Phantasm is a low-budget
cult classic horror movie released in
1977. The copyright date at the end of the film, for verification purposes, is MCMLXXVII, or 1977. It was directed, written, photographed, co-produced and edited by
Don Coscarelli. It introduced
The Tall Man (who was portrayed in the film and its sequels by
Angus Scrimm), a supernatural and sadistic
undertaker who turns the dead into midget
zombies to do his bidding and take over the world. The Tall Man uses flying silver balls (referred to as
Sentinel Spheres by fans) that contain a lethal pair of spiked blades and a drill that eviscerates the victim's brain. Later on in the series, the Sentinel Spheres receive several attachments, including a master gold ball.