For those that are not familiar with the British comedian Ricky Gervais, simply turn on your TV to BBC’s original version of The Office or HBO’s Extras and you’ll catch his brand of dry, witty humor in action. This hidden gem has been making ‘em laugh for years, but unfortunately mainstream America hasn’t picked up on him yet. Perhaps his newest film, Ghost Town, will remedy the situation.
Set in modern day New York, Ghost Town tells the story of an agoraphobic dentist, Bertram Pincus (Gervais) with a bleak outlook on life. After a routine colonoscopy goes wrong, Pincus gains the ability to talk to ghosts, a power that doesn’t suit the very private dentist. After days of haunting him, Pincus finally gives in and agrees to help one of the ghosts (Greg Kinnear) in breaking up his wife’s marriage. At first this seems like a tough task, but soon becomes enjoyable as Pincus falls in love with the ghost’s wife (Tea Leoni).
This was the most entertaining romantic comedy that I’ve seen in ages. Gervais is hysterical as the quiet dentist, displaying a stoic energy not seen since the like of Peter Sellers. He has an ability to deliver a mundane line in the funniest manner, and seems to bring out the best in his supporting cast, which is a fine one in this film. Both Kinnear and Tea Leoni shine as role players and add a lot of texture to the movie.
Go see Ghost Town, you will not regret it!