A Complete Guide on Watching the Ghostbusters Movies in Chronological Order

2024/09/30

Ghostbusters is widely regarded as one of the most iconic supernatural comedy franchises in film history. Initially released in 1984, the original Ghostbusters movie quickly became a staple of 1980s pop culture.

The film achieved remarkable success at the box office upon its release, leading to the expansion of a multimedia franchise that includes sequels, television shows, video games, comic books, merchandise, and live interactive experiences.

As of now, the franchise has produced five films, with the latest entry, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, hitting theaters in March 2024.

A Comprehensive Guide to Watching Ghostbusters Movies in Order

1) Ghostbusters (1984)

A still from Ghostbusters. (Image via Columbia Pictures)

The first Ghostbusters film premiered in the USA on June 8, 1984, directed by Ivan Reitman with a screenplay crafted by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis based on an earlier story by Aykroyd.

The film stars Bill Murray, Sigourney Weaver, Rick Moranis, Ernie Hudson, and Annie Potts, alongside Aykroyd and Ramis in essential roles. Murray’s standout performance, combined with the film’s unique mix of humor, horror, and science fiction, earned it widespread acclaim and commercial success, spending seven consecutive weeks atop the box office and becoming one of the year’s highest-grossing films.

The plot follows three parapsychologists in New York City who start a ghost removal service after being laid off from their research jobs. Their newfound fame comes with challenges as they encounter an ancient demigod determined to destroy the city.

2) Ghostbusters II (1989)

A still from Ghostbusters II. (Image via Columbia Pictures)

Ghostbusters II, produced by Columbia Pictures, served as a sequel to the beloved 1984 film. Ivan Reitman returned as director while Aykroyd and Ramis worked on multiple drafts of the screenplay. The movie was released in theaters in June 1989 after a rushed production and some last-minute reshoots.

The original cast, including Bill Murray, Sigourney Weaver, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Rick Moranis, returned, with Peter MacNicol joining the adventure as a new character. Unfortunately, the sequel fell short of its predecessor’s legacy, facing criticism for its toned-down humor and perceived lack of originality.

Set in the aftermath of the first film, the sequel depicts the now-separated Ghostbusters facing personal struggles. However, when a new paranormal threat emerges in New York, they must reunite to save the city once again.

3) Ghostbusters: Answer the Call (2016)

A still from Answer the Call (Image via Sony Pictures)

Ghostbusters (2016), also known as Answer the Call, is the third film in the franchise. Released on July 29, 2016, it was directed by Paul Feig, who co-wrote the screenplay with Katie Dippold. This installment serves as a reboot rather than a direct sequel to the 1989 film.

Featuring an all-female lead cast with Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones, the film also includes Zach Woods and Chris Hemsworth in supporting roles.

Answer the Call follows paranormal researchers Abby and Erin as they enlist Patty, a subway worker, to help them combat a malevolent spirit intent on unleashing supernatural chaos in New York City.

4) Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)

A still from Afterlife, (Image via Columbia Pictures)

Afterlife debuted in theaters in 2021 and was directed by Jason Reitman, the son of the original director Ivan Reitman.

The film starred Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, Mckenna Grace, and J.K. Simmons, featuring appearances from Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Ernie Hudson, and Annie Potts reprising their original roles. It was praised for its nostalgic yet fresh approach, alongside strong performances and direction.

Set over three decades after the 1989 film, Afterlife follows Callie and her children moving into their estranged grandfather’s property in a small Oklahoma town. Upon discovering their family’s ghostbusting legacy, they confront an ancient supernatural force.

5) Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)

A still Frozen Empire. (Image via Columbia Pictures)

Frozen Empire is the latest film in the series, marking its fifth installment. Directed by Gil Kenan and co-written with Jason Reitman, it was released on March 22, 2024, celebrating 40 years of the franchise.

This film features a stellar cast, including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and others reprising their iconic roles from the original films, along with Paul Rudd and newcomers like Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt, Emily Alyn Lind, and James Acaster. It has received favorable reviews from both audiences and critics.

Continuing the story from Afterlife, Frozen Empire sees the Spengler family returning to New York to reignite the Ghostbusters team. When a new supernatural threat emerges, the ghostbusting professionals unite across different generations to confront it.

If you’re new to the Ghostbusters franchise and wondering where to begin, this guide lays out all the Ghostbusters movies in chronological order for easy viewing.

Source