Film Review: Girl Haunts Boy (2024) - USA
Rating: 7/10
Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)
In the spectral embrace of "Girl Haunts Boy," director Emily Ting (“Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong” and “Go Back to China”) conjures a tale that straddles the realms of time with a delicate touch. This heartwarming ghostly romance, set amidst the allure of a Great Gatsby soirée, beckons viewers into a world where love and friendship transcends the boundaries of mortality.
At its core, the tender bond between Cole (Michael Cimino) and Bea (Peyton List) unfolds with a poignant grace, weaving a narrative that dances between the past and present. List's spirited portrayal of Bea and Cimino's authentic depiction of Cole infuse the film with a magnetic charm that lingers beyond the screen.
Scripted by Dustin Ellis and Cesar Vitale, "Girl Haunts Boy" (based on the novel of same name) masterfully blends the supernatural with the emotional, inviting contemplation on love, fate, and the passage of time. Ting's direction guides the story's ethereal dance, drawing audiences into a realm where the extraordinary meets the ordinary in a tapestry of poignant beauty.
As the narrative crescendos towards its resolution, the choice facing Cole—whether to sever the ancient curse or embrace the ephemeral nature of their connection—immerses viewers in a journey of self-discovery and heartfelt reflection. Through laughter and tears, "Girl Haunts Boy" imparts a message of the enduring magic of love and friendship that spans across the ages.
In its entirety, "Girl Haunts Boy" shines as a small Netflix / HBO style feature that sparkles with the luminance of a timeless love story. Ting's lovely direction and together with the cinematography by Rob Givens weave a tale that resonates with the enduring power of human connection, even amidst spectral mysteries and the sands of time. (Neo, 2024)
Reviewed on Netflix USA
