Ghoulies

  • 1985
  • PG-13
  • 81m
movieMx RATING
4.9
293
VERDICT
AVERAGE
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Ghoulies Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict

Last updated: May 14, 2026

movieMx Editorial
📅 Updated: May 14, 2026 🎟️ Verified Screening

Movie Overview: Ghoulies

MovieGhoulies
Release Year1985
DirectorLuca Bercovici
GenreHorror / Comedy
Runtime81 minutes (1h 21m)
LanguageEN

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Ghoulies (1985) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.

🎭 Cast & Character Study

The performances in Ghoulies are led by Peter Liapis . The supporting cast, including Lisa Pelikan and Michael Des Barres , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.

💡 movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?

After analyzing the verified data, our assessment of Ghoulies (1985) is disappointing. Even for die-hard fans, this one is a tough sell. With a platform rating of 4.9/10, it currently stands as a AVERAGE in our database.

What Works in the Movie

While Ghoulies does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Horror films.

  • Interesting concept or premise
  • Some entertaining scenes
  • Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights

What Doesn't Work

Despite its strengths, Ghoulies has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.

  • Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
  • Some predictable plot developments
  • May not appeal to audiences outside the Horror fanbase

Story & Plot Summary: Ghoulies

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1985, Ghoulies is a Horror, Comedy film directed by Luca Bercovici, written by Luca Bercovici. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. As part of the Ghoulies Collection, it provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Peter Liapis as Jonathan Graves.

Ending Explained: Ghoulies

Ghoulies Ending Explained: A young man and his girlfriend move into the man's old mansion home, where he becomes possessed by a need to control ancient demons. Directed by Luca Bercovici, this 1985 horror film stars Peter Liapis (Jonathan Graves), alongside Lisa Pelikan as Rebecca, Michael Des Barres as Malcolm Graves, Jack Nance as Wolfgang. Rated 4.9/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.

What Happens at the End of Ghoulies?

A young man and his girlfriend move into the man's old mansion home, where he becomes possessed by a need to control ancient demons.

As part of the Ghoulies Collection, the ending carries additional weight for fans following the franchise.

How Does Peter Liapis (Jonathan Graves)'s Story End?

  • Peter Liapis: Peter Liapis's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Lisa Pelikan (Rebecca): Lisa Pelikan's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Michael Des Barres (Malcolm Graves): Michael Des Barres's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Ghoulies Mean?

The ending of Ghoulies brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Peter Liapis's story may not satisfy all audiences.

Ghoulies Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?

Is Ghoulies Based on a True Story?

No, Ghoulies is a work of fiction. While the horror, comedy film directed by Luca Bercovici and starring Peter Liapis may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.

Who Should Watch Ghoulies?

Age Advisory: Rated PG-13.

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Horror films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment

At just 81 minutes, it's a quick watch.

Box Office Collection: Ghoulies

Metric / RegionCollection (Approx)
Production Budget $5.5M
Worldwide Gross $35.0M
Trade Verdict FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Ghoulies Budget

The estimated production budget for Ghoulies is $5.5M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.

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Where to Watch Ghoulies Online?

Streaming Hub

📺 Stream on

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🎟️ Rent on

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Ghoulies Parents Guide & Age Rating

1985 Advisory
PG-13

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Ghoulies age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Ghoulies is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Ghoulies (1985) is 81 minutes (1h 21m). Directed by Luca Bercovici, the film runs for 81 minutes in its complete theatrical version.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.9/10, and global performance metrics, Ghoulies is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1985 cinematic calendar.

AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Ghoulies. Rating: 4.9/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ghoulies worth watching?

Ghoulies is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 4.9/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Ghoulies parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Ghoulies identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the runtime of Ghoulies (1985)?

The runtime of Ghoulies (1985) is 81 minutes (approximately 1h 21m).

🛡️

movieMx Verified

This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.

This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 4.9
Ghoulies
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