A Different Kind of Ghost Story

Rating: 8/10 (1 July 2012)

A tale of mystery, not horror. This is one of the best performances that Nichole Kidman has ever done. A ghost story of the highest caliber; but if you watch it too carefully, there are so many "clues" that you will guess the ending long before the final reel. For another version (a similar story) watch "The Innocents" (1961). The story seems familiar because it is a partial retelling of "The Turn of the Screw." I won't reveal the ending except to tell you that this is a ghost story told from the ghosts' point-of-view, which really reveals too much. (The young boy Victor, one of the "intruders", can see the ghosts.) A handsome production with excellent cinematography and sets. Well directed and very atmospheric but too intense for very young children. The movie mystery starts out with a few huge hints: The mannerisms and dress of the servants. The children are very "photo-sensitive" to sunlight. Not as much fun on additional viewings, once the viewer knows the secret of "the Others".