Detailed Summary
The Five Years Later Set-Up
Five years after the original Ghostbusters saved New York City, the team has disbanded. Dr. Peter Venkman (Bill Murray) hosts a cheesy TV show, Dr. Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd) and Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) entertain at children’s parties, and Dr. Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis) continues his research. Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver), now working at an art museum, discovers paranormal activity involving her infant son, Oscar.
The River of Slime
Dana seeks the Ghostbusters’ help when Oscar’s baby carriage rolls off by itself. The team investigates and discovers a river of pink slime flowing under the city. This slime feeds on negative emotions and has a connection to Vigo the Carpathian, a tyrannical 16th-century sorcerer whose spirit resides in a painting at Dana’s museum.
Reformation of the Ghostbusters
Realizing the city is in danger again, the Ghostbusters regroup. They discover that the slime reacts to both negative and positive emotions. They capture some of the slime and use it for further testing. Meanwhile, Vigo’s spirit begins to exert more control, planning to reincarnate through baby Oscar.
The Battle Against Vigo
The Ghostbusters are arrested after causing a public disturbance while investigating the slime. In court, the slime reacts to the judge’s rage, releasing ghosts that the Ghostbusters capture, thus reinstating their credibility. They prepare to confront Vigo as his influence over the city grows stronger.
The Statue of Liberty Scene
To combat Vigo and the slime, the Ghostbusters use positively charged slime to animate the Statue of Liberty, walking it through New York City to inspire and uplift the citizens. This symbolic act gives them the strength to confront Vigo.
The Climactic Confrontation
The Ghostbusters face off against Vigo in the museum. Vigo possesses Ray, but the team manages to free him and destroy Vigo’s physical form using proton packs and the power of positive energy.
Movie Ending
After defeating Vigo, the Ghostbusters are hailed as heroes once again. The film ends with the Statue of Liberty returned to its pedestal and the city celebrating its saviors.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Ghostbusters II” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a supernatural comedy, blending humor with elements of horror and action.
Cast
- Bill Murray as Dr. Peter Venkman
- Dan Aykroyd as Dr. Raymond “Ray” Stantz
- Sigourney Weaver as Dana Barrett
- Harold Ramis as Dr. Egon Spengler
- Rick Moranis as Louis Tully
- Ernie Hudson as Winston Zeddemore
- Annie Potts as Janine Melnitz
- Peter MacNicol as Dr. Janosz Poha
Film Music and Composer
The score for “Ghostbusters II” was composed by Randy Edelman. The soundtrack also includes notable songs like “On Our Own” by Bobby Brown and “Higher and Higher” performed by Howard Huntsberry.
Filming Locations
- New York City, New York: Key locations include the Manhattan Museum of Art (the fictional setting for Dana’s workplace) and the Statue of Liberty.
- Los Angeles, California: Some interior scenes were shot on soundstages in Los Angeles.
These iconic locations help ground the fantastical elements of the story in a recognizable urban setting.
Awards and Nominations
- Saturn Awards: Nominated for Best Fantasy Film and Best Supporting Actor (Rick Moranis).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The slime used in the film was a mixture of methocel, a thickening agent, and water.
- Bill Murray was initially hesitant to return for the sequel, but agreed after reading the script.
- Sigourney Weaver’s character arc was designed to bring a more personal and maternal aspect to the story.
Inspirations and References
- Sequel Influence: Building on the success and world established by the original “Ghostbusters” (1984).
- Cultural Impact: The film reflects the anxieties and urban challenges of the late 1980s, using supernatural elements as metaphors.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
While there were no major alternate endings, several scenes were trimmed for pacing, including more comedic interactions among the Ghostbusters.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Novelization: The novelization by Ed Naha follows the film closely, with additional character insights and background details not present in the movie.
- Comic Adaptations: Various comic adaptations expand on the film’s story and offer alternate scenarios.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Opening Scene: Dana’s baby carriage incident that sets the plot in motion.
- Courtroom Ghost Battle: The slime-animated ghosts wreak havoc, reinstating the Ghostbusters.
- Statue of Liberty Walk: The climactic scene where the Statue of Liberty marches through New York City.
Iconic Quotes
- “He is Vigo! You are like the buzzing of flies to him!” – Janosz Poha
- “Do you know how weird it is out there? We’ve taken our own head count. There seem to be three million completely miserable assholes living in the tri-state area.” – Dr. Peter Venkman
- “Being miserable and treating other people like dirt is every New Yorker’s God-given right.” – Lenny Clotch
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The number 555-2368 seen on the Ghostbusters’ ad is a typical fake phone number used in movies.
- Vigo’s painting was inspired by historical portraits of Vlad the Impaler and other tyrants.
Trivia
- Max von Sydow provided the voice for Vigo the Carpathian, though the character was physically portrayed by Wilhelm von Homburg.
- The ectoplasmic slime in the film had a peppermint scent to make it more tolerable for the actors.
- Bobby Brown makes a cameo as the doorman at Gracie Mansion.
Why Watch?
“Ghostbusters II” offers a blend of humor, nostalgia, and supernatural adventure. It’s a must-watch for fans of the original and anyone who enjoys lighthearted, imaginative films with a dose of New York City charm.
Director’s Other Movies
Ivan Reitman also directed:
- Meatballs (1979)
- Stripes (1981)
- Ghostbusters (1984)
- Twins (1988)
- Kindergarten Cop (1990)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Ghostbusters (1984)
- Back to the Future Part II (1989)
- Men in Black (1997)
- Beetlejuice (1988)
- The Addams Family (1991)
