Tanya’s Score: Good-and-a-half*
Rated: 14A
Starring: Gamma; Mrs. Jost; Mr. Pink
Plot: Two bored teens (Thora Birch; Scarlett Johansson) strike up unusual friendships as they struggle to figure out their own personal lives.
Tanya’s Verdict: If you are good with a mainly subtle and internalized plot, then this may be the ideal movie for you. If, on the other hand, you prefer lots of stuff to happen – then steer clear. Also – Ghost World isn’t a conventional movie. Viewers can’t predict what will happen or how characters will end up – this can be frustrating. Personally, I don’t mind if a movie is frustrating – so long as it’s frustrating for the right reasons.
Upon first watching this movie 20 years ago, I felt a strong connection to both the protagonist and her side kick. They were uncertain about what the future held for them, struggled to find their way with work, family, friendship and love and came across as mean and indifferent due to a variety of insecurities. And now, re-watching it – nothing has changed for me. I still relate to them both; I still sympathize with them both.
And I still think Ghost World is an extraordinary and engaging movie.
*Four score descriptions: Sh**; Okay; Good; Great