The Heart of New York City: Reviving the Spirit of “Ghostbusters”
The iconic comedy franchise, “Ghostbusters,” is inextricably linked with New York City. In the original 1984 film, Winston Zeddmore (Ernie Hudson) expresses his love for the city with a triumphant shout after saving New York from paranormal threats. This moment encapsulates the unique, feel-good connection between New Yorkers and their vibrant community.
The “Ghostbusters” films have consistently depicted New York City not just as a backdrop for supernatural encounters but also as a reflection of the diverse and resilient spirit of its inhabitants. The 1980s-era films portrayed an eclectic group of New Yorkers, who despite their quirks and oddities, demonstrated unwavering dedication to protecting one another and their beloved city.
Beyond the camaraderie among the ghost-fighting team, “Ghostbusters” explored the theme of found families—the unlikely bond between outcasts and misfits. In the original movie, four scientific outsiders (Peter Venkman, Bill Murray; Ray Stantz, Dan Aykroyd; Egon Spengler, Harold Ramis; and Winston Zeddmore) form a brotherhood in the face of impending citywide destruction. In the sequel, they become a surrogate family for Dana Barrett’s (Sigourney Weaver) baby son.
While maintaining the emphasis on community and found families, modern “Ghostbusters” films have faced challenges in recapturing the original’s warmth and wackiness. The all-female reboot from 2016 was met with misogynist backlash, despite being entertaining. The latest film, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” shifted the focus from New York City to rural Oklahoma and drew mixed reviews.
“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” the newest installment in the franchise, brings the team back to their New York City roots. The Spenglers and Gary Grooberson (Paul Rudd) settle into the iconic firehouse, aiming to restore it and coexist with the community. However, their efforts to respect the city while fighting ghosts prove challenging due to collateral damage.
Despite being set in New York City and carrying on the legacy of this cherished franchise, “Frozen Empire” seems to lack a meaningful connection to the city and its people. The absence of the palpable love for New York City and its unique characters leaves the movie feeling disconnected, like a backdrop instead of the main character it once was.
Fortunately, the film does introduce some compelling new characters that add depth and personality to the story. Nadeem Razmaadi (Kumail Nanjiani), a resourceful sneaker dealer, becomes an unexpected hero with his determination to make money and discover hidden treasures. Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) also stands out as the emotional center, a 15-year-old genius seeking connection and meaning in a world of ghosts.
“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” offers thrilling entertainment without necessarily delivering a clear message about the importance of community, found families, or New York City itself. While it’s not essential for movies to be overtly political, a sense of pride and connection to the city would help ground the action and remind viewers of the unique spirit that made “Ghostbusters” such a beloved franchise in the first place.
