Eric Caidin, a venerated and deeply revered figure within the Hollywood film enthusiast community, embarked on a remarkable journey that would eventually culminate in the establishment of a legendary memorabilia store. Born and raised in the affluent neighborhood of Beverly Hills, California, Caidin's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the film industry led him to open the iconic Hollywood Book and Poster Company in 1977.
This esteemed establishment, a treasure trove for film aficionados, offered a vast and diverse array of film-related treasures, including rare film stills, vintage posters, extensive collections of books, magazines, DVDs, and t-shirts. The store's impressive inventory was meticulously curated by Caidin himself, who took great care to ensure that every item was of the highest quality and authenticity.
In 2001, the Hollywood Book and Poster Company was aptly recognized as the best movie poster store by "The Los Angeles New Times", a testament to Caidin's unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to create a unique and captivating shopping experience for his customers. Throughout his career, Caidin remained deeply committed to his passion for film and his role as a purveyor of film-related memorabilia, leaving a lasting impact on the Hollywood film fan community.
Eric Caidin's passion for entrepreneurship was just one facet of his multifaceted personality, as he also made a significant impact in the world of film.
In collaboration with fellow exploitation film aficionado Brian Quinn, Caidin co-hosted the popular monthly Grindhouse Film Festival at the renowned New Beverly Cinema, providing a platform for enthusiasts to gather and celebrate their shared love of cult cinema.
In addition to his work behind the scenes, Caidin also made appearances in a number of films, albeit in smaller roles, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Moreover, he made memorable cameos in documentaries, often playing himself, offering a glimpse into his fascinating life and experiences.
Through these various pursuits, Caidin left an indelible mark on the world of film, cementing his status as a true Renaissance man.
Eric's professional partnerships with Johnny Legend stood out for their notable contributions to the documentaries "Mondo Mod", "Mondo Freudo", "Mondo Bizzaro", and "The Hippie Revolt", which boasted engaging, lively, and informative commentary tracks.
Eric Caidin's interests extended far beyond the realm of filmmaking, as he was an ardent enthusiast of professional wrestling, frequently attending various events throughout the United States, where his presence was a common occurrence.
As a staple at film conventions, Eric's extraordinary passion and vast knowledge of film would leave a profound and lasting impact on all attendees, who would often find themselves drawn to his infectious energy and charisma.
Eric Caidin's life was tragically abbreviated when he succumbed to the cruel hand of fate at the tender age of 62 in the year 2015, just a short time after indulging in the cinematic delights of a Palm Springs film noir festival, his life brutally cut short by the sudden and unforeseen rupture of an aneurysm.
As the news of his untimely passing reverberated throughout the film community, a palpable sense of loss and bereavement settled over the industry, leaving a gaping void that seemed impossible to fill. And yet, even in death, Eric Caidin's indelible mark on the world of film persists, his legacy a testament to the profound impact he had on those whose lives he touched, and the countless memories and contributions he made to the art form he so loved and cherished.
