“”Ghost World”” is not another teen movie. It is the antithesis of all the cliched, predictable teen dramas because it presents not only a disdain for ordinary pop culture, but also displays wit, charm and comedy. The film provides a perfect blend of both teen angst and contempt for modern culture without being overly redundant.
Based on Daniel Clowes’ comic “”Ghost World”” is a story of two teen-agers, Enid (Thora Birch) and Rebecca (Scarlett Johansson), who have just graduated from high school. In the eyes of everyone else in their community, Enid and Rebecca are outcasts. They rebel against the norm and what they perceive as a shallow and empty world. This coming-of-age film provides sharp, cynical insight into the shallowness of our culture.
Steve Buscemi complements the dynamic characters in his role as Seymour, a lonely man who has an obsession for old 78-rpm records. He shines because his character conveys an innocent and quiet quality with which the audience can sympathize.
Enid and Rebecca set up a prank on Seymour, but the joke is no longer funny when Enid befriends her potential victim.
It’s a shame that the DVD version of “”Ghost World”” is no match for the actual film. Although the sound and video quality are fine, the extras are clearly lacking in both depth and quality.
A film that is intelligent and offbeat demands extras like audio commentary and additional insights into the making of the film. A commentary with Clowes about the creation of “”Ghost World”” and his comics would have put this DVD over the top.
However, the only extras provided are deleted scenes, a music video and a featurette.
The deleted scenes or the DVD are fine, but don’t add much to the experience. This also applies to the music video; although fans of Hollywood would approach it, it doesn’t make the film any better.
Although the extras in “”Ghost World”” are minimal, the star of all DVDs is ultimately the quality of the actual film. “”Ghost World”” is a superb, enriching movie that stands out from the crowd. Just the film itself makes it worth purchasing the DVD.
Ghost World
***
Starring Thora Birch, Scarlett Johansson and Steve Buscemi
now in stores
rated R
