Ghostbusters (2016) Review

After months of buildup and gathering a mixture of hate and love, Ghostbusters (2016) has finally arrived in theaters. Is it a great return to a beloved comedy series, or is it just a way for Sony to wring a few pennies out of moviegoers? In this reviewer’s opinion, Ghostbusters (2016) is a great, funny reboot for a new generation.

The story follows Erin Gilbert, Abby Yate, Jillian Holtzmann, and Patty Tolan as they form the Ghostbusters. There is an increase in paranormal activity in the city, and they must figure out who is behind it and why. There is also a side plot about Erin and Abby building their friendship back after they had went their separate ways in their field of science. The film is able to be more than just a reboot by introducing a new plot. The story and character’s personalities differentiate the characters from their 1984 counterpart and not just be a direct copy of the originals.

All the actors in the film play their roles well with Kristen Wiig excelling as Erin Gilbert, and especially Kate McKinnon playing the quirky Jillian Holtzmann. Chris Hemsworth shines as Kevin, the Ghostbusters secretary, in a great male version of the dumb blond cliché.  The characters effectively bounce jokes off of each other, and sometimes even reference classic movies such as Jaws and Ghost. There are also jokes referencing the original film with an appearance of the ghost Slimer, and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. The original Ghostbusters actors even have cameo appearances, with Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Annie Potts, and Ernie Hudson all appearing. There is even a bust of deceased actor, Harold Ramis, which appears in a scene.

Even though it didn’t have a great first trailer, Ghostbusters is worth your time. It is able to create its own identity with its story and cast, yet still be a Ghostbusters film. If you want a clean comedy with some action, you can’t go wrong with Ghostbusters (2016).

Rating: 9/10