Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, the fifth installment in the iconic Ghostbusters franchise, hit theaters in March 2024, bringing together both the original Ghostbusters and the new generation for a nostalgic yet fresh adventure. Directed by Gil Kenan and co-written with Jason Reitman, the film serves as a direct sequel to Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021) and celebrates the 40th anniversary of the original 1984 classic. With a star-studded cast, a mix of old and new characters, and a plot that threatens the world with a second ice age, the movie aims to recapture the magic of the beloved series while introducing modern twists.

This article provides an in-depth look at the film’s cast, plot, trailer, release date, box office performance, and critical reception, offering everything fans and newcomers need to know about the latest Ghostbusters adventure.

Full Cast: Original and New Ghostbusters Unite

The film features a blend of returning legends and fresh faces, making it one of the most anticipated ensemble casts of 2024:

Paul Rudd as Gary Grooberson, reprising his role from Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Rudd’s comedic timing and charm continue to be a highlight, as he joins the Spengler family in their ghost-busting endeavors.
Carrie Coon as Callie Spengler, the mother of Trevor and Phoebe, who discovers her family’s deep connection to the original Ghostbusters.
Finn Wolfhard as Trevor Spengler, Callie’s son and a tech-savvy teenager who embraces his grandfather’s legacy.
McKenna Grace as Phoebe Spengler, Trevor’s sister and a brilliant young scientist with a knack for paranormal investigation.
Celeste O’Connor as Lucky Domingo, Phoebe’s best friend and a loyal member of the new Ghostbusters team.
Logan Kim as Podcast, the group’s conspiracy theorist and gadget expert.
Bill Murray as Dr. Peter Venkman, the original Ghostbuster and fan-favorite character, returning with his signature wit and sarcasm.
Dan Aykroyd as Dr. Ray Stantz, the heart and soul of the original team, whose enthusiasm for the paranormal remains as strong as ever.
Ernie Hudson as Winston Zeddemore, the ever-reliable and resourceful Ghostbuster, now leading a top-secret research lab in New York City.
Annie Potts as Janine Melnitz, the original Ghostbusters’ secretary, who brings warmth and humor to the franchise.
William Atherton as Walter Peck, the EPA inspector and longtime antagonist of the Ghostbusters, making a surprising return.
Kumail Nanjiani as Nadeem Razmaadi, a new character whose comedic presence adds a fresh dynamic to the team.
Patton Oswalt as a mysterious scientist, adding depth to the film’s lore and mythology.
Emily Alyn Lind and James Acaster in supporting roles, expanding the universe with new characters and storylines.

The film also pays tribute to the late Harold Ramis, whose character, Dr. Egon Spengler, remains a central figure in the franchise’s legacy. The movie is dedicated to Ivan Reitman, the director of the original Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II, who passed away in 2022.

Plot: A Frozen Threat and the Return of the Ghostbusters

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire picks up three years after the events of Ghostbusters: Afterlife. The Spengler family—Callie, Gary, Trevor, and Phoebe—relocate to New York City, where they reunite with the original Ghostbusters at the iconic firehouse. The story begins when the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes a powerful evil force, threatening to plunge the world into a second ice age. The new and old Ghostbusters must join forces to stop this supernatural threat and save humanity.

The plot draws inspiration from The Real Ghostbusters animated series, with the filmmakers aiming to create a cinematic experience that feels like a “long episode” of the beloved cartoon. The film balances nostalgia with modern storytelling, featuring high-stakes action, humor, and emotional moments that honor the franchise’s roots.

Key elements of the plot include:

The Spengler family’s adjustment to life in New York City and their integration into the Ghostbusters team.
The original Ghostbusters’ top-secret research lab, which introduces new technology and gadgets for busting ghosts.
A menacing villain tied to the ancient artifact, whose powers threaten to freeze the world.
The return of classic Ghostbusters equipment, including the proton packs, Ecto-1, and the containment unit.
The exploration of the franchise’s mythology, including references to past films and expanded lore.

The film’s climax features a massive battle against the frozen forces, with the Ghostbusters using their combined skills and teamwork to save the day. While the story is packed with action, some critics have noted that the crowded cast and multiple subplots can make the narrative feel disjointed at times.

Trailer and Release Date: What Fans Can Expect

The first teaser trailer for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire was released in November 2023, offering a glimpse of the film’s tone, visuals, and humor. The trailer highlighted the return of the original Ghostbusters, the introduction of new characters, and the looming threat of the ice age. Fans were treated to iconic moments, such as the Ghostbusters suiting up, the Ecto-1 racing through New York City, and the team facing off against ghostly enemies.

The film had its world premiere at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater in New York City on March 14, 2024, and was released in theaters on March 22, 2024. Originally scheduled for December 20, 2023, the release date was delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, which impacted production and post-production schedules.

