It’s clear something serious is happening when someone loses their jawbone. Peter Jackson's The Frighteners combines outright comedy with supernatural thrills, and those who can accept that will find much to appreciate. The story centers on Michael J. Fox as a psychic who genuinely sees the dead—so many, in fact, that he’s made friends with three ghosts and earns money by staging hauntings and then charging people to get rid of them. However, the situation takes a dark turn when he comes across a spirit resembling a grim reaper that's killing people and marking their foreheads; it appears there's a serial-killing spirit at large. Frank Bannister (Fox) is dealing with the loss of his wife and has become a con artist—an interesting role for Fox, who embraces it fully. Initially, the film focuses on the comedy, particularly Bannister’s interactions with the three ghosts, which are quite funny. The special effects might seem dated now, but there's still an energy to both the visuals and the dialogue. Around a third of the way in, the movie shifts into a serial killer investigation, and the story becomes darker. There is still humor present, but Jackson and his team explore the unsettling idea of a celebrity serial killer (played with great enthusiasm by Jake Busey). Trini Alvarado appears as Bannister's eventual sidekick and romantic interest, and they are thrown into a frantic final section where they fight for their lives against Busey’s psychotic spirit, Johnny Bartlett. Bartlett is assisted by Patricia Bradley (horror legend Dee Wallace Stone), who has mental health issues, while Jeffrey Combs delivers an over-the-top performance as a damaged FBI agent determined to destroy Bannister and everything he represents. Ultimately, it's like a live-action horror comedy cartoon—not surprising given Jackson’s earlier films. It is also understandable why The Frighteners has gained a cult following. The unusual plot, edgy humor, and unique narrative elements make for a captivating viewing experience. 7.5/10

Source on TMDB