Illusion and Reality Blur in a Dark Countryside

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Ghost Writer
–

Genre: Thriller, Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Paul Wilkins
Writer(s): Guy Fee, Paul Wilkins
Cast: Luke Mably, Andrea Deck, Brendan Patricks, Robert Portal, Matthew Jure
Where To Watch: available on Digital Platforms and VOD now

RAVING REVIEW: Within the confines of THE GHOST WRITER's world, you'll find yourself on a ride where reality bends and twists like a contortionist, and the truth is always elusive. Directed by Paul Wilkins and co-written by Guy Fee, this film stars Luke Mably as Gilliger Graham, who struggles with real and imaginary demons. The opening act, set against a dimly lit hotel corridor backdrop, perfectly encapsulates the film's essence: a deep dive into a man's psyche haunted by more than just the specters lurking in the shadows.

The heart of THE GHOST WRITER beats to the rhythm of Gilliger's troubled past, casting a long shadow over his present. His father Irwin's (played by Robert Portal) literary success is both an inspiration and a curse, setting the stage for a story tackling conflict and introspection. The plot takes a twist by discovering a hidden manuscript, potentially Irwin's final masterpiece, propelling Gilliger into a whirlpool of moral uncertainty. Whether to honor his father's memory or handle the discovery differently adds layers to an already complex narrative.

The film's setting, an old cottage filled with secrets, almost mirrors Gilliger's soul. Mysterious characters like Jane (Andrea Deck) and Patrick (Brendan Patricks) blur the lines between the psychological and paranormal, challenging the protagonist and viewers to question their reality.

Wilkins' directorial hand, combined with Robin Whenary's cinematography, creates a visual journey that contrasts the serene beauty of the English countryside with the turbulent storm brewing within Gilliger. Mably and Deck, with their compelling performances, bring depth to the exploration of creativity, madness, and hidden family truths.

However, THE GHOST WRITER occasionally loses its footing amidst its ambition, with a narrative that sometimes meanders through a maze of flashbacks and in-depth psychological struggles for its cast. The film's intricate psychological and literary intrigue often demands a more streamlined narrative and sharper focus. While I appreciated what they were going for, I only partially locked onto the journey; there always felt too much of the struggle showing on screen and less in the mind.

Despite these stumbling blocks, THE GHOST WRITER remains an intriguing exploration of the blurred boundaries between fiction and reality. It probes the haunting question of whether one can truly step out of the shadow of greatness to find originality. With moments of brilliance interspersed with ambiguity, it offers a unique, albeit somewhat messy, viewing experience for those fascinated by the darker aspects of the creative mind.

THE GHOST WRITER could have used some polishing to work on being a powerful statement on legacy and creativity and getting lost in its narrative complexity. It presents a cinematic conundrum that stitches together suspense, moral dilemmas, and the eternal battle between inspiration and outright plagiarism. While it may not deliver a knockout blow in every round, it leaves an indelible mark on its canvas, urging viewers to ponder the delicate balance between the real and the imagined.

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[photo courtesy of DARK SKY FILMS]

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