THE GHOST GOES WEST is one of those genteel supernatural comedies that Hollywood and Britain were so fond of making back in the day. A lot of its charm comes from the presence of Robert Donat in the cast, playing a friendly ghost who finds himself transported to Florida when his ancestral Scottish castle is literally shipped, brick by brick, to America. Dated shenanigans ensue in this quiet character piece, with an emphasis on character comedy and amusingly offbeat hijinks. Donat is a delight and matched by the equally delightful Elsa Lanchester who has a moderately large role.

I first saw this film one afternoon some 50 or more years ago. I've seen it several times since, even have it on tape from the last time it was aired. Having a DVD is divine.The camera work is stunning. I love the way B&W was handled in 30's films. There's a warm feeling to it. Night scenes that are back lit, side lit or a small warm spot on eyes. In order to "hide" Murdoch's face, we often see it in shadow with a hint of side light. Beautiful lighting on a beautiful man. Even the miniatures are good given the era.I was especially taken that Murdoch first shows up in traditional trousers (which turn into regular kilts when he pushes through a hedge. Scotland has some hungry hedges)I'm a pushover for a man in dress kilts. . .Donat owns this film as Murdoch the Ghost and Donald his descendant. I've been in love with Murdoch for over 50 years and his magic has only intensified.As for the riddle: there is no answer and that's the whole point.

I first saw this film as a child on TV in Australia round 1973 - at which time it was already a very old film and I was only 7 years old.I guess the fact I'm now 38 and writing about it means it stuck in my mind rather strongly.I wanted for years and years to see it again and finally did in around 2000 - 27 years later. The childhood magic was still there.Donat is wonderful. The whole story - escapist, romantic, spooky, fun and historically rich in yes - we know a rather fantasised way.This is a feel-good film. Films similar to this are being made now - often called 'chick flick's and suchlike, but basically, what is wrong with a movie that makes you feel good? Not really deep, not really cerebral, but magical, funny, heartfelt, and a true escapist experience from our current modern lives,Absorbing, fun and lovely.Watch and Enjoy!

When a haunted Scottish castle is dismantled and removed to Florida THE GHOST GOES WEST, too.Made under the auspices of producer Sir Alexander Korda, acclaimed director René Clair & distinguished author Robert E. Sherwood, here is a fine little film--very popular in its day--for thoughtful intellects, about things which go bump in the night. Or, rather, one thing in particular: a kilted phantom doomed to stalk his ancestral castle until his family's honour is avenged--irregardless of the actual physical location of his old stones, or whatever romantic complications may ensue.Handsome Robert Donat brings just the right amount of sophisticated humor to the dual roles of the ghost and his 20th century descendant. The lovely Jean Parker is splendid as an American rich girl very happy to take the Highlands real estate if Mr. Donat comes along with it. Playing her father, Eugene Palette exhibits both bluster & bemusement as the merchant grocer determined on buying old Glourie Castle, ghost and all.Morton Selten & Hay Petrie have amusing short roles as clan lairds who are fierce antagonists. The marvelous Elsa Lanchester appears far too briefly at the film's conclusion as a paranormal enthusiast.Acknowledgment should go to Vincent Korda for his atmospheric sets. And just what is the difference betwixt a thistle in the heather & a kiss in the dark?