Truly Madly Deeply (1991)

The critic finds it a witty and incisive romantic drama superior to Ghost, praising the performances of Alan Rickman and Juliet Stevenson, the emotional integrity, and Minghella's blend of pathos and humor.

The film is an odd, maddening but occasionally deeply moving story of a grieving woman whose dead lover returns. Ebert highlights the quirky premise of ghosts watching videos and praises the performances, especially Juliet Stevenson's, while noting its grown-up take on supernatural romance.

The critic describes it as a divisive mood piece rather than a blockbuster, praising Juliet Stevenson's emotionally affecting portrayal of bereavement but noting the film shifts into humor when Alan Rickman's ghost and his band appear, undermining Minghella's intent about rose-tinted memories.

Describes it as the BBC's sweet answer to Ghost focusing on Juliet Stevenson's emotions; notes the bereavement metaphor is over-extended but Stevenson nearly pulls it off, criticizes Minghella's cloying tendency but enjoys Alan Rickman's performance.

Minghella’s first film is a lovely, original comedy with mature artistry and a fresh, humane vision of urban life. The critic singles out the skillful direction, dialogue, and standout performances by Stevenson and Rickman.

The review finds the film should be enchanting but falls short due to overly gooey and smug material, with good actors working hard on weak content. It compares it unfavorably to a more positive reimagining of Ghost.

This sharply scripted study of a bereaved woman wishing her partner back is an impressive directorial debut by Minghella, with a different feel from Ghost. It praises the ensemble playing, especially Stevenson's tour de force performance.