Amit Itelman's the lovable sicko who programs the always adventurous Steve Allen Theater. Last year's “Masters of Horror Drive-In Series”; screened in the theater's parking lot, was a huge success, and now he's back with more gore for your buck. Each screening, made drive-in-able by Eric Curland's Hollywood MobMov, is followed with an appearance by the director, so you can get some good fake-blood stories after the flick. Says Mr. Itelman, “I think it's a shame that so many people have never been to a drive-in. It's such a distinctively American experience. Making out with your girl in your car while a werewolf transformation reflects on your windshield is about the most patriotic thing you can do. A lot has been said about the 'safe scare' experience that horror films give you. I think people have a morbid fascination with death and the fragility of the human body. I think we're all genetically wired to be afraid of being eaten alive, we're still afraid of being hunted, and horror films wake up those dormant fears. Then again … a dude wearing a mask made out of human skin with a chain saw is kind of intriguing, don't ya think?” Director Joe Dante (Gremlins, The Howling) kicks things off tonight. In the coming weeks, it's Tobe Hooper, Don Coscarelli, Mick Garris and many more white men.

Fri., April 3, 8 p.m., 2009

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.