Review of A Ghost Story (2017) by Christopher E — 01 Aug 2017

A beautiful, almost too real story that's haunting.

With A GHOST STORY, acclaimed director David Lowery (AIN'T THEM BODIES SAINTS, PETE'S DRAGON) returns with a singular exploration of legacy, loss, and the essential human longing for meaning and connection. Recently deceased, a white-sheeted ghost (Academy Award-winner Casey Affleck) returns to his suburban home to console his bereft wife (Academy Award-nominee Rooney Mara), only to find that in his spectral state he has become unstuck in time, forced to watch passively as the life he knew and the woman he loves slowly slip away. Increasingly unmoored, the ghost embarks on a cosmic journey through memory and history, confronting life's ineffable questions and the enormity of existence. An unforgettable meditation on love and grief, A GHOST STORY emerges ecstatic and surreal - a wholly unique experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

After long anticipation for this film, I was able to find it at a theater 30 minutes away from my house. I couldn't help but go into the theater with so much excitement, which is the worse thing you can do to yourself before watching any movie. I tried to prepare myself for the different style and tone in this film, which no amount of preparing could've done that for me. However, I left the theater extremely intrigued and although I thought the movie was good, I can almost guarantee that a second sit-down would make this insightful film even better.

The screenplay was the most impressive thing about this film. Despite how out of this world this movie seems, it's so real in the best way. From the simple, yet little conversing the actors do, to the emotions that come in waves at different times, everything feels so real. We get to explore the love between this couple, how time evolves / continues, and the slow, deathly process of grief. The story is very different, and is probably not for the audience member with a closed mind. Those who don't want to try and understand will laugh at the idea of this story, while others will give it a chance and watch closely. The screenplay was well written, and I can't wait to constantly go back and analysis it again.

The acting performances in this movie were so simplified yet so amazing. Rooney Mara delivers this hauntingly real performance, and through the portrayal of her character's situation, it made me cry. Who knew eating a pie for 5 minutes could cause tears to stream down your face uncontrollably? Mara, sister of Kate Mara, has been on my radar lately, appearing in more films and putting up good performances. Casey Affleck, coming fresh off "Manchester By The Sea", is mostly cloaked in this film. However, his ability to display heavy emotions while being buried under a sheet is astounding. You can see the sadness on his face, or the anger building inside, all whilst covered by a bed sheet. This movie was amplified by its performances, and its effect would not have been possible with the talent.

I really applaud a director like this; someone who takes risks, and makes a film we haven't seen before. This is far from your typical story, and your typical execution. David Lowery brought his personal experiences and emotions, and poured his soul into the script. Hearing him talk about the film and his passion for the events that unfold makes you understand the film even more. It gives it more meaning, and the story has more weight because of it. I can't wait to see what Lowery does next and I'm definitely on board.

In the end, I really enjoyed this film and its deep messages. I think with a second viewing, I would enjoy this film even more, as I think it could squeeze into my top 10 list of the year.

By the way, the soundtrack is amazing.