Written by Christan Vail
Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
In 1989, the world was captivated once again by the supernatural comedy blockbuster, Ghostbusters II. Directed by Ivan Reitman and starring the original cast including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, the sequel took audiences on a thrilling and hilarious ride through the streets of New York City in the battle against supernatural forces. Building upon the success of its predecessor, Ghostbusters II managed to deliver a perfect blend of comedy, action, and supernatural elements that left fans wanting more. In this article, we will delve into 39 fascinating facts about Ghostbusters II, uncovering behind-the-scenes secrets, interesting trivia, and memorable moments that have solidified its place in cinema history. So grab your proton packs, put on your jumpsuits, and get ready to learn everything there is to know about Ghostbusters II.
Key Takeaways:
- “Ghostbusters II” is the exciting sequel to the iconic original, featuring the return of the beloved cast and new recruits, along with memorable scenes and a successful soundtrack.
- The movie delivers a positive message about friendship and unity, blending supernatural encounters with light-hearted humor and scientific explanations, captivating audiences of all ages.
The sequel to the iconic Ghostbusters
Ghostbusters II is the highly anticipated sequel to the 1984 film Ghostbusters, which gained a massive cult following and became a pop culture phenomenon.
Released in 1989
The movie was released on June 16, 1989, five years after the original film, and was directed by Ivan Reitman.
Returning cast
The film features the return of the original cast, including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, and Rick Moranis.
New recruits
Ghostbusters II introduces two new recruits, played by Peter MacNicol and Janet Margolin, who join the iconic ghost-catching team.
Carpathian villain
The main antagonist of the film is Vigo the Carpathian, played by Wilhelm von Homburg, who seeks to possess a baby and return to life.
Statue of Liberty comes to life
In a memorable scene, the Ghostbusters harness the power of positive emotions to control and animate the Statue of Liberty, using it to march through the streets of New York City.
The slime is back
The sequel introduces “mood slime,” a viscous green substance that reacts to emotions and plays a pivotal role in the movie’s supernatural occurrences.
Soundtrack success
The movie’s soundtrack, featuring the hit song “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr., was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries.
Ecto-1 returns
The iconic Ghostbusters vehicle, the Ecto-1, makes a reappearance in the sequel, undergoing some modifications to aid in their battle against paranormal entities.
Ghostbusting in court
In one scene, the Ghostbusters find themselves in court, facing a lawsuit for property damage caused during their previous ghostbusting activities.
The painting of Vigo
The painting of Vigo the Carpathian, which serves as a key element in the film, was created by renowned artist Glen Eytchison.
The baby Oscar
The role of baby Oscar, who becomes a target for Vigo, was played by twins William and Henry Deutschendorf.
The Ghostbusters’ icon
The iconic Ghostbusters logo, featuring a ghost with a red “no” symbol over it, is prominently featured in the sequel, captivating fans once again.
Slapstick comedy
Ghostbusters II maintains the same comedic tone as the original film, combining witty dialogue and physical humor to entertain audiences.
Ghostbusters go underground
In a pivotal scene, the Ghostbusters descend into the sewers of New York City to confront Vigo and save the day.
Special effects advancements
The sequel takes advantage of advancements in special effects technology, allowing for more spectacular and realistic ghostly encounters.
Stay Puft Marshmallow Man cameo
The beloved Stay Puft Marshmallow Man from the first film makes a cameo appearance in the sequel, delighting fans with a nostalgic reference.
Psychological experiments
Psychological experiments conducted by Dr. Janosz Poha, played by Peter MacNicol, play a significant role in the movie’s plot.
Emotional resonance
The film explores the power of emotion and the impact it has on the supernatural world, emphasizing the importance of positive emotions.
New York City setting
As with the original film, Ghostbusters II is set in New York City, showcasing iconic locations and capturing the essence of the bustling metropolis.
The court ruling
The court scene in the movie leads to a crucial ruling that allows the Ghostbusters to resume their ghostbusting activities legally.
Cameos from popular figures
The film features cameo appearances by various popular figures, including Bobby Brown, Cheech Marin, and Ben Stein.
Positive message
Ghostbusters II delivers a positive message about the power of unity, friendship, and overcoming obstacles with perseverance.
Slime blowers
The Ghostbusters utilize specialized “slime blowers” to combat the supernatural threats they face throughout the film.
Scientific explanations
Continuing from the first film, Ghostbusters II incorporates scientific explanations and theories to lend credibility to its supernatural encounters.
Cultural references
The movie includes various cultural references, including nods to art, history, and popular culture, adding depth and humor to the storyline.
Dr. Peter Venkman’s charisma
Bill Murray’s portrayal of Dr. Peter Venkman once again shines with his charm, wit, and comedic timing, captivating audiences.
Dana Barrett’s role
Sigourney Weaver reprises her role as Dana Barrett, whose infant son becomes a target for Vigo’s evil plans.
Egon Spengler’s brilliance
Harold Ramis shines as Dr. Egon Spengler, showcasing his brilliance and scientific expertise in the face of supernatural chaos.
Ray Stantz’s enthusiasm
Dan Aykroyd’s character, Dr. Ray Stantz, once again brings his infectious enthusiasm for all things paranormal to the screen.
Winston Zeddemore’s dedication
Ernie Hudson’s character, Winston Zeddemore, displays unwavering dedication and loyalty to the Ghostbusters’ mission.
Janine Melnitz’s sass
Annie Potts‘ character, Janine Melnitz, brings her sassy and quick-witted personality back to the Ghostbusters’ headquarters.
Ghostbusters in the media spotlight
The film explores the consequences of the Ghostbusters’ fame and how they are thrust into the media spotlight as paranormal experts.
Ectoplasmic surprises
Ghostbusters II introduces even more unexpected encounters with ectoplasmic entities, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
Strong friendships
The film emphasizes the strength of the friendships between the Ghostbusters, highlighting their unwavering support for one another.
Catchy catchphrases
Ghostbusters II includes memorable catchphrases like “Who you gonna call?” and “We’re back!” that have become synonymous with the franchise.
Light-hearted humor
The movie strikes a balance between supernatural suspense and light-hearted humor, making it an enjoyable viewing experience for audiences of all ages.
Successful box office performance
Ghostbusters II was a commercial success, grossing over $215 million worldwide and solidifying the franchise’s popularity.
Enduring legacy
Despite mixed initial reviews, Ghostbusters II has carved out its own enduring legacy and remains a beloved film among fans of the original.
Conclusion
Ghostbusters II is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor, supernatural elements, and memorable characters. The movie not only pays homage to its predecessor but also manages to stand on its own as a worthy sequel.
With its engaging storyline, iconic quotes, and unforgettable moments, Ghostbusters II has cemented its place in pop culture history. From the dynamic chemistry among the cast to the impressive special effects, the film delivers a thoroughly enjoyable experience that keeps viewers entertained from start to finish.
Whether you’re a die-hard Ghostbusters fan or new to the franchise, Ghostbusters II is a must-watch that will leave you laughing, cheering, and anxiously awaiting the next supernatural encounter with everyone’s favorite ghost-fighting team.
FAQs
Q: When was Ghostbusters II released?
A: Ghostbusters II was released on June 16, 1989.
Q: Who directed Ghostbusters II?
A: Ghostbusters II was directed by Ivan Reitman.
Q: Can I watch Ghostbusters II without having seen the first movie?
A: While it’s recommended to watch the original Ghostbusters first to fully appreciate the sequel, Ghostbusters II can be enjoyed as a standalone film.
Q: Where was Ghostbusters II filmed?
A: Ghostbusters II was primarily filmed in New York City, with iconic locations such as the Statue of Liberty and Times Square featuring prominently.
Q: Who are the main cast members in Ghostbusters II?
A: The main cast of Ghostbusters II includes Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Sigourney Weaver, and Ernie Hudson.
Q: Does Ghostbusters II feature any famous cameos?
A: Yes, Ghostbusters II includes cameos from celebrities such as Bobby Brown, Peter Falk, and Cheech Marin.
Q: What is the plot of Ghostbusters II?
A: Ghostbusters II picks up five years after the events of the first movie, where the Ghostbusters must reunite to stop a new paranormal threat that poses a danger to New York City.
Q: Did Ghostbusters II receive positive reviews from critics?
A: Critical reception for Ghostbusters II was mixed at the time of its release, but it has since gained a cult following and is regarded as a beloved sequel by many fans.
If you enjoyed learning about Ghostbusters II, why not explore more fascinating facts about other comedic gems? Discover the hilarious hijinks in the sequel to the classic spoof Airplane!, or uncover little-known trivia about the legendary Bill Murray. For a change of pace, delve into the world of live comedy with our article on the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Each piece offers a unique perspective on the world of entertainment, guaranteed to keep you informed and amused.
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