#Debt collector Sydney

[commercialrecoverydebt]

AI Chatbots – Transforming the Debt Collection Industry

The services of debt collectors are a kind of art that these professionals perform based on tailor-made strategies while complying with national and international laws. The goal of these professionals is to ensure healthy cash flow as well as the relationship with the debtors. A well-defined debt collection policy in association with timely communication and strong relationships generate positive results in the form of timely debt collection. Modern-day debt collectors are seeking assistance from AI and chatbots assuming that they will help in debt collection. The problem is that these AI based chatbots are still facing a ‘poor reputation’ situation.

But post covid-19 pandemic, things have changed a lot and now people love them due to several reasons. Researchers have also confirmed this and the following data is enough to reveal the love of debtors and debt collectors for AI based chatbots.

62% of consumers would prefer to use a bot rather than wait for a human agent to answer (TIDIO)

74% of Internet users prefer using chatbots when looking for answers to simple questions (PSFK)

65% of customers are comfortable handling an issue without interacting with a human (ADWEEK)

Let's Keep It Simple – Consumers Prefer Interrupting With Virtual Assistant Rather Than The Debt Collector In Sydney Himself

Anyone would feel embarrassed discussing the poor financial situation that he is currently passing through. Even more embarrassing situation is telling the debt collector in Perth that he is unable to clear outstanding dues and this is where virtual assistance can be helpful. They interact with these chatbots more frankly compared to speaking to a debt collector in Sydney directly. The simple reason is that these chatbots are impersonal and non-judgemental. They simply ask questions and provide answers to the debtors in the form of solutions regarding the debt and negotiations related to the same.

Highly Convenient

It has also been discovered that talking to a chatbot is convenient for debtors as they can contact the debt collector in Sydney 24/7. This is not possible for humans as they close the office in the evening till the next morning.

A More Recognisable Platform

The biggest reason behind the popularity of AI based chatbots is that they are now recognisable to most people. Virtual chatbots provide instant gratification by fulfilling every desire and in terms of debtors, this desire is of contracting via a message rather than calling.

Saves Time and Money

AI based chatbots and debt collectors software mostly work in front and backend office activities. They can complete several sophisticated tasks very easily and help consumers in making payments arrangements, dispute filing and even, providing negotiation terms and conditions. In short, anything that creates a high-level of stress in humans can be completed easily with these AI based chatbots and robots. This means anyone including the debt collector and the debtor will experience a non-confrontational and low stress environment that helps them work better and improve productivity.

[debt-collectors-8]

The Specialisation of Law Firms in Commercial Litigation

In the complex world of law, specialisation has become critical for law firms seeking to provide high-quality legal services. One such specialisation is commercial litigation, a niche area that has gained significant importance in the legal landscape. This article explores the specialisation of law firms in commercial litigation, its importance, and the benefits it offers clients. Commercial litigation is a legal discipline that involves resolving disputes arising from commercial and business transactions. Commercial litigation encompasses a wide array of disputes, including but not limited to breach of contract cases, partnership disagreements, class actions, business torts, and intellectual property disputes. The intricate nature of these cases demands an in-depth understanding of business operations, regulatory frameworks, and legal precedents. This complexity underscores the necessity of specialisation, enabling law firms to effectively navigate the multifaceted landscape of commercial disputes and provide businesses with strategic legal solutions. They have lawyers with extensive experience and expertise in handling commercial disputes. These lawyers are not just legal experts but also business strategists who understand the financial and operational implications of legal decisions on businesses. The importance of specialisation in commercial litigation cannot be overstated. The business world is dynamic, with regulations constantly evolving and business models continually changing. A law firm specialising in commercial litigation stays abreast of these changes, ensuring they can provide relevant and effective legal advice. They can anticipate potential legal issues businesses may face and provide proactive solutions to mitigate risks. Moreover, commercial litigation often involves high stakes. The outcome of a commercial dispute can significantly impact a business's operations, reputation, and financial health. A specialised law firm can navigate these high-stakes disputes effectively, providing strategic legal advice that aligns with the business's objectives. They can help businesses make informed decisions, protecting their interests while striving for a favourable outcome.

Specialisation also offers several benefits to clients.

