What is 'Invaluable: The True Story of an Epic Artist' about?

The documentary 'Invaluable: The True Story of an Epic Artist' directed by Ryan Meade, explores the life, work, and contributions of Tom Sullivan, a sculptor and artist who played a significant role in shaping the Evil Dead saga. The film features interviews with key figures from the franchise including Bruce Campbell and highlights Sullivan’s artistic contributions.

Are there any special features included in the documentary?

Yes, in addition to the main feature on Tom Sullivan, the documentary includes a bonus documentary about the life of filmmaker Josh Becker and a vintage interview with Tom Sullivan from 1989, providing deeper insights into the creative forces behind the Evil Dead series.

What aspects of Tom Sullivan's work does the documentary highlight?

The documentary highlights Tom Sullivan’s extensive contributions as a sculptor and artist to the Evil Dead saga, detailing how his artistic skills helped shape the visual and practical effects of the films. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process and the impact his work had on the horror genre.

Why is 'Invaluable: The True Story of an Epic Artist' considered inspiring for filmmakers?

The documentary is considered inspiring as it showcases how Tom Sullivan, with limited resources and a passion for filmmaking, significantly contributed to one of the most beloved horror franchises. It serves as a motivational story for aspiring filmmakers on how creativity and dedication can influence major film projects.

Invaluable: The True Story Of An Epic Artist (2023) – Film Review

Q: Who are the main contributors featured in the documentary?

The documentary includes interviews with several collaborators from the Evil Dead series, such as Bruce Campbell, Ted Raimi, Josh Becker, Danny Hicks, Hal Delrich, Ellen Sandweiss, Betsy Baker, and Theresa Tilly. Each provides insight into the making of the Evil Dead films and Tom Sullivan's influence and contributions.

Film Reviews

By Steve Crabtree

08/10/2023

267

Invaluable: The True Story Of An Epic Artist (2023) - Film Review

Director: Ryan Meade
Cast: Bruce Campbell, Theresa Tilly, Betsy Baker
Certificate: TBC

By Roger Crow

I’ve been a fan of the Evil Dead saga since the sequel was released in 1987. That perfect mix of comedy and horror, it helped turn director Sam Raimi into a Hollywood hot property, though of course the first movie was one of the biggest talking points of the video nasty controversy of the early 1980s. Raimi’s low-fi approach to making movies was inspiring. And even fans like me were oblivious to one of the real driving forces behind the saga. Until now.

Sculptor and artist Tom Sullivan finally gets the credit he deserves in a new doc which features a hit and miss mix of talking heads. Bruce Campbell is as eloquent and compelling as ever, while others? Not quite so much, but it’s still a fascinating study of how a skilled artist helped shape one of the best loved horror franchises of all time.

Director Ryan Meade’s Invaluable: The True Story of an Epic Artist examines the life, times, and art of Sullivan.

Invaluable: The True Story Of An Epic Artist (2023) - Film Review

“Inspiring stuff”

Inevitably there’s a look back at the making of The Evil Dead, and though the mix of multiple film/video formats are a little jarring, there are real nuggets of interest here for all horror fans.

Bruce Campbell is the star of the show (his book ‘If Chins Could Kill’ is a must-read if you get the chance), but there is also anecdotal gold from the likes of fellow collaborators Ted Raimi, Josh Becker, Danny Hicks, Hal Delrich, Ellen Sandweiss, Betsy Baker and Theresa Tilly.

There are plenty of other goodies on the doc too, including a bonus documentary about the life of filmmaker Josh Becker, and a vintage Tom Sullivan “In the Spotlight” interview from 1989. At times it’s as grungy as the original movies (one interviewee needed a little make up under the spotlight as he starts to glisten, reminding viewers how important little touches like that are during such vox pops).

However, for anyone who loves Raimi’s bonkers saga, Invaluable: The True Story Of An Epic Artist is a must-see, and inspiring stuff for anyone who wants to make their own movies.