Synopsis
Original Ghostbuster (1984)
Ghostbusters (1984) follows three unconventional scientists—Dr. Peter Venkman, Dr. Ray Stantz, and Dr. Egon Spengler—who are fired from their university positions after their research into the paranormal is deemed unorthodox. Undeterred, they decide to form a business specializing in ghost removal services, establishing their headquarters in an abandoned firehouse and outfitting themselves with high-tech ghost-catching equipment. Their new venture, the "Ghostbusters," gains popularity as paranormal disturbances begin to surge across New York City. Their team is soon joined by Winston Zeddemore, a practical-minded newcomer, as demand for their services grows. Along the way, they encounter various supernatural entities, including a particularly troublesome ghost named Slimer.
As the paranormal activity escalates, they discover that an ancient Sumerian god named Gozer is preparing to cross over into our world and wreak havoc. With New York City facing total destruction, the Ghostbusters must confront Gozer in a dramatic battle atop a skyscraper. Armed with their proton packs and facing impossible odds, they square off against Gozer and the terrifying Stay Puft Marshmallow Man—a monster summoned by Gozer in one of the film’s most iconic scenes. Ultimately, the team manages to defeat the deity, saving the city from ruin. Blending humor, suspense, and sci-fi elements, Ghostbusters became a defining film of the 1980s, celebrated for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and inventive special effects.
CHARACTERS
The four original Ghostbusters
Dr. Peter Vankman
Dr. Peter Venkman is the charismatic and sarcastic leader of the Ghostbusters team. Played by Bill Murray, Venkman is more of a skeptic than a scientist, often driven by his ego and charm rather than a strong belief in the paranormal. He’s witty, flirtatious, and unafraid to bend the rules, which often lands him in humorous situations. However, these unique characteristics are also his strength. Venkman’s primary interest seems to be his romantic pursuit of Dana Barrett, a musician who later becomes possessed by a spirit linked to Gozer. Despite his playful demeanor and seeming lack of seriousness, Venkman shows bravery and loyalty when the stakes get high, proving to be an invaluable member of the team. He's not perfect, but he's the leader they need
Actor
Bill Murray
Challenges Facing:
Peter’s biggest challenge is balancing his skepticism and personal ambitions with the serious threats the Ghostbusters face. His sarcastic outlook and tendency to downplay the supernatural are tested when his friend Dana becomes possessed by a spirit linked to an ancient god. To save her and New York City, Peter has to put his ego aside and take the paranormal threat seriously.
Dr. Ray Stantz
Dr. Ray Stantz is the heart of the Ghostbusters, embodying a childlike enthusiasm for all things supernatural. Played by Dan Aykroyd, Ray is a dedicated scientist and paranormal enthusiast who brings both knowledge and passion to the team. His belief in the existence of ghosts is unwavering, and he’s usually the one most excited to face each new supernatural entity they encounter. Ray’s innocence and naivete sometimes lead to trouble, such as when he inadvertently chooses the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man as the form for Gozer’s destructor. Ray’s genuine love for ghost hunting and his optimistic outlook make him one of the film’s most endearing characters. His passion keeps the team's spirits up in the hardest moments.
Actor
Dan Aykroyd
Challenges Facing:
Ray’s enthusiasm sometimes leads him to act without caution, such as when he accidentally summons the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man by allowing Gozer to take on the form of his choosing. His biggest challenge is learning to temper his excitement and approach the supernatural with greater responsibility, as even his innocent imagination can have dangerous, even deadly, consequences.
Dr. Egon Spengler
Dr. Egon Spengler is the brain of the Ghostbusters and the most scientifically inclined member of the team. Played by Harold Ramis, Egon is brilliant, methodical, and highly focused on his research, often oblivious to social cues and humor. He’s responsible for developing the Ghostbusters' proton packs and other equipment, making him indispensable to the group’s success. Egon’s calm and intellectual demeanor provides a contrast to the more humorous personalities of Venkman and Ray, and his deadpan delivery adds a unique layer of comedy. Egon’s logical approach, paired with his fascination with the supernatural, drives much of the team’s scientific foundation. Egon plays an intrical part of the team.
Actor
Harold Ramis
Challenges Facing:
Egon’s challenge lies in balancing his intense scientific focus with the unpredictable nature of the supernatural world. Though he provides essential technology and strategies for the Ghostbusters, he sometimes struggles with human connections and emotions. To help save the city, Egon must learn to connect with his teammates beyond the science, trusting them and himself in high-stakes situations.
Winston Zeddemorer
Winston Zeddemore is the most grounded member of the Ghostbusters and brings a practical perspective to the team. Played by Ernie Hudson, Winston is introduced as an everyman looking for a stable job, with little knowledge or belief in the paranormal before joining. His straightforward attitude and skepticism make him relatable to the audience, as he often reacts to the Ghostbusters' world with a mix of bewilderment and humor. Winston's addition to the team rounds out the group, and his courage in facing terrifying threats alongside his teammates proves his commitment to the job, even if it defies reason. Even though, he's the only one without a doctorate, his practicality and humor add balance to the team's dynamic, grounding the team in reality amidst the chaos.
Actor
Ernie Hudson
Challenges Facing:
Initially unfamiliar with the supernatural, Winston’s biggest challenge is overcoming his skepticism and adapting to a world where ghosts and ancient gods are real. Despite his initial doubts, he grows to trust the team and embraces the fight against Gozer. His journey is one of personal courage, as he learns to face dangers he never imagined and becomes a crucial part of the Ghostