Cast
View All
Wong Jing
as Ling Siu-Cheung
Pat Ha Man-Jik
as Mrs. Ling
Rosamund Kwan
as Pinkey
Eliza Yue Chi-Wai
as Molly
Natalis Chan Pak-Cheung
as Au
Charlie Cho Cha-Lee
as Brands
Max Mok
as Hui Zen
Chan Fung-Bing
as Elizabeth Lee
Eddy Ko Hung
as Johnny Fan
Amy Yip Chi-Mei
as Nancy
Yip Hon-Leung
as Master Yip
Mama Hung
as Pinkey's Mother
Dan Mintz
as Buddhist Master
Hui Ying-Sau
as Grandfather Lin Wen-Chi
Kuo Hua Chang
as Mosquito
Crew
Director
- Lau Shut-Yue
Producer
- Wong Tin-Lam
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Comedy/Horror/Romance film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Ghost Fever presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Lau Shut-Yue brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Ghost Fever took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 30 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ghost Fever shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Aladdin, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Ghost Fever subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Moulin Rouge! and Dangerous Liaisons explore similar territory, Ghost Fever stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 20, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 32m
- Revenue: $753,947
