13 GHOSTS had the potential to be an ultra-frightfest, but failed at it. After all, what would be more frightening than being trapped in a scary old mansion with 13 ghosts? But the execution is lackluster, with only the performances of Tony Shaloub and F. Murray Abraham coming out as the highlights. Matthew Lillard also surprises, leaving his usual goofball image behind and playing things straight. Shannon Elizabeth is awful as usual, but thankfully doesn't have to do much "acting," and ultimately disappears for a good majority of the film until turning up again at the end. That was nice on the filmmakers' part. The ghosts aren't very memorable, but the make-up jobs are excellent, the set design/atmosphere great.
Otherwise, it's a rather disappointing film. The concept had potential, and perhaps in the hands of another writer and/or director, something great could have come out of it. I give it 3/10.
Otherwise, it's a rather disappointing film. The concept had potential, and perhaps in the hands of another writer and/or director, something great could have come out of it. I give it 3/10.