Ghostbusters Afterlife Movie Review

Not Perfect, But Still A Good Time

I just got out the theater with one of my friends, and saw Ghostbusters Afterlife. I have to say I had a few worries about this film, but on the whole, I found myself enjoying it.

Ghostbusters Afterlife follows the family of one of the original ghostbusters as they uncover what he was trying to do when he left the original group.

First off, I want to say we are getting such great child actors right now. The acting was pretty darn entertaining for most of the film. The score was solid. The cinematography was good. The jokes had a rocky start, but got better as the film went along. Ghostbusters Afterlife honors the originals while adding its own elements. Though what they decided to do with the antagonist was a bit cliche.

Mckenna Grace plays Phoebe, the protagonist of Ghostbusters Afterlife, and she steals the film. I think this is yet another one on her belt, and it shows she will have a solid career ahead of her. I did like Finn Wolfhard, and I think he's a good actor, but I don't think he was necessary for this film. They could have ditched the more teen characters and just gone with the kids. The subplot with the teens isn't really a big part of the film, and it's kinda forgettable. But they do well with what they're given. 

The music in Ghostbusters Afterlife blends well with each scene in the film. I don't think there was a bad choice of music. The cinematography is also really solid here, with a few beautiful landscape shots. The editing is quick and energetic at times which breathes life into the film.

It goes without saying that Ghostbusters Afterlife is the superior film compared to Ghostbusters 2016. Ghostbusters 2016 was a mistake. I'll be interested to see if any video essays come out comparing the two films. Where Ghostbusters 2016 seems to poke fun at the original, Ghostbusters Afterlife honors the original.

Now the big negative for me was the antagonist. They decided to play it safe, which I think was the wrong choice. This film has the potential to go bold, and they almost do at some points, but they commit to the safe route. I can't say much more without going into spoilers.

The humor in this films is a bit hit and miss at times. It's more rocky in the beginning but there are a few good laugh out loud moments that make up for it. 

I think this is a perfect film for an older kid, probably around the ten to twelve year old range. It's a great adventure which younger viewers will sure have a great time with. If you're concerned about the use of language, yes it is there at times, take that into consideration when bringing your kids. If was like I said, in the ten to twelve year old range, I would have a blast with this film.

I grew up renting Ghostbusters on DVD. It was fun then, and Ghostbusters Afterlife continues the fun now. Sure the film has it's flaws, but I think its worth the watch.

final score: 4/5