We Have a Ghost (2023) Movie Review

Christopher Landon is known for creating unconventional horror films that stand out from the usual cynicism of the genre. Unlike the pretentiousness of "elevated horror," Landon infuses his filmmaking with contagious joy, as seen in movies such as "Happy Death Day," "Happy Death Day 2U," and "Freaky." Despite differing opinions on the execution and overall quality, it's undeniable that Landon has a great time making his films. His latest release, "We Have a Ghost," shines brightest when Landon is allowed to let loose and be goofy, resulting in a viewing experience that's sure to make you smile.

Based on Geoff Manaugh's short story "Ernest," "We Have a Ghost" follows the Presley family as they move into a run-down house in Chicago. Father Frank (played by Anthony Mackie) is struggling to make ends meet and maintain a relationship with his distant son Kevin (portrayed by Jahi Di’Allo Winston, who impressed in "Charm City Kings" and "Everything Sucks!"). Soon after their arrival, Kevin discovers a trapped soul named Ernest (played by David Harbour, who delivers a silent yet effective performance) in the attic. Ernest has been scaring away inhabitants since the 1970s, but Kevin isn't afraid. He records Ernest with his phone, and the footage goes viral.

The concept of an actual ghost becoming an internet sensation on platforms like TikTok and YouTube is a rich one, but Landon fails to fully explore it. Instead, the film shifts its focus to a paranormal scientist named Dr. Leslie Monroe (played by Tig Notaro) and her CIA boss Arnold Schipley (played by Steve Coulter), turning into a chase/road movie as Ernest, Kevin, and their neighbour Joy (played by Isabella Russo, who steals scenes with her performance) attempt to escape armed guards and uncover the truth behind Ernest's inability to move on to the afterlife.

While Harbour and Winston deliver solid performances and keep the film afloat, "We Have a Ghost" lacks urgency and feels bloated with multiple endings and repetitive themes. Landon's writing doesn't match the quality of his directing, resulting in a decent distraction that falls short of being a standout Netflix original. Despite its flaws, the film never fades into the background completely, but it also fails to captivate audiences in the same way as Landon's previous works such as "Freaky" and "Happy Death Day." Overall, "We Have a Ghost" is worth a watch for those seeking a fun distraction, but it doesn't quite hit the mark as a must-see film.

Overall, Christopher Landon's latest film "We Have a Ghost" has some intriguing concepts and solid performances, but it falls short of the director's previous works such as "Happy Death Day" and "Freaky". Landon's talent for infusing joy into his horror films is present in "We Have a Ghost", but unfortunately, the movie's writing doesn't quite match the quality of its direction.

The movie tells the story of the Presley family, who moves into a new home in Chicago, only to discover that their attic is haunted by the spirit of a man named Ernest. Kevin, the son of the family, becomes intrigued by the ghost and begins filming him with his phone. However, things quickly spiral out of control when Ernest's existence becomes viral on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

While the idea of a viral ghost is rich with potential, Landon doesn't fully capitalize on it. Instead, the movie shifts its focus to a paranormal scientist and a CIA boss, turning into a chase/road movie in the middle of the film. While the performances by the cast are effective, the film lacks urgency and repeats themes and ideas in the final act, ending more than once

Despite its shortcomings, "We Have a Ghost" manages to avoid fading into the background of Netflix's original content, offering a decent diversion for those seeking a horror-comedy. While it's not on par with Landon's previous works, the film is still worth checking out for its intriguing concept.