Who You Gonna Call?: A Ghostbusters Retrospective

Ivan Reitman's Ghostbusters is more than just a paranormal comedy; it's a masterclass in storytelling, an iconic representation of 80s pop culture, and a testament to the power of collaboration. As Director Ivan Reitman and Co-Writer/Actor Dan Aykroyd sit down with Entertainment Journalist Geoff Boucher to discuss the making of this beloved classic, it's clear that the film's enduring success is a direct result of the passion, imagination, and hard work that went into bringing it to life. One of the key factors in the film's success is its setting: New York City. As the Ghostbusters crew navigates the concrete jungle, the city itself takes on a life of its own. From the iconic New York Public Library to the eerie atmosphere of the Morningside Heights apartment building, the city's diverse landscapes serve as the perfect backdrop for the Ghostbusters' misadventures. "New York City is a character in and of itself," Aykroyd notes, and it's easy to see why. The city's energy, density, and eccentricities are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the film, making it an integral part of the narrative. Reitman concurs, acknowledging the city's role in shaping the film's tone and style. "New York City is a place where anything can happen," he says. "It's a city that's always on the move, always buzzing with energy. We wanted to capture that feeling and use it to propel the story forward." The result is a film that's as much about the city as it is about the characters and their battles with the paranormal. Speaking of battles with the paranormal, Ghostbusters boasts some of the most iconic images in movie history. Who can forget the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man rampaging through Times Square, or the Ecto-1 cruising down the West Side Highway? These images have become ingrained in popular culture, symbolizing the film's unique blend of humor and horror. Aykroyd credits special effects artist Ed Verreaux with creating many of the film's most memorable moments. "Ed was a genius," Aykroyd praises. "He had a real sense of what would work and what wouldn't. He was always pushing the boundaries of what was possible." Harold Ramis, who played Egon Spengler in the film, was also instrumental in shaping the Ghostbusters' dynamic. As the group's resident egghead, Ramis brought a dry wit and intelligence to the character, making him an instant fan favorite. "Harold was a true partner in the writing process," Reitman notes. "He was always game for anything, and he had this incredible sense of humor that he brought to the table." Ramis' contributions extend beyond his performance, however. As a writer, he helped shape the script, introducing many of the film's key elements, including the idea of the Ghostbusters' headquarters being a converted firehouse. While Ramis' role in the film's development is often overlooked, it's impossible to ignore the technical achievements of the shoot. Reitman and his team faced numerous logistical challenges, from navigating the tight spaces of a firehouse to capturing the chaos of a city-wide ghost invasion. "We had to get creative with our camera placements and lighting," Reitman recalls. "We used everything from dollies to Steadicams to get the shots we wanted." The end result is a film that's visually stunning, with a kinetic energy that propels the viewer through even the most absurd set pieces. One of the most critical aspects of the film's success is its cast. Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson form a talented ensemble, each bringing their unique brand of humor and wit to the table. As they bumble their way through various supernatural misadventures, their chemistry is unmistakable. "We had a real camaraderie on set," Aykroyd says. "We were all having the time of our lives, and it shows." The cast's collective energy is infectious, making even the most ridiculous moments feel like a natural part of the narrative. Another crucial element in the film's success is the music. Elmer Bernstein's iconic score and the Ray Parker Jr.'s catchy theme song ("Who You Gonna Call?") set the tone for the entire film, perfectly capturing the balance between humor and horror. "Elmer's theme song was the first thing that came to mind when we thought of Ghostbusters," Reitman notes. "It's such a simple, catchy melody that just sticks with you." The music plays a pivotal role in establishing the film's tone and atmosphere, drawing the viewer into the world of ghosts and ghouls. When Ghostbusters premiered in 1984, it was an instant hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide. The film's success was not limited to its box office performance, however. It also sparked a cultural phenomenon, inspiring numerous Ghostbusters-themed merchandise, from proton packs to Slimer plushies. "Ghostbusters was more than just a movie," Aykroyd notes. "It was a cultural touchstone, a reflection of the fears and anxieties of the times." Today, the film remains a beloved classic, its influence visible in everything from horror comedies to superhero blockbusters. As the Ghostbusters crew navigates the city's paranormal landscape, they leave behind a lasting legacy: a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the enduring appeal of a good ghost story. "Ghostbusters is more than just a movie," Reitman says. "It's a time capsule of a particular moment in pop culture history. It's a reminder that even in a world of uncertainty, we can always find humor and hope." And that's a spirit that continues to haunt and inspire audiences to this day.