“50 Years of Ghost Movies” by Staci Layne Wilson
Copyright 2007, Running Free Press

“50 Years of Ghost Movies” is a guide to ghost films from 1935-85. It begins with a note from the author, Staci Layne Wilson, explaining her love of ghost tales and how she defines a ghost. Some may disagree on films included or excluded in the guide as Wilson has chosen her own definition of ghost as a spirit that was once a human or an animal. So the vampires in SALEM’S LOT are in, demonic possession in THE EXORCIST is not.

There is also a brief summary of how ghost tales have differed over the decades. The 1920-30s had more romantic themes, 30s, 40s, and 60s were more comedic, and the 50s were more somber. And of course, the 70s & 80s had the ghosts evolving into slashers and were much gorier than their predecessors. My favorite!

The guide includes ghost film staples like THE POLTERGEIST, THE SHINING, DON’T LOOK NOW, and LET’S SCARE JESSICA TO DEATH. But it also includes some foreign films like the classic RASHOMON & KWAIDON, and even pervy delights from Jess Franco and Jean Rollin! Classic old school ghost movies include reviews on TOPPER, THE GHOST AND MS. MUIR, and Hitchcock’s REBECCA.

Rounding out the movie guide are quotes from ghost films, celebrities recounting their favorite ghost movies, haunted Hollywood attractions, and an interview with Ernie Hudson (GHOSTBUSTERS). But my favorite celebrity quote has to be from David Lynch who, when asked what his favorite ghost movie was, replied, [long pensive, Lynchian pause….thinking….thinking…] I don’t know.

My only gripe is that there were only a few reviews, which means I was only treated to a few lines describing the synopsis of most of the movies. The book is rather slim and comes in at only 140 pages. If all the films had reviews to accompany them and alphabetical index in the back for reference, this could be the perfect reference guide for lovers of ghost films. Posters, screenshots, or DVD artwork would have been a nice addition too.

Favorite Quote: “There is no life, my darling, until you love and have been loved. And then there is no death.” – Jennie in PORTRAIT OF JENNIE.

Bottom Line: “50 Years of Ghost Movies” was a fun read and had me jotting down a few films it got me interested in. The book only covers the years 1935-85, but leaves us waiting for “Modern Ghost Movies,” which is coming out soon.

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