initially faced negative reviews, they have gained a devoted fanbase over time. He continues to enjoy watching a wide range of films and has built an extensive collection of movies. Through his unconventional approach and dedication to his vision, he has carved out a unique space in the horror genre.