GRIND SHOWS Meaning and
Definition
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Grind shows, also known as grindhouse or exploitation cinema, refer to a type of film exhibition that emerged in the mid-20th century, typically characterized by low-budget productions, explicit or sensational content, and continuous screenings in urban theaters. The term "grind" alludes to the relentless and repetitive nature of these screenings, often operating around the clock, in order to attract and cater to diverse audiences.
Grind shows encompassed a wide range of genres, such as horror, crime, sexploitation, blaxploitation, and martial arts films, among others. These movies were marketed with provocative promotional materials and aimed to entice viewers with lurid or taboo subjects. Their appeal often relied on explicit violence, nudity, graphic language, and shocking imagery to attract attention and generate profits.
Grind shows became particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s, when they were predominantly exhibited in rundown theaters in urban areas, including Times Square in New York City. These screenings attracted a diverse audience, ranging from dedicated film enthusiasts to thrill-seekers and curious onlookers. As a form of entertainment, grind shows offered a departure from the mainstream cinema's constraints, allowing for more controversial and unconventional content.
Today, the term "grindhouse" is often associated with a specific style of film, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era. It has influenced contemporary filmmakers who seek to recapture the gritty and raw aesthetic of the original grind shows. Additionally, many modern film festivals and independent theaters pay homage to the grindhouse tradition by showcasing cult classics and obscure exploitation films.
Common Misspellings for GRIND SHOWS
- grind shos
- frind shows
- vrind shows
- brind shows
- hrind shows
- yrind shows
- trind shows
- geind shows
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- gribd shows
Etymology of GRIND SHOWS
The term "grind shows" originally referred to a type of traveling entertainment that featured various acts, such as acrobats, magicians, dancers, and singers. The etymology of the term can be traced back to the mid-19th century in the United States.
The word "grind" in this context is derived from the verb "to grind", which means to work continuously and intensively. The term was borrowed from the notion that these shows were consistently performing and moving from one place to another, often in small towns or remote areas. The shows were known for their repetitive and continuous nature, as they would often perform multiple times a day or for extended periods.
The term "grind shows" was particularly associated with circuses, vaudeville, and variety shows that traveled around the country, catering to audiences who might not have access to larger, more mainstream entertainment options.
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