Review Score: 3/5
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire returns audiences to the beloved paranormal comedy franchise of the 1980s, ushering in a nostalgic trip with familiar faces and new supernatural challenges. Directed by Gil Kenan, this latest installment aims to overcome the hurdles faced by its predecessor, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” (2021), and recapture the essence of the original films. While it succeeds in delivering more horror and introducing fresh elements, it occasionally struggles to find the perfect balance between homage and innovation.
The story picks up after the events of “Afterlife,” with the Spengler family relocating to the iconic New York firehouse headquarters. Phoebe Spengler, the granddaughter of the late Egon Spengler, finds herself at the center of a new ghostly adventure alongside her family and the original Ghostbusters. However, their heroics attract the attention of Walter Peck, now the mayor and determined to shut down their operation.
As the Spenglers face off against a malevolent force unleashed from an ancient artifact, they enlist the help of Winston Zeddemore’s paranormal research center and encounter a motley crew of characters, including the laid-back Nadeem and an eccentric librarian. Amidst the chaos, Phoebe forms an unexpected bond with a teenage ghost named Melody, adding a unique dynamic to the narrative.
Frozen Empire pays homage to its predecessors with nods to classic moments, vintage commercials, and beloved characters like Slimer. The film also delves deeper into the franchise’s lore, exploring themes of family, legacy, and the supernatural. Director Gil Kenan infuses the movie with chilling visuals and a sense of dread, elevating the stakes while maintaining a kid-friendly tone.
However, the film’s ambition sometimes leads to overcrowding, with an abundance of characters and subplots vying for attention. While the inclusion of legacy characters and newcomers adds depth to the story, it also detracts from the focus on the central narrative. Additionally, the subplot involving Phoebe and her ghost friend feels unnecessary and detracts from the overall pacing of the film.
Overall, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is a step in the right direction for the franchise, offering an entertaining blend of nostalgia and fresh ideas. While it may not reach the heights of the original classic, it sets the stage for future installments to further explore the rich world of the Ghostbusters. Moving forward, the filmmakers must strike a balance between honoring the past and forging new paths, ensuring that the series continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.