Michael Copner, a cinematic aficionado, entered the world in 1954, within the urban landscape of Seattle, Washington, a city that would later become synonymous with his fascination for film. As a product of the baby boomer era, Copner's formative years were significantly shaped by the works of the legendary Bela Lugosi, whose on-screen presence undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the young enthusiast. Furthermore, Forrest J. Ackerman's groundbreaking publication, "Famous Monsters of Filmland," served as a catalyst, igniting a lifelong passion for cinema within Copner, a flame that would continue to burn bright throughout his professional career.
It was the year 1973 when Copner embarked on a journey that would shape his future, commencing his career as a film projectionist at the iconic adult picture theater, The Green Parrot Theatre, in the vibrant city of Seattle. Prior to this milestone, he had honed his skills in theater management, working for the esteemed Sterling Recreation Organization, where he refined his expertise in ensuring seamless operations. Furthermore, he gained valuable experience in the advertising department of Connor Theatres in Tacoma, where he worked alongside professionals in the radio, newspaper, and television industries, developing a keen understanding of the intricacies of each medium. Additionally, he gained hands-on experience as a projectionist at The Embassy theater, where he fine-tuned his skills in the art of film presentation. As a testament to his hard work and dedication, Copner was inducted into the prestigious Motion Pictures Operators Union in 1977, a distinction that recognized his commitment to the craft.
Noted film aficionado, Copner's fervor for the cinematic arts intensified over time, ultimately propelling him to relocate to the iconic city of Los Angeles, California, where he embarked on a new venture by founding the esteemed film magazine "Cult Movies" in the year 1990.
The inaugural issue of this revered publication was a poignant tribute to the legendary Bela Lugosi, and the magazine went on to enjoy a remarkable 15-year run, comprising a total of 41 issues, thereby solidifying Copner's reputation as a film connoisseur and historian of note.
In addition to his work as the editor and publisher of "Cult Movies," Copner also ventured into the realm of documentary filmmaking, directing the thought-provoking "On the Trail of Ed Wood" in 1990, and serving as a skilled camera operator on the documentary "Ed Wood: Look Back in Angora."
Noted filmmaker and writer, Copner, showcased his impressive range of talents by venturing into the realm of acting, making a striking appearance as a vampire in the chilling short fright feature, "The Vampire Hunters Club". Additionally, he shared his expertise and insights in the documentary "Schlock! The Secret History of American Movies", participating in a thought-provoking interview.
Despite his multifaceted creative endeavors, Copner's life took a sudden and drastic turn in the mid-2000s, as he grappled with severe health issues stemming from epilepsy and the diagnosis of a brain tumor. This unforeseen sequence of events led to a significant decline in his mental state, resulting in a dire struggle to make ends meet.
Compelled by financial constraints, Copner was eventually forced to reside in a series of Hollywood flophouses, his once-promising career and life now beset by the harsh realities of poverty and adversity.
On the eighteenth day of April, two thousand and eight, a pivotal and calamitous event transpired in the life of Copner, marking a turning point of sorrow and despair. It was on this fateful day that he engaged in a violent and unprovoked attack, employing a screwdriver as his instrument of harm, against Eric Caidin, the proprietor of a Hollywood-based book and poster memorabilia store.
The consequences of his actions were swift and severe, as he was subsequently apprehended by authorities and charged with multiple counts of assault, including the use of a deadly weapon. The outcome was a lengthy incarceration of two years, during which time Copner was forced to confront the gravity of his mistakes and the devastating impact they had on those around him.
