James’s Choice: “Ghostbusters” (1984)

From the bang of its opening theme to the goofy charm of 1984 special effects, “Ghostbusters” is a timeless autumn classic. Simply put, it’d be wonderful if you watched it this October.

“Ghostbusters” has a pretty straightforward plot. Three professors—Peter Venkman, Ray Stantz and Egon Spengler—get fired from their jobs at Columbia University for wasting funds on investigating ghosts at the New York City
public library.

After being fired, the trio forms the Ghostbusters, an organization that uses high-tech, nuclear-powered equipment to capture ghosts in exchange for monetary compensation. As the demand for their services rises, they put out a help- wanted advertisement for a fourth member. In a show of their professionalism and the rigor of their application process, they instantly hire the first interviewee, Winston Zeddemore. With the team fully formed, the Ghostbusters battle supernatural forces across New York City while being investigated by a suspicious Environmental
Protection Agency.

That said, what makes “Ghostbusters” so good? The movie delivers more than just high-definition graphics; it’s also a comedy and a paranormal sci-fi flick. Venkman, played by Bill Murray, brings most of the film’s charm through his laid-back demeanor. However, it’s the interactions between all four lead characters that truly bring the movie to life. Plus, the special effects are pretty decent for the time, and they’re used surprisingly well as a complement to the gags
and storytelling.

Even though it’s been almost 40 years since its release, “Ghostbusters” jokes are still on point. With its strong character chemistry and its outstandingly original plot, “Ghostbusters” effectively blends genres to form a movie that’s both hilarious and captivating.