The Ghostbusters franchise stands as a quintessential representation of American pop culture during the 1980s. However, subsequent sequels have grappled with recapturing the original’s enchantment, and ‘Frozen Empire’ is no exception. Set against the familiar backdrop of New York City, a nostalgic return to the franchise’s roots, the film follows the Spengler family’s struggle against an ancient spirit intent on encasing the city in ice.
While the narrative attempts to evoke the charm of the original by revisiting the bustling streets of New York and resurrecting the Ghostbusters’ firehouse, it ultimately fails to carve out its own identity. Despite the inclusion of iconic moments and the reappearance of beloved characters, ‘Frozen Empire’ falters, unable to effectively juggle its extensive ensemble cast and numerous subplots.
Although the film indulges in nostalgia by reintroducing fan favorites, its reliance on these elements feels more like a crutch than a celebration of its heritage. At the core of its issues lies the script, penned by director Gil Kenan and screenwriter Jason Reitman. The dialogue often falls flat, and the comedic timing, a hallmark of the franchise, is noticeably lacking. Even the typically dependable Paul Rudd struggles to salvage the film’s attempts at humor. Meanwhile, fan-favorite Bill Murray seems to appear and disappear from scenes without much purpose.
The movie’s sprawling cast, each vying for screen time, results in a disjointed narrative, with many character arcs feeling rushed or altogether unnecessary. However, McKenna Grace’s portrayal of Phoebe offers a glimmer of promise. Her subplot, which revolves around an unlikely friendship, introduces themes of identity and self-discovery that resonate amidst the chaos. Though this relationship remains underexplored, it hints at the depth and creativity that could have been achieved had the film focused more on character development and less on spectacle.
‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ squanders an opportunity to breathe new life into a beloved franchise. While it may briefly warm the hearts of die-hard fans with callbacks and cameos, it ultimately leaves audiences longing for the feel-good factor and wit of the original. Despite its potential, the film is a mishmash of fan service, underdeveloped characters, and lackluster humor.
