Rating: 4.5/5
Synopsis:
The 90’s classic “Ghost” gets a release for Valentine’s Day 2025. The story follows Sam and Molly, a young couple who move into a Manhattan apartment together. After they encounter a criminal, Sam is murdered defending Molly. After his death, Sam’s spirit stays with Molly to warn her of an impending danger. He seeks the assistance of a spiritual medium, Oda Mae Brown, to warn Molly of this threat. Can Sam save Molly in time?
Positives:
I remember the first time I watched “Ghost” as a kid. The story grabbed me in a way most romantic dramas didn’t at the time. It was the performances of Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg that got my attention and cemented Ghost as a 90’s classic. Swayze is in top form here, demonstrating his ability to be the charming presence he’s known for. He also conveys his love for Molly and desire to protect her wonderfully. Swayze hits the mark in portraying Sam, whether it be learning to use his emotions to move things as a spirit or sharing a tender moment with Molly (which she won’t see). Moore is excellent too, helping audiences feel her loss and the empty life she now inhabits. She also falls victim to vulnerability, where Tony Goldwyn’s Carl is looking to swoop in and take advantage of her. Goldwyn also does a great job at playing one of the biggest sleaze balls one could imagine. Goldberg (who won an academy award for the role) is great comic relief throughout the film. Her relationship with Sam is full of witty banter and emotional resonance. The cast does wonders for the story and I never get tired of watching them execute this story in spectacular fashion.
Another aspect that always impresses me about “Ghost” is the unique story. The film nicely combines elements of drama, comedy, and romance to make a story that most audiences will be able to relate to. Everything is blended so well, where the heavier moments are counterbalanced by the humorous rapport between Sam and Oda Mae. The story’s pacing is also good, where we are able to sit in each moment as the characters process their emotions. Both Sam and Molly are experiencing and coping with an unimaginable loss, but their bond with one another is strong enough to transcend the unseen. The charming 90’s aesthetic combined with the strong story help keep “Ghost” a relevant movie for any generation. This was a treat to experience during Valentine’s Day weekend.
Negatives:
“Ghost” is a movie that undoubtedly shows its age, but this isn’t always a bad thing. Sure, some of the special effects are dated, but then I think about how impressive they must have been at the time. I still enjoy piecing together how the filmmakers constructed Sam’s ability to walk through walls or appear as an apparition in the midst of living society. Even though the effects show their age, I still find them charming in their own right. The story also gets to the point where it almost goes on too long. Luckily, the cast is able to make sure the material is strong enough to warrant a dramatic romance film that exceeds two hours. Not that this is a flaw, but I always feel very melancholy by the film’s conclusion. It’s a strong ending but is undeniably sad, where Sam and Molly’s goodbye to one another packs an emotional punch. I do selfishly wish Sam didn’t have such a tragic ending but perhaps his bond with Molly is one that will transcend time. I can already feel myself getting misty!
Conclusion:
I enjoyed getting to experience “Ghost” on the big screen. It’s just as effective as the first time I saw it, packing an emotional punch while highlighting the cast’s strong abilities. The story does a great job at combining the best elements of comedy, drama, and romance into one fluid story. While the ending is tragic, it showcases the strength of the human spirit and is a reminder that we will always be present in our loved one’s lives. I recommend checking out “Ghost” whether it be on the big screen or on a streaming service at home. It’s a timeless classic that will never get old!
