The Canterville Ghost (1986)

As much as I looked forward to and really wanted to like Patrick Stewart's portrayal of Sir Simon de Canterville, it just fell flat when compared to this version of the ghost played by Sir John Gielgud. As another reviewer wrote "he is Delightful!" He knows how to embody an English aristocrat with the proper snobbery and yet he still brings a light sensitive humor to the role that is just perfect.Ted Wass, Andrea Marcovicci and Alyssa Milano are well cast as a family that is struggling to come to terms with all the changes that have been thrown at them and although Ted can be a little over the top at times in other movies in this one he maintains just the right balance of humor without stepping over the line and ruining the tone of the move.This is a "must see" for any fan of Sir John Gielgud!

This is a classic story in true Oscar Wilde wit and flair. It's both haunting and funny. It's a fairy tale for all ages. In this story a young American girl helps to free the tormented spirit that haunts an old English castle. It's very well written and a beautiful tale for all ages. It's too bad this wasn't the best adaptation.The best adaptation of The Canterville ghost, in my opinion, has to be the version with Patrick Stewart as the ghost, it was made for television in 1996. Though set in the 1990s it's very true to the book. The worst adaptation of the Canterville ghost, in my opinion, is the version set in 1944. It had been turned into blatant war propaganda and was almost unrecognizable, it's plot having nearly nothing at all to do with the original story by Oscar Wilde, which is a true classic.

I have always loved Sir John Gieldgud, and his portrayal of Sir Simon of Canterville, and I would have enjoyed being there. Alyssa Milano did great in facing the disappearing, emotions, and finally the caring of wanting free Sir Simon. An A++ for all enjoyment at all times, no stall scenes. Awaiting for the next scene is never boring. And blowing up of the table and food is really great. All The illusions showing the Professor bringing in the light of Lady Eleanor, and Sir Simon wanting to talk to her. And watching the movements of the eyes of Alyssa Milano and how she was so intrigued in seeing it all happen, and yet, she never wavered from her part. Joe [email protected]

True this one is not very close to the original story, but this one had the most that modern viewers could relate to. It's funny and quick moving. Both Sir Gielgud and Milano are wonderful. As a child this was one of my all time favorite movies to watch every Halloween (true, that was a long list, but it was still fun). The scenes between the two main characters are the greatest. There are still the basic principles of the story are there - a friendship between a misunderstood spirit and an innocent girl who teach each that love is stronger than life or death. The saddest part is when the ghost hunter's equipment brings back Sir Simon's wife for only a moment, just long enough for her to see her and for her to call out to him. The best part of all is when Jenny takes her father to see Sir Simon. A great movie for any family or ghost lover.