The Ghost Writer

Evoking memories of Alfred Hitchcock, this compelling thriller from Roman Polanski, based on Robert Harris' 2007 novel The Ghost, revolves around a nameless professional ghostwriter (Ewan McGregor) hired to help Adam Lang (Pierce Brosnan), a former British prime minister (think: Tony Blair), finish his memoirs. Secluded in an isolated house on an island off the northeastern U.S. coast, Lang's previous scribe/aide died under mysterious circumstances. Amidst accusations of Lang's involvement in war crimes and a possible trial by the International Criminal Court, the new replacement arrives only to become inexorably drawn into a tangled web of political and sexual intrigue involving Lang's edgy wife, Ruth (Olivia Williams), and his devoted aide, Amelia Bly (Kim Cattrall). Collaborating on the screenplay with Harris, Polanski deftly builds an aura of ominous suspense from the opening scene of this decidedly cynical tale (albeit leavened with moments of bleak humor), which focuses on the helplessness of the anonymous Everyman in the face of political corruption. The superb ensemble cast includes Tom Wilkinson, Timothy Hutton, James Belushi, and Eli Wallach. Sleek and sophisticated, this gripping film is highly recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include a “Fiction or Reality” behind-the-scenes featurette (11 min.), an interview with director Roman Polanski (9 min.), a cast featurette (12 min.), and trailers. The Blu-ray release includes a DVD copy of the film. Bottom line: a decent extras package for a winning film.] (S. Granger)