You are here:

Ghost Chase

Name: Ghost Chase
Director: Roland Emmerich
Released: 1987
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

3.0/10

Limited

1987

Director

Roland Emmerich

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Ghost Chase is a product of its era, functioning as a conventional horror-comedy that adheres to the social and narrative structures of the late 1980s. The film relies on established genre clichés rather than intentional storytelling that reflects multiple aspects of identity. The narrative structure reinforces traditional gender hierarchies and family dynamics. Male characters have significant roles, while female roles are often defined by their relationships with the men. Representation is limited, with a predominantly white cast and a reliance on physical differences as plot devices. The film lacks engagement with diverse identities or the subversion of cultural norms.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Ghost Chase have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The story focuses on a traditional heterosexual relationship between Warren and Laurie, following typical 1980s romantic conventions without delving into LGBTQ+ identities or questioning the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does Ghost Chase portray gender?

Limited

Male characters play the main roles, particularly Fred and Warren. Although Laurie is a key figure, her role is largely defined by her interactions with the male characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Ghost Chase?

Limited

The film has a predominantly white cast, with a setting and family history that suggest a homogeneous society. There are no diverse characters driving the plot.

How does Ghost Chase represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story operates within a standard Western framework focusing on family legacy and inheritance. Supernatural elements are used to explore a family scandal without challenging Western institutions.

Does Ghost Chase include disability representation?

Limited

Louis, the butler, is portrayed as physically deformed. This depiction uses his physical difference as a supernatural plot device rather than providing a nuanced look at his lived experience.

Present on Screen

Effectively uses established horror-comedy genre clichés for its time.
Features a central supernatural element that drives the family mystery.

Limited or Absent

Needs more diverse casting and characters who reflect more than one aspect of diversity.
Relies on traditional gender hierarchies and male-driven roles.
Uses physical deformity as a plot device rather than nuanced characterization.

Official Synopsis

In an old Hollywood mansion, the spirit of an old family retainer inhabits an old grandfather clock. When a movie company uses the mansion for a film, the spirit inhabits the body of an alien and persuades the two filmmakers to track down an old house that will resolve a family scandal.

How are these scores produced? →