by David C. Terr

#41 <<    #42    >> #43

Title: Ghost

Director: Jerry Zucker

Starring: Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg, Tony Goldwyn

Release Date: July 13, 1990

Running Time: 128 min

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Thriller

Commentary
Ghost is a fascinating film in many ways. It is hard to characterize, having many elements, i.e. romance, fantasy, suspense, and humor. On all these counts, I'd say it's a great movie. The love story between Sam (Patrick Swayze) and Molly (Demi Moore) is very moving, both before and after Sam is killed and becomes a ghost. The special effects are also very well done. Whoopi Goldberg is hilarious as Oda Mae Brown, a psychic Sam communicates with. The movie plot, largely centered on Sam's revenge against his killers, keeps the viewer alert. All-in-all, Ghost is a terrific film!

Plot Summary
Sam Wheat and Holly Jenseen are two young lovers. One night, while walking back from the theater, Sam is robbed and killed. Shortly thereafter, he learns that he has become a ghost. While investigating the crime, he learns that his friend Carl Bruner (Tony Goldwyn) planned the robbery in order to obtain Sam's password so that he could conclude a money-laundering deal he was involved in. He knows that Molly is in danger from Carl, so he uses the help of Oda Mae Brown, a psychic who can hear him, to communicate with Molly. He also uses his powers to avenge Carl as well as his killer.

Cultural Significance
Ghost is most well-known for the love story it portrays. It contains an unforgettable scene in which Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore make love while working at their potter's wheel, to the tune of "Unchained Melody" by the Righteous Brothers. In part as a result of this, "Unchained Melody" became a huge hit again. Now it is one of the most recognized oldies of all time.

Movie Clips

Here's the most well-known scene of the film.