Ghostbusters (Review)

Ghostbusters (Film Review) 2016

Directed by Paul Feig
Starring Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Leslie Jones, Kate McKinnon and Chris Hemsworth
Fantasy/Sci-Fi

Following the absolute hatred which I've seen displayed by die-hard Ghostbusters fans, I had very low expectations for this reboot. I was pleasantly surprised by an entertaining and funny fantasy film which understands what kind of movie it is. ''Ain't no bitches gonna hunt no ghosts'' is a great reference to this fan hatred.

The comedy aspect of the film definitely worked. I was laughing throughout, although there are some missed jokes present in the script. Some of the humour, namely that involving Chris Hemsworth and Leslie Jones, was overdone and reenforced stereotypes. I was surprised by the problematic loud-mouthiness displayed by Lesley Jones character, the only non-scientist ghostbuster, who also happens to be a black woman. This is especially for a film which prides itself on its inclusivity.

The plot has some shady logic, but clearly isn't going for anything other than fun. It is similar enough to the original to evoke nostalgia, but different enough to warrant a reboot.

The visual and special effects were very well-done, especially in the first two acts, although the CGI gets excessive and cheesy in parts of the end-battle. The film maintained being entertaining for the entire three acts, although I would have to say I preferred the beginning acts.

Overall, Ghostbusters is nothing like a ''bad film'' as many original fans claim. It is a decently-made, funny and entertaining reboot. I enjoyed watching, and so did most of the people at the cinema, to my knowledge. It doesn't pretend to be superior to the original, but is a fresh take on a fan favourite.

7/10.

Rated 12a, runtime 117 minutes.