Beach ball on startup, screen freezes, hangs

I have been experiencing problems with my iMac, and they have escalated to the point that I can no longer startup my computer without getting the spinning "beach ball" which just hangs there, making the computer unusable. 
Prior to this, I would occasionally experience slowness, screen freezes when the mouse moves (see screen shot), and crashes, but other times it worked perfectly.
I'd appreciate any help or advice.

Thanks for the information, I tried both of the solutions you offered.
I was able to repair the hard drive and permissions without any errors. 
In safe start mode makes my computer behave properly -- no issues at all and the speed is great.  I checked the Login items and turned all off.  (Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary -- iTunes helper, iOmega HD, and a fan speed control item*)
When I restart after being in safe mode, the startup screen is white for a while, then goes to this new screen which I haven't seen before (greenish yellow w/ pixelated blocks across the bottom. (see screen) and hangs there.  (No login screen.)
* This iMac is the one that has a problem overheating.  The fan controller isn't a new addition.

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