"The Ghost Writer": a sharp and engrossing political tale

[t0dd]

Just went to see "The Ghost Writer", directed by Roman Polanski. However you feel about the man, his talent as a director is undeniable. It is an excellent film.



Here is a quick synopsis:

Ewan McGregor (known only as "The Ghost") is the protagonist, hired to ghostwrite memoirs of former British prime minister Adam Lang, played by Pierce Brosnan. He replaces the previous ghostwriter who died suddenly under mysterious circumstances. A scandal erupts immediately after the ghost accepts the position, as Lang is accused of illegally seizing suspected terrorists and delivering them to the CIA to be tortured via waterboarding. Lang is dubbed an international war criminal.

As McGregor pieces together the clues connecting Lang's political origins to the former ghost's death, a huge conspiracy unravels. A multinational corporation is prominently figured into the story, coincidentally called Hatherton (can you say Halliburton?).

The bulk of the movie takes place on a desolate beachfront home of Martha's Vineyard. The landscape is often dark and dreary, with a somber atmosphere encapsulating the entire film; moreover, for me, a sense of sadness lingered long after the closing credits.

This is an intense, timely political thriller, with well-developed characters, witty dialogue, and a sophisticated plot. I highly recommend everyone check it out!

[HysteryDiagnosis]

1. W likes tigers... didn't know. n/t