Review of The Ghost and the Darkness (1996) by Jens S — 31 Dec 2011

Really enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. It's a nature attacks movie that actually takes itself seriously and backs it up.

Despite a really solid cast, its acting isn't a huge strength. It is by no means bad, but I was expecting a little more from Douglas. Kilmer is solid, but a little wooden. The script is pretty good, and the story is terrific. The fact that this is a totally true story really adds some real credibility. There is something mesmerizing about it. It really sucks you in and doesn't let go.

The mythical and spiritual emphasis the natives put on the lions is extremely interesting. It seems over the top and melodramatic at first, but as the movie progresses, it becomes more and more believable. The direction is very good, fully utilizing its African settings and expansive backdrops.

What takes this movie from the good to very good category is its drive. Once it gets rolling, you just get the sense that your watching a freight train picking up speed. The pacing is slow, but it is just this sort of slow building story telling that allows it to burst forward at great speed when it wants to. Just a great sense of building tension and impending doom. The lions are absolutely relentless, and are utilized just right, as you see just enough of them, but not too much as to dissipate their effect.

One of the best films I've seen of this genre. I'm surprised this isn't more of a fan favorite, as I really can find few gripes with this film. Definitely a top notch thriller.