"When the bats fly low and night's in the sky, Universal Studios are at their best."That's how a critic in the 1930s described the magic of Universal monster movie. This was a genre that the studio essentially invented - enabling it to survive and thriveand that led to cinematic classics that continue to influence entertainment of all kinds. Now, from Universal itself, comes a lavishly illustrated book that provides the words and images behind these legendary filmsplus heartfelt tributes from some of Hollywood's most famous fans. Here are beautiful on-screen and behind-the-scenes photos from the studio's vaults; the background stories of Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, the Wolf Man, and the other classic characters that scared audiences and scared up profits; the makeup secrets; the censorship battles; and words of praise from friends, family, and fans. With today's fantasy and horror films ruling the box-officeand special edition DVDs available of Universal's masterpiecesMonstersis an invaluable guide for a new generation. It shows where the "creature feature" began, from the twenties silent classicThe Phantom of the Operato fifties favoriteCreature from the Black Lagoon. Frightening and fun, this splendid volume is perfect for monster fans of any age. For more than ninety years, Universal Studios has been bringing unique entertainment experiences to millions of people around the world. Through their motion pictures, home videos, theme parks, television networks and programming, they are in the business of thrills and chills as well as tears and laughter. And with their extensive library of legendary films they have set the standard for inspiring wonder and ultimately transforming moments into lasting memories. From the Hardcover edition.