This remake of Haunted Mansion takes the haunts and scares of the film down a different track. The Eddie Murphy version from 2003 was geared more toward the danger and suspense of hidden ghosts. This new Haunted Mansion has a storyline consisting of moving parts. The mansion is of course haunted, and there is evidence to possibly explain the ghosts and spirits. Clues and obstacles can be found around many corners, giving Haunted Mansion almost an interactive film feel.

The film tells the story of Gabbie, a devoted mother portrayed by the talented Rosario Dawson. She moves into a haunted house with her son Travis, brilliantly played by Chase Dillon. Gabbie’s top priority is of course her son’s safety, which is why she seeks the assistance of experts who can help her manage the supernatural presence in their home.

Among the people Gabbie seeks out for help is the knowledgeable and resourceful tour guide Ben Matthias, played by the versatile LaKeith Stanfield. The pious priest named Ken, portrayed by the Owen Wilson, brings his unique skills to the team, using prayers and mindfulness to control the actions of the spirits. The awe-inspiring historian Bruce Davis, played by the incomparable Danny DeVito, offers his extensive knowledge of ghosts to the group. The informative glass ball named Madame Leota, played by the legendary Jamie Lee Curtis offers insights into evil spirits. The film’s primary antagonist is The Hat-Box Ghost, played by the talented Jared Leto. The movie captures a similar vibe to the classic Ghostbusters but with a fresh and distinct perspective on how to deal with malevolent spirits and vanquish them from the mansion.

The combination of Stanfield, Wilson, DeVito, Curtis, and Leto gives the film an element of joy and mystery. Their humor often serves as a relief for the terror experienced by the characters. And each character in Haunted Mansion has an important role to play in unraveling the mystery and finding a solution to make Gabbie’s home safe. There are reasons why the ghosts refuse to leave Gabbie’s home and why her son Travis is affected by them. Along the way, there are moments of terror and laughter, with jump scares and humorous surprises. There are times where the audience will feel they should be thinking seriously, and other times when it feels like being on an amusement park. It is a spooky and humorous adventure.

I viewed Haunted Mansion as being almost like a Tetris maze, an entertaining and imaginative Disney puzzle that will captivate its audience. The film may even have viewers questioning whether they missed any clues from the original Disney ride that inspired this film.

But although Haunted Mansion is a decent source of entertainment, it falls short of being exceptional. It will certainly cater to those with a fascination for ghosts, and it offers a two-hour exploration of Disney’s creative prowess in filmmaking. But it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Three out of four stars for Haunted Mansion.