Ghost Rider: A Movie Review

Hell is about to be unleashed. Or so goes the tagline of the newer movie "Ghost Rider."

In my opinion, it wasn't far off.

"Ghost Rider" (based on the Marvel comic) follows the motorcycle stunt driver, Johnny Blaze, in a fast-paced adventure of hellish bad guys and destruction. The main character - played by Nicolas Cage - is a stunt driver turned vigilante that has sold his soul to become the Ghost Rider. His mission is to defeat Blackheart (played by Wes Bentley) who is the son of the devil himself. Along with his evil do-no-gooders, Blackhart intends to unleash hell onto Earth. In a blaze of fire, Johnny becomes the Ghost Rider every night to fight against the band of evil. When the plot brings in a chance meeting with his childhood sweetheart and committing unintentional crimes, you can bet that Johnny Blaze has bitten off a little more than he can chew.

Generally, I liked the movie. It is by no means an outstanding movie, but nor is it a bad movie either. Nicolas Cage did really well as his character for my expectations, as did the other actors and actresses. The characters are not as developed as I would have liked, but they were believable.

The plot was slow at times, but when things actually did start to heat up, it kept my attention. There are some parts where you have to pay close attention to make sure that you get all of the small details about the Ghost Rider. But overall, the fight scenes look good, the special effects look good, and the plot is good.

And as to be expected with Nicolas Cage, there was some humor in the movie to make it worthwhile. It was the kind of humor that is quick and witty - mostly puns. My favorite line had to be when Blackheart and Johnny's girlfriend meet for the first time.

"Jesus Christ!"

"Not even close."

There are other small puns within the dialogue, such as referring to Johnny as "bonehead."