Ghostbusters (1984)

Last updated:
October 19, 2024

Detailed Summary

The Paranormal Encounter at the New York Public Library

The film opens with a ghostly encounter in the basement of the New York Public Library. An unseen entity terrifies librarian Alice Drummond, prompting the city to seek help from paranormal experts.

The Formation of the Ghostbusters

Dr. Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Dr. Raymond “Ray” Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), and Dr. Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) are parapsychologists working at Columbia University. After their grant is terminated, they decide to start their own ghost-catching business, “Ghostbusters.” They set up shop in a disused firehouse, acquire a rundown ambulance (which they modify into the iconic Ecto-1), and develop the necessary equipment to capture ghosts.

The First Call

Their first major job involves capturing a gluttonous ghost, Slimer, at the Sedgewick Hotel. This successful capture garners them media attention and a surge in business, leading to the hiring of Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) to help handle the workload.

Dana Barrett’s Possession

Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) experiences supernatural disturbances in her apartment, including an apparition in her refrigerator. She contacts the Ghostbusters for help. Venkman takes a particular interest in Dana and begins investigating her case, discovering that her apartment building is a conduit for paranormal activity.

The Rise of Gozer

As the Ghostbusters continue to gain popularity, they discover that the disturbances are linked to an ancient Sumerian deity, Gozer the Gozerian. Dana and her neighbor, Louis Tully (Rick Moranis), become possessed by the demigods Zuul and Vinz Clortho, respectively, who serve as the gatekeeper and keymaster for Gozer’s arrival.

The Climactic Battle

The Ghostbusters confront Gozer atop Dana’s apartment building. Gozer appears as a humanoid figure and asks them to choose the form of the destructor. Ray inadvertently thinks of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, resulting in the giant, marshmallowy destructor attacking New York City. The Ghostbusters use their proton packs to cross the streams, a dangerous but necessary tactic to defeat Gozer and close the interdimensional portal.

Resolution

The Ghostbusters save the day, Dana and Louis are freed from their possession, and New York City celebrates the heroes. The film ends with the team driving off in the Ecto-1, ready for their next adventure.

Movie Ending

The Ghostbusters’ final battle against Gozer results in the successful closing of the interdimensional portal, saving New York City from destruction. Dana and Louis are rescued, and the Ghostbusters are hailed as heroes. The film closes with the team driving away in the Ecto-1, prepared for future ghostbusting escapades.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Ghostbusters” (1984) does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

“Ghostbusters” is a supernatural comedy film, blending humor with ghostly adventures and science fiction elements.

Cast

Bill Murray as Dr. Peter Venkman
Dan Aykroyd as Dr. Raymond “Ray” Stantz
Harold Ramis as Dr. Egon Spengler
Ernie Hudson as Winston Zeddemore
Sigourney Weaver as Dana Barrett
Rick Moranis as Louis Tully
Annie Potts as Janine Melnitz
William Atherton as Walter Peck

Film Music and Composer

Elmer Bernstein composed the film’s score. Ray Parker Jr. wrote and performed the iconic theme song, “Ghostbusters,” which became a major hit and an integral part of the film’s identity.

Filming Locations

New York City, New York: Key scenes were shot in various iconic locations, including the New York Public Library and Central Park.
Los Angeles, California: Interior scenes and some exteriors were filmed on sets and locations around Los Angeles.

These locations provided the urban backdrop essential for the film’s setting and atmosphere.

Awards and Nominations

Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Original Song (Ray Parker Jr.) and Best Visual Effects.
BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Original Song, Best Visual Effects, and Best Make Up Artist.
Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy (Bill Murray).

Behind the Scenes Insights

The Stay Puft Marshmallow Man suit cost approximately $20,000 to create.
Bill Murray improvised many of his lines, bringing his unique comedic style to the character of Peter Venkman.
The proton packs worn by the actors were quite heavy, weighing about 30 pounds each.

Inspirations and References

Sumerian Mythology: The character of Gozer is inspired by ancient Sumerian deities.
Original Script: Dan Aykroyd’s original script was more science fiction-heavy, with the Ghostbusters traveling through time and space.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

Several deleted scenes include more comedic moments and character interactions but do not significantly alter the film’s plot.
No alternate endings were shot; the film’s conclusion remained consistent with the original script.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film inspired novelizations and comic book adaptations, which often expanded on character backstories and provided additional details not seen in the movie.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

The Library Ghost: The Ghostbusters’ first encounter with a ghost at the New York Public Library.
Slimer at the Sedgewick Hotel: The hilarious and chaotic capture of Slimer.
Dana’s Possession: The eerie and transformative scene where Dana becomes possessed by Zuul.
Stay Puft Marshmallow Man: The unforgettable and climactic battle against the giant Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.

Iconic Quotes

“Who ya gonna call? Ghostbusters!” – Ray Parker Jr. (theme song)
“We came, we saw, we kicked its ass!” – Peter Venkman
“There is no Dana, only Zuul.” – Dana Barrett/Zuul
“Don’t cross the streams.” – Egon Spengler

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The firehouse used as the Ghostbusters’ headquarters is a real firehouse in New York City, Hook & Ladder Company 8.
Several cameos by famous faces, including Larry King and Casey Kasem.

Trivia

The “Ghostbusters” logo was designed by Michael C. Gross.
Sigourney Weaver auditioned for the role of Dana Barrett by performing a scene as a possessed dog.
The film’s budget was approximately $30 million, and it grossed over $295 million worldwide.

Why Watch?

“Ghostbusters” is a perfect blend of comedy, adventure, and supernatural thrills. Its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and iconic special effects make it a timeless classic that appeals to all ages.

Director’s Other Movies

Stripes (1981)
Meatballs (1979)
Twins (1988)
Kindergarten Cop (1990)
Dave (1993)