Ghostbusters II (1989)

Five years after saving New York from the apocalypse, the Ghostbusters have been disbanded. Drs Ray, Egon, and Venkman have moved on with new careers. And Dana Barrett has done some moving on of her own. Dana now has a baby. Unfortunately for her, a diabolical tyrant—Vigo the Carpathian—has chosen baby Oscar for his new home.

In Ghostbusters II , the entire gang has returned—unheard of by sequel standards. Also typical of sequels—suckiness. But you won’t find that here, not under Ivan Reitman’s direction. Ghostbusters II is essentially more of the same. Ooze, crazy 80’s soundtrack, and Bill Murray.

The set-up is classic. A river of ooze is flowing beneath New York City. Filled with the hate and vile of residence, the emotionally reactive goo is ready to explode. But after raging a war on slime that cost the city millions, the mayor is reluctant to let the Ghostbusters do their thing.

From Murray to Akroyd, Ecto-1 to Potts, every successful element from the first film returns. Because of that, the film feels more that familiar. Even without the top-notch, biting dialogue, there is plenty to engage. The addition of Peter MacNichol is a good turn.

The film’s examination of life beyond the trio (sorry, I’m not counting the token black) is fun. Ray’s bookstore is a total laugh. Spengler’s near cult-like following is a hoot. And Venkman’s become a cheese-filled TV host. Each spin fits our beloved characters well.

Ghostbusters II is a nice compliment. The tried and true formula is solid. As I am late to the bandwagon, the film further cements Bill Murray as an amazingly multi-faceted actor. As I see it, if you loved the first, you’ll enjoy the second.