Review of Ghost World (2001) by Shane S — 29 Jul 2013

I had little idea that this seemingly goofy hipster comedy was going to become a depressing meditation on mortality, consumerism, commercialization, dysfunctionality, and individuality in a similar manner to Zwigoff's earlier documentary "Crumb." While "Crumb" told the sad tale of an artist who, while obviously talented, wastes away on misanthropy (particularly misogyny) and half-assed attempts at consecrating himself from the world, "Ghost World" tells the tale of a Crumb-wannabe that can't blend in with the world.

It's not that she's non-conformist. It's that she simply cannot adapt. She's obviously been in a bad family situation, judging by her lack of trust in her stepmom, her deteriorating relationships, and her general disinterest of the world. It's a depressing comedy about a girl who, if I'm reading this correctly, ends up killing herself due to how disconnected she is from the world.

Or, at least that's what I took the bus metaphor to be.

Other than that, one of the best screenplays I have ever seen - I strive to be just like Daniel Clowes in terms of writing - and Zwigoff effortlessly pulls off the transition from documentary to fiction narrative without completely screwing up. Easily one of the essentials of existentialist-teenage-comedy film.