Fantasy art fans, you’re in for something special! Rediscovered Realms has unearthed a long-lost 1985 interview with Frank Frazetta, where the legendary artist reflects on his career, Fire and Ice, and his influence on famous Hollywood icons. For the first time online, we’ve fully transcribed this rare conversation, making it easier to read than ever. Whether you’re a die-hard Frazetta fan or just love classic sword & sorcery and fantasy cinema, this is one rediscovery you won’t want to miss!
That's cool you got to visit, Travis! (Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Substack allows us to attach/paste pics in comments so I can't see your deer. 😔)
Fire and Ice is an awesome example of the genre, my second favourite S&S film (after Conan the Barbarian). It has a decent story, fantastic art and some of the best rotoscoping put to film.
Renting it with a buddy for a sleepover from one of those old family video places is a great memory.
It was one of the few films where the coolest character (not the main hero) was the one to realistically take out the bad guy.
It’s not just a great piece about a wonderful artist, but also a snapshot of the time in which it was written. Fascinating stuff
I haven’t watched Fire and Ice in a long time. I’ll need to check where I can stream it. Will be even more interesting now knowing that Bakshi implemented his own changes against Frazetta’s wishes 🤔
Right, Dan?! The differences in vision and execution add a whole other layer to this film. Let me know what you think of it when you watch again. I did last summer (or the one before that!) and enjoyed the atmospheric tension, backdrops and style of animation. It still feels fresh, though to your point, that is also a function of the time it was made.
I can't remember where I saw it, but Bakshi was down to do a version of Red Sonja before settling on Fire & Ice. Pretty sure I put it in a footnote of one of my fantasy posts somewhere. If memory serves, he was auditioning. Then it went quiet. Then Fire & Ice came along instead. I think. :P
Great interview and it helps highlight his influence on modern fantasy and science fiction. I would love to make it down to Florida and see his museum.
Totally, Eric. I knew about the Frazetta Museum in Pennsylvania, but had no idea there was a Frazetta Gallery in Florida! Unequivocally on my list now, thanks!
Frazetta's Conan covers and illustrations inspired every barbarian PC I ever ran...trying for the dual weapons, of a broadsword and axe, and the like, and R.E.H's descriptions for them all as well.
I was at the Frazetta museum last year. Beautiful rural spot. Here’s a deer that was on the property.
That's cool you got to visit, Travis! (Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Substack allows us to attach/paste pics in comments so I can't see your deer. 😔)
Another great find, JQ.
Fire and Ice is an awesome example of the genre, my second favourite S&S film (after Conan the Barbarian). It has a decent story, fantastic art and some of the best rotoscoping put to film.
Renting it with a buddy for a sleepover from one of those old family video places is a great memory.
It was one of the few films where the coolest character (not the main hero) was the one to realistically take out the bad guy.
What a good point about the "sidekick" character taking the vanquishment glory, Kveto!
I'm glad you have such fond memories of the film and spending time with friends. It really is a masterpiece in many ways.
Thanks for sharing this great interview, J.Q. 👍🏼
It’s not just a great piece about a wonderful artist, but also a snapshot of the time in which it was written. Fascinating stuff
I haven’t watched Fire and Ice in a long time. I’ll need to check where I can stream it. Will be even more interesting now knowing that Bakshi implemented his own changes against Frazetta’s wishes 🤔
Right, Dan?! The differences in vision and execution add a whole other layer to this film. Let me know what you think of it when you watch again. I did last summer (or the one before that!) and enjoyed the atmospheric tension, backdrops and style of animation. It still feels fresh, though to your point, that is also a function of the time it was made.
Love this, love that you shared pics of the pages! Thanks for finding this.
Thanks, Jason - glad you enjoyed it!
I can't remember where I saw it, but Bakshi was down to do a version of Red Sonja before settling on Fire & Ice. Pretty sure I put it in a footnote of one of my fantasy posts somewhere. If memory serves, he was auditioning. Then it went quiet. Then Fire & Ice came along instead. I think. :P
Oh wow - that's a cool piece of trivia, Alec!
I can’t remember birthdays, but I’m always good for pointless trivia. :D
Great interview and it helps highlight his influence on modern fantasy and science fiction. I would love to make it down to Florida and see his museum.
Totally, Eric. I knew about the Frazetta Museum in Pennsylvania, but had no idea there was a Frazetta Gallery in Florida! Unequivocally on my list now, thanks!
Frazetta's Conan covers and illustrations inspired every barbarian PC I ever ran...trying for the dual weapons, of a broadsword and axe, and the like, and R.E.H's descriptions for them all as well.
Righteous, Heavy Cavalry!!! 💪