Kid’s take on movies: ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’
KIDS FIRST! film critic, age 13
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire works as an extension of the adventures of the Ghostbusters. It has a developing plot that surprised me because it’s pretty creative.
However, it’s not something to call “out of this world.”
This film follows the Spenglers, who reunite with beloved former Ghostbusters to fight an ancient icy evil that threatens all of humanity.
Will their skills match up to this cold villain, or will they all freeze to death?
The main characters are Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), Trevor (Finn Wolfhard), Mr. Grooerson (Paul Rudd), Callie (Carrie Coon), Ray (Dan Aykroyd), Winston (Ernie Hudson), Lucky (Celeste O’Connor), Podcast (Logan Kim), Janine (Annie Potts) and Venkman (Bill Murray).
It’s interesting to see the new and old Ghostbusters collaborate to fight Garraka, the ancient ice god. This film offers a reunion the fans have wanted, and the filmmakers responded to that.
I recommend watching the previous Ghostbusters movies. However, keep in mind that the original Ghostbusters do not have much involvement in this film — they are merely there to watch, which is extremely disappointing. During the ending fight scene, they just stand there. On the other hand, the plot is engaging, and I never found myself bored during the film.
It starts off with the Spengler family on a mission to capture a ghost. Therefore, it has a quick start as it kicks into the storyline.
I do not care for the direction of this movie. It feels off. For example, when the ghost betrays Phoebe, it happens all of a sudden, without much context, especially since the two of them don’t have that much of a bond.
Also, the characters don’t really stand out from each other.
I also did not like the special effects. They could be playing homage to the original movies, but the special effects of the ghosts are not realistic in any way.
On a higher note, my favorite parts of the film are the mini StayPuft Marshmallow Men. They are adorable and hilarious. If you remember, in the previous film the marshmallow man is huge.
The film’s message is that family matters most. Phoebe is banned from Ghostbusting, and she gets into more trouble later on. However, in the end, she and her parents forgive each other because they realize the importance of family.
I give Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.