Firstly, Specialised law firms play a pivotal role in commercial litigation, offering a deep understanding of industry-specific issues that businesses face. They provide tailored legal advice, considering the unique challenges and opportunities of the client's industry, leading to more effective dispute resolution strategies. These firms have a comprehensive knowledge of business operations, financial transactions, and industry regulations. Moreover, specialised law firms offer enhanced efficiency. Their streamlined processes and resources are tailored to handling commercial disputes, often leading to quicker resolutions. This efficiency is crucial in business disputes, where time can significantly impact the outcome. Specialisation also enhances credibility. Businesses often prefer law firms with a proven track record in commercial litigation. This preference assures their expertise and capability to handle complex disputes, further strengthening the client's position. The value of specialised law firms in commercial litigation lies in their ability to provide tailored, efficient, and credible legal services. Their expertise and understanding of industry-specific issues make them invaluable in resolving commercial disputes.

Secondly, Specialised law firms offer a significant advantage in commercial litigation through their proven track record in handling commercial disputes. Their experience and expertise in managing complex litigation ensure every aspect of the case is handled proficiently, instilling confidence in their legal representation. These firms deeply understand the intricacies of business law and the litigation process. They can effectively navigate commercial disputes' complex procedures, rules, and regulations. This expertise ensures no critical detail is overlooked, strengthening the client's case. Moreover, specialised law firms have a history of successful outcomes in commercial litigation. This success is a testament to their ability to develop effective dispute resolution strategies, negotiate favourable settlements, and represent clients vigorously in court. The experience of specialised law firms also extends to understanding the potential risks and implications of commercial disputes. Specialised law firms' proven track record in commercial litigation gives clients confidence in their legal representation. Their experience and expertise in managing complex disputes ensure that every aspect of the case is handled proficiently, enhancing the likelihood of a favourable outcome.

Thirdly, Specialised law firms are renowned for providing cost-effective legal solutions, a crucial aspect in commercial litigation. These firms have the expertise to evaluate the potential financial impact of different dispute resolution strategies. They can guide businesses on the most cost-efficient approach involving negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. This strategic advice can help businesses avoid unnecessary expenditures and make informed decisions about their legal options. Furthermore, specialised law firms can resolve disputes efficiently, saving clients valuable time and resources. Their streamlined processes and proficiency in managing commercial disputes often result in faster resolutions. In addition, specialised law firms frequently have established relationships with industry experts and professionals. These connections can facilitate access to cost-effective services, such as expert witness testimony or forensic accounting, further reducing the cost of litigation. The ability of specialised law firms to provide cost-effective legal solutions is a significant advantage in commercial litigation. Their understanding of the financial implications of litigation, capacity to deliver efficient dispute resolution, and access to cost-effective services can considerably reduce the cost of litigation for businesses.

Lastly, Specialised law firms bring professionalism and integrity to commercial litigation, which is paramount in handling business disputes. They understand the significance of confidentiality and discretion and uphold the highest ethical standards, ensuring their clients' interests are always safeguarded. These firms are acutely aware of the sensitive nature of commercial disputes. They handle all information with the utmost confidentiality, protecting their clients' business interests and reputations. This discretion is crucial in maintaining trust and fostering strong relationships with clients. Moreover, specialised law firms adhere to strict ethical standards. They conduct their practice honestly and honestly, ensuring that their clients' cases are managed fairly and transparently. This commitment to ethics not only protects clients' interests but also enhances the credibility of their cases. These firms maintain high professionalism in their interactions with clients, opposing counsel, and the court. They communicate effectively, respond promptly, and provide regular updates on case progress. This professional approach ensures that clients are well informed and involved in their cases. In conclusion, the professionalism and integrity of specialised law firms are invaluable in commercial litigation. Their commitment to confidentiality, adherence to ethical standards, and professional approach ensure that client's interests are protected and their cases are managed effectively

" The specialisation of law firms in commercial litigation directly responds to the escalating complexity of the business world and the legal challenges it presents. These law firms bring expertise, experience, and strategic insight that can substantially benefit businesses involved in commercial disputes. The expertise of specialised law firms extends beyond a deep understanding of business law. They also possess a comprehensive knowledge of industry-specific issues, business operations, financial transactions, and regulatory frameworks. Moreover, the experience of specialised law firms in managing complex litigation ensures that every aspect of a case is handled proficiently. Their proven track record in commercial litigation instils confidence in their legal representation, enhancing the likelihood of a favourable outcome for clients. Furthermore, these firms offer strategic insights to help businesses make informed decisions about their legal options. They understand the financial implications of litigation and provide cost-effective legal solutions. Their expertise can also lead to efficient dispute resolution, saving clients time and resources. As the business landscape continues to evolve, the importance of specialised legal services will only grow. Changes in business practices, technology, and regulations are leading to new types of commercial disputes. With their up-to-date knowledge and skills, specialised law firms are well-equipped to handle these emerging challenges. In this context, commercial litigation is a critical area of specialisation for law firms. It allows them to provide tailored, efficient, and cost-effective legal services that meet the unique needs of businesses involved in commercial disputes. As the business world's complexity increases, so will the demand for specialised legal services. "

