GHOST WORLD

2001

Almost without exception, movies about teen-agers follow one general rule: make it dumb, make it dirty, and make it fast! "Ghost World" breaks this rule in every way. Although it's the story of a teen-age girl, it's intelligent and well-thought-out, creative in an analytical way, and a disturbing true original. Writer, director, and actors all obviously sat down and spoke at length about how to make this unique document of the life of a disturbed loner. The story begins with two young girls at their high-school graduation. It's obvious that they're misfits. But instead of descending into the usual raunchy comedy, the plot follows the adventures of one of the girls...an obnoxious and pathetic loser. Thora Birch, the young actress from "American Beauty" is perfect as this girl, who in everything she does is crying out for love and attention. At the same time that you want to shake her by the shoulders and smack her face, she's breaking your heart. Her look and her story will stay with you long after you leave the theater.

4 Stars

NJB