Interview: The Cast And Director Of ‘Ghostlight’ And Review Of The Movie

Review by James Lindorf

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There are no more universal emotions than love and grief, so it is no surprise that they inspire the bulk of artistic expression. It can be hard to stand out in a sea of content, but it can be exceptional when it happens. The most recent entry to bring something unique to the world is “Ghostlight,” from directors Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson. The film, set in a Chicago suburb, follows the Mueller family as they grapple with losing a family member. What sets this film apart is its nuanced portrayal of grief and family dynamics, offering a fresh perspective that is both relatable and thought-provoking. O’Sullivan wrote the screenplay and captured an authentic spectrum of grief that always feels heartbreakingly honest.

The film follows the Mueller family, teenage Daisy (Katherine Mallen Kupferer), mom Sharon (Tara Mallen), and dad Dan (Keith Kupferer) as they struggle to come to terms with their loss. Daisy’s latest outburst has her on the cusp of expulsion, a consequence of her unresolved grief. Meanwhile, Dan and Sharon are drifting apart as the weight of a pending lawsuit connected to the tragedy adds pressure to a system already screaming out for help. Usually a mild-mannered salt-of-the-earth construction worker and family man, Dan has devolved into the definition of toxic masculinity and doesn’t believe in therapy or talking through his feelings with his family. After his own violent outburst, Dan finally finds an outlet with the help of Rita (Dolly de Leon), who draws him into a community theater production of Romeo and Juliet. This unexpected journey becomes a turning point in his healing process and a catalyst for bringing his family back together.

Perhaps what makes “Ghostlight” a remarkable film beyond the talent of the cast and crew is the power of family. O’Sullivan and Thompson are long-term partners, and their cast is a real-life family. Keith and Tara have been acting for years in film, television, and on stage, mostly in their hometown of Chicago. Katherine is much newer to the acting world but has already found success in films like “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.” I was lucky enough to sit down with the two families to discuss their work on the film and the power of losing yourself in a performance. “Ghostlight” is currently playing in several markets, and you can check their website to see when it opens near you.

Directors: Kelly O’Sullivan, Alex Thompson
Producers: Alex Thompson, Pierce Cravens, Chelsea Krant, Ian Keiser, Edwin Linker, Alex Wilson
Screenwriter: Kelly O’Sullivan
Distributor: IFC Films
Production Co: Runaway Train
Rating: R (Language)
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): June 14th, 2024, Limited but expanding
Runtime: 1h 55m