Even if there’s something strange in the neighbourhood, the last thing that you’d really want is another Ghostbusters movie.
As with many franchises, it is expected that the quality of each subsequent film will degrade over time. But to the surprise of the audience, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is quite an intriguing watch.
“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is the fifth instalment in the franchise, and although the concept hasn’t really changed much, it was a perfect balance of comedy and action, with an extra touch of nostalgia. The movie follows the last film, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” (2021), three years after its mid-pandemic release.
The storyline follows the Spengler family, who decide to leave Summerville, Oklahoma and go back to where it all started at the iconic New York City firehouse. It is here where they help the original Ghostbusters, who have developed a top-secret research lab to take busting ghosts to the next level to prevent ancient powers from entering the 21st century. The Spenglers, portrayed by Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace, and Finn Wolfhard, have the uneasy task of protecting the firehouse from evil forces and the mayor’s office.
Throughout the film it becomes clear that Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) is essential to its moving storyline. As 15 year-old set in her ways, she struggles to find acceptance from those around her. Whilst the character may be classed as a ‘know-it-all’ or a ‘typical-teenager’, she fell into the underdog persona that the audience can’t get enough of.
Just as they did in 1984, the original Ghostbusters gang reformed 40 years later. With appearances from Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, Annie Potts, and Ernie Hudson, there is an element of ‘passing the baton’ as New York is once again flooded by supernatural activity.
Arguably, the most entertaining character to watch is Nadeem (Kumail Nanjiani), who is brilliant in the role. As the obvious comic relief in the film, and although many of his scenes may seem confusing at the time, Nadeem is an integral part of the story.
Ghostbusters is a cinematic institution, and has been rewatched by every generation since its initial release. Although I have questioned why the film was made and if it was necessary to the franchise, it certainly delivers on what it promised – quality entertainment. It is not the best film to have been ever made, nor is it totally unbearable, but it deserves credit as an enjoyable and, in many ways, riveting movie.
“Ghostbusters Frozen Empire” is in cinemas from March 21st.
Watch the trailer below:
