2008 (David Koepp) 14A, 101 min
Starring: Greg Kinnear, Ricky Gervais

For British comedian Ricky Gervais' first American starring role, he wisely reduced expectations by refusing large Hollywood vehicles and instead chose Ghost Town, an unconventional and modest romantic comedy. The premise is slender - misanthropic dentist is magically gifted with the ability to communicate with the ghosts of New Yorkers who feel that they have unfinished business in the mortal world - but is handled with a light touch that is perfect for a story that could easily become mawkish and awkward. The ghostly New Yorkers are virtually ignored after the set-up but when their stories are resolved in the last act, it feels deserved and surprisingly moving. But all of this is for nothing if you don't enjoy Gervais – his barely contained embarrassment and seething disappointment at the world's mediocrity is delivered in small compact gestures, tight smiles and reflexive eye-rolls. He's surrounded by a terrific supporting cast: SNL's Kirsten Wiig, The Daily Show's Assif Mandvi and New York's Upper East Side, glowing with autumn. Leone seems particularly comfortable letting Gervais lead, and gives a warm, relaxed performance that matches the tone of this quiet, satisfying charmer.