[globalindeed]

Important Features to Look For In Debt Collectors

When business starts getting affected to outstanding debts from consumers, debtors, contractors, etc. in this situation, the only solution that they find useful is the debt collector services. This industry has bloomed exponentially in the past two decades and every city these days have several agencies offering these debt recovery and collection services. You just cannot trust upon any company coming your way via the search engine and book it for its services. There are some features that you need to look at the time of researching and we have covered the top ones here in this blog post.

Provide Full-Service Collections

The company should be in full service operation and this means that they should be working and handling the tasks right from the beginning to the end. They should help their clients by uploading the accounts related data and then, work for around 2-3 months to get some positive results. In fact, the company should agree that if it doesn’t succeed, it would perform adequate communication with the debtor or making a payment, then qualify the account for legal.

Judicious With Your Accounts

The debt collector Sydney agencies or the debt collector Perth companies shortlisted by you should be capable of getting the financial picture of the debtor right in the beginning so that they don’t waste any time. It has been observed that several agencies waste a lot of precious time in filing a lawsuit or calling the debtor repeatedly or negotiating with him in case of inability to pay in full. This way a lot of time is waste and in fact, the debt collector agency should first locate the asset and then, find out the possibilities of collecting the debts.

Cheaper Than a Law Firm

Lastly, the debt collector Sydney agency hired by you should offer all its services at very affordable rates as compared to other agencies and also, the law firms offering similar services. They should not charge hourly fees in lieu of their services as we have seen with some lawyers.

[legalservicesau-blog]

If you’re struggling to recover debts that are owed to your business, it may be time to work with a professional debt collection agency.

[radetzkymarch]

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[del-uxie]

sydney, gangrel debt collector

[pittergraham]

Why Our Kids Need Positive Role Models

We can help of kids by reducing the amount of time they spend being sedentary and increasing physical activity. Join our community for more information.

[falkenscreen]

South African Film Festival opens online this week with vibrant film, doco program

The Festival runs May 12-24 with special in-cinema closing night screenings in Sydney and Melbourne. All ticket proceeds go to programs supporting vulnerable groups in South Africa.

We’re not getting to South Africa anytime soon, so the South African Film Festival brought it here.

Three years strong, the Festival launched in Bondi in 2019, went online in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and this year will run online May 12-24 with special in-cinema closing night screenings in Sydney and Melbourne. All ticket proceeds this year go to programs supporting vulnerable groups in South Africa.

This year’s program includes documentaries, feature films and two short features.

“There’s a range of intrinsic directorial visions extrapolating South Africa’s past, present and future,” said Festival director Clare Jankelson. “Each year the focus is to find a selection of proudly South African films that brings the vibrancy of the unique South African culture and its people to our Australian, and for the first time this year, New Zealand, audiences.”

The program kicks off on Wednesday May 12 with documentary Influence, billed with world leaders Margaret Thatcher, Nelson Mandela and Jacob Zuma as stars.

“The disgraced PR powerhouse Bell Pottinger, with everything that went wrong, came to light with the probe into the severe Government corruption under the Zuma presidency,” said Clare. “The film highlights the relationship of truth and power on a global platform and shows how political spin and ‘fake news’ sway public perception.”

“This film won Best Documentary at the Durban International Film Festival in South Africa in 2021 and was a nominee for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.”

The documentary bears an especially strong resonance in light of events transpiring only this week past, with the ruling African National Congress’ Secretary-General Ace Magashule, currently facing fraud and other charges, being suspended by the ANC.

With South African politics remaining a consistent theme of the Festival and ever-present in the minds of South Africans both abroad and in Australia, the focus is even stronger this year in light of an unprecedented emphasis on documentaries.

