Review – Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire(2024)
PG-13 ‧ Comedy/Fantasy ‧ 1 Hour 55 Minutes
Written by Gil Kenan, Jason Reitman
Directed by Gil Kenan

THE CAST

Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Celeste O’Connor, and Logan Kim (from Afterlife), as well as Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Annie Potts, and William Atherton reprising their characters from the earlier films, And then we got new actors to the franchise, namely Kumail Nanjiani and Patton Oswalt.

THE STORY

(In their own words). The Spengler family returns to the iconic New York City firehouse where the original Ghostbusters have taken ghost-busting to the next level. When the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an evil force, Ghostbusters new and old must unite to protect their home and save the world from a second ice age.

THE BEST

The BEST things about the film

Humanity and Relatability: The film stands out for its ability to weave intimate, relatable subplots into the larger narrative. This connects audiences with the characters on a personal level, making the fantastical elements more grounded and engaging.
Comedy: The movie excels in its blend of comedy and ghost story. It balances the build-up of tension with comedic relief effectively, making for an enjoyable cinematic experience.
Writing and Storytelling: Thoughtful writing and storytelling are highlighted as strengths. The film manages to incorporate important life lessons and themes into its action-comedy narrative, which adds depth beyond its entertainment value.
Casting and Performances: The ensemble cast deserves an ovation for their performances. The chemistry among the cast is outstanding. They are great individually and as a cast.
Themes of Family and Identity: The exploration of themes related to family dynamics, identity, and belonging, particularly through Paul Rudd’s character, is a crucial element. This exploration adds an emotional layer to the story, making it more than just a ghost-catching adventure.

THE WORST

Plot Holes and Logical Gaps: There were moments in the film where the storyline seemed to leap over logical gaps or fall into minor plot holes. These instances, where character motivations or narrative developments didn’t fully align with the established logic of the Ghostbusters universe, occasionally pulled me out of the immersive experience. It’s like those “wait, but why?” moments that nag at you, even as you enjoy the ghostly chaos unfolding on screen.

THE COMMENTS

In the latest installment of the Ghostbusters saga, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” the iconic team of paranormal eliminators returns to the bustling streets of New York City, a stark contrast to the rural backdrop of its predecessor, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife.” The return to the metropolis injects a refreshing vitality into the series, affirming that the Ghostbusters franchise, even in 2024, continues to have a treasure trove of tales to tell.

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is a PG-13 rated cinematic journey that skilfully marries comedy and fantasy, drawing audiences into its world for nearly two hours of supernatural escapades. Directed by Gil Kenan and penned by both Kenan and Jason Reitman, the film boasts an impressive ensemble cast.

The plot revolves around the Spencer family navigating the challenges of dealing with an ancient artifact that unleashes an evil force, threatening to plunge the world into a second Ice Age. This premise, while not entirely new in the realm of cinematic narratives, cleverly connects the Ghostbusters’ legacy with current members, underscoring the timeless allure of the unknown and the human fascination with the ancient and mystical.

What truly distinguishes “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” from its predecessors and contemporaries is not its special effects or comedic timing, though both are exemplary, but its heart. The film excels in weaving intimate, relatable subplots into the larger, fantastical narrative, grounding the story in its characters’ personal struggles and growth. This connection between the audience and characters, even supernatural ones, is a testament to the film’s thoughtful writing and direction.

Paul Rudd’s portrayal of a quasi-stepfather figure trying to find his footing in a new family dynamic exemplifies the movie’s dedication to exploring themes of belonging, identity, and responsibility amidst chaos. This nuanced approach to storytelling allows “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” to transcend the traditional confines of its genre, making it a compelling watch for a wide range of viewers.

THE LESSON

Do the Right Thing, Even If You’re Dead: Extending the discussion on ethics and morality into the supernatural realm, the film cleverly advises that doing the right thing is imperative, regardless of one’s state of being. This lesson speaks to universal morality that transcends life and death, suggesting that ethical principles should guide actions in all circumstances.

Don’t Judge by Age, Judge by Abilities: The film underscores the idea that age should not be the primary criterion for judging someone’s capabilities.

IS IT REWATCHABLE

Yes, Can’t wait to watch it again.

THE FINAL WORD

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” hits the sweet spot between nostalgia and novelty, wrapping up humor, heart, and a horde of ghosts in a blockbuster package that truly stands out. With its blend of old and new faces, the film not only brings the franchise back to their roots in New York City but also injects fresh energy with a plot that balances supernatural hijinks with relatable, human stories. While it occasionally stumbles into minor plot holes and leans heavily into its comedic elements, these quirks hardly dim the sheer entertainment value of the movie. It’s a thrilling ride through and through, reminding us why we fell in love with movies in the first place. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the franchise, “Frozen Empire” is a must-watch, proving that some stories can keep on giving, delivering laughs, scares, and a little bit of heart, all in one ghostly package.

THE VERDICT

My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire gets a Love It

THE TRAILER