New Book on the Making of Maniac Cop
There’s plenty happening in the world of Maniac Cop right now. While recent news of a remake/reimagining suggests Officer Matt Cordell could soon be returning to the screen, fans of the original cult horror trilogy have something equally exciting to look forward to. Author Paul Downey is taking readers deep into the franchise’s bloody history with his upcoming book, This City Is Going to Hell: The Making of Maniac Cop, a comprehensive look at the making, legacy, and enduring appeal of one of horror’s most entertaining and underrated series.
Maniac Cop Trilogy examined
First unleashed in 1988, the original Maniac Cop introduced audiences to the terrifying figure of Officer Matt Cordell, a disgraced and seemingly unstoppable police officer who transformed into one of horror cinema’s most memorable slasher villains. Decades later, the franchise continues to enjoy a loyal following, with Cordell remaining a fan-favorite icon of late-’80s and early-’90s horror.

Drawing on extensive research and a wealth of exclusive interviews, Downey’s book promises to be the most comprehensive account of the Maniac Cop saga ever published. Readers can expect never-before-seen photographs, behind-the-scenes stories, and candid recollections from the cast and crew who helped bring the trilogy to life. The book also shines a light on the production challenges, creative decisions, and lasting influence of the films, culminating in a special conversation with director William Lustig. For horror fans eager to revisit the streets patrolled by Matt Cordell, This City is Going to Hell: The Making of Maniac Cop looks set to become an essential addition to their collection.
What’s inside?
- Newly uncovered info on the films’ effects and makeup
- Harrowing stories of stunts gone wrong
- Details on deleted scenes and alternate endings
- An exploration of the original, unmade version of Maniac Cop 3
- Coverage of the long-developing remake of the original film
- An examination of the recent novelizations
- A warm tribute to genre icon Robert Z’Dar
- Interviews with William Lustig, Lenny Shapiro, Spiro Razatos, Bruce Campbell and Jay Chattaway
For more and links to buy, visit: https://www.harkerpress.com/maniaccop
In the UK? Purchase from Amazon here.



