10 Best Ghostbusters Moments
Three parapsychologists obsessed with paranormal activity set up an agency to help people deal with the ghostly apparitions that seem to be popping up all over New York City.
Boasting the comedic A-team of Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Ernie Hudson, Rick Moranis and Harold Ramis, Ghostbusters (1984) became an instant classic.
With a unique blend of comedy, action and horror, it became the second highest-grossing film of 1984.
Ghostbusters has spawned sequels, reboots, and spin-offs. The ripples of its cultural influence are varied and far-reaching. From the expected lunchboxes, Halloween costumes and cameos, to an ankylosaurus fossil being named after Zuul in 2017.
In this Movie List from The Film Magazine, we are counting down the most hilarious, impactful, and unforgettable moments from Ivan Reitman’s timeless phantom-fuelled flick, for this: the 10 Best Ghostbusters (1984) Moments.
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10. The Theme Song
Columbia Pictures and their Statue of Liberty-style logo appear with eerie music playing, placing us in a typical sci-fi film. Or so we think.
Less than three minutes in and a public librarian is attacked by an unseen malevolent force. Boom! “Ghostbusters”, by Ray Parker Jr, bursts into life, letting everyone know they might be in for something different to what they initially expected. Something funny, tongue-in-cheek and not afraid to take the mickey out of itself.
It isn’t unusual for a hit song to be penned for a film – other eighties classics Rocky III (1982), The Breakfast Club (1985) and Top Gun (1986) all had original songs take top spots in the charts – but where Ray Parker Jr stands out from the crowd is in his approach, taking inspiration from advert jingles. The song sets the perfect tone for the film to follow. Its first inclusion, instantly following a moment of horror, is evidence of the film’s ability to blend genres.
The song became a global phenomenon in its own right. It is funny, catchy, and proof of what a strong original song can do for a film.
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9. “What do we do?”
Upon meeting their first ghost, it becomes apparent that Egon (Harold Ramis), Venkman (Bill Murray) and Ray (Dan Aykroyd) have a lot to learn. Up until this point their work has been purely theoretical. Practical application might be somewhat difficult.
The three scientists are disorganised, inexperienced and out of their depth. From a plot perspective, this adds tension. From a comedy perspective, it’s belly laugh funny – no one wants to see three experts tackle floating bodies in a library.
Egon and Venkman deliver their lines brilliantly deadpan, and in juxtapostition Ray gurns, gesticulates and runs around like a cartoon character. It is a great introduction to the three main characters, their many flaws, and their different approaches to the mission.
