Ghostbusters (1984)
After losing their academic posts at a prestigious university, a team of parapsychologists goes into business as proton-pack-toting "ghostbusters" who exterminate ghouls, hobgoblins and supernatural pests of all stripes. An ad campaign pays off when a knockout cellist hires the squad to purge her swanky digs of demons that appear to be living in her refrigerator.
Details
Budget
$30,000,000
Rating
7/10 (9107 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Columbia Pictures, Delphi Films, Black Rhino Productions
About Ghostbusters
Ivan Reitman's 1984 film "Ghostbusters" combines comedy and fantasy as it follows a team of parapsychologists who start a ghost removal service in New York City. The narrative begins after the team loses their university positions and transitions into entrepreneurship, using specialized equipment to deal with supernatural disturbances. Their business gains traction, particularly when a cellist enlists their help to rid her apartment of spectral entities.
The film explores themes of the supernatural within an urban setting, featuring elements like haunting, possession, and paranormal investigation. Its blend of humor with fantasy elements, including keywords like "ghost," "slime," and "giant monster," helped establish it as a notable entry in 1980s cinema. The story also touches on the concept of "losers" finding a unique purpose, contributing to its enduring appeal.
Why you might be searching for Ghostbusters
People search for "Ghostbusters" due to its iconic status as a supernatural comedy, its memorable characters, and its distinct 1980s aesthetic. Specific searches often relate to its blend of humor with paranormal themes, the unique ghost-hunting equipment, and its cultural impact, including references to its well-known catchphrases and soundtrack.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer noted the film's significant impact on 1980s pop culture, including its box office success, widespread merchandise, and popular theme song, although they appreciated revisiting it without the intense public fervor.
Read the full reviewA viewer mentioned that watching the film brought back fond memories and considered it suitable for the spooky season, despite not being overly frightening.
Read the full reviewA review highlighted the original film's comedic approach, noting that it plays humor straight, which the reviewer believes is the most effective way to deliver comedy, especially when compared to later adaptations.
Read the full reviewOne reviewer felt that while they enjoyed the movie during childhood, it no longer impressed them as much, though they still found the music and sound clips engaging.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
No, Ghostbusters is not based on a true story. It is a supernatural comedy film from 1984 about three parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City.
At the climax of Ghostbusters, the team confronts Gozer the Gozerian, a shapeshifting god of destruction, atop Dana Barrett's apartment building. After Gozer demands they "choose the form of the destructor," Ray inadvertently thinks of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, which Gozer then embodies. To defeat this giant form and banish Gozer, Egon instructs the team to cross the energy streams of their proton packs at the dimensional gate, causing an explosion that closes the gateway and saves the city.
Ghostbusters is considered one of the most important comedy films ever made and holds a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising its blend of special effects and comedy, and Bill Murray's performance. It was a major cultural phenomenon upon its release and remains highly regarded.