Review: Ghost Writer (DVD)

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Our DVD reviews continue with Ghost Writer. Roman Polanski’s latest film is unlike anything he has done before, so don’t expect Tessa or The Pianist and more political thriller-by-numbers, but with Polanski driving it is still a superbly constructed film.

Ghost Writer is a political thriller set in 2010 and revolves around a former British Prime Minister, Adam Lang (played by Brosnan), who sets out to have his memoirs written by a ghost writer. In the opening scenes of the film we’re introduced to the original ghost writer’s demise, seemingly an alcohol influenced suicide.

Following this, we’re introduced to McGregor’s character (who only goes by the name ‘Ghost’), a ghost-writer working for a major publishing house in London. Ghost is selected by Lang’s legal team to take up the finalizing of the almost-finished manuscripts. From here, as Ghost discovers more and more about his subject, and during the middle of an investigation into Lang for war crimes (a light subject) the twists and turns start to permeate as the film rolls towards its conclusions.

As the film edges towards its conclusion, more is revealed about Lang and his wife (ably played by Olivia Williams), Ghost begins to unravel more and more about the relationships that once ruled one of the most powerful men in the world.  We’re transported to a dramatic conclusion that reveals itself as the layers peel off, concluding with a final, and potentially overly-dramatic final scene.

The film is beautifully shot, using lighting and tones to great effect. McGregor and Williams steal the show, showing up Brosnan’s rather one-dimension character (which we learn is for a reason as the film progresses). The film plays with suspense and mixes moments of dark humor quite well, and as the plot  reveals itself becomes more and more plausible.

Not Polanski’s best work, but a stand-out film nonetheless and definitely worth a DVD viewing.

WATCH IT FOR

The chemistry between Olivia Williams and McGregor - a highlight of the film. Also, the great imagery and cinematography.

MISS IT FOR

When you get a bit numb due to the length of the film - there could've been a bit more left on the cutting room floor.

Watch the trailer

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