Director: Gareth
Tunley
Notable Cast: Tom
Meeten, Alice Lowe, Geoff McGivern, Niamh Cusack, Rufus Jones, Dan Skinner,
Paul Kaye
When Arrow Video announced their release for The Ghoul, it was a little difficult to
know what to expect. The collector focused company rarely releases newer films
and when they do they usually pick unique if not provocative films to release
under this arm of the company, so there is still something to be said about
that. Partner that with an executive producer credit for Ben Wheatley and there
is certainly some momentum the film has going for it. Yet, the lack of word of
mouth in cult cinema circles seemed a bit concerning. The
Ghoul, while certainly featuring some very strong elements that are popular
in horror/thrillers, is a mixed effort. For all of its dramatic heft and
intriguing ideas present in the film, it’s one that wavers with its slow burn
narrative and struggles to make the connection with its vague portions. It’s a
film that will definitely have its fans, but in a year where atmospheric horror
thrillers are all the rage (and very impressive in quality) The Ghoul will not make the impact outside of its cult fan base.