Ghoulish Grin Films

In 1983, when I was seven years old, my uncle took my cousin and I to the movies to see "Star Wars Episode VI: Return Of The Jedi." That one trip to the movies changed my live, as I became a lifelong Star Wars fan and would joyously pass it on to future generations. In that film, the mighty Darth Vader emerged from his ship to the dread of his commanders. Later on in the film, in a surprise to a young kid like myself, he kneels to an old man draped in a black cloak. This was my first introduction to the Sith Lord Emperor Palpatine. I loathed the character immediately and cheered greatly when Vader threw him to his (what I originally thought was) death. Fast forward to 1999, and I would see the character again. This time as Senator Palpatine, a member of the Galactic Senate but hidden in the shadows as Darth Sidious in "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace." His character arc would be complete in 2005's "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith.&qu

Born on August 6th 1942, the fantastic character actor Tobin Bell started his career as many character actors do...spending years in stand-in and background work. He made appearances in many notable films in the 1980's and '90's, including "Tootsie," "Mississippi Burning," and "Goodfellas." Mr. Bell also starred in plenty of classic television, including episodes of "Seinfeld," "ER," "NYPD Blue," and "The X Files." His visibility would be put in the spotlight as he portrayed John Kramer (A.K.A. Jigsaw) in James Wan's bloody 2004 horror classic "Saw." He would go on to star in the entire SAW franchise, bringing his distinct voice to the big screen, scaring audiences (many times during the Halloween season). He's made some appearances at conventions, but not much convention activity going on this year. Here's to the potential return of this wonderful modern horror icon as we fan

The late great Wes Craven left us in August of 2015, but his legacy in the genre of horror is so strong that his presence is still felt. That's the power of his films and his filmmaking. Born on August 2nd, 1939, his first start in the film industry was as a sound editor, and under pseudonyms wrote and edited in the adult film industry. With this type of creative freedom he made his first horror film, 1972's "The Last House On The Left." With his follow-up "The Hills Have Eyes," he cemented his role as 'horror maven.' In 1984 he created what would be his signature film "A Nightmare On Elm Street," with his signature film creation...the ghoul of dreams Freddy Krueger. One of the greatest horror concepts of all time, the monster Freddy Krueger hunted the children of Springwood, Ohio and were urged by their frightened parents to never fall asleep. To this day Freddy Krueger (and the amazing character actor that played him, Mr. Robert E

The 2020 Emmy Award Nominations came out this morning, and with a few regular entries like "The Crown," "The Handmaid's Tale," "Curb Your Enthusiasm," and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," an exciting new entry has just gained recognition... Disney +'s "The Mandalorian." Season One of "The Mandalorian" grabs an Outstanding Drama Series nomination! One of the main reasons millions of streaming fans got the Disney streaming service was for this Star Wars Universe television show. The first for Lucasfilm (aside from cartoon shows and television movies and specials), this magnificent show became an instant classic, created many memes involving the adorable Baby Yoda, and not only expanded the world of Star Wars but brought a few disgruntled fans back into the fold. Also a win for science fiction fans was the nomination for "Stranger Things." Not new to The Emmys, this third season was a welcome return to the o

Ghoulish Grin Films is now streaming on Amazon with content ranging from classic horror to short films to documentaries. Watch The END OF AN ERA Series with bonus content, or short film collections like 15 SECOND FRIGHT, or collections from The Classic Horror MONSTERS Collection. Watch for FREE with an Amazon Prime Membership or rent or purchase select items. Ghoulish Grin Films merchandise is also available, including shirts and DVD's. Thank you as always for your support! http://amazon.com/v/ghoulishgrinfilms  

Kathrin Romary Beckinsale was born on July 26th 1973 and was a veteran of the stage and screen for a decade before she was cast in what would be her defining role of vampire Seline in the Underworld film series. A box office smash, the films pushed her to stardom and created a dark female icon for future horror generations to follow. She initially starred in the role in 2003 and internationally the fifth film "Underworld: Blood Wars" was released in November of 2016. And true to her role, she didn't age a bit. But aside from the obvious, which is her incredible beauty, she is truly a fantastic actress. She's starred in major horror blockbusters like 2004's Universal Monster mash "Van Helsing" and stinkers like 2016's "The Disappointments Room," but she never phones in her performance. Which is a quality in an actor that I always appreciate. So happy birthday to The Queen Of The Underworld, Kate Beckinsale! Here's to a long and ama

On August 11th 2014 the entertainment industry lost a giant. The great Robin Williams passed, and the world mourned. Not just a comedian (though had he only been recognized as a comedian, he STILL would be legendary) but a versatile actor, his manic energy, insanely head spinning improv skills, and dramatic chops made him something the world rarely sees. The complete package. He of course will be recognized for his comedy, both on the stage and screen. From Mork & Mindy to Popeye (a film that was very much a part of my childhood), to Mrs. Doubtfire and Jumanji, his films made masses of filmgoers happy. Still do. But as someone who works within the underground horror scene and covers many things creepy, I really want to recognize him in a small and very underrated thriller, 2002's "One Hour Photo." His absolutely chilling performance as a photo technician in a squeaky clean retail mart, it's a performance against type that rivals anything in thriller films.