- I Like to Paint Monsters examines the life and career of Chet Zar, Painter of Dark. Zar is known for his work as a Special FX artist on Hellboy and Hellboy II, among many other Hollywood blockbusters, as well as his music video and live performance work with the world renowned band TOOL. After becoming disheartened with the film industry, Zar 'followed his bliss' and began painting monsters for a living. A forerunner of the Dark Art movement, Zar tackles difficult social situations with his enigmatic and iconic artwork! Enter an all-encompassing and introspective view of Zar's worlds. Sometimes gruesome, periodically funny, but always thought provoking, Zar's art is at once as enigmatic as it is frightening. But what about the man behind the paintbrush? Who is Chet Zar and why does he like to paint monsters? This is the primary question at the heart of the documentary.—Mike Correll
- Born on November 12, 1967 in San Pedro, California, Chet Zar was well known as the family prankster, always coming up with creative and often gruesome gags. His brother, Rick Zar, remembers him as always doing art, constantly making something. His mother, Judy Zar, has said that his fascination with dark imagery seemed to come from somewhere within, and permeated all of his artwork. With a passion for horror films, an innate urge to create bizarre artwork, and a superhuman work ethic, Zar seemed to be made for the special effects industry. During his time with the film industry, he designed and created creatures and make-up effects for such films as "Darkman," "The Ring," "Hellboy I & II," and "Planet of the Apes." Even more well-known is his work with the band Tool, contributing to both their music videos and their on-stage theatrical animations. Despite his success in the film industry, Zar became disenchanted by the many artistic compromises required of him. With the support of his family and encouraging words from horror author Clive Barker, Zar decided in early 2000 to pursue his passion for monsters by painting them. In this new arena, he has flourished and found the much-needed freedom to explore his internal world and all of the oddities created by his brush strokes. Combining humor, horror, and humanity, Zar's work is wildly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking.—Mike Correll
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