The Ghost and the Whale

Loved the message of the movie. Mental health is not addressed enough in this country. Using an actor who suffers from bi polar in real life was ingenious. I really felt the pain of the character. Tippi Hedren is from one of my favorite movies so I love seeing her. This is definitely worth renting and keep an open mind when watching it.

Maurice Benard does a tremendous performance of a bipolar man grieving the loss of his wife in an accident at sea where he can't remember what happened, while navigating the resentment, hate, and doubt of the small town in which he lives, Bodega Bay (of The Birds fame), surrounding his guilt or innocence.

The film gets a lot right; the small town feel of suspicion and factions, the portrayal of untreated bipolar 1 disorder, the different ways in which people deal with grief, or choose not to.

The sub plot of the writer coming to town to investigate Annabel's disappearance seemed superfluous and distracting.

Although his arrival at Bodega Bay, being attacked by a crow with Tippi Hedren sitting on the porch watching was a nice nod to a classic.

TGATW is a fantastic movie. Maurice Benard truly is one amazing actor. He will take you on a ride thru his ups and downs. Give this movie a chance. I don't think you will be disappointed. Watching the character of Joseph Hawthorne come to terms with what happened to his wife is very much gut wrenching and edge of you sit entertainment. Thank you Maurice for you genuine portrayal and for this amazing movie!

The Gaudioso Twins have captured this movie's story line and presented it in such a way as to keep your interest until the very end. This dynamic team of brothers will become tomorrow's Ron Howard. They have a vision and the talent to succeed writing, directing and starring in their chosen profession. Given the chance theirs will be a name to remember.

From beginning to end the movie keeps the viewer interested. The character development is excellent and the story is a troubling view of life through the mind of a bipolar man grieving and searching for answers. Maurice Benard gives an excellent performance convincingly portraying a man torn apart with grief and self destructive guilt in a town with no pity. I would strongly recommend this movie . It was well written, directed and acted.