Name: Ivy + Bean: The Ghost That Had to Go
Genre: Family, Comedy
Released: 2022-09-02T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Keslee Blalock, Madison Skye Validum, Lidya Jewett, Nia Vardalos, Garfield Wilson

The cold, white mist swirls around the school bathroom pipes, an eerie voice echoing from the drain. It’s a scene that should chill, but in Elissa Down’s Ivy + Bean: The Ghost That Had to Go, it’s more whimsical than frightening. Based on Annie Barrows’ bestselling book series, this 2022 family comedy finds young detectives Ivy (Keslee Blalock) and Bean (Madison Skye Validum) tackling their most supernatural case yet.

Down, known for her work on The Worst Witch and The Evermoor Chronicles, brings a light touch to the material, emphasizing the friendship between the titular characters over the ghostly plot. The film is aimed squarely at young audiences, particularly those who have grown up with the book series. However, it also attempts to appeal to adult viewers with subtle humor and nostalgic references to childhood adventures.

The chemistry between Blalock and Validum is the film’s strongest asset. Their performances capture the essence of Ivy and Bean’s dynamic: Ivy, the quiet observer with a penchant for ghost stories, and Bean, the boisterous instigator who thrives on chaos. Blalock brings a sense of calm and curiosity to Ivy, while Validum infuses Bean with boundless energy and mischief. Their interactions are genuine and heartwarming, making their friendship the emotional core of the film.

The supporting cast adds depth to the story. Nia Vardalos, as Mrs. Trantz, the exasperated but caring teacher, delivers a performance that balances humor and warmth. Garfield Wilson as David, Marci T. House as Charlotte, Jaycie Dotin as Katrine, Innocent Ekakitie as Leo, and Lidya Jewett as Nancy each bring their own charm to the ensemble, creating a rich tapestry of supporting characters.

The film’s exploration of Ivy and Bean’s contrasting personalities is one of its most compelling themes. Their differences fuel their adventures, a theme consistent with Barrows’ source material. Down captures this dynamic effectively, particularly in scenes where Ivy’s cautious nature clashes with Bean’s impulsive enthusiasm. For instance, when the girls decide to investigate the haunted bathroom, Ivy suggests a careful, methodical approach, while Bean is eager to dive headfirst into the mystery.

The ghost plot, however, feels underdeveloped. The supernatural element, which should be the heart of the adventure, becomes more of a nuisance than a genuine threat. The attempted banishment scene, a highlight in the book according to reviews, falls flat on screen due to underwhelming visual effects and pacing issues. The ghost, voiced by Lidya Jewett, lacks the menace needed to make the story engaging. Instead of being a chilling presence, the ghost becomes more of a comedic sidekick, which undermines the film’s attempt to blend horror and comedy.

Down’s direction is competent but uninspired. While she excels at capturing the essence of childhood friendship, she struggles to elevate the material beyond its source. The film’s comedic beats are hit-or-miss, and the pacing drags in the second act. Some jokes aimed at adult audiences miss their mark, feeling forced amidst the otherwise natural dialogue.

The film’s visual style is straightforward, with a reliance on practical effects over CGI. This choice gives the film a grounded feel but also limits its ability to create truly magical or eerie moments. The cinematography is functional, with a focus on capturing the characters’ interactions rather than creating visually stunning compositions.

Comparatively, Ivy + Bean: The Ghost That Had to Go falls short of other family films that successfully blend humor and supernatural elements. Films like Coco (2017) and ParaNorman (2012) manage to create engaging stories with well-developed ghosts and a balance of comedy and scares. In contrast, Ivy + Bean feels more like a lighthearted adventure than a genuine ghost story.

The film’s target audience is clearly young viewers, particularly those who are familiar with the book series. For these viewers, the film offers a fun and nostalgic experience, with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. However, for older audiences or those unfamiliar with the source material, the film may feel underwhelming.

In conclusion, Ivy + Bean: The Ghost That Had to Go is a harmless diversion for young audiences but lacks the originality or craft to stand out in the crowded family film landscape.