How 'Ghostbusters' became a pop culture phenomenon
What's the story
The Ghostbusters franchise has been an integral part of US cinema since it was born in the 1980s. Famous for its quirky combination of comedy, sci-fi, and supernatural, it has fascinated fans across generations. Let's take a look at how this iconic franchise evolved, what the major developments it witnessed were, and how it has changed over the years.
#1
The original 'Ghostbusters' impact
Released in 1984, the original Ghostbusters film was a pathbreaking success. Directed by Ivan Reitman and featuring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson, it became an instant classic. The film's groundbreaking special effects and catchy theme song made it a favorite. It grossed over $295 million worldwide, cementing its place as one of the highest-grossing comedies at the time.
#2
Expansion with sequels and spin-offs
After the success of the original film, a sequel named Ghostbusters II was released in 1989. Though it wasn't as successful as the first one, it did capture audience interest with familiar faces and new adventures. Over the years, animated series like The Real Ghostbusters broadened the franchise's appeal to younger audiences.
#3
Rebooting for modern audiences
In 2016, a reboot with an all-female lead cast, directed by Paul Feig and starring Melissa McCarthy, was attempted to refresh the franchise. Despite the mixed reviews and humor-centric focus, it grossed $229 million globally. This moderate success paved the way for plans for the new entry, continuing the storyline. Fans are eagerly waiting for the official announcements for the next chapter.