A Ghost Story — A slow, brooding presence

Spoiler-free review.

A man becomes a ghost, stuck in his old home by grief and regret. The film shows his spectral existence with little dialogue and a focus on stillness and repetition. This creates a feeling of isolation but doesn't fully explore the emotional weight of his situation.

The film moves slowly, which might work for some but feels too passive for much of its runtime. Long stretches of silence and still images test patience without giving much narrative direction. Still, the tone is consistently somber and introspective, focusing more on mood than plot.

Casey Affleck conveys quiet despair through minimal movement and expression, anchoring the abstract concept with grounded performance. Rooney Mara’s presence is felt more in absence than in action, mirroring the ghost’s own emotional withdrawal. Their interactions are sparse but carry weight, emphasizing the emotional distance between them.

The film's slow pace becomes a problem when it doesn't justify its length. There's undeniable beauty in its quiet tone, even if it sometimes feels self-indulgent. The themes of memory and loss are strong, but the execution doesn't always match the ambition.

2017 · English. Film details

— Desly