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The Ghostbusters film series introduces many new ideas over four entries. But when they’re ranked, the worst entry is an unexpected one.
The Ghostbusters franchise isn’t as grand as the Star Wars franchise or as globe-trotting as Indiana Jones. But what it lacks in those areas it makes up for with comedy, amazing visual effects and a premise unlike anything audiences had ever seen before. Since the first film, the franchise has continued sequels that directly link to the original or serve as reboots. At first, many would expect the least popular entry in the franchise, to critics, would be the reboot. However, the results are as startling as the library ghost from the first film.
This article compiles an average score of all critic ratings from Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes to decipher where each film ranks and if the first truly deserves the reception it’s gotten. Nevertheless, each movie has qualities that make it special in its own rights, and all of them promise hilarious and often exhilarating moments busting ghosts. That being said, with Ghostbusters: Afterlife enjoying a theatrical run, let’s look at which of the films got the best reception.
4. Ghostbusters II – 54.5/100
Ghostbusters II was released in 1989 and hit audiences at a time when sequels weren’t nearly as beloved as they are now. As a result, the reviews of the film reflected the audience’s disinterest in a movie that didn’t branch out far from the original. The film follows the Ghostbusters, now disbanded, as they struggle to survive in a city that seems to have forgotten the events of the original. Lacking the respect they once had, the two must band together again to study a supernatural slime that feeds on negativity. Even with the original cast returning, the lack of originality or newness hinders the film. However, as the years have progressed, viewers have rekindled an appreciation for the film that wasn’t seen on release day.
3. Ghostbusters: Afterlife – 55.5/100
Ghostbusters: Afterlife is a direct sequel to the original films, specifically the first, and follows the grandchildren of Egon Spengler following his death. Living on a farm in a small town, his grandchildren have to uncover and fight an even greater supernatural threat. While the film’s theatrical run hasn’t been completed, critics have already shared their opinions, which have been mixed to positive. Overall, the movie relies on nostalgia but doesn’t skimp on any of the tropes that make the franchise as iconic as it has been. But with Jason Reitman taking over the reins of the franchise firm his father, Ivan, it’s not hard for the series to keep the same energy that made it such a hit in the past.
2. Ghostbusters: Answer the Call – 67/100
Ghostbusters (2016), or Ghostbusters: Answer the Call, is the most surprising entry on the list because the reboot has been notorious for heavy criticism. The film follows a similar story structure to the original entry, with two scientists opening a business to capture and study paranormal creatures. But, of course, the more adept they get at Ghostbusting, the more dangers arise that eventually put all of New York City at risk. As a standalone film, critics have cited that Ghostbusters can hold its own, for the most part, but still relies on the tropes that made the original great. Nevertheless, the comedic talents in the film help carry it and provide genuine laughs.
1. Ghostbusters – 84/100
The original Ghostbusters was released in 1984 and has since stood the test of time as a creative and hilarious film. Ghostbusters follows Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), Peter Venkman (Bill Murray) and Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) who cut their losses and opened up a business to hunt and catch ghosts. At first, the idea seems foolish, but as more paranormal activity arises, the team gets more recognition, adds a new member, Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson), and fights off the end of the world. Upon release, the film received generally positive reviews, with many loving its blend of comedy and action. Overall, the film is unlike anything that had ever been done and continues to be the standard for the franchise.
To see how the franchise’s latest installment stacks up, Ghostbusters: Afterlife is in theaters now.
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