we have a ghost 2023 - Movie Review

We Have a Ghost is a fantasy horror comedy movie that showcases a brilliant physical performance by David Harbour and a heartwarming storyline. The film takes place in a house located in the Chicago area, where the Presley family, consisting of Frank (Anthony Mackie), Mel (Erica Ash), and their sons, Fulton (Niles Fitch) and Kevin (Jahi Winston), reside. Kevin, the younger son, is not thrilled about having moved yet again due to Frank's habit of taking on ill-advised business ventures, which require them to move frequently.

One day, while exploring the attic, Kevin encounters a ghostly figure of a man in a bowling shirt named Ernest (David Harbour), who tries unsuccessfully to scare Kevin. However, Kevin records the apparition on his phone and starts to communicate with Ernest, and the two become friends. Unfortunately, Kevin's father and brother soon discover the video on his phone and post it on the internet, which turns Ernest into a social media sensation. As Ernest cannot remember anything from his past life, Kevin works with his neighbor, Joy Yoshino (Isabella Russo), to uncover Ernest's identity. Meanwhile, Dr. Leslie Monroe (Tig Notaro), an agent of the CIA paranormal program called "Wizard Clip," attempts to capture Ernest and bring him into CIA custody.

Written and directed by Christopher Landon, who is well known for his Happy Death Day movies and Freaky, We Have a Ghost is based on the short story "Ernest" by Geoff Manaugh. Landon successfully takes the familiar premise of comic haunted house movies, such as Casper and Beetlejuice, and puts his spin on it for the modern age. The film features a smart script, strong direction, and excellent performances from the cast, making it feel fresh and entertaining.

David Harbour's performance as the titular ghost is undoubtedly the highlight of the film, even though he cannot speak. Initially hesitant to take on the role, Harbour proves to be a versatile and charismatic performer, eliciting laughter from his physicality and pantomime-style acting while also portraying a sense of sadness and tragedy that makes viewers care about him. The rest of the ensemble also delivers excellent performances. Jahi Winston is an outstanding co-lead, and his interactions with Ernest and Joy are endearing. Anthony Mackie, Erica Ash, and Niles Fitch are impressive in their respective roles as Kevin's family, and their reactions to the ghostly presence in their house lead to some hilarious moments. Tig Notaro's portrayal of Dr. Leslie Monroe is also noteworthy, offering a more nuanced take on the role of the antagonist.

At its core, We Have a Ghost is a mash-up of Beetlejuice and Starman or E.T., particularly in the second half of the film when Kevin, Joy, and Ernest set out to uncover Ernest's identity. The movie's satirical take on internet fame and haunted house tropes is hilarious, and the creative and humorous sequences during the search for clues are sure to make viewers laugh out loud.

However, the film's last 25% does feel like it drags, with some aspects feeling flabby and the comedic rhythm stumbling a bit. The movie's two-hour runtime could have been shortened, and the third act could have been better tied up by having a singular antagonistic force.

Overall, We Have a Ghost is an enjoyable high-concept comedy that features a remarkable performance by Harbour and a likable ensemble cast. Although the film loses some steam in its final act, it remains a solid recommendation for fans of Beetlejuice, Ghostbusters, or Starman.

One of the strengths of We Have a Ghost is how it balances its horror and comedy elements. The movie is genuinely funny and filled with laugh-out-loud moments, but it also has some genuinely creepy and eerie scenes that will keep horror fans engaged. The horror is not too intense or graphic, making it accessible to a wider audience, while the comedy is not too broad or slapstick, ensuring that the humor does not undercut the suspense or scares.

The movie also has some interesting themes that it explores. One of the most prominent themes is the idea of fame and how it can be both a blessing and a curse. The Presley family, particularly Kevin and his mother Mel, are overwhelmed by the sudden attention and scrutiny that comes with having a viral ghost in their home. They are forced to navigate a world where everyone wants a piece of Ernest, and it takes a toll on them emotionally and mentally. Meanwhile, Ernest himself struggles with his newfound fame and the realization that he cannot control how people perceive him. This theme is relevant and timely, given how much emphasis our society places on social media and internet fame.

Another theme that the movie touches on is the idea of family and the importance of having a support system. The Presleys are a dysfunctional family, but they ultimately come together to help each other out when things get tough. Kevin and Joy, who are both dealing with their own issues, find solace in each other's company and form a close bond with Ernest. Even Dr. Monroe, who initially comes across as an antagonist, is revealed to have her own personal reasons for wanting to capture Ernest and ultimately helps the Presleys in their quest to uncover his identity. These relationships provide an emotional core to the movie that makes the humor and horror elements more impactful.

In terms of visuals, We Have a Ghost is a well-made movie with some impressive production design and special effects. The haunted house is suitably creepy, and the scenes where Ernest manifests are well-executed. The movie also has a distinct visual style, with a color palette that is both vibrant and moody. The camera work and editing are also noteworthy, particularly in the scenes where Kevin, Joy, and Ernest are on the road. The movie does a good job of creating a sense of momentum and excitement as they travel from one location to another.

In conclusion, We Have a Ghost is a fun and entertaining movie that successfully blends horror and comedy elements. It features a strong performance from David Harbour, who brings a lot of charm and pathos to his role as the titular ghost. The rest of the ensemble cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Jahi Winston and Tig Notaro. The movie has some interesting themes that it explores, particularly the idea of fame and family. While it does feel a bit overlong and the third act could use some tightening, it is still a solid recommendation for fans of high-concept comedies like Beetlejuice or Ghostbusters. Christopher Landon continues to show that he is a talented filmmaker with a unique voice, and We Have a Ghost is another feather in his cap.