Ghost Story Review
Arriving at the end of arguably the most fertile decade of horror filmmaking, John_Irvin's Ghost Story (1981) proves that even the lesser-known genre entries could be quite chilling. In fact, elements that might have detracted from this film's scare factor -- a score that's too bombastic, and a starring role for the 82-year-old Fred_Astaire -- do nothing of the sort. Irvin's smart, tension-sustaining visual setups and James_Alexander's haunting sound design, each prepare the viewer, but not completely, for the surprisingly sophisticated gore effects from makeup artist Dick_Smith. Even if it weren't for all this, the presence of the singular Alice_Krige would be unsettling enough. Playing the beautiful specter, Krige makes marvelous use of that lifeless stare, wicked half smile, and disembodied voice -- characteristics that later made her the ideal choice to play the Borg Queen in Star_Trek:_First_Contact. Even though convincing enough special effects did not yet exist, Krige leaves a viewer feeling that her face might split open into ghoulish horror at any moment. The film's effectiveness is especially surprising given that it contains two lengthy flashbacks -- which fly in the face of the genre's usual need for immediacy -- and features a cast of primarily senior citizens (John_Houseman and Douglas_Fairbanks_Jr. accompany Astaire). The dedication of these professionals makes Ghost Story more than just a good ghost story, but something classy and memorable as well. Derek Armstrong, Rovi
Great Film Moments:
- In Theaters
- This Week
- Coming Soon
- New on DVD
Browse More Movies:
