The Canterville Ghost
The Canterville Ghost

Movie spotlight

The Canterville Ghost

1944
Movie
95 min
English

The descendent of a ghost imprisoned for cowardice hopes to free the spirit by displaying courage when under duress.

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Director: Jules DassinGenres: Comedy, Fantasy, Horror

Plot Summary

During World War II, a group of American paratroopers are billeted in an English castle inhabited by the ghost of Sir Simon de Canterville, who is cursed to haunt the castle until a descendant performs a brave deed. The ghost attempts to frighten the soldiers, but his efforts are hampered by the spirited interference of a young girl, whose ancestor is Sir Simon.

Critical Reception

The Canterville Ghost is a charming and often humorous fantasy film that blends period atmosphere with the supernatural. While perhaps not as widely remembered as some other comedies of its era, it generally received positive reviews for its witty script, strong performances, and imaginative premise.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its witty dialogue and clever premise.

  • Margaret O'Brien's performance as the young girl is a standout.

  • The blend of comedy and supernatural elements is generally well-executed.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this film on Google is not readily available.

Fun Fact

This film marked the directorial debut of Jules Dassin, who would go on to become a highly acclaimed filmmaker, particularly in film noir.

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TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

An engaging story about a 17th Century cowardly spirit (Charles Laughton) who is condemned to haunt his family's castle until he does something worthy and brave that will release him from his curse. When a group of American soldiers are bil...

John Chard

John Chard

Safe and inoffensive fun. Sir Simon of Canterville gets roped into fighting a duel for his cousin, realising he faces certain death he flees the field awash with cowardice. His father is so enraged as to this stain on the family honour h...

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