Ghostbusters films and TV shows That You Can Watch Before Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)

The first Ghostbuster movie was released in 1984. Since then, the franchise has been one of the finest comedies that blends supernatural spectacle and comedic genius. From the iconic 1984 film that first introduced us to the paranormal investigators in New York City to the animated TV series that expanded the Ghostbusters universe, this franchise has become a cultural phenomenon.

From the streets of New York to the eerie realms of the spectrum, join us as we unravel the enigmatic charm and enduring legacy of original films and TV shows.

Ghostbusters films and TV shows Guide

Ghostbusters (1984)

Director: Ivan Reitman

Main Cast: Bill Murray as Dr. Peter Venkman, Dan Aykroyd as Ray Stantz, Harold Ramis as Egon Spengler, Ernie Hudson as Winston Zeddemore.

Plot: A group of paranormal investigators starts a ghost-catching business in New York City. Driven by their unique scientific equipment, the Ghostbusters face a surge in supernatural activity, culminating in a battle against a powerful ancient Sumerian god named Gozer.

Significance: This film is the original and introduces the iconic team, their gadgets, and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.

Ghostbusters II (1989)

Director: Ivan Reitman

Main Cast: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson.

Plot: Set five years after the events of the first film, Ghostbusters II sees the team returning to combat a new paranormal threat emerging in New York. The mood slime, a substance reacting to human emotions, plays a significant role, and they face the challenge of saving the city once again.

Significance: The sequel builds upon the success of the original, exploring new supernatural elements and continuing the comedic and supernatural adventure.

Ghostbusters: Answer the Call (2016)

Director: Paul Feig

Main Cast: Melissa McCarthy as Abby Yates, Kristen Wiig as Erin Gilbert, Kate McKinnon as Jillian Holtzmann, Leslie Jones as Patty Tolan.

Plot: This film is a reboot with an all-female team. The story follows a group of scientists who come together to battle a powerful ghost threat in New York City. The reboot brings a fresh comedic perspective while paying homage to the original series.

Significance: While divisive among fans, the film introduces a new generation of people and explores a different dynamic with a female-led cast.

Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)

Director: Jason Reitman

Main Cast: Finn Wolfhard as Trevor, McKenna Grace as Phoebe, Carrie Coon as Callie, Paul Rudd as Mr. Grooberson.

Plot: Serving as a direct sequel to the original, Afterlife follows the descendants of one of the original Ghostbusters as they uncover their family’s legacy. The story explores the connection to the past and introduces new characters while paying homage to the classic Ghostbusters lore.

Significance: Positioned as a passing of the torch to a new generation, Afterlife aims to bridge the gap between the original and a fresh storyline.

The Real Ghostbusters (1986-1991)

Director: Various directors were involved in different episodes, but the series was overseen by Will Meugniot and Richard Raynis.

Cast: The voice cast includes some of the original film’s actors reprising their roles for the animated series:

Lorenzo Music as Dr. Peter Venkman,Frank Welker as Dr. Raymond Stantz and Slimer,Maurice LaMarche as Dr. Egon Spengler,Arsenio Hall as Winston Zeddemore,Laura Summer as Janine Melnitz

Plot: The Real Ghostbusters animated series picks up where the first film left off, following the adventures of the original Ghostbusters—Peter Venkman, Ray Stantz, Egon Spengler, and Winston Zeddemore. The show expands the universe with a wide array of supernatural encounters, including ghosts, demons, and other paranormal phenomena. Each episode typically features the team tackling different challenges while maintaining a balance between humor and spooky escapades.

Significance: The Real Ghostbusters played a pivotal role in expanding the franchise beyond the movies. It allowed for a more extensive exploration of the supernatural world, introduced additional characters, and became a beloved animated series that appealed to a wide audience.

Extreme Ghostbusters (1997)

Director: Various directors worked on different episodes. The series was produced by Adelaide Productions and distributed by Sony Pictures Television.

Cast:

Maurice LaMarche as Egon Spengler (reprising his role from The original)

Jason Marsden as Garrett Miller, Tara Strong as Kylie Griffin, Steven Hart as Eduardo Rivera, Alfonso Ribeiro as Roland Jackson

Plot: Set in a future New York City, Extreme Ghostbusters follows a new generation of Ghostbusters who are mentored by the original team member, Egon Spengler. The diverse group includes Eduardo Rivera, Kylie Griffin, Garrett Miller, and Roland Jackson. Facing a resurgence in paranormal activity, the team battles a new array of ghosts and entities while uncovering the mysteries of the supernatural.

Significance: Extreme Ghostbusters builds on the success of the originals, bringing a fresh perspective to the franchise with a new cast of characters. The show’s emphasis on diversity and its continuation of the legacy contributes to its significance in the lore.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)

Release Date: March 22, 2024 (upcoming at the time of this response)

Plot (based on provided information): Details about the plot are not provided, but given its position in the timeline, it’s expected to continue the saga. Further information may be available upon its release.