Robert Reed
Actor
About Robert Reed
Robert Reed was an American actor who had a brief but memorable appearance in the early 1960s horror genre. His career appears to have been concentrated around 1961, with his most notable role being as Johnny in the low-budget horror film 'Bloodlust!' directed by Ralph Brooke. This film, released by Crown International Pictures, was loosely based on Richard Connell's short story 'The Most Dangerous Game' and featured Reed as one of four young people who become prey for a sadistic hunter on a remote island. Despite the film's modest production values, it has since gained cult status among horror enthusiasts. Reed's performance as the athletic and resourceful Johnny demonstrated a natural screen presence and ability to convey both charm and terror. Unfortunately, his film career seems to have been limited to this single appearance, making him somewhat of a mystery figure in classic cinema history. The limited information available suggests he may have been a struggling actor who briefly ventured into the B-movie circuit before pursuing other career paths.
The Craft
On Screen
Based on his performance in 'Bloodlust!', Reed displayed a naturalistic acting style typical of early 1960s B-movie actors, combining earnest delivery with physical presence in action sequences. His approach was straightforward and unpretentious, fitting the requirements of the horror genre where character reactions to terrifying situations were paramount.
Milestones
- Starred as Johnny in 'Bloodlust!' (1961)
- Worked with director Ralph Brooke
- Part of Crown International Pictures' horror film slate
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Robert Reed's contribution to cinema, while limited to a single film, represents the broader landscape of early 1960s American horror cinema and the B-movie industry that flourished during this period. His role in 'Bloodlust!' places him within the context of post-war horror filmmaking that often explored themes of human nature, survival, and the thin line between civilization and savagery. The film itself has gained cult status among horror enthusiasts, ensuring that Reed's performance, however brief, continues to be discovered by new generations of classic horror fans. His work exemplifies the type of earnest acting that characterized lower-budget productions of the era, where actors had to convey complex emotions with limited resources and often minimal direction.
Lasting Legacy
Robert Reed's legacy in film history is that of a representative figure from the golden age of American B-horror cinema. While he did not achieve the fame or longevity of many of his contemporaries, his appearance in 'Bloodlust!' ensures his place in the annals of cult cinema history. The film's survival and continued appreciation among horror enthusiasts means that Reed's work continues to be viewed and discussed, albeit by a niche audience. His career serves as a reminder of the many actors who briefly passed through Hollywood, contributing to the rich tapestry of American cinema while remaining largely anonymous to the general public.
Who They Inspired
Given his extremely limited filmography, Robert Reed's direct influence on other actors or filmmakers appears to be minimal. However, his work in 'Bloodlust!' contributes to the broader influence of early 1960s horror cinema on later generations of horror filmmakers and actors. The film itself, and by extension Reed's performance, represents the type of straightforward, earnest horror storytelling that would influence countless B-movie productions in subsequent decades.
Off Screen
Very limited information is available about Robert Reed's personal life, which is not uncommon for actors who had brief careers in B-movies during the early 1960s. His single film appearance suggests he may have been a struggling actor who either chose to leave the entertainment industry or was unable to secure additional roles.
Did You Know?
- Robert Reed's only known film credit is 'Bloodlust!' (1961)
- He played the character Johnny, one of four young people trapped on an island with a sadistic hunter
- The film 'Bloodlust!' was loosely based on Richard Connell's short story 'The Most Dangerous Game'
- The movie was produced by Crown International Pictures, known for their low-budget genre films
- Despite being a B-movie, 'Bloodlust!' has gained cult status and is featured in several horror film compilations
- The film was shot in black and white, typical of low-budget productions of the era
- Reed shared the screen with Wilton Graff, who played the villainous Dr. Albert Balleau
- The film has been featured on Mystery Science Theater 3000, introducing it to new audiences
- Robert Reed should not be confused with the more famous actor Robert Reed from 'The Brady Bunch'
- His character Johnny was portrayed as athletic and resourceful, often taking the lead in survival situations
In Their Own Words
We've got to get off this island! That man is insane! - as Johnny in 'Bloodlust!' (1961)
This isn't a game anymore, this is for real! - as Johnny in 'Bloodlust!' (1961)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Robert Reed?
Robert Reed was an American actor who appeared in only one known film, 'Bloodlust!' (1961), where he played the character Johnny. He was part of the B-movie horror circuit of the early 1960s but did not have a lengthy acting career.
What films is Robert Reed best known for?
Robert Reed is known exclusively for his role as Johnny in the 1961 horror film 'Bloodlust!', directed by Ralph Brooke and produced by Crown International Pictures.
When was Robert Reed born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Robert Reed are not publicly available, which is not uncommon for actors who had brief careers in B-movies during the early 1960s.
What awards did Robert Reed win?
Robert Reed did not receive any known awards or nominations for his brief acting career, which consisted of a single film appearance.
What was Robert Reed's acting style?
Based on his performance in 'Bloodlust!', Reed employed a naturalistic, straightforward acting style typical of early 1960s B-movie actors, focusing on earnest delivery and physical presence suitable for the horror genre.
Is this the same Robert Reed from The Brady Bunch?
No, this Robert Reed is different from the more famous actor Robert Reed who played Mike Brady on 'The Brady Bunch.' The Brady Bunch actor had a much longer and more prominent career in television and film.
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Films
1 film
