Ghostbusters (2016)

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Ghostbusters (2016) – P. Feig

Ghostbusters (1984) was my favourite movie during high school (apart from Stop Making Sense, also 1984).  So, it was with some trepidation that I approached this remake/remodel.  Luckily, I am pleased to be able to say that this new version manages to maintain the tone of the original: genial, silly, and amusing with enough special effects and pop music to keep it moving along.  As with The Force Awakens (2015), the original plot of the earlier film is used only schematically such that the points of connection provide “a-ha” moments for those who recalled/loved the earlier films.  This version of Ghostbusters also features cameos by many of the original cast members, albeit in different roles, including “Slimer” (the only one who maintains his same character, I guess).  Of course, the big new thing in this film is that the Ghostbusters are all women; this change only slightly changes the dynamic.  There is a natural camaraderie/banter between Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy -- and Kate McKinnon (playing weird/nerd/scientist) and Leslie Jones round out the team with their more offbeat/stereotypical characters.  I felt they earned the right to be ghostbusters just as much as Murray, Aykroyd, Ramis, and Hudson before them. Moreover, the plot, while perhaps more disposable than the one used in 1984, was perfectly satisfactory as a container to hold these characters and their shenanigans.  It is hard to get these sorts of action/comedy/blockbusters right, let alone with the pressure to live up to a cherished forerunner – kudos to director Paul Feig and his team.  Thumbs up from me!