Reviews

I am so relieved to finally watch a movie that tells the story along the lines as it was originally told rather than rewriting it and watering it down or sugar coating it to make it more acceptable for those who can't take dark situations from a child's story. This movie, with its sets, not-so-mind-blowingly-overdone effects, and layout makes it a very charming retelling of the classic tale, though I have sadly seen the horribly done dubbed version and wish to see the subtitled one instead. People would be turned off seeing grown men playing as boys, especially by Roberto Benigni playing the titular character... however, once you watch it, you can see how well they play the part, giving the whole movie a rather different kind of charm where grownups play boys. I find it sad that this charming movie is bashed and even nominated a Razzie just because they only minded the dubbing or the fact it's nothing like the Disney movie. Give this movie a chance and watch it in a different way if you are truly an aficionado for the classic tale; you will then really love this film.

I remember seeing this movie as a kid, and I loved it even then. I was a fan to the Casper cartoons, and to me, this was a great movie. As a kid, it was just entertaining. Looking at it again as I am older, I now love this movie more than just because it's about my favorite friendly ghost. This movie does a good job clenching the issue of death and either letting it go and hang onto it as a ghost with unfinished business. The atmosphere, although often times comical (which is how it is with the cartoons too XD), has a really deep and emotional air to it, as we look at Dr. Harvey and Kat's loss at the wife/mother's death, as well as Casper's mourning for his life and loneliness as a ghost. The music itself is very beautiful, and the set gives a perfect background for both spooky and sentimental moments. If you're one who is looking for a good emotional ghost story, this is a great example, even though it was based on a cartoon. If you're looking for something comical, well, the three ghosts Stretch, Fatso, and Stinky are there to provide laughs, as they really do seem to be having a ball being floating ethereal beings capable of shifting themselves into horrific (and hilarious) shapes.

I don't remember much from the Casper cartoons, but it's not like you can totally base an entire movie on just those. The plots for the cartoons vary, and this movie could be counted as some sort of canon, I suppose. Either way, it does a good job capturing the lonely, friendly ghost that is Casper on the big screen (and TV set).

Go ahead and rent the movie; I'm looking forward to searching for a DVD for it so I can watch it again and again. I love it. I totally recommend this for everyone, kids and grownups alike.