“We usually try to find a balance between feature films, documentaries and short films, but this year and due to the global pandemic, most feature film productions slowed down, and documentaries were more readily available,” said Clare. “It’s a curation of ‘fresh off the press’ features launched at international Film Festivals before local South African release, like Influence and Barakat, or past releases with accolades. The Festival offers a reminder of South Africa’s history pre and post-Apartheid together with climate and environmental references that speaks to a country rich with remarkable nature and wildlife.”

Barakat, translating to ‘blessings’ in Urdu, follows a Muslim, Malay community residing in Cape Town where the feature was also completed. Also selected for the 2021 Pan African Film Festival, Barakat was the Closing Night feature of London’s most recent Film Africa Festival.

“Barakat is produced by Nagvlug Films, it’s dynamic young Writer/Director Amy Jephta and her producing partner Ephraim Gordon,” said Clare. “They brought together a stellar cast of mostly Muslim people in order to achieve a nuanced integrity in their depictions of ordinary family life.”

“This passionate little family film with so much heart, which is in the vain of Minari, will not only appeal to the African diaspora across Australia and New Zealand, but to all communities trying to overcome the trials and tribulations of this year of a global pandemic. The film will be released at the same time as the South African release and during the time of breaking the fast in celebration of Eid-al-Fitr (commencing May 12, 2021), a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims world-wide marking the end of the fasting of Ramadan.”

One of four documentaries on the program, Blindside covers the 1974 British Lions’ boycott-breaking Apartheid-era tour of South Africa. Reflecting on the political role of, and debates around, rugby during the regime, the material will resonate with fans of Clint Eastwood’s Invictus and those who recall, fondly or not, the recent triumph of South Africa in the World Cup; reminiscent itself of the events depicted in the 2009 drama.

The nation’s Oscar entry Toorbos will also screen; a period drama set in a conservative Knysna forest community chronicling 18-year-old Karoliena’s forced marriage to a shopkeeper and transition to a new reality in a new town. Based on the Dalene Matthee novel, Toorbos too centres on the Government’s plans to imminently remove and rehouse the impoverished community.  

Spanning the genre range to romantic adventure, Riding with Sugar covers pursuit of BMX success, the lead’s romance with a dancer and dreams of a happier life while Sandance! takes us across southern Africa via rehearsals by members of the San community bringing performances and healing dance as far as Botswana’s annual Kuru Dance Festival.

Gangster flick For Love and Broken Bones follows Motheo, a musician and debt collector who falls for his newest target while Mama Africa utilises five decades of archival footage to present singer Miriam Makeba’s legacy. Exiled from the country for more than 30 years, Makeba’s life took her from the US to Guinea, with her banishment heavily influencing her art.

A New Country and District Six Rising From the Dust, directed by Sifiso Khanyile and Weaam Williams respectively, via contemporary commentary and archival footage chronicle the continued effects of Apartheid, with Good Hope outlining the views, aspirations and experiences of younger South Africans whose earliest memories recall the post-Apartheid nation. Life is Wonderful will look to the earlier impacts of the laws and the story of Denis Goldberg, who was convicted at the infamous Rivonia trial where Mandela, alongside Goldberg and other co-defendents, were sentenced to life imprisonment.

Jozi Gold will highlight the ever-present issue of the environmental state of South Africa and the impacts of mining, with drama Tess exploring the issues of abuse and gender violence through the experiences of a sex worker who falls pregnant.

Letter Reader, one of the short features on the program, follows a 12-year-old boy who becomes his village’s letter reader.

Continuing the Festival’s commitment to ‘Education without Borders,’ all ticket proceeds will go toward a charity assisting vulnerable and young South Africans in some of the nation’s most disadvantaged communities. A strong motivating factor in taking the Festival online last year, Education without Borders and those of their ilk are seeking to ameliorate conditions further impacted by an as of yet very limited vaccine rollout and the highest mortality rate in Africa.  An education foundation functioning in South Africa since 2002, their roles are as crucial as ever now given the extent to which COVID-19 has impacted the country with many communities now left even more bereft of requisite resources amidst lengthy lockdowns.

There resides a strong Australian-South African community surrounding the South African Film Festival’s foundations in Bondi but going online has meant the Festival bears an even greater opportunity to reach more ex-pats, community members and local film fans than before. For local residents of the South African community keenly watching what is happening overseas, some of whom have had to forestall long-awaited trips to Bloemfontein or Johannesburg, this author included, it’s a more than welcome opportunity to reconnect, re-engage, enjoy some movies and be as close to South Africa as we’re going to get right now.

