In Chicago, we are always eager to point out the ways that we are the best or the first. The birthplace of the skyscraper, the home of the deep dish pizza, and so on.

Since today is Halloween, we thought it was a good time to look at one of Chicago's more dubious contributions to American culture – one that will not be on tourism brochures anytime soon. Did you know that Chicago can claim to be the birthplace of the "gore" film?

Who knew that the man now called the "Godfather of Gore" was a guy from Chicago who graduated from Northwestern University with a masters degree in journalism and a PhD. in psychology? Jay Shefsky has the Chicago story of Herschell Gordon Lewis on Chicago Tonight at 7:00 pm.

For more on the the Godfather of Gore, check out the following video. Warning: Viewer discretion is advised!

When Herschell Gordon Lewis stopped making films in 1972, he remade himself as a Godfather... of direct marketing. He's written more than 30 books, and is a widely sought out speaker and consultant.  But, since this story first aired in 2005, he has made yet another film.  In his mid-80's, he directed The Uh-Oh! Show -- a splatter comedy about a gorey game show. 

Watch a trailer in the following video. Warning: Viewer discretion is advised!

What are your thoughts on splatter and gore films? Harmless, campy fun? Or vile and misogynist? Post your comments below or sound off on our discussion board!