I've seen many movies - and of course - many Hollywood movies. Although of other descent - I usually favour European film - yet - more and more - and so often in the past - the US makes the most wonderful and deeply moving films - yet does not recognise its own art for its worth. Especially in terms of awards. But - they - the awards, are just objects - the celluloid evidence lives on and time proves the 'real' worth of films. Well - lets move beyond that issue. This is a disturbing and wonderful film. So well directed, so insightful, so moving. I am so sure this will stand the test of time. Have you ever thought - in a Shakesperean/Hamlet/clichéd sense that 'all of life is but a stage'? Have you ever thought of a 'Play within a play'?. Of course. We all question our existence - our god, our creator, our boundaries, limits, loves, the things we think we remember? This film addresses all those issues in a fun, deep, and very sensitive way. Moreover - in this age of 'reality TV' this film takes us to what surely must be the natural conclusion of this trend. The absolute and utter abandonment of the viewer to an existence of vicariously living through the 'idiots lantern' in the corner of the room. Any film that makes us think, that poses more questions than it answers is wonderful. Any film of that kind sensitively directed, wonderfully shot and with incredible casting, script and acting - is more than wonderful. Thanks Mr Wier et al for a masterful creation - I would recommend anyone to watch this - it works on many levels and will appeal to many people from all vestiges of society. Watch out for the boundaries in your life...watch and you'll see what I'm talking about.. AC
Reviews
2 Reviews
The Ghost Goes West
(1935)
A lovely, warm hearted, escapist experience.
23 February 2005
I first saw this film as a child on TV in Australia round 1973 - at which time it was already a very old film and I was only 7 years old.
I guess the fact I'm now 38 and writing about it means it stuck in my mind rather strongly.
I wanted for years and years to see it again and finally did in around 2000 - 27 years later. The childhood magic was still there.
Donat is wonderful. The whole story - escapist, romantic, spooky, fun and historically rich in yes - we know a rather fantasised way.
This is a feel-good film. Films similar to this are being made now - often called 'chick flick's and suchlike, but basically, what is wrong with a movie that makes you feel good? Not really deep, not really cerebral, but magical, funny, heartfelt, and a true escapist experience from our current modern lives,
Absorbing, fun and lovely.
Watch and Enjoy!
I guess the fact I'm now 38 and writing about it means it stuck in my mind rather strongly.
I wanted for years and years to see it again and finally did in around 2000 - 27 years later. The childhood magic was still there.
Donat is wonderful. The whole story - escapist, romantic, spooky, fun and historically rich in yes - we know a rather fantasised way.
This is a feel-good film. Films similar to this are being made now - often called 'chick flick's and suchlike, but basically, what is wrong with a movie that makes you feel good? Not really deep, not really cerebral, but magical, funny, heartfelt, and a true escapist experience from our current modern lives,
Absorbing, fun and lovely.
Watch and Enjoy!
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