Retro Review: Ghostbusters

Introduction:

After over a year, I am back with a retro review timed to Spooky Day. Having been so long, I'd like to take a moment to define a retro review. It is reviewing an older film as though it has just been released. But of course, one cannot avoid knowing what has transpired since that initial release, so that is subtly included facetiously. As you might recall, it really only works with franchises with newer entries or it could with a film that has a sequel long after the reviewed film. To get a better idea, please check out the ones on A Christmas Story, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Batman: The Motion Picture Anthology. I use the format of "The Good", "The Bad" and "The Ugly", obviously named after the Clint Eastwood spaghetti western, but it also provides a logical film review pattern. The first two are evident enough in meaning, but I find the need to further explain "The Ugly". There are no exact parameters and could be something virtually inconsequential like visual effects or much more crucial like the portrayal of real-life prejudice. Enough intro; let's get to it.

Retro Review: Ghostbusters (1984)

The Good:

Ghostbusters is already off to a good start to being one of the largest grossing films of the summer (and year), in spite of its supernatural element that could have fit in with the Halloween season. It's easy to see why as it is an extremely well put together film under the direction of Ivan Reitman whose previous work with Bill Murray includes Meatballs and Stripes, the latter of which also stars Harold Ramis. Spearheaded by Dan Aykroyd, who co-wrote it with Ramis, it tells the story of three disgraced scientists, played by Murray, Aykroyd and Ramis, who start a business to combat the appearance of ghosts in New York. Business picks up, and they hire a fourth played by Ernie Hudson (quite possibly my favorite of the quartet). They all become unlikely heroes before being yet disgraced again, all while realizing there is an underlying greater menace and preparing for it. The cast additionally includes Sigourney Weaver (Alien) and Rick Moranis (expect big things from this up-and-coming actor from the "Canadian SNL", Second City Television). It is a good film on its own, but it has definitely been marketed cleverly, as well, including the "no-ghost" logo and the delightful call-and-response theme song by Ray Parker, Jr. The song captures the perfect blend of comedy and dark elements of the film and is also destined to be a classic. More from the Ghostbusters is on the way for sure, but let's hope once Hollywood runs out of novel ideas, that some films are simply deemed too sacred to ever remake.

The Bad:

Ghostbusters has some questionable content for a film targeted at a wide audience that includes younger members. Perhaps this film helps to put the spotlight on the gap between the PG and R ratings along with Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Doom and Gremlins. Honestly, future entries could be more welcoming to all by toning these aspects down, as they are certainly not what make Ghostbusters so special.

The Ugly:

It's amazing the leaps and bounds special effects have made in recent years. We've seen wonderful use of both practical and visual effects in the recent trilogy of Star Wars films. Ghostbusters also uses both kinds and most of what is seen looks so good, it will hold up well for years to come. But the so-called Gozer dogs are both completely obviously stop-motion and inserted in, particularly so while they are seen running. Again, the instant classic that the movie is, it might just very well be seen as part of its charm as special effects inevitably improve. But there is another thing that must be said. While Dana (Weaver) is entranced, Murray's Dr. Venkman takes some advantage of the situation. It's nowhere near as bad as it could be, but still a bit creepy since it is without her consent. Perhaps a future film will address this negative character trait head on, and if it's played for humor, I would expect no less.

Conclusion:

Ghostbusters is a lot of great things, a fun, well cast comedy with some dark elements, a good blend of supernatural and sci-fi, and a very quotable film. It is likely destined for warm nostalgia in the future. With its catchy theme song, the fun can go on after the credits roll, and I would be remiss to not mention that the Ecto-1 is exactly what makes an iconic film vehicle. While some parts are inappropriate for the smaller tikes, they could absolutely be sparks for conversation for the concerned parent. Most of the effects keep one right into it, but those Terror Dogs do break the illusion if for just a few moments, as does the unintentional creepiness. Recommend: 9 Stay-Puft marshmallows out of 10.

Tomorrow...SEVENSES: Biopics!