Abstract: The invention provides an electric fireplace flame simulator having a light source mounted within a rotatable hollow cylinder, the cylinder having flanged perforations that disperse heat from the light source and through which is projected a simulacrum of flames upon the cylinder being rotated about the light source. A light diffuser panel and other patterned and transparent screens are used to enhance the flame illusion. The simulator does away with the problems of an actual fire such as containment of the fire, smoke disposal, and fuel replenishment, while providing provides heat and an excellent illusion of a flame for a fireplace.