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6

tropicAcesJul 12, 2017

Some people are going to love it, others will hate it, I'm in the middle. Some of its visual storytelling and emotional ambitions work and truly designate, however other times (especially in the first act) things can feel alienating or slow.Some people are going to love it, others will hate it, I'm in the middle. Some of its visual storytelling and emotional ambitions work and truly designate, however other times (especially in the first act) things can feel alienating or slow. If you're a fan of indie cinema then this isvyour dream film, but fans of blockbusters may check out early.… Expand

5 of 6 users found this helpful51

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6

Brent_MarchantJul 15, 2017

It's the kind of movie that, if you're well-versed in philosophy and metaphysics, you'll probably love it, but, if not, you'll likely come away with a decidedly puzzled look. While it's certainly laudable that the director has aspired to makeIt's the kind of movie that, if you're well-versed in philosophy and metaphysics, you'll probably love it, but, if not, you'll likely come away with a decidedly puzzled look. While it's certainly laudable that the director has aspired to make a picture that appeals to an intellectual and enlightened audience, the finished product could also be seen as an exercise in preaching to the choir. Its depiction of various philosophical and spiritual themes is deftly handled through an atmospheric production design, minimalist dialogue and an ethereal soundtrack, though there are times when the patience of even the most tolerant fans can get tried (and when a fast forward remote would definitely come in handy). Nice try, but not quite what it could be.… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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5

moviemitch96Jul 29, 2017

No matter how bizarre or polarizing a film from them looks at first glance, A24's name being attached to a film is usually all the incentive I need to check it out, as I've always highly admired their keen eye for unique and/or bizarreNo matter how bizarre or polarizing a film from them looks at first glance, A24's name being attached to a film is usually all the incentive I need to check it out, as I've always highly admired their keen eye for unique and/or bizarre premises and stories from the films that they (usually) wisely choose to distribute. That was certainly the case for this film prior to me seeing it, as I was highly intrigued by its simple yet universal premise of life, love, loss, etc. Unfortunately, the best way for me to sum this film up is 'huge potential wasted.' The film felt incredibly disjointed, jumping from so many random points and events in time. In addition, Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara's talents felt rather wasted to me, as they literally don't speak for well over half the film (seriously, I'm pretty sure a little over half the film contained no dialogue, as the entire middle act of the film is borderline silent). To top it all off, the film felt to me as though it really had no clear sense of direction or what it wanted to convey at certain times or how to convey certain things. So many scenes felt as though they were there just for filler purposes. An excellent case in point: We get to watch a depressed and grieving Rooney Mara eat a whole pie in her kitchen for about 5+ minutes. Overall, some of the film's ideas and symbolic purposes pertaining to its subject matter were somewhat interesting, and it had some decent imagery as well, but the rest of this film felt very void-like, much like the film's subject matter, which was certainly what I wasn't hoping for.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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4

jeremypOct 12, 2017

Probably the most boring movie I've sat through in quite a while. Oh I get why critics love it, because they look for deeper meaning and metaphors and symbolism, but all this is is a pretentious indie movie that did not need Affleck or MaraProbably the most boring movie I've sat through in quite a while. Oh I get why critics love it, because they look for deeper meaning and metaphors and symbolism, but all this is is a pretentious indie movie that did not need Affleck or Mara in it, since Affleck spends 90% of his time acting a sheet, talk about methud acting, and Mara gets 10 minutes. The best performance is by the house. Where was the Ghost therapist when they were needed, or the exorcist? See the ghost, see the ghost turn it's head (nice touch Casey), see the ghost floating around in limbo. Next sequel is ghost driver: a camera follows a Saudi woman driving through Riyhad, endlessly.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

davd123Jan 25, 2018

I don't how to express my feelings after this movie. This is literally the only movie which I would rate 100% Of course if you are looking for an action movie just don't watch because you will be wasting your time. But if you appreciate artI don't how to express my feelings after this movie. This is literally the only movie which I would rate 100% Of course if you are looking for an action movie just don't watch because you will be wasting your time. But if you appreciate art and deep thoughts you will fell in love with this movie. People are complaining about that every action on this movie is shown for too long, but I think these moments let you think and go deeper and deeper every second of this movie. For me this is gold… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

