The camera often remains static, sometimes zeroing in for reactions, but always showing a complete action through a singular movement or lack of movement. Accompanied by a poetic score by the always reliable Alexandre Desplat the film suggests a constant looming menace, embodied by the rain of the New England island. Shot by Pawel Edelman, who has collaborated with Polanski in the past as well as with other heavyweight Polish filmmaker Andrzej Wajda, the images of 'The Ghost Writer' suggest a cool bleakness. What I mean by that is to say that it is through the Ghost's lack of interest that one can observe the world. This could be interpreted as Polanski's examination of apathy within larger society.
Even when under duress his physical movements speak much more about his mental state than his mannerisms. McGregor plays the party well, never completely convincing in one state or the other. Like Johnny Depp's "book detective" in 'The Ninth Gate' his reason for existence seems to be to serve those higher in society. He has no family, no real attachments so to speak, and no real drive. What instead fascinates is the depiction of Ewan McGregor as the nameless protagonist. The plot has been described countless times and will be spared here. The comparison starts this review as many others will inevitably find some comparison to be made with the director's work, especially since his personality looms so large. Roman Polanski's 'The Ghost Writer' bears the most in common with his recent 'The Ninth Gate'.
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