The Most Successful Mixture of Horror and Comedy, Hands Down

Rating: 8/10 (29 July 2010)

Three scientists of the paranormal, kicked out of their cushy university jobs, pursue careers in the private sector as investigators of ghosts and such... and not a moment too soon, because there is about to be an explosion of hauntings in the New York area!
There is not much to say about "Ghostbusters"... it is a classic, hands down. The theme song is known even by non-fans, there was a great sequel, action figures, video games, a cartoon series... everyone in this went on to big things (some were already big). You do not get many horror comedies that appeal to people outside the genre, but this one does (along with the sequel).
Director Ivan Reitman knew what he was doing. Although perhaps better known for his comedies, he actually started out working with master of horror David Cronenberg. When he came to "Ghostbusters", he had every intention of making it scary. And he succeeded. Perhaps not generally thought of as horror because of its wide appeal, there are some legitimately scary moments. The librarian early on? Quite a shock!
And that is it. I do not have to say that this is a great film or that I could watch it again and again... you know this. It scared me as a kid, but now... just a classic. Who hasn't seen "Ghostbusters"?