The Ghost

Pierce Brosnan in The Ghost with Kim Cattrall, left, and Olivia Williams.

Based on the political novel by Robert Harris, Roman Polanski’s The Ghost is a clever picture of lies, conspiracy and double-dealings wrapped up in an intriguing thriller.

The film, which displays the talents of Britain’s finer actors in Ewan McGregor and Pierce Brosnan, makes for imaginative thinking as parallels are drawn with events that unfolded during the tenure of Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Starting with the death of ghost writer to former Prime Minister Adam Lang (Brosnan), the narrative rapidly becomes more complex as it transpires that the politician is being investigated about the brutal witness strategies that he allowed whilst in office.

The replacement ghost writer, played by McGregor, takes on the task of formulating Adam Lang’s memoirs but becomes entangled in a web of deceit and secrecy.

Upon taking up the job, the writer is flown to the US to work with Lang and his team, most notably Amelia Bly (Kim Catterall, better know for her role in Sex and the City), who plays Lang’s assistant.

The first twenty minutes set up the film very well and keep the viewer on edge. All the main characters are introduced within this time and each sub plot is well juggled.

Polanski gives an eerie feel to the American island on which Adam Lang takes up residence and where the McGregor character comes across a multitude of bizarre events.

Initially only keen on doing the job and leaving, he finds himself investigating the death of the former writer as previous events begin to repeat themselves. Paranoia eventually sets in, leaving him fearing for the worst.

Brosnan and McGregor strike up a solid chemistry and demonstrate their skills with aplomb. This film is very clever in its use of clues and misdirection; it does not let the viewer off easily as it keeps you guessing and trying to put the clues together.

A supporting but key member of the film Ruth Lang (Olivia Williams), the wife of the ex prime minister, is torn between trying to help her husband through the allegations against him and also assist in writing his memoirs.

The hint of sexual infidelity is a running theme throughout – perhaps a deliberate subplot either to distract or to aid in the discovery of secrets.

Amelia Bly, who is sometimes seen as a distraction by Ruth, gives the female leads some on-screen friction.

Whilst Olivia Williams plays her role with gusto and technical excellence, Catterall at times looks out of her depth in such esteemed company.

Never were the words misdirection ever more apparent than in this film; McGregor is cleverly un-named throughout. He portrays a very cool and straight talking character whilst conveying the right sense of fear and bravery when needed.

This is a brilliant British film; it is directed with style and the casting is spot on. The Ghost may not be all action and thrills but is certainly one to watch.