Everything you’d want in a Ghostbusters reboot is present in this entertaining installment from director Paul Feig (Bridesmaids, The Heat): ghosts spooky and silly, witty one-liners, outlandish ghost-busting weapons and a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The four leads—Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones, Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy—are a delight to watch and bring great chemistry to this fun, low-key summer blockbuster.
McKinnon’s performance especially stands out. The comedy queen plays the eccentric, kooky Jillian Holtzmann, an enthusiastic mad scientist who creates an impressive range of ghost-busting weapons. As in her work on SNL, she effortlessly steals scenes with just a look, an oddball off-hand comment or a flirtatious wink. Chris Hemsworth also is enjoyable as the Ghostbusters’ ditzy secretary.
Overall, the film manages to have a similar feel as the beloved original, thanks in part to a cameo from Bill Murray, a co-writing credit from Dan Aykroyd and numerous winks to the 1984 film. But the best part (and I hate that this is even worth mentioning): this film lets women kick ass without the stereotypical complications of jealousies, boyfriend drama and other insipid concerns women on screen are saddled with. Here, they’re uncomplicated, funny and focused solely on the mission of catching ghosts.
Should You See It? Yes!
Viewed at Wehrenberg Des Peres 14 Cine