“We Have a Ghost” - A Movie Review

“We Have a Ghost” is a new comedy-horror movie that tells the story of Kevin (Jahi Di'Allo Winston), a young boy in his teens who discovers a friendly ghost named Ernest (David Harbour) living in the attic of his new home. While Kevin is excited about his new ghostly friend, his elder brother Fulton (Niles Fitch) and his father Frank (Anthony Mackie) start making YouTube videos featuring Ernest’s sightings in the house, and the family becomes an internet sensation.

As the family becomes famous on the internet, the film explores the different reactions and craziness that follows. From calls for rights for ghosts to desperate weirdos professing their love for Ernest and from cringy memes to mindless ghost challenges, the internet explodes with its trademark oddities. The chaos attracts the interest of a secretive government agency, which adds another layer of intrigue and tension to the story.

Meanwhile, Kevin and his next-door neighbor Joy (Isabella Russo) are the only ones who are committed to helping Ernest find the peace and closure that he deserves.

At first, the premise of “We Have a Ghost” is interesting, and there is some fun to be had. The CGI used to show Ernest’s ghostly avatar is high-tech and very novel in the way it is executed, which makes it visually entertaining to watch. However, as the film progresses, the weak writing and lack of a strong script begin to show, and the plot derails, never to get back on track.

The subplots keep popping up like ghosts from the past, but none of them make a real impact on the story or characters. For example, Jennifer Coolidge’s character of Judy Romano, a popular ghost TV show host, appears in the film, but her role doesn’t contribute much to the plot or character development.

There is also a shady former government agent named Dr. Leslie (Tig Notaro), who wants to nab Ernest for reasons that are just as shadowy. However, the plot gets so silly and daft after a point that it’s hard to care about who is doing what and why. Director Christopher Landon seems more interested in giving us a chaotic narrative that goes on and on without having a real purpose.

The script also goes into a sentimental overdrive, trying hard to make us feel bad for the ghost, but the lack of conviction is more palpable than his paranormal presence in the house. The film tries to make a statement about the importance of closure and acceptance, but it falls short in delivering a satisfying message.

The acting in “We Have a Ghost” is decent, but the script doesn’t provide the actors with enough depth or scope to perform. David Harbour, who plays the friendly ghost Ernest, looks tired and worn out, and his performance falls flat. If the brief for the actors was to make the audience laugh and cry throughout this two-hour-plus film, then all of them fail miserably.

“We Have a Ghost” has an interesting premise and a talented cast, but the weak writing and lack of a strong script ultimately make it a disappointing film. The CGI used to show Ernest’s ghostly avatar is visually impressive, and the movie has its funny moments, but it’s not enough to save the film from being forgettable.

In conclusion, “We Have a Ghost” is a somewhat entertaining but largely soulless experience. It’s not the worst movie you’ll see, but it’s not one that will stick with you either. The film had the potential to be a fun and engaging horror-comedy, but unfortunately, it falls short in delivering on its promises. If you’re looking for a mindless, easy-to-watch movie, then “We Have a Ghost” might be worth a watch.