The Canterville Ghost

The Canterville Ghost is a British animated film that combines elements of fantasy and comedy. Released on 22 September 2023, this delightful movie is directed by Kim Burdon and Robert Chandler. It draws inspiration from the classic short story by Oscar Wilde and features an impressive voice cast, including Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Freddie Highmore, and Emily Carey.

The film follows the story of Sir Simon de Canterville, a ghost who has haunted his family estate for over 300 years. When the Otis family from America moves into the once-feared manor, they are far from intimidated by Sir Simon. The family includes Hiram, the inventor father, his wife Lucretia, and their children: the twin boys Kent and Louis, and their headstrong daughter, Virginia.

On his first night haunting the Otises, Sir Simon is stunned when they show no fear. Virginia, while exploring the estate, encounters a mysterious gardener and discovers a locket that holds a connection to Sir Simon's tragic past. This locket reveals portraits of Sir Simon and his wife, Lady Elenore, who is said to have drowned under suspicious circumstances, leaving Sir Simon cursed to wander the estate until a hidden prophecy is fulfilled.

As the story unfolds, Virginia develops a friendship with Sir Simon, who is desperate to clear his name and escape his curse. Meanwhile, the Otis family must navigate the challenges of living with a ghost, as Sir Simon's antics threaten their social standing and plans for an important banquet. Virginia's determination to help Sir Simon leads her to uncover secrets that could change their destinies forever.

In a climactic showdown, Sir Simon faces the Grim Reaper in a battle for freedom, with Virginia's life hanging in the balance. Together with her love interest, Henry, they confront the Reaper and work to break the curse that binds Sir Simon to the estate. The film concludes with a heartwarming resolution as Virginia and Henry find their way back to the human world, while Sir Simon and Lady Elenore are finally reunited in the afterlife.

The film features a talented voice cast, including:

• Stephen Fry as Sir Simon de Canterville
• Emily Carey as Virginia Otis
• Freddie Highmore as Henry, Duke of Cheshire
• Hugh Laurie as The Grim Reaper
• David Harewood as Hiram Otis
• Meera Syal as Lucretia Otis
• Imelda Staunton as Mrs. Umney
• Toby Jones as The Reverend Chasuble
• Miranda Hart as Algernean Van Finchley, the Ghost Catcher

With its charming characters, engaging story, and beautiful animation, The Canterville Ghost is a delightful film for audiences of all ages, blending humor and heartfelt moments in a unique adaptation of Wilde's beloved tale.