The South African Film Festival screens online from Wednesday 12 May to Monday 24 May, 2021 in Australia and New Zealand with Closing Night Barakat screenings in Event Cinemas Bondi Junction and Castle Hill together with Melbourne’s Classic Cinema. Get program and ticket information at the Festival website.

on SBS

on Festevez

[debtcollectorssydney-woodsa-blog]

Woods and Day Solicitors will give all the help you need in debt collecting. Step by step procedures from the letter of demand, legal proceedings, until everything is settled. You are in a competent and safe hand with us.

https://www.woodsandday.com.au/debt-collectors-sydney/

[commercialrecoverydebt]

Do's and Don'ts of the Debt Collection Industry

Collecting debts is one of the most exhausting and laborious tasks, and adding to the woes is the fact that the debt collector has to ensure that he does not breach any rule that can land him in trouble. Because of this, they have to follow several dos and don'ts, and in this blog post, we will discuss some top dos and don'ts of the debt collection industry.

Dos Of Debt Collection Ask For Help From A Debt Collector Sydney

After failing numerous times in debt collection, it is your right to seek services from any debt collector around you. You should not assume that DIY debt collection will be cheaper. Yes, it will be more affordable, but at the same time, it will be time-consuming and also a more accessible option. You will waste a lot of time chasing debtors and convincing them to pay debts on time.

Take Advantage Of Mails, Emails And Phone Calls

Make sure you never think that mails, emails and phone calls are useless. Debt collectors recommend using these modes to stay in touch with debtors and create a solid line of communication. This way, you will remind them quickly overall again that the amount is due and paying it back on time is beneficial.

Formulate A Plan To Deal With Outstanding Debt Issues

Often lenders make the mistake of underestimating debtors and thinking that the amount taken by them will be paid back quickly. As a result, they don't formulate any plan or strategy to deal with bad debts. This is a wrong approach, and just like every debt collector Sydney, every lender should also have a strategy to deal with these situations. These strategies can include credit management or application with specific provisions such as a director's guarantee.

Don't Of Debt Collection Don't Resort To Any Threats Or Harassment

As a debt collector or as a lender, you should never think of relying upon threats or mental harassment for debt collection. There are some very common things that you should never do as a lender or a debt collector Perth.

•      Using physical force or coercion

•       Harassing the debtor to an unreasonable extent

•       Taking advantage of the debtor's vulnerability, disability, or any similar circumstances

[argumate]

The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age revealed this week that AXCIOM, Experian, Global Data and illion (formerly known as debt collectors Dun & Bradstreet) all have access to the electoral roll as "prescribed authorities". In their secondary businesses, each boasts of their ability to provide marketing data analytics on millions of Australians to their clients but maintain they are in full compliance with the privacy act and do not use the data for marketing purposes.

AXCIOM and Global Data have not responded to multiple requests for comment. An auto-reply email from AXCIOM said "data monetisation awaits!"

[novitadiamond]

The Real and Authentic Profitable Business of Pawn

The shop which is known to be pawn store would remain what the consumer, vendor, borrower, and small businessman take all profits. All will gain through each pawn store if they use it correctly. Since they require support later now, they could start taking another precious asset and exchange it for currency. 

Pawn clients and their timelines:

Pawn shop will give clients a mortgage depending towards the quality of their piece, including the agreement that if they do not really make the payments by a certain deadline, the dealer shop would sell the product to others. When visiting a Pawn shop Sydney store during maybe the initial period, make prepared that schedule payment in the intended period.

 Having started any pawn store has become the decent enterprise to open during a bad economy. Users have been selling on internet since the beginning of time. Pawnshops are quite well spread over the country. These could be purchased in whatsoever region's comparatively tiny but also big towns. That type of the store that are maintained successfully have excellent support to their clients. 

Trustworthy Pawn Dealers:

Whenever that comes to making money together in market is the good place to start. Individuals can search for pawnbrokers Sydney, Pawn shop near me in most search of money will utilize some jewels and other such valued forms of wealth for really borrowing money from pawn dealers. Individuals may indeed reclaim that entire important property through refunding that borrowed funds from the lender towards the dealer.

