A classic

Rating: 10/10 (16 January 2010)

Granted, this isn't a film with pretentious drama or self-importance. And it's a film with belly laughs instead of subconscious amusement. But it is a classic in the same way that "Casablanca" and "Lawrence of Arabia" are. It is one of Hollwood's most successful comedies, and for good reason: it's a very funny and spooky movie.
The plot is pretty simple: After getting fired from their university, three scientists, Drs. Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Akroyd), and Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) go into business for themselves catching ghosts. They soon get more than they bargained for when a demi-god tries to move in and destroy the world.
Murray. Akroyd. Ramis. Two are SNL alumni and all are regarded as some of the great comic geniuses of our time. Murray has been leaning more towards drama these days (and Wes Anderson's piles of crap), Akroyd's career has come to a bit of a stand still and generally relegated to cameos, and Ramis has taken to directing films. All three are gifted comedians, and this is a representation of their best work. Murray is terrific as the sarcastic and egotistic jerk, Akroyd is hilarious as the energetic nerd, and Ramis is just as good as the anti-social nerd. Also in the cast are Sigourney Weaver as Dana Barrett, the skeptical musician who becomes their first client, and the target of Venkman's charms, Rick Moranis, Dana's nerdy neighbor who is so nerdy that he puts Stantz and Spengler to shame, and Ernie Hudson is great as the new recruit. And of course William Atherton is on hand to be the nosy asshole (which he does with great ability).
Ivan Reitman was the go-to guy of comedies throughout the 80's and mid-90s. His style is professional, but solid, and he knows how to make a movie funny. "Ghostbusters" is easily his best film. It's funny, but also spooky. There are a few chilling moments in the film, particularly towards the end.
There isn't anyone alive who won't have a great time watching "Ghostbusters."