This film slots into a relatively small intersection of genres, the action-rom-com. The action elements were serviceable, but nothing spectacular. The romance was slightly more interesting, as it forms the backbone of the entire premise. However, while I like the idea, the execution was lacking. Specifically, the opening meet-cute/date sequence that sets up the titular ghosting was too slow and the chemistry wasn’t clicking for me. Once the ghosting occurs, things do improve, particularly with respect to Chris Evans and his interactions with his family. Still, the rest of the romance is sprinkled throughout the action set pieces and doesn’t ever feel completely natural. Finally, the comedy is very much hit or miss. The primary source is Marvel-esque quippiness that is getting more tired with every passing year, but there’s plenty that lands well enough to generate chuckles. Some of the funniest moments are surprise cameo sequences that feel a bit like cheap fan service, but they still got a big smile out of me.

It seems like Ana de Armas has become one of the go to female action stars of late, getting big roles in _No Time to Die_, _The Gray Man_, and now this film. Unfortunately, I don’t think any of these roles have really given her a chance to stand out in the same way that she has in things like _Knives Out_ and _Blade Runner 2049_. While I think the writing for her characters in these action films is partly to blame, I also think that the action focus can sometimes pull away from the performance regardless of the writing. It’s a symptom of screen time really. The more over the top the action, the more time we spend with a stunt double or CGI replacement, rather than with the actual actress. It’s trading time that might otherwise provide character development for another gun fight or car chase. All of this is to say, I wasn’t super impressed with Ana de Armas in this film, which was unfortunate.

Chris Evans’ character had a bit more to work with in terms of arc and he definitely benefited from it. I think this is mostly a symptom of him being the fish out of water and proxy for the audience. I also think his comedic chops are a bit more honed.


In the end, I suspect this film will do well with audiences, but I don’t expect it to be anyone’s favorite.

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://insessionfilm.com/movie-review-ghosted/

"Ghosted is a tremendous catastrophe. When the only memorable moments of the entire film are the myriad cameos totally disconnected from the story itself, little else can be said about it. Visual effects, action, and script are a seriously shocking mess, to the point of affecting the performances and chemistry of a renowned cast. One of the worst editing works in recent years. One of the most prominent, frustrating wastes of talent in front of and behind the camera. Very far from the “so bad it’s good” status."

Rating: D-

**Ghosted’s comedic moments bring some good laughs, and its action entertains, but its indecisive tone gets distracting. Still, a decent entertaining spy comedy that won’t blow your mind but isn’t a bad way to pass the time.**

Ghosted wrestles with its tone as it decides whether it’s a goofy rom-com or a more serious spy thriller. While very much in the vein of Knight and Day or The Killers, Ghosted doesn’t stay committed to comedy throughout. The jokes come and go, with Chris Evans taking most of the comedy side and Ana de Armas taking most of the action. The tone might be conflicted, but the fun never stops. Solid action sequences, car chases, exotic locations, and elegant gowns and suits - Ghosted has all the essential elements of a classic spy film. The jokes land better than The Gray Man’s quips, and the action is better than Red Notice’s set pieces giving Ghosted a slight edge over its streaming adventure competition. It’s a flawed movie for certain, with an out-of-place soundtrack and identity crisis, but what it does well makes it interesting enough for a watch and possibly even a sequel. …maybe

Ghosted has been the target of internet criticism since the first scenes were published on social media, and while the film is not good, it is not nearly as bad as some make it out to be.

The direction and visuals were all fairly good. The visuals looked fine for the majority of the film with no complaints whatsoever, including Ana de Armas’ wig. The direction was good, with some decent action choreography that was filmed pretty well, although there were a few scenes that suffered from too many jump cuts. I thought the intimate scene towards the beginning of the film was very stylistic and done really well. It was not just your standard grunts and moans that you see in so many films today.

The story was very oddly paced. The beginning section was really rushed, and the romantic build-up did not feel genuine in the slightest. Due to a poor script, their chemistry was non-existent in some sections, as the dialogue was atrocious. While there are some laughs to be had for sure, the majority of the comedy did not work for me. There was heavy use of modern songs throughout the entirety of the film. While some sections were complimented by the tracks, many others felt really out of place.

The performances were decent, but I think were hindered by the poor script. Ana de Armas was fine, although I never really liked her in anything since "Knives Out" as her performances always seem a little dull. Chris Evans played a character he's played many times before, which was entertaining, but he could not alone save the terrible dialogue he was given.

Overall, Ghosted is not a good film in the slightest, but I cannot deny that I had a pretty good time watching it, and that deserves some credit.

Score: 43% ❌
Verdict: Poor

The film fails to live up to its very alluring cast.

Given the trailer, you might be intrigued to find the answer to the question "is there more than what I just saw?". Let me answer that for you: no. This is another braindead action movie that fulfills most of the tropes it has to. What's on the package is what's in the package.

The only reason this didn't up a closed tab within 20 minutes was the cast and my inability to lift my lazy butt from the couch, which is what this film is good for: a lazy, braindead evening on the couch.