Ghoulies (1985) ***

Finally checked this one off my list. Ghoulies (1985) was better than anticipated but certainly featured less of the titular creatures than expected. Interestingly, and contrary to popular belief (according to Wikipedia, anyway), Ghoulies is not a rip-off of Joe Dante's Gremlins (1984) (review) and was in fact in production at the same time, but due to the need for more funding, the latter blockbuster was released first. This little low budget film has pretty stock characters and lags a bit in the finale, but, at a lean and mean 81 minutes, it's hardly noticeable. It's also really fun, shot well, has a great score, goofy (but enjoyable) effects, and I like that each Ghoulie has a distinctive design. Every time those little shits were on screen—snarling and being mischievous—it brought a smile to my face and I couldn't help but laugh. Bonus points for the movie featuring two future Twin Peaks (1990–1991) actors (one of whom had a bigger role than expected!). This Ghoulies get-together is a good time.