JC,
You wrote:
"The only successful method of tying a fly without any hackle not pointing down is the true V. Marinaro thorax style."
Perhaps you should have clarified by saying,
"The only successful method of tying a 'HACKLED' fly without any hackle not pointing down is the true V. Marinaro thorax style."
That is unless you meant to include Usuals, Haystacks, Comparaduns, parachutes, and the like. I think you would agree, those styles have been and continue to be very successful.
Allan