kbronstrupFeb 4, 2018

This film is definitely not for everyone. It's a conceptual piece, and anyone looking for a traditional "ghost story" will surely be disappointed. This is not horror, it is art. Something simple, yet so powerful it stays with you long afterThis film is definitely not for everyone. It's a conceptual piece, and anyone looking for a traditional "ghost story" will surely be disappointed. This is not horror, it is art. Something simple, yet so powerful it stays with you long after it has ended. The film shows the loneliness of death, not only for those loved ones left behind, but for the one who's gone as well. Our innate inability to let go, to move on, even in death. It's tragically heartbreaking, but there's also beauty in the melancholy of it all.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

MahmusSep 25, 2020

Watching this movie was one of the best film experiences I've had in a while. This film is incredible.

It's a profound and emotional experience the likes of which I haven't had sice maybe Neon Genesis Evangelion (the infamous pie scene isWatching this movie was one of the best film experiences I've had in a while. This film is incredible.

It's a profound and emotional experience the likes of which I haven't had sice maybe Neon Genesis Evangelion (the infamous pie scene is comparable to Evangelion's elevator scene. You know the one).

Such a great, depressing, existensial crisis of a movie. I loved it.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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0

drcosbyJul 30, 2017

I guess David Lowery decided that the best way to make the point that ghosts' lives are boring and endless is to create a boring, endless movie about them. If he was trying to create a subtle metaphor between the futility of his fictionalI guess David Lowery decided that the best way to make the point that ghosts' lives are boring and endless is to create a boring, endless movie about them. If he was trying to create a subtle metaphor between the futility of his fictional ghost's life and our own, he threw subtlety out the window he decide to smack us over the head with a freshman-in-college level diatribe about how the universe is all going to wind down one day, so everything we do is ultimately for naught. Maybe I am getting old and jaded, but this was a shallow movie whose only points have already been made so many times and so many better ways (i.e. see Stoppard's Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead for a funny take on pointlessness or even Lowery's own TV show Rectify for an example on futility) that it really had no reason to be made. If Lowery wanted to explore a story about the endless lives of ghosts, he should have concentrated on the details of their day-to-day existence, and let the audience extrapolate that into hopelessness. Instead, he went straight for the hopelessness leaving nothing for the audience to do except nap or maybe think about how much better their lives would be if they would only get up and walk out of the theater.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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10

Ryan_ParkinsonJul 10, 2017

A cinematic experience unlike any other. Leave your ego at the door and let it take you wherever it needs you to go, and you'll find something beautiful there. This is completely transcendent film making.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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3

panslabyrinthSep 22, 2017

A Ghost Story is overly convoluted and pretentious; what seemed like it could be a tinder love story with a twist, turns out to be a 92-minutes long supposed lesson about life, filled with 10+ minutes "one take" sequences of Rooney MaraA Ghost Story is overly convoluted and pretentious; what seemed like it could be a tinder love story with a twist, turns out to be a 92-minutes long supposed lesson about life, filled with 10+ minutes "one take" sequences of Rooney Mara wandering around, staring at walls, sniffing while eating pie and then throwing up, and a 6'2 200 pound actor roaming a house with white bed sheets on, also staring at walls and through windows aimlessly. A Ghost Story is just empty, seamlessly purposeless for any mainstream moviegoer, and otherwise.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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10

LexixelJul 17, 2017

A very good movie.I love the music in it. For those who gave zero without watching it, seriously, this is disrespectful to other staff who were working in this project; btw, if you believe those accusations, read those legal files onlineA very good movie.I love the music in it. For those who gave zero without watching it, seriously, this is disrespectful to other staff who were working in this project; btw, if you believe those accusations, read those legal files online filed by both parties, see the evidence yourself, don't just read the news and jump to the conclusion.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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0

HonsestCozJul 30, 2017

Are you kidding me?! Critics, please stop being so pretentious. This should have been a short film and you know it. The entire film consists of long, repetitive scenes with sad violin music playing in the background (e.g. a women eats aAre you kidding me?! Critics, please stop being so pretentious. This should have been a short film and you know it. The entire film consists of long, repetitive scenes with sad violin music playing in the background (e.g. a women eats a pie while crying for idk... 10 minutes!) If you piece together all the footage of the motionless ghost and his sad violins, you know what you get? --half of the movie, at least HALF!

