A Ghost in Monte Carlo [DVD]

Based on a novel by Barbara Cartland, A Ghost in Monte Carlo is an undemanding period romp packed full of twists and turns. The perfect cinematic equivalent of Cartland's literary style, the film is a glossy, star-filled but ultimately shallow exercise. Lysette Anthony is the wide-eyed innocent Mistral, released from her convent upbringing into the care of her Aunt Emilie (Sarah Miles). On arriving in glamorous Monte Carlo, she immediately strikes up a relationship with a dashing young lord and sets out to experience her newfound freedom. Matters take an unexpected, darker turn as Mistral finds herself caught up in the plotting of her aunt and in increasing danger.

The performances range from Anthony's passable purity to a ludicrously over-the-top turn from Miles. The much-vaunted all-star casting amounts to a series of brief cameos from the likes of Oliver Reed, Joanna Lumley, Lewis Collins and Gareth Hunt--presumably at the request of executive producer Lord Lew Grade. It's fun for what it is but only as long as you leave any critical sensibilities on hold.

On the DVD:A Ghost in Monte Carlo is essentially a video release transferred directly to DVD. The sound is digitally remastered and there is a very poor interactive menu to guide you through the various chapters but no extras. --Phil Udell

Special Features: none
Aspect ratio: 4:3
Dolby Digital Stereo

A chance meeting between a British nobleman and the lovely young Mistral foils a plot by her manipulating Aunt Emilie to avenge the death of her sister. But when an unscrupulous blackmailer and a rapacious Rajah enter the fray, the growing attraction between Lord and convent girl becomes yet more fraught with danger.

The Principality of Monte Carlo in 1883 provides the colourful backdrops to a tale of murder, madness and intrigue that threatens the course of true love.