Pawnshop owners operate an extremely attractive sector. In some kind of downturn or struggling environment, pawn shops may be a profitable investment way of managing stores. When financial institutions reject business loan requests in such an economic downturn, betting shops play an important part. Whenever a debt collector needs to move any pawn business the person must concentrate mostly in the following:

 Safe and Secure:

The dealers gathering paperwork on hand. The debt collector must carry identification as well as some government-issued license. Get enough employees. If some pawn dealer seems to be operating with large company, they may require a lot several employees to accommodate for customers. The normal individual in single handed cannot manage a large new corporation through their own. Pawnbrokers must hire but also select the knowledgeable team who can interact between customers quickly but efficiently as possible. But since Pawn shop near me works about expensive items, the person must hire only the most trustworthy individuals. Because any pawn dealer team is inexperienced, they must be trained initially.

 Do a thorough assessment of the goods and assets. The advantageous or specific properties that consumers continue to use money dealer for double-checking. Most persons through attempt to defraud a debt collector while providing fake accessories and engaging in many various types of manipulation. As a result, pawn dealer may highlight that item appropriately to secure the person's interests. The quality along with its money lender is contingent also on employee's assessing the investments. The importance of careful assessment in raising successful finances cannot be overstated.

[globalindeed]

Mid-Pandemic Debt Collection Strategies Used By Debt Collectors

Covid-19 pandemic has affected each and every industry all over the globe and the debt collection industry of Australia has also suffered the impact. Adding to the woes is the regularly declining situation of the economy, loss of jobs, shortage of jobs, etc. and because of this; debtors too are finding it really challenging to pay the outstanding dues. In such situations, the services from debt collectors can come in as really handy, but there is another fact to understand that they too have changed their overall modus operandi and taking a totally different approach.

Identify The Vulnerable?

Not all debtors can turn hostile and some of them might have a genuine concern and this factor has increased the workload on every debt collector . Now the first task they involve in is identifying the vulnerable and this is something to be done on a proactive basis. This can be done very easily by reviewing the past records and data of the debtors to filter out both genuine economic victims from the steady state collections customers.

Three Distinct Collections Phases

The method of collection that these agents used has also changed a lot and now divided in three different phases. The first is the "tactical phase" in which they capture data and ensure that the debtor has submitted Covid-19 has a reason for not being able to pay debts. The next phase is given the name of "midterm days" and in this phase, the interaction will increase and the main discussion would be on when to pay the outstanding and what options are there to use in terms of paying the dues. The next phase is called "long term strategic" and in this phase, the debt collector Sydney will validate the financial well-being of the debtor and start putting all kinds of pressures for collection. Their goal would be to ensure that by the beginning of the third phase, the debtor gets into the state of mind to pay the outstanding dues back.

[rossmadda]

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[lushscreamqueen]

