The Canterville Ghost

Oscar Wilde’s humorous short story has been slightly sanitised for this animated adaptation, but its essence is preserved.

An American inventor moves his family into their newly purchased castle in England, which, they soon discover, is haunted by 300 year old ghost, Sir Simon de Canterville. Teen daughter, Virginia resents the move to England and encourages the ghost to scare her family away, however, Sir Simon’s efforts are met with indifference and counter attacks by two mischievous young twin boys.

Meanwhile, Virginia has a chance encounter with the young Duke of Cheshire and a romance soon blooms. At the same time, Sir Simon’s dark past comes to light, with the revelation that he may have murdered his wife. The rest of the plot revolves around Virginia’s attempts to discover the truth and hopefully free Sir Simon from the shackles of ghosthood. 

The Canterville Ghost is beautifully animated with vibrant colours and detail. The historical and aristocratic setting allows for illustrations of gorgeous architecture, garden landscapes and vintage objects.

The characters are voiced by British actors including Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Miranda Hart, among others.

Though the “Americanism” can sometimes feel intrusive, this is overall a charming family film. 

★★★

In cinemas January 11