Germs-live-inside-me

There have been an undeniable amount of ghost pictures in our history. But only a teaspoon of them can make you sit back and question yourself on what might actually happens when we die.

Presented in a very original and artistic screen with some stunning visuals and shots, we follow the story of Emily (Anna Ishida) in what is a long opening act as she goes about her day. Now, this will put most people off but, bare with it, as everything that happens during the entirety of the film is apparent and necessary. 99% of the picture is carried by Anna Ishida. A very small cast is used here and that makes for an excellent ghost film.

One of the key points about 'I am A Ghost',that ANY film enthusiast will feel comforted by is this, 'I am A Ghost' doesn't treat you like a moron. Many films similar to, or just plain complicated will retract back to earlier scenes to tell you, 'Hey, dumb ass, remember this bit? Yeah, this bit means that bit. Okey carry on watching I'll be back to remind you again in 3 minutes'. Everything compiles into a well structured plot that even if you feel lost part way, will eventually be clicking your fingers saying, "Oh Blimey! That's what that was".

Now why didn't I give this a whopping 10/10? In truth, the opening act is long and repetitive, even if it is key, it still feels like a fist- in-cheek 'chop chop hurry up' moment. Next, is some of the effects used are poor and feel a little bit silly for a picture that is so good, but aside that, the plot keeps it strong.

Now, notice how I am not saying an entire amount about this picture? Well the plot that floats about and even on this site explains more than enough. And I quote~ (*If you refuse to read the plot on this site, skip to the next paragraph, if you don't give two-damns, please, continue reading as I detest spoilers more than anything on this floating rock we call Earth!*)~~ 'Emily is a troubled spirit. With the help of Sylvia, a clairvoyant hired to rid the house of spirits, Emily is forced into a 'patient/therapist' relationship, uncovering disturbing mysteries about her past that may help her move on to 'the next place'.~~ End Quote So to say more than that is more than enough and even that itself is far too much information!

Conclusion. This is a smart, gorgeous, underrated must see! This shall be placed high on the shelf along side The Others, Sixth Sense and Martyrs. A single actor throughout most (if not all) the film. Wonderfully directed by H.P Mendoza, showing off his style by not filming what is not needed, then giving us visual chocolate. An incredibly eerie and haunting soundtrack that fits into place like a Soul-mate (Oh I am scandalous!) And most of all, an ambiguous ending.

With it's advertisement being shown to unsuspecting victims on a Chat Roulette site and photographers sent to an old building to be subjected to a horror gimmick with unexpected results was a wonderful viral build up of scares and natural fear, that upon viewing, didn't deliver in comparison to it's build up.

The story begins without beating around the bush, when the protagonist, James Findlay (Euan Douglas) inherits a mysterious will and testament left by his late mother. From the very start to the end of the film, it is filled with a wonderful score of music and some unique sounds to emphasis James' emotions and the brooding atmosphere, then throwing you gleefully into beautiful scenes of lust. This leads to feelings of dread and romance sure to keep you fixed and entranced.

This film is fuelled by mystery, rather than horror. With very artistic shots through dream sequences and 'lynchesque' visuals the mystery becomes thicker as the film progresses and progressing it does very well. But the film falls flat in the third act, where a very long, drawn out scene that from an instant of sheer horror becomes quickly ridiculous and embarrassing to watch. Thus, making a mockery of the films actor Alexandra Hulmes' talent as an actor and dancer.

Sure this film is sure to please a fan of mystery pictures, but the unnecessary jump scares shown far too frequently, fail to even startle from the first, bringing it down a few pegs as it becomes irrelevant and most of all, startling with disbelief that anyone could think it would be a good idea.

'Lord of Tears' is well worth the watch by all means for lovers of mystery solving, to see some wonderful visuals and the score, but don't expect any scares.