NOSFERATU on The Schlocky Horror Picture Show

July 27, 2008

OPENING: Hello, good evening, and welcome to the Schlocky Horror Picture Show. I'm your host, Nigel Honeybone. Back in the 1920s, German director F.W. Murnau was so impressed with Bram Stoker's novel Dracula, he made Nosferatu: A Symphony Of Horror, which remains one of the greatest horror films of all time. The trouble is Murnau didn't have permission, so he simply changed the character names and locales in the script. Harker became Hutter, Dracula became Orlok, England 1890 became Germany 1830, etc. But when the film was translated for English-speaking audiences, the powers-that-be chose to use Bram Stoker's original familiar character names, but in the process a few typos occurred, for instance Mina Harker becomes Ellen Hutter becomes Nina Harker, understand? I don't... Like so many silent films, the images may be Public Domain, but the soundtrack remains copyright protected. So to accompany us on this Symphony Of Horror we have the nerve-jangling sounds of local composer Jeremy Newton, ably assisted by Nat Scott-Quinell. Ladies, Gentlemen and Creatures Of The Night, I am extremely proud, for a change, to present the enigmatic Max Schreck as the grand daddy of all vampires in FW Murnau's original Nosferatu... BREAK: Watch the embodiment of evil spread plague across the land, then after the ads we can get back to the chilling Nosferatu on the Schlocky Horror Picture Show. MIDDLE: Hello, and welcome back to The Schlocky Horror Picture Show. Nosferatu! The name itself is enough to induce an excrement hemorrhage in anyone who watched this movie during their youth, like I did. I mean, those fingernails! He clearly isn't getting regular manicures. Brrrrr! And Nosferatu had the shaved-head look long before it was trendy. Overall, it's one fine piece of cinema. Contrary to popular opinion, the word Nosferatu does not mean Vampire, Undead, or anything else like that. The term originally came from the old Slavonic word "nosufur-atu", which itself was derived from the Greek Nosophoros. Nosophoros, in the original Greek, stands for Plague Carrier. This derivation makes sense when one considers that amongst western European nations, vampires were regarded as the carriers of many diseases, such as sexually transmitted diseases, TB, and reality television. The full title is "Nosferatu, eine Symphonie des Grauens." As you've no doubt surmised, Nosferatu was directed by a German. In this case it's Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau, one of the "Big Three" Weimar republic filmmakers along with Fritz Lang and G.W. Pabst. Murnau's work often appears on critic's best film lists and he's cited as an influence by filmmakers to this day, yet there seems to be little that gives his work and career the notice it deserves. Not surprising, considering his yet to be fashionable lifestyle choices and somewhat suspicious death in a car accident in 1931. The film stars the aptly named Max Shreck as the vampire. Schreck, in case you weren't aware of it, is the German word meaning "fear". How cool is that? Schreck was a Stanislovsky method actor, which meant that he immersed himself fully in the character...as well as the unconsecrated soil of Transylvania. He was so effective that some on the set of Nosferatu believed that Shreck might actually be a vampire. This conceit was later used in "Shadow of the Vampire", a 2000 release starring John Malkovich as Murnau and Willem Dafoe as Max Shreck, a vampire pretending to be an actor. What's interesting is how the world almost lost the chance to see Nosferatu at all. Unfortunately for production company Prana Films, this unlicensed adaptation of Dracula was too thinly veiled, and Florence Stoker, widow of the late Bram Stoker, sued with the help of lawyers from the British Incorporated Society of Authors. However, Stoker and the BISA weren't the only people pursuing Prana-Films: Prana was a sinking ship running aground on a financial reef. Just as the BISA sued Prana, it went into receivership and all materials and debts were taken over by the Deutsch-Amerikansch Film Union. The BISA then pursued the Film

Union and demanded that all copies of Nosferatu be surrendered. In July 1925, the issue was settled and all known copies of Nosferatu were handed over to Stoker, and destroyed. Or so Stoker thought. In October of that year, the Film Society in England asked her to endorse a classic film festival, and first on the list was the infamous Nosferatu. Stoker was furious and demanded that the Society give her their copy, but the Film Society refused and legalities followed. By 1928 Universal Pictures owned the screen rights for Dracula, and therefore all adaptations of it, including Nosferatu. Initially, Universal allowed the Film Society to keep the print, but after pressure from Florence Stoker they acquired the print, and it joined its departed kin in 1929. Then came a sudden spurt of American copies of the film under the name Nosferatu the Vampire, but Universal had them all destroyed in 1930. It finally seemed as though this pesky film had met its end. This was not the case though. Following Florence Stoker's death in 1937, copies of the film started cropping up again, as if the celluloid itself was among the immortal undead. Nosferatu truly regained its popularity in 1960 due to American television screenings, and in 1972 Blackhawk Films released the uncut original to the collector's market as Nosferatu the Vampire, which brings us up today. Now, due to it's availability via the Public Domain, it's damn near impossible to find a DVD horror collection that doesn't have a copy of Nosferatu! But only our version has a brand spanking new soundtrack by Sydney composer Jeremy Newton, who we now cross to almost "live" via satellite. Welcome to the show, Mr. Newton... Jeremy: Good evening. Nigel: Jeremy... you don't mind if I call you Jeremy? Jeremy: No, not at all. Nigel: I'm sorry, Mr, Newton, that's all we have time for tonight. As you know, these live satellite crosses cost quite a bit more than community TV can afford... Jeremy: I'm only in Marrickville! Nigel: So without any further ado, let's get straight back to tonight's special presentation of the original 1922 silent classic Nosferatu. CLOSING: After almost a century, the original Nosferatu is a film that has eventually grown on me. Its frank gruesome quality is a stark contrast to the scratchy clean horror of Universal's horror films of the 1930's and 1940's, and the completely unromantic treatment of the Count fits well with modern cynicism. Max Schreck's Orlok is one of the most familiar images in film history, or for that matter in the history of images. So please join me next week on The Schlocky Horror Picture Show when I have the opportunity of inflicting a pain beyond pain, an agony so intense it shocks the mind into instant mashed potato! Toodles!

by Lushscreamqueen