One year ago, I started this blog. Mostly because I could tell the people in my everyday life were getting tired of hearing my opinions on horror, and I certainly wasn’t going to stop having them. I wasn’t sure what I really wanted to do when I first started, other than write about horror and horror-adjacent topics. Or how I wanted to do it. But since I was writing mostly to amuse myself, I had plenty of time to learn as I went. 

What Have You Learned?

Since I’ve got my metrics all hooked up, I can see what blogs were “successful” and which ones were less so.  I try not to use this information to influence what movies I cover, although the vague disinterest in new releases in favor of older movies does tend to work in my favor.  

One of the reasons I picked “The Ghoul’s Gaze” for a name is I liked the image of digging through hundreds or thousands of horror movies on various streaming services, looking for something interesting. Much like a ghoul digging through graves for tasty snacks.  That, and I’m a sucker for alliteration. 

Digging Up Old Movies

So, if readers aren’t all that interested in new releases, and to be fair there are plenty of places to read reviews on those, that’s fine with me. I’ll cover newer movies when they come to streaming, unless it’s something I’m really interested in. 

This past year, I got to learn a lot about what topics readers liked: “Exhume” and “Overlord” were the two most popular Ghoul’s Gaze blogs out of the 115 I wrote.  My “Happy Giallo-days” Christmas special went over well, too. So, I’ll probably do that again this year.  Thanksgiving and Valentine-themed horror topics on the other hand, not a huge hit.  

It feels like I spent a lot of this year getting comfortable. For me, I’d much rather write about theme, character, and do opinion pieces, so it’s gratifying to see those do better than recaps.  I’d also rather discuss what I love rather than what I hate.  It’s easy to find flaws in anything and everything; I’m here for the love. That does mean that I want better horror, but I’m not here to tear creators down for fun.  At the end of the day, they are making movies; I’m just writing about them. 

What Are Your Plans Next?

First, I’m going to finish out the “Year of Slashers”. We’ve only just now gotten to the ‘90s, and after that are the neo-slashers, so lots of ground to cover and not a lot of time. After that, and “Giallo-Days part 2”, we’ll be in 2026. That looks to be a good year for horror, but I’ll admit, I say that every year. 

Is There Anything You Won’t Cover?

There are movies that I’ve watched and not found anything compelling enough to write about. That’s kind of the worst-case scenario for me; a movie that’s just you know…fine. Truly bad movies give me something to talk about, as do brilliant ones. But average, “good enough” movies…those are the worst!  So, those don’t get blogs. 

Then there are the ethical issues.  Some movies The Ghoul’s Gaze will not cover because I do not want to give attention to people who I find to be morally repugnant.  I fully understand the concept of separating the art from the artist, but until I can be sure that I am not financially benefiting unethical people, I will show support with my wallet.  Everyone is free to follow their own best judgment on this issue, as it is a complex one. You’ll get no argument from me; just know my stance if it comes it. 

Then, there are the movies that are just too much for me. And by that, I mean E.T. and Gremlins. I hate those creatures SO much. Gremlins, ‘cause they remind me of E.T., and E.T. ‘cause he’s, well look at him.  Critters on the other hand, are ok, so maybe next year. 

Are There Any Movies You’re Looking Forward To?

Beast of War; it’s a World War II shark movie.  I’m also working my way through a few boxsets and some movies I’ve picked up at conventions through the year. I’m hoping to spend more time this coming year on horror from other countries and indie horror.  And as usual, I continue my hunt for the best spooky boobs out there. This was a disappointing year in that department, but that’s a subject for another blog. 

I want to do more monster movies too. After all the slashers, I’m feeling like I need some non-human killers.  I’m currently in the middle of a giant reptile double-header that’s been pretty refreshing. 

Thanks for checking out the first year of The Ghoul’s Gaze. I hope you come back from time to time and see what else I’ve dug up.