Box Office Performance and Critical Reception

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire grossed over $202 million worldwide, making it a moderate success at the box office. While it didn’t reach the heights of the original 1984 film, it performed well enough to secure its place as the eighth-highest-grossing film of 2024. The movie’s performance was bolstered by strong fan support and nostalgia for the franchise, though it faced competition from other major releases.

Critical reception was mixed. Many reviewers praised the film’s nostalgia, humor, and the chemistry between the original and new cast members. However, some critics felt that the story was overstuffed with characters and lacked the tight pacing of the original films. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a modest score, with critics noting that while it delivers fun moments for fans, it doesn’t quite capture the magic of the first two movies.

Common criticisms included:

A bloated cast that sometimes overshadowed the main plot.
A storyline that felt more like a series of sketches than a cohesive narrative.
Over-reliance on nostalgia, which may not resonate with newer audiences.

Despite these critiques, the film was celebrated for its heart, humor, and the joy of seeing the original Ghostbusters back in action. Dan Aykroyd’s performance, in particular, was highlighted as a standout, with critics noting his enthusiasm and dedication to the role.

Music and Soundtrack: A Nod to the Classics

The film’s soundtrack pays homage to the franchise’s musical legacy. The iconic Ghostbusters theme song by Ray Parker Jr. is featured during the end credits, evoking a sense of nostalgia for longtime fans. The score, composed by Dario Marianelli, blends new orchestral pieces with nods to Elmer Bernstein’s original music from the 1984 film. Additional tracks, such as “Home on the Range” and “Love Is Strange,” add variety to the soundtrack and enhance the film’s emotional beats.

Behind the Scenes: Filming and Production

Filming for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire took place primarily in New York City, with some scenes shot in London. The production faced challenges due to the 2023 Canadian wildfires, which affected air quality and required adjustments to the shooting schedule. Despite these obstacles, the cast and crew completed filming in June 2023, with post-production wrapping up in early 2024.

The film’s visual effects team worked to create a mix of practical and digital effects, staying true to the franchise’s signature style. The ghost designs and action sequences were praised for their creativity, though some critics felt that the CGI-heavy climax lacked the charm of the original films’ practical effects.

Future of the Franchise: What’s Next for the Ghostbusters?

With Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire marking the fifth film in the franchise, fans are already speculating about the future. Director Gil Kenan and producer Jason Reitman have hinted at more Ghostbusters stories in development, including potential sequels, spin-offs, and even a Netflix series. Dan Aykroyd has expressed enthusiasm for continuing the saga, suggesting that the franchise could explore new teams, solo projects, and expanded lore.

The success of Frozen Empire has opened the door for further adventures, with discussions about a possible sixth film and additional content set in the Ghostbusters universe. Whether the next installment will focus on the original team, the new generation, or a combination of both remains to be seen.

Pro Tips for Ghostbusters Fans

Watch the Original Films First: If you’re new to the franchise, start with the 1984 Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II to fully appreciate the references and callbacks in Frozen Empire.
Look for Easter Eggs: The film is packed with nods to the animated series, comics, and previous movies. Keep an eye out for hidden details and cameos.
Pay Attention to the Post-Credits Scene: Like many modern blockbusters, Frozen Empire includes a post-credits scene that teases future adventures.
Explore the Expanded Universe: The Ghostbusters franchise includes animated series, comics, and video games that expand on the lore. Diving into these can enhance your enjoyment of the films.
Visit the Firehouse: If you’re in New York City, consider visiting the real-life firehouse that inspired the Ghostbusters’ headquarters. It’s a must-see for fans!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire a direct sequel to Ghostbusters: Afterlife?
Yes, the film continues the story from Afterlife and ignores the events of the 2016 reboot.
Do I need to watch the previous films to understand Frozen Empire?
While the movie stands on its own, watching the original films and Afterlife will deepen your appreciation for the story and characters.
Will there be another Ghostbusters movie?
The franchise’s future looks bright, with discussions about sequels and spin-offs already underway.
Is the film suitable for kids?
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is rated PG-13 for action, mild language, and some scary moments, making it appropriate for most teenagers and older children.
Where can I watch Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire?
The film is available in theaters and on digital platforms, with a home release expected in the coming months.

Conclusion

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is a love letter to fans of the franchise, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling to create an entertaining, if imperfect, addition to the series. While it may not reach the heights of the original films, it offers plenty of humor, action, and heart, making it a worthwhile watch for Ghostbusters enthusiasts. With a strong cast, impressive visuals, and a story that honors the legacy of the franchise, the film sets the stage for future adventures in the Ghostbusters universe.

As the franchise continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the Ghostbusters aren’t going away anytime soon. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Frozen Empire delivers a fun and nostalgic experience that celebrates the spirit of the original while paving the way for new stories.