Review of Ghost

Ghost is one of the first movies I ever saw. Yes, Ghost. The Patrick Swayze film that combines elements of psychological horror, suspense and comedy. And for some reason, I could not stop watching it. I remember watching this at least once a week for a good part of my early childhood and loving it more and more each time. The scary parts didn't traumatize me; in fact, I loved the thrill of them. I admired the story and the way the living and the dead were on the same playing field throughout, providing ample opportunity to showcase both scares and laughs. I liked the good vs. evil dichotomy, the themes of betrayal, love and justice. And I also liked Vincent Schiavelli. That guy, may he rest in peace, is made out of pure frightening, creepy awesomeness as the ghost in the train. Jerry Zucker couldn't have picked a more hilarious and menacing guide for the newly deceased Sam Wheat. In fact, the whole cast is brilliant. Swayze plays such a likable, human protagonist trying to communicate with his living, loving girlfriend Molly (Demi Moore) before she gets involved with Carl (future Dexter director Tony Goldwyn). And Whoopi Goldberg, dear Jesus, she's just hilarious in this as the fraudulent psychic who, through a brilliant use of irony, can communicate with Sam.

There isn't an aspect of this movie I don't completely love, especially considering it had such an impact upon my childhood. It's a definite recommendation to anyone who enjoys comedy, fantasy, horror, suspense, or any combination of the above.