Sci Fi Top 100, #48: "Ghostbusters" (1984)

Movie Stats:
Released 1984 (USA)
American, in English
Director - Ivan Reitman
Stars - Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, and many others

Plot Summary:
Three paranormal investigators start a ghost busting business and take on a major infestation that threatens New York City. Murray, Aykroyd, Ramis, and Hudson star as the ghost busters: Dr. Peter Venkman, Dr. Raymond Stantz, Dr. Egon Spengler, and Winston Zeddmore. Weaver co-stars as client Dana Barrett, who is also Venkman’s love interest.

Warnings:
Violence; blue language; heavily implied sexy times.

Bad Stuff:
As I recall, some of the special effects (like the claymation “dogs”) didn’t look so great at the time. They certainly don’t look great now.

Some of the scenes are painfully stupid and embarrassing. For example, the [SPOILER] ghost blow job. I mean, come on. How was that ever considered a good idea, especially for a movie rated PG? [SPOILER]

Good Stuff:
It’s fun and funny. The dialogue is great, very quotable, and told with excellent comedic timing. There were so many small moments that made me laugh.

The characters are all very well-written, even the minor ones. My particular favorites of the minors are Annie Potts (as secretary Janine Melnitz) and Rick Moranis (as Dana’s neighbor, Louis Tully).

I loved the soundtrack (except for maybe that “Savin’ the Day” song).

The Verdict:
How could you not love this movie? It’s sweet, light-hearted, creative, and hilarious. In short, it’s thoroughly enjoyable.

I give it 4 stars.