Let me put it this way: Ever been in a modern art museum and wonder why, oh why, is this piece taking space? You see a large blank canvas that has a rip in the center of it, but the person sitting next to you see's "the artist's struggle with the world and it bleakness, his frustration with his talent, and the crushing expectations of the world upon his shoulders" Well, let's just say this movie is that canvas.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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5

TVJerryAug 7, 2017

If it hadn't been for Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara starring as a married couple, I doubt this film would have gotten made. It's so self-indulgent and somewhat pretentious. His character dies early on and comes back to haunt their home in aIf it hadn't been for Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara starring as a married couple, I doubt this film would have gotten made. It's so self-indulgent and somewhat pretentious. His character dies early on and comes back to haunt their home in a flowing white sheet with 2 eye holes. Other hints that this was a hollow exercise in art: the screen format is square with rounded edges and every scene unfolds with a sloooow pace and usually static camera (the worst is watching her eat a pie in wide shots for at least 5 minutes). In case you hadn't figured it out, this is NOT a horror movie. It's not that kind of spectre, but a lonely soul on an existential journey. I'll concede that the plot is original and ultimately "haunting," but the pain leading up to it will only appeal to those who like pensive reflections on life, love and eternity.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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8

SpangleOct 5, 2017

Heading into A Ghost Story, one cannot be blamed for assuming it is an examination of grief. With a young husband (Casey Affleck) dying early on and wife (Rooney Mara) mourning his loss, eating pie, and trying to move on without him, it isHeading into A Ghost Story, one cannot be blamed for assuming it is an examination of grief. With a young husband (Casey Affleck) dying early on and wife (Rooney Mara) mourning his loss, eating pie, and trying to move on without him, it is easy to see how the film is about grief. Yet, in equal measure, it is a film about memory, time, purpose, music, stories, and every little detail that makes life so eternal, so essential, and universal. It is a film about grief shown through the lens of an unexpected protagonist - the ghost under a sheet - who traverses time, space, people, and location. Powerful, poignant, and silently accomplished, A Ghost Story is a rousing return to form for director David Lowery after working for Disney last year. In this low-key, gorgeous, and powerful film, Lowery re-establishes himself as the heir apparent to Terrence Malick's cinematic poetry throne.

Silently sewing together images, Lowery's camera frequently finds stunning images. From the very beginning, shots of Affleck's ghost walking through open fields to get back home with the sun peaking over the horizon, the ghost lurking in the background with Mara in the foreground, or the shot of light pouring in as the home is destroyed, A Ghost Story is a film with stunning visuals. This was very much the case with Lowery's prior effort Ain't Them Bodies Saints - which also starred Affleck and Mara - and it is nice to see him return to this gorgeous style. However, compared to that film, Lowery is much less reliant on the beauty of the outdoors to create stunning imagery in A Ghost Story. Rather, he now relies upon drab gray and brown interiors, dark shadows, and a largely gloomy home that is fashioned as a prison cell for this ghost for the rest of eternity until he finds what he has been looking for all this time. Dark, ominous, and spooky, this locale is one that would work for a horror film, but rather, Lowery uses it as a place for existential horror. This ghost is doomed to stay here until he can get the note left behind by Mara that he wants to retrieve, yet he is unable to break through the painted wall to reach the note. Trapped, lonely, and solemn, the ghost's existence is one of little joy, pain (especially when Mara tries to move on), and anger at how he has been so easily forgotten.

