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Jim Evers played by Eddie Murphy is a real estate agent who is on a role. He and his agent wife played by Marsha Thomason are very successful as realtors, but Eddie is a “cannot say no to hot lead” kinda guy. His workaholic behavior is getting him into trouble with his family, since the job is beginning to take more of his time while the family gets less. There always seems to be one more deal to close. Finally, they plan a family outing but alas duty calls and the adults are side tracked to a spooky mansion which may be another possible lead. ///

Once they get to the mansion, everything breaks down. Eddie and his “movie” offspring run from ghosts and zombies, think Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” They uncover a very old murder, which caused a curse to be put on the original owner and the hired help. And ultimately, Eddie and the two kids, have to prevent their mom and Eddie’s wife Sara played by Marsha Thomason from marrying the master of the house, played by Nathaniel Parker. While the art direction and production design are first rate, the actual story feels like it’s contrived to fit the theme park ride parameters. The ending reminded me of “Ghost” with a non-religious ascension into heaven by the spirits. As an adult, the movie did not do much for me, however, a younger audience my find redeeming value, i.e. entertainment, in watching it. ///

Actually the strength of this movie lies within its extras. Its loaded with them. Some of the BLOOPERS are actually funny. The DELETED SCENE is fully realized and was cut late in the process. Raven sings a techno styled Stevie Wonder tune “Superstition” in the MUSIC VIDEO. The HAUNTED MANSION VIRTUAL TOUR was more style than substance.

The “Making the Mansion” BEHIND THE SCENES FEATURETTE. was very interesting and showed the amount of effort made in creating the creepy atmosphere and look of the movie. Rick Baker’s creature effects are first rate. ANATOMY OF A SCENE: GHOSTS IN THE GRAVEYARD is an interesting look into the successful marriage of the live action and the computer graphics used in the movie. Very creative people were involved in making the picture.///

The DVD package also includes “hours of “DVD-ROM content” such as a Morphing Ghost Host Maker, The History of the Haunted Mansion Attraction, Photo Galleries, Screensavers, Wallpapers, Printable Activities, plus much more including DVD registration, Disney web links, and Online support.///