Pay the ghost (2015)

Reviewed by Jason S. Lockard

I think we all can agree that when Nicolas Cage has the right role he is good! But over the last decade or so Nicholas Cage has been taking B-movie style role that seem to not give him the opportunity to show off his acting chops. 

Pay the ghost is another one of those kind of films, but is it good? Is it a good film for Halloween viewing? Let’s find out!

In this film Cage plays a university professor named Mike who specializes in teaching horror literature such as The legend of Sleepy Hallow. So intent on success he is neglecting his wife Kristen (Sarah Wayne Callies, Laurie Grimms of The Walking Dead) and their son Charlie. With it being Halloween Kristen takes Charlie trick or treating which Mike misses. Than Mike shows up late with great news he has received tenure; to which he promises, “Everything’s going to be better now.” Oh No!

Mike convinces Kristen to allow him to take Charlie to the Halloween carnival. While buying Charlie an ice cream Charlie disappears. Mike and Kristen distraught at Charlie’s disappearance, separate. One year later Mike begins seeing Charlie and an ominous  phrase around the town “pay the ghost.” Mike must unravel the mystery to try to rescue his son.

This film is a bit predictable, the cinematography was nice. The acting is believable. And while for me Nicolas Cage’s performance leaves something to be desired the film isn’t a total bust. If you go into this film looking for a mystery crime drama instead of a full on horror film, you won’t be too disappointed.

So for Nicholas Cage fans or mystery lovers this is one for you. Head over to your local DVD provider or go to www.Amazon.com for more info on this release.



Moral Rating: Violence and some adult language
Audience: teens and adults
Genre: thriller / mystery / sci-fi / horror
Length: 94 minutes
Released: 2015
Our Rating: B
*Please note films rating above are my own personal opinion!