Ghost on Wheels!

Rating: 7/10 (12 May 2015)

Ghost Rider (2007): Dir: Mark Steven Johnson / Cast: Nicolas Cage, Eva Mendes, Peter Fonda, Sam Elliott, Wes Bentley: Blazing adaptation of the popular comic superhero. It seems to suggest struggling with the past. Nicolas Cage plays motorcycle stunt driver Johnny Blaze who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for his father's health. Years later he wishes for a second chance but by night he transforms into an inhuman being with a flamed skull. Third act is mainly action violence but the screenplay wisely centres on Blaze dealing with his powers. Director Mark Steven Johnson is backed with tremendous special effects. This is a vast improvement over the ridiculous Daredevil, which is also about a superhero aiding a power unrequested. Cage brings out regret and anguish as someone who will use his super powers for the good of others. Eva Mendes plays a reporter formerly his childhood friend. She will predictably accept his powered handicap but not without reflections of the past. Peter Fonda plays a Satan like figure who issues the contract to Blaze. The role is fairly standard but finds defeat by the powers he essentially issued. Sam Elliott is flat as a mysterious figure called Caretaker. Wes Bentley is another casting of a demented being of little interest. The comic book theme is highlighted within the film regarding second chances that we all chase after. Score: 7 / 10