Movies

“Darkly hilarious” new movie about a haunted vacuum cleaner lands near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating

BBG News

Following its premiere at Cannes, the whimsical comedy A Useful Ghost has garnered an impressive rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

The movie by director Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, winner of the Grand Prix or top award from Critics’ Week at the festival, tells the story of the main character, helpful spirit Nat (played by Davika Hoorne), who has recently died as a result of dust pollution.

In a unique twist, the spirit of Nat returns to torment her husband March (Witsarut Himmarat), appearing as a vacuum cleaner instead of a traditional ghostly form. As he begins to exhibit similar symptoms as she once did, she grows concerned and decides to purge the factory where he works of any lingering spirits that are no longer useful.

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The film currently has a rating of 94% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes out of 16 reviews.

This rating may change as additional feedback is received, however, it’s clear that the film “A Useful Ghost” left a mark on viewers who attended its screening at Cannes.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the movie’s unusual concept was skillfully carried out, making it surprisingly effective despite long odds. IndieWire, on the other hand, highlighted that Boonbunchachoke’s “darkly humorous” film should be appreciated for reasons beyond its shock factor.

More critics’ insights on A Useful Ghost below.

The Hollywood Reporter

Instead of the extraordinary supernatural occurrences that form its narrative, the Thai film A Useful Ghost (Phi Chidi Kha) seems unlikely to succeed, given its disjointed changes in mood and wild blend of genres. However, surprisingly, it manages to pull it off.

Variety

The vacuum cleaner functions exceptionally well, giving off an unusual elegance, even though its purpose might seem comical at first glance.

TheWrap

Much of what ‘A Useful Ghost’ accomplishes seems implausible, yet this very fact adds to the thrill as we watch it unfold.

IndieWire

Achieving something beyond ordinary requires moving past initial shock and embracing the characters wholeheartedly. Boonbunchachoke skillfully manages to balance this delicate act.

Moving beyond the surprising doesn’t come naturally; it demands we delve deeper into the characters. Boonbunchachoke excels at walking this fine line.

A UK release date for A Useful Ghost hasn’t been confirmed just yet.

Grab ‘British Comedy Legends’ from newsstands or online stores for a low price of only £3.99.

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2025-05-29 19:19

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