“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” (2024)

Comedy / Action 

Running Time: 115 minutes

Written by: Gil Kenan and Jason Reitman

Directed by: Gil Kenan

Featuring: Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt, Ernie Hudson and Annie Potts

Phoebe Spengler: “If you weren’t a Spengler, you’d be answering phones.”

Released in March 2024, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” picks up the proton pack where “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” left it. Directed by Gil Kenan and co-written by Kenan and Jason Reitman (who tragically passed away shortly after the film’s release), “Frozen Empire” is a love letter to the franchise, bringing back the original Ghostbusters alongside the new generation introduced in the previous film.

The film centers around the Spengler family – Trevor (Paul Rudd), Callie (Carrie Coon), Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), and Podcast (Logan Kim) – who return to the iconic New York firehouse headquarters. There, they discover the original Ghostbusters, Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis through archival recordings), and Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson), have transformed the firehouse into a high-tech ghost-hunting haven. However, their reunion is cut short when the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes a wave of ghostly foes and threatens to plunge the world into a second ice age.

“Frozen Empire” succeeds in capturing the spirit of the original films. The comedic timing, witty banter, and classic proton pack action are all present and accounted for. The new cast holds their own against the veterans, with Mckenna Grace continuing to shine as the brilliant and quirky Phoebe. The film also throws in some fun fan service moments, with nods to iconic scenes and gadgets from the franchise’s history.

However, the film isn’t without its flaws. The plot, while serviceable, feels a bit derivative, borrowing elements from both the original “Ghostbusters” and “Ghostbusters II.” Bill Murray’s grumpy Peter Venkman schtick, while expected, feels a bit tired at times. Additionally, some may find the villain’s motivations a bit underdeveloped.

Despite these shortcomings, “Frozen Empire” is a thoroughly entertaining experience. The special effects are impressive, bringing the ghostly threats to life in spectacular fashion. The film also boasts a surprising amount of heart, as it explores themes of family, legacy, and the importance of teamwork.

Diving Deep into the Details of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire:

A Plot Icier Than Slimer:

The film opens with a fun, action-packed chase scene showcasing the new Ghostbusters (Trevor, Callie, Phoebe, and Podcast) using upgraded tech alongside the iconic Ecto-1. This scene establishes their teamwork and the film’s lighter tone.

The discovery of the ancient artifact, later revealed to be a prison for a powerful Frostwraith named Boreas, feels like a classic “Ghostbusters” plot device – a mysterious object unleashing paranormal trouble. However, the icy twist adds a new layer to the franchise’s usual ghostly threats.

The film delves a bit into Egon Spengler’s past research, hinting at his awareness of similar elemental threats. This could be a springboard for future sequels exploring Egon’s legacy and potentially hidden dangers.

Humor: A Proton Pack Full of Laughs (and Groans):

The film relies heavily on witty banter between the characters, particularly the new generation. Mckenna Grace’s deadpan delivery as Phoebe is a highlight, while Logan Kim brings a youthful enthusiasm to Podcast.

The original Ghostbusters get their fair share of jokes too, with Dan Aykroyd delivering some Ray Stantz classics. Bill Murray’s signature sarcasm might elicit groans from some viewers expecting something new, while others might find it comforting.

There are some callbacks to iconic moments from the original films, but they are handled more subtly than “Afterlife,” aiming to evoke nostalgia without feeling like cheap parodies.

Special Effects: A Chilling Spectacle

The depiction of the Frostwraiths is impressive. These translucent, ice-based entities are visually distinct from previous “Ghostbusters” foes. Their icy attacks and the chilling environments they create provide some genuinely creepy moments.

The visual effects used for the proton pack blasts and other ghost-busting tools are well done, offering a satisfying blend of nostalgia and modern CGI.

Heartwarming Moments Under the Ecto-Shield:

Despite the focus on scares and laughs, “Frozen Empire” has a strong emotional core. The bond between the Spengler family, particularly Trevor and Phoebe, is heartwarming.

Seeing the original and new Ghostbusters working together showcases the importance of mentorship and teamwork in the face of supernatural threats.

Not Without Its Flaws:

While the villain Boreas is visually impressive, his motivations feel a bit underdeveloped. The film could have benefited from spending more time establishing his backstory and threat level.

The plot itself, while entertaining, feels somewhat derivative, borrowing elements from both the original “Ghostbusters” and “Ghostbusters II.”

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is a fun and nostalgic trip down memory lane for longtime fans of the franchise. While it may not break new ground narratively, it delivers enough laughs, scares, and proton-pack-fueled action to satisfy audiences of all ages.