However, what is perhaps most interesting is how the aspect ratio communicates so much. Lowery himself has stated it was to make the film more claustrophobic to show how trapped the ghost is in this home, but that is just scratching the surface. With a squareish frame and rounded edges with drab colors, the film often looks like an old photograph. This is particularly pertinent due to the film's thoughts regarding memories and the little pieces of ourselves that we leave behind. Being remembered, our memories, and our brief time on Earth after which we are forgotten forever, are all constantly on the mind of A Ghost Story throughout. Mara leaving little notes of things she likes in houses she moves from, the quiet mourning of her husband, and a party guest speaking about memory and Beethoven, all exemplify this element of the film. Yet, what is abundantly clear in A Ghost Story is that time does not matter. It will advance, things will be left behind, people die, and people move on to other places. In the end, the only thing that does matter are the little pieces of ourselves we leave in the hearts and souls of those we touch. As Affleck silently lingers in the background with Mara eating a piece of pie, this fact is felt. She does not need to say anything, nor does he. Both miss one another and it is not because they existed, were in that home, or were even because they were married. Rather, it is because they both touched one another's lives and, now, circumstance and a freak accident have taken them apart from one another. Instead of holding one another, they now are left wallow in the solitude and thickness of the air in the home as they try to soothe the hole in their hearts.

With a minimal script that often amounts to a character standing stationary for a period of time to the ambitious time traveling finale, A Ghost Story is a film that is nearly impossible to not compare to the work of Malick. Yet, it is not just in the style and ambition that Lowery manages to capture the feeling of Malick's best works, but also in the feelings they emote. The best Malick films, such as The Tree of Life, are ambitious and show life from the very beginning to the present day with a silent, melodic, and poetic flow to the proceedings. A Ghost Story is very much the same way. Instead of being a typical narrative film, A Ghost Story is often best described as visual poetry. Through small suggestions, such as what is on the paper (it is the quote from the book that Affleck knocks off the shelf and Mara reads for sure), or through this gorgeous mosaic of images that, on their own, often communicate every emotion and purpose perfectly, Lowery… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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8

BrianMcCriticNov 6, 2017

This is a slow moving spectacle that began to captivate me with an intense basically silent sequence. This film will not be for everyone but feel free to be swept away in this thought provoking gem. A-

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

The3AcademySinsFeb 1, 2018

A Ghost Story is a glacially slow, painful burn, but there is a lot to admire and unpack. There are some really deep, poignant questions raised about loss and how we deal with it. The score is great, the cinematography stunning, and you'llA Ghost Story is a glacially slow, painful burn, but there is a lot to admire and unpack. There are some really deep, poignant questions raised about loss and how we deal with it. The score is great, the cinematography stunning, and you'll definitely be taken on a ride with A Ghost Story. It is really, really, really slow, but if you can get through the first and second act, you'll definitely be hooked.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

JLuis_001Sep 20, 2017

I'm still turning my head over trying to decipher and understand what I saw. This movie no doubt comes to mess with what an art film represents and what it can mean for people who do not consume or enjoy these types of movies, after all, thisI'm still turning my head over trying to decipher and understand what I saw. This movie no doubt comes to mess with what an art film represents and what it can mean for people who do not consume or enjoy these types of movies, after all, this movie has been called boring, tedious, pretentious, overrated and yes also a masterpiece and let's be honest, all those things may be fair depending on what each person is looking for in a movie.

And yet how can I review this movie? honestly I'm still not sure even while I'm writing this. I have my interpretation and I am pretty sure of it.

Primarily A Ghost Story is all about contemplation, a dense contemplation, we have about 15 minutes to meet our protagonists, we know they love each other, they are together and they seem to be happy, but that life disappears when the life of Cassey Affleck's character ends in an accident, what follows now is the contemplation of the loss, the grief and the mourning. We watch Rooney Mara's character continuing with her life while the ghost of Casey's character follows her tirelessly until she finally leaves the house they both shared.

The following are other points of reflection but they feed on a singular point which is strongly focused on mortality and our own legacy, our own significance and our own irrelevance, is a strong and solid meditation on love, anguish, memories, loneliness and continuation, what we lived, what we felt, what we loved and what we lost.

