Ghostbusters (1984)

The often dazzling special effects-driven slapstick tends to overshadow some slyer, more sophisticated laughs in this blockbusting family comedy. Bill Murray is terrifically deadpan and sleazy as the dubious leader, with strong support from the cast and spectacular set pieces from director Ivan Reitman.

The premise of unleashing Bill Murray in an Exorcist-like setting is promising but the film stays at the idea stage with wispy jokes, characters, and story. It is another messy near-miss from Murray, kept afloat mainly by his anarchic slob persona.

The film succeeds as both a special-effects blockbuster and a sly dialogue comedy where characters banter like smart graduate students in on the joke. It preserves its comic vision amid a big budget, with effects serving the actors rather than overwhelming them.

The review highlights the film's satire of 1980s New York capitalism and class distinctions through the Ghostbusters' blue-collar hustle amid upscale settings. It notes how the movie captures the era's shift toward commercial optimism while delivering calculated consumer appeal.

The critic finds the film a relaxed, stylish ghost story mixing comedy, action, and effects from the Meatballs team. He praises the sustained pacing, inventive production design, and score while noting the primitive plotting is carried off with finesse.

The critics hail the film as an essential rewatchable classic whose world-building, sound design, score, and aesthetic details make it the most pleasing movie ever made. They single out its scrappy DIY ethos, memorable characters and names, and enduring immersive atmosphere for praise.

The 1984 blockbuster remains a timeless classic that is still as funny, spooky and marvellous as ever upon its re-release. The critic singles out the winning camaraderie between Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis as the ghostbusting trio.

The critic finds the 1984 film boring and unfunny on a first viewing decades later, with a clunky script, underdeveloped characters, and a reliance on nostalgia that fails to engage. She singles out Rick Moranis's performance and the charming wonky special effects for praise amid the complaints.