The Phantom Band vs. Fantomas: Mike Patton on Halloween & Horror Movies

As part of their Halloween takeover, The Phantom Band quiz Mike Patton about Fantomas, horror movies and what scares him...

What was the last good horror film you saw?

Mike Patton: The last great one I saw was the Swedish film Let the Right One In. So good! Was bummed when I heard they did an English remake of it already, but heard it is pretty good too. But I'll stick with the original.

Do you think films have inspired you as much as other existing music has?

MP: I think I have been inspired more by film than other existing music. For me a great film or a great book gets my creative juices flowing.

Can you tell us about the film Fantomas took their name from?

MP: The character is so fascinating. He is a dark, ruthless character, kind of taking a Robin Hood-like character to the extreme dark side who is very creative in his ways of retribution.

What is your favourite horror film soundtrack?

MP: Ok, this is a tough question you can't go wrong with The Omen or Rosemary's Baby soundtracks but I'll go with two. The first is 'Sounds of Walt Disny's Haunted Mansion. This is not a 'film score' per se but it may as well be. The dialogue and cues are so vivid that the listener is immediately transported into the dark recesses of Disneyland...I can't think of a scarier place to be. As far as I know, this recording is only available within the confines of Walt's world...no downloads or distribution. Just the way it should be. The second is 'Four Flies on Grey Velvet' by Ennio Morricone. Incredibly elegant writing and orchestration from the maestro. This music was written for an early Argento film, so there are plenty of slasher elements...but they are handled with the grace and conviction of a modern classical composer. None of the normal musical scare tactics are heard here, and this is precisely why it is so effective both in and outside the film. Just sit back and let it happen to you.

What scares you musically?

MP: Emo music.