Christina Ricci has been a household name since her breakout role as Wednesday Addams in the early '90s, but another of her iconic characters is currently enjoying a major streaming resurgence. The 1995 supernatural comedy Casper has climbed the ranks on Disney+ this October, becoming a go-to pick for viewers embracing the spooky season.
As of this week, Casper sits at #6 on Disney+'s movie chart in the U.S., nestled between Toy Story 5 and the original Moana. The film has been a consistent presence on the platform's top titles since October began, proving that this friendly ghost still has plenty of pull with audiences of all ages.
The movie, which marked the feature debut of the titular character, was initially met with mixed reviews but went on to earn a solid $290 million at the global box office. Over the years, it has become a seasonal favorite, thanks to its groundbreaking visual effects and a charming cast led by Ricci as Kat Harvey, a teenage girl who befriends Casper when she and her father, played by Bill Pullman, move into the haunted Whipstaff Manor. The ensemble also includes Cathy Moriarty, Eric Idle, Brad Garrett, Joe Nipote, Devon Sawa, and Joe Alaskey.
Ricci's career has come full circle in recent years, as she reunited with Tim Burton for Netflix's Wednesday, reprising her connection to the Addams Family universe. She's also set to return as Misty in the fourth and final season of Yellowjackets on Paramount+ this November. But for now, it's Casper that's capturing the Halloween spirit.
The film's streaming success comes at a fitting time, as Disney is actively developing a new live-action/CGI hybrid reimagining of Casper the Friendly Ghost. Announced in April, the project is being helmed by Rob Letterman and Hilary Winston, both known for their work on Goosebumps. Steven Spielberg, whose Amblin Entertainment produced the 1995 original, is attached as an executive producer. The new version is said to take a darker approach, which could align with the original's surprisingly somber portrayal of Casper as a deceased child.
For fans of Ricci and '90s nostalgia, Casper is now streaming on Disney+. And if you're in the mood for more classic scares, check out our list of timeless thrillers that still grip you. For those curious about other streaming sensations, Saw's streaming resurrection is another horror favorite making waves. And if you're a fan of Ricci's work, you might also enjoy Charlie Cox's Kin for a different kind of drama.
As Halloween approaches, Casper is proving that some ghosts never fade away. Whether you're revisiting it for the nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, it's a delightful blend of heart and humor that continues to resonate. With a new adaptation on the horizon, the friendly ghost's legacy is far from over.
