Nick Groff is one of the most respected names in television and beyond when it comes to the paranormal. He has had incredible experiences in some of the most haunted locations in the world. As a friend to Arrow in the Head, we’ve shared some very exciting experiences with Nick including a couple of wild and spooky moments that we’ve managed to capture on camera. Thus, we’ve decided to work with the television host and producer extraordinaire so he can share his knowledge and insight on all things that go bump in the night. With this bi-monthly column, we plan to delve into everything from urban legends to ghostly apparitions, to his take on some of the coolest genre flicks ever. This is Nick Groff Investigates…!
SCROOGED!
Normally around this time of year, I'd wonder where the time had gone. How can it already be Christmas?!? Well, 2020 has been a strange one, to say the least, and frankly, this year hasn't sped by AT ALL. Even still, it's damn near impossible for me to resist all the joys of presents under the tree, pretty lights that adorn the neighborhoods, and a few great movies to enjoy while the yule log is burning on the hearth – okay, maybe most of you don't have the yule log thing going for ya, but somebody must!!
With December bringing on the magic of the holidays, Nick Groff had an interesting idea for this week's Nick Groff Investigates. While the subject may be all sorts of Christmasy, it also features a few ghosts that you may not want to have to contend with. And we all will most certainly agree that movies are always welcome this jolly time of year, so why not talk a little bit about the comedy classic Scrooged? If you've never seen it… what is wrong with you?!? I kid, I kid, but if you've not witnessed this hilarious flick, Nick and I highly recommend you do so STAT.
Scrooged (watch it here) is a special movie. The Richard Donner directed classic features a perfect performance from Bill Murray. It also offers up a wonderful supporting cast that includes Karen Allen, John Forsythe, John Glover, Bobcat Goldthwait, David Johansen, Robert Mitchum, Alfre Woodard, John Houseman, and the scene-stealing Carol Kane. The film still resonates with audiences today, simply because it manages to be a little scary, a lot of funny, and a ton of charming. Again, if you've not witnessed this classic, it would behoove you to check it out ASAP.
Aside from Scrooged, I'm sure you all have a few holiday favorites that are part of your celebration correct? For me, I always go back to Die Hard, Anna and the Apocalypse, and the 1974 Bob Clark horror masterpiece, Black Christmas. And yes, I'm aware that some of you claim Die Hard is not a holiday classic… It is. That said, what are some of your favorites to watch during this time of the carol singing, tree decorating, present opening year? You know the drill, share your favorites in the comments below. And as always, here's what Mr. Groff had to say about Scrooged.
I absolutely love the story of Scrooge (A Christmas Carol) for so many different reasons. A great story with heart and meaning. It’s a classic tale that brings life back into the Christmas spirit. My favorite take on it was Scrooged with Bill Murray and director Richard Donner. Such a funny and dark film. The actors and the direction are memorable too. This version has lasted every holiday since because of how it’s been made into modern time to resemble a lot of today’s actions. Also, Carol Kane as The Ghost of Christmas Present kicks ass in this film too! I appreciated the style the director took as he captured the perfect film for Scrooged!
As well, the ghost of Christmas future was great! Showing the grave and burial of Scrooge only revealed how vital life is when you live it to your fullest potential and treat others good. I would imagine anyone having to see their future in such a negative way, with no one there to remember you would alter the way we act. One of my favorite scenes is where Carol Kane beats Bill Murray up and tries to get him to see how awful he’s been treating people. Murray plays Scrooge incredibly well! A must watch for anyone that’s missed this holiday classic. I really think this was the perfect film based on “Scrooge”. I don’t think there could be a better version as it’s a classic in my mind.
Kick-off the holiday by sitting back and watching this version of “Scrooged” on the TV! Enjoy and have fun. Happy Holidays!