Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire ventures into the realm of the supernatural once again, this time with a fresh perspective and a dash of nostalgia that fans of the beloved franchise will surely appreciate. Made on a lavish $100 million budget, the film is projected to open at a respectable $45 million stateside, matching its predecessor Ghostbusters: Afterlife. It’s evident that despite the passage of four decades, audiences still harbour a fervent love for this iconic series.
Stepping into the directorial spotlight alongside the returning producer and writer, Jason Reitman, is Gil Kenan, who inherits the reins from the previous Afterlife director. The film is also dedicated to the late Ivan Reitman, the original director of the first two films. Also making their return are Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard, The Handmaid’s Tale’s Mckenna Grace, Paul Rudd and Carrie Coon.
In Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, the Spengler family makes a monumental decision to depart Summerville, Oklahoma, and return to the very heart of where their extraordinary journey started: the legendary New York City firehouse. Here, they reunite with the original Ghostbusters, who have transformed the firehouse into a clandestine research hub, pushing the boundaries of ghostbusting to unprecedented heights.
However, their reunion takes a perilous turn when the unearthing of an ancient artefact triggers the release of a malevolent force. Now, it’s a race against time as both seasoned and fledgling Ghostbusters must band together to safeguard their cherished home and thwart the cataclysmic threat poised to plunge the world into a harrowing second Ice Age.
If Afterlife was the film that gave the fans what they wanted, Frozen Empire is sure to go down as the one that has managed to drag the franchise into the 21st century. And how can it not? the younger actors are in their element here, embracing that anarchic quality of the early movies with both arms.
There is also the welcome and hilarious addition of popular UK stand-up comic James Acaster, who portrays the hilariously high-octane researcher Lars Pinfield. Elsewhere, Kumail Nanjiani is also a welcome addition to the cast as Nadeem Razmaadi, a petty criminal whose life becomes entangled with the Spenglers. While it’s always delightful to see familiar characters return to the franchise – Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson, and Dan Aykroyd all are back for more of the same – there’s an undeniable sense that it’s about time for these characters to pass the torch to the younger team.
It is a testament to the enduring appeal of a franchise that has captivated audiences for generations. With its blend of supernatural spectacle, engaging characters, and a touch of nostalgia, it’s a worthy addition to the Ghostbusters legacy. While some may debate its merits, there’s no denying the passion and creativity that went into bringing this latest installment to life. So, grab your proton pack and prepare for a thrilling adventure that’s sure to leave you frozen in awe.
