‘Ghost’ premiered 35 years ago today, here’s what the PEOPLE critic at the time had to say
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The romantic thriller ‘Ghost’ made its debut on July 13, 1990, captivating audiences with its tale of a young woman in peril, aided by the ghost of her murdered lover through a spiritual mediator. The film, which grossed $505.7 million at the box office and later inspired a Broadway musical, follows the story of the love-struck duo, Sam Wheat (played by Patrick Swayze) and Molly Jensen (Demi Moore). However, tragedy strikes when Wheat is killed by his treacherous business partner Carl Brunner (portrayed by Tony Goldwyn), leaving him stuck in the afterlife, unable to directly communicate with Jensen.
In a review from PEOPLE’s film critic from back in 1990, ‘Ghost’ was described as “dopily written,” standing out for taking the ghostly narrative very seriously, steering away from the conventional portrayal of friendly apparitions. The late banker, Sam Wheat, portrayed by Swayze, embarks on a quest to protect his girlfriend, Moore’s character, from harm with the guidance of a seasoned ghost (played by Vincent Schiavelli), with the review drawing parallels to scenes reminiscent of Yoda mentoring Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars franchise.
Despite the mixed review from PEOPLE, ‘Ghost’ proved to be a commercial success, raking in an impressive $505.7 million globally, outshining other hits of the year such as ‘Home Alone,’ which grossed $476.6 million. The film also garnered critical acclaim, earning five Oscar nominations and securing three wins at the 1991 Academy Awards, notably including Whoopi Goldberg’s triumph in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category.
Speaking about his experience working on the film, Patrick Swayze shared that ‘Ghost’ held a deep personal resonance for him, particularly in confronting unresolved emotions tied to his father’s passing. The actor revealed that certain scenes triggered haunting memories from his past, underscoring the profound impact the project had on him both professionally and emotionally. Swayze emphasized the film’s poignant theme of cherishing precious moments with loved ones, highlighting the importance of open communication and connection.
In contrast to the critical response, Demi Moore reflected on the initial doubts surrounding the film’s unique blend of genres, acknowledging the skepticism towards its unconventional storyline. Recalling the turbulent reception post-release, Moore admitted to grappling with conflicting reviews, prompting her decision to shun critics’ opinions moving forward and focus on the creative process instead. Despite the initial reservations, ‘Ghost’ continues to resonate with viewers decades later, as it remains available for streaming on platforms like Kanopy, Hoopla, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV.
In retrospect, ‘Ghost’ remains a classic in the realm of romantic dramas, immortalizing Patrick Swayze’s poignant performance and capturing the timeless essence of love, loss, and redemption on screen. The film’s enduring legacy serves as a testament to its enduring appeal and emotional depth, solidifying its status as a beloved cinematic gem cherished by audiences worldwide.