It is a teaching and perhaps it leaves the message that eventually if there is a life after death and we must go on into that unknown path maybe everything we built throughout our lives will not mean nothing in the end, but they meant something while we live and maybe that's the final message of this movie with that final scene, moving on after recalling what made you live in the first place. Closure for our souls, maybe someday we'll all experience it somehow, who knows?… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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0

ElijahloveDec 8, 2017

Lmao. Seriously. Who was drunk when they wrote the script? Worse yet who thought this would make a great film. You put a sheet over the guys head to make him a ghost. Lol. One scene maybe where he is making fun of his death with a sheetLmao. Seriously. Who was drunk when they wrote the script? Worse yet who thought this would make a great film. You put a sheet over the guys head to make him a ghost. Lol. One scene maybe where he is making fun of his death with a sheet maybe. Maybe. Think movies that have done this better. Hmmm. Ghost with whoppieach goldberg. The Sixth Sense. This movie doesn't deserve to even be made. Stop giving good ratings to terrible movies. You encourage others to make terrible movies. Listen I went to college and I get the whole universe may be connected time thing okay. Not unique. But don't cheat the viewers. Lol… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

DWH101Dec 13, 2017

You'll think about this film for weeks on end, wonderfully constructed and touching deep on questions of loss, time, immortality and the ultimate end of existence. Drawn out scenes give the viewer time to immerse themselves in thought andYou'll think about this film for weeks on end, wonderfully constructed and touching deep on questions of loss, time, immortality and the ultimate end of existence. Drawn out scenes give the viewer time to immerse themselves in thought and reflection on the scenarios. Passing of time wonderfully managed without losing focus on the premise of the film.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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3

BeeceeAug 9, 2017

A Ghost Story attempts profundity, and there is an A list cast, but I felt that it was ultimately unsuccessful. Casey Affleck is acting without speaking and with a sheet over his body most of the time, so you can't really get much emotionA Ghost Story attempts profundity, and there is an A list cast, but I felt that it was ultimately unsuccessful. Casey Affleck is acting without speaking and with a sheet over his body most of the time, so you can't really get much emotion out of it. Couldn't the ghost be portrayed in a fashion that could still show facial features and emotion? I felt that his relationship with his wife, Rooney Mara, should have been the focus of the movie, but she leaves the movie too soon, and she doesn't have any interaction with the ghost. Any potentially interesting avenue to explore (like the relationship with the ghost next door) is given short shrift. No, I didn't expect a horror film with a lot of action, but I still expected more interaction among the characters. As others have said before, it was boring and uninvolving.… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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5

GinaKAug 3, 2017

If you are a die-hard fan of Casey Affleck or Rooney Mara or David Lowery, you should see this film. For everyone else, it is optional. It is much more of an “art film” than a traditional ghost story, and some scenes went on much too long (IIf you are a die-hard fan of Casey Affleck or Rooney Mara or David Lowery, you should see this film. For everyone else, it is optional. It is much more of an “art film” than a traditional ghost story, and some scenes went on much too long (I kept thinking Terrence Malick – sometimes interesting, but not always). I don’t want to put in any spoilers, but a few things simply didn’t make sense or were downright annoying (like the pie gluttony or the hateful guy at the party who “knows it all”) – and the beginning of the film was so quiet that it may have been meant to shame anyone eating popcorn or pretzels like me. You could hear a lot of people moving around in their squeaky seats – so the director miscalculated his “silence effect” (or is unaware of the current state of cinema seats). I didn’t love it and didn’t hate it, but was not particularly intrigued by it either.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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10

hyderaliNov 9, 2017

Little bit slow in the first but it is worth watching! Fantastic story with some great visuals, deep meaning & wonderful music. I hope the director gets nominated in the oscars.

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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2

sutterluetyJul 22, 2017

....where the 4 stars comes from is beyond me.5 YAWNER for certain.The most action is when the chick plays like she eating a whole pie in grief,and RACES to the bathroom to hurls,ok theres the poltergeist scene with the flyin dishes..first....where the 4 stars comes from is beyond me.5 YAWNER for certain.The most action is when the chick plays like she eating a whole pie in grief,and RACES to the bathroom to hurls,ok theres the poltergeist scene with the flyin dishes..first 10minutes into the movie was a forecast,BORING. Rooney and Casey and the stars and the come on trailer it would be great...90 minutes of a sheet with holes cut out...lifeless movie trust me.… Expand

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

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1

Terbo49Aug 8, 2017

Self-indulgent tripe and not even mildly interesting self-indulgent tripe. Extremely boring (although if you ever wanted to watch someone eat a whole pie in real time, you're in luck) and complete with 4 utterly irrelevant scenes designed toSelf-indulgent tripe and not even mildly interesting self-indulgent tripe. Extremely boring (although if you ever wanted to watch someone eat a whole pie in real time, you're in luck) and complete with 4 utterly irrelevant scenes designed to add 'depth'. Gives crap boring art films a bad name.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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10

RyanGimesonAug 12, 2017

AMAZING! Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara made me feel for them in the span of five minutes. Movie has incredible dialogue, especially one scene with William Oldham at a party (you'll know it when you see it).

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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6

DirigiblePulpAug 20, 2017

A Ghost Story is probably too precious for its own good. There are many scenes, including the couple much talked about long takes, that feel like they're there to announce what kind of movie this is (a litmus test of arty endurance - I keptA Ghost Story is probably too precious for its own good. There are many scenes, including the couple much talked about long takes, that feel like they're there to announce what kind of movie this is (a litmus test of arty endurance - I kept expecting people to walk out or start screaming at the screen but neither happened during my viewing), rather than serve a dramatic purpose. But they only feel that way during the time you are first watching them. After finishing the film and reflecting on these same scenes, they take on a new elegance that wasn't there before. This is a film that probably needs a rewatch for full appreciation, not because of plot complexity but instead emotional.

I found myself stimulated, bored, confused, glum, and profoundly moved - that a movie can somehow conjure all these feelings during the course of one viewing is a true feat of experimental prowess.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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7

TrevorsViewJul 28, 2017

The art house may not always be your go-to place for a good time out, particularly amidst the summer blockbuster season, but let me say: it often draws paths to the answers of whatever life questions you may regularly ponder. Although A GhostThe art house may not always be your go-to place for a good time out, particularly amidst the summer blockbuster season, but let me say: it often draws paths to the answers of whatever life questions you may regularly ponder. Although A Ghost Story falls into the category of “love it or hate it,” please know that it came from A24, the remarkable independent studio which brought us life-changing works about the inner human spirit, such as Ex Machina, Room, The Lobster, Swiss Army Man, and Moonlight. Now, they did it again with this almost silent film that exploits its tiny sixty-member cast and crew.

The director/editor David Lowery (Pete’s Dragon) has proven his mastery over both of his responsibilities; he follows what more experimental filmmakers do nowadays, and utilizes long uninterrupted shots to its greatest power. The camera seldom moves as it lingers on the small moments for an uncomfortable length of time—the moments he chooses to linger on supposedly communicate nothing, calling us to wait in anticipation.

Lowery can truly make each frame tell its own story under its 4:3 aspect ratio, the corners rounded off, as if watching a hopeless widow’s Instagram story. You could literally watch it on your phone for the compatibility of its visual style! He stated before how he “wanted to make something small and tiny and handmade,” (Filmmaker Magazine) and he well and beyond fulfills what he hinted at, as he creates such a cold environment inside the claustrophobic house the weary spirit refuses to leave. Especially in the large-scale moments, such as a walk in the grassy plain, Lowery keeps things as intimate as possible.

The ghost’s simple design intrigues the senses: the familiar white bedsheet with holes cut in for the eyes creates some hauntingly surreal imagery. Nobody can see him there under the sheets from his hospital deathbed other than us the spectators, turning the already unsettling vision of a white strolling figure all the more eerie.

You can for certain love the accompanying musical score by Daniel Hart, (The Exorcist TV series) whose work echoes against itself as if the purpose of music could never be understood until you croaked. I highly recommend buying the soundtrack.

However, like other new directors given a limited $100,000 budget, several issues still blare hot amidst the triumphs. Spoilers out of the way, the third act features time travel elements that receive too little time spent on sensical explanations. Its “open to interpretation” story gets too carried away with itself for public appeal. The ethnical casting decisions also causes distance between reality, as explorations of the limited cultural space are brilliant, yet Whitewashed: an Americanized Mexican family structure comes to mind, as well as a tribe of savage Native Americans. Likewise, two White drop-dead gorgeous celebrity A-listers play the lead roles, and barely any information is communicated about what these two lovers think of one another.

Rather, the aftermath of the death triggers the most empathy. If you have ever been in love or felt in love, the silent loneliness each individual faces will deeply resonate. The eerie nature of a widow being watched by her dead husband skyrockets in sorrow; you too want their wants due to actions rather than words.

The two leads, both together and apart, allow you to feel as hollow as the spirit on the poster. The husband, played by Casey Affleck (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, Manchester by the Sea) wears the cotton sheet throughout 95% of the runtime, stunningly sad in posture just by staring with his misty nonexistent eyes. As for the wife, played by Rooney Mara, (Carol, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) you feel her pain just by her eating a full pie until she pukes. When close up, she has no need to give a dramatic cry-face to express your tears as she listens to her former-husband’s original music.

Lowery understands his craft in blocking actors, with strict emphasis on posture, such as when the live husband cuddles his wife in bed or strokes her sobbing body with his cloaked, disembodied hand. He can generate the most out of each performance, even if one of them only exists to spill out philosophies around the theme.

Lowery has demonstrated his ultimate strength as a director in constructing this effective, nonpreachy message. It helps you reconsider the importance of letting others know the impact of their legacy before breathing one last time, so they won’t resort to imagining a miserable afterlife most everyone in the world fears.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

DrBlahBlahJul 25, 2017

One of the best films in recent years, David Lowery's incredible follow-up to Ain't Them Bodies Saints (another underrated masterpiece) finds a way to surpass its predecessor and join the ranks of films like The Tree of Life and 2001.

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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0

ozymandias79Sep 20, 2017

Defiantly arthouse. Should be called "A S**tty Ghost Story". After fast forwarding through long scenes of nothing (there is literately a 5 min pie eating scene), you're left with a 10 min short.

2 of 9 users found this helpful27

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0

MikefromAngusMar 13, 2018

What an boring and awful movie! Its slow, and NOT interesting. There's a 10 plus minute take where the camera films a woman eating pie. The movie is filled with these type of camera takes throughout the movie. This is NOT art, or a movie.What an boring and awful movie! Its slow, and NOT interesting. There's a 10 plus minute take where the camera films a woman eating pie. The movie is filled with these type of camera takes throughout the movie. This is NOT art, or a movie. Just garbage… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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0

SturmhardtSep 22, 2017

The most boring movie I have seen in a while. Nothing happens. Literally. I don't get how it got such good ratings and I really really believe that I am not a minority that somehow doesn't like the movie.

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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1

mark0053Aug 1, 2017

Once again I wonder why the so called professional movie critics rated something so high when for myself it was terrible. With only 7 people in the entire auditorium watching we all came out shaking our heads in disbelief. Not only is theOnce again I wonder why the so called professional movie critics rated something so high when for myself it was terrible. With only 7 people in the entire auditorium watching we all came out shaking our heads in disbelief. Not only is the nutty square filming (picture) crazy when you are watching it on a nice wide screen but the story is.....well there is no story that any of us could see.… Expand

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

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9

Zooey_GlassOct 7, 2017

It's a such a unique framing on both the pathos and euphoria of life, love and loss. I'm a bit befuddled on the topic of nothing happening or finding it boring. It wasn't set up to be an action movie. One of the characters has to endure lossIt's a such a unique framing on both the pathos and euphoria of life, love and loss. I'm a bit befuddled on the topic of nothing happening or finding it boring. It wasn't set up to be an action movie. One of the characters has to endure loss through linear time that they can affect, one is trapped and has to observe things without being able to change them. If you're in an open frame of mind, this movie is a beautiful romp through the heart and soul.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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3

SteyrausJun 5, 2019

Drawn out and boring . This is the film that gets made so stupid people that like to think they are smart can say how great it is, because the were special enough to like it. But really they were bored. You would be better off watching paintDrawn out and boring . This is the film that gets made so stupid people that like to think they are smart can say how great it is, because the were special enough to like it. But really they were bored. You would be better off watching paint dry than watching this film.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

bfoore90Oct 6, 2017

A very surreal and captivating tale that will leave you pondering its story long after the credits have rolled. Perfectly paced at just over 90 minutes, A Ghost Story is a film thats obviously not for everyone but for those who have theA very surreal and captivating tale that will leave you pondering its story long after the credits have rolled. Perfectly paced at just over 90 minutes, A Ghost Story is a film thats obviously not for everyone but for those who have the attention span to view it, its worth seeing.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

MattBrady99Oct 16, 2017

"We build our legacy piece by piece and maybe the whole world will remember you or maybe just a couple of people, but you do what you can to make sure you're still around after you're gone".

A Ghost Story is a simple and yet puzzling story"We build our legacy piece by piece and maybe the whole world will remember you or maybe just a couple of people, but you do what you can to make sure you're still around after you're gone".

A Ghost Story is a simple and yet puzzling story upon looking deeper into it's roots. Everything from great acting, directing, cinematography and excellent framing.

Can be described as a fascinating piece of art, that if I told you it's the same director of "Peter's Dragon", you'll think it's a joke. A little bit too obvious with the main message. The whole thing is still emotional moving though.

I can see why some may think this is pretentious, but it did something that's so close to our thoughts and isn't at all shallow. However, the middle part literally explains the meaning of the story by a certain character. But strangely what that character said was pretty thought-provoking. It's the best/worst scene of the film.

Oh and the 5 minute pie scene made hungry. Was it chocolate? Because I want some.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

badgerryan19Sep 26, 2017

This is a very sad, complex, and though provoking movie. A love movie with the questions Why do we exist? What is the meaning of life? And the whole time travel part of the film. The performances by Rooney Mara and Casey Affleck are great andThis is a very sad, complex, and though provoking movie. A love movie with the questions Why do we exist? What is the meaning of life? And the whole time travel part of the film. The performances by Rooney Mara and Casey Affleck are great and really hold the film up… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

PanchogulApr 5, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A Ghost Story es una película de carácter minimalista y a su vez muy envolvente, nos pone en dos perspectivas diferentes, la primera de una persona que tiene que lidiar con la reciente y abrupta perdida de su ser amado y el como dicha alma perdida sigue presente en su entorno, por otro lado tenemos a la fallecida alma en pena antes mencionada que una vez se da cuenta de que aquella persona a la que decidió quedarse a cuidar se ve atrapada forzada a quedarse en ese plano espiritual y a su vez físico por el resto de la eternidad y ver a toda la gente que reside en el hogar de la desdichada pareja.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

gerry6992Sep 24, 2017

An incredibly moving movie. Lowery is such a master of storytelling and I also loved how both Casey Affleck ans Rooney Mara portray these characters. Loved this movie

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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4

jamsieSep 20, 2017

I was pretty underwhelmed by the movie I have to say. Nothing substantial happens in the first 20 minutes. I felt the movie was trying to creation meaningful connections and emotions and I don't think it was quite successful. I'm a fan ofI was pretty underwhelmed by the movie I have to say. Nothing substantial happens in the first 20 minutes. I felt the movie was trying to creation meaningful connections and emotions and I don't think it was quite successful. I'm a fan of Rooney Mara but in recent movies (the goddamn atrocious Song to Song, for example), she has played non-descript roles that don't make her shine.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

fearti2Nov 21, 2017

A Ghost Story is a uniqe movie. Although the movie has a stationary flow generally, it succeeds to set something inside the viewer to action thanks to the successful cinematograpghy techniques and hitting storyline. But I have to say this, itA Ghost Story is a uniqe movie. Although the movie has a stationary flow generally, it succeeds to set something inside the viewer to action thanks to the successful cinematograpghy techniques and hitting storyline. But I have to say this, it is not a movie to get rid of boredom. In some everlasting scenes, you feel a powerful urge to throw something to the screen. Therefore, I am a little doubtful while recommending this movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

DarkwingSchmuckMar 23, 2022

A profoundly beautiful, atmospheric drama that analyzes its ambitiously lofty themes through a small-scale, intimate portrayal of a couple dealing with their loss and loneliness.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

LynMar 19, 2018

Can totally see how some people wouldn't care for this film, but I think getting lost in the melancholy depth of it -- then talking it out with someone who also was paying close attention -- would make all the difference. Used to have aCan totally see how some people wouldn't care for this film, but I think getting lost in the melancholy depth of it -- then talking it out with someone who also was paying close attention -- would make all the difference. Used to have a friend who was the best movie-going buddy ... game for almost anything, hours of discussion later. Wish this person were still around. My own takeaway: Not that you want to "haunt" anyone, but to linger in someone's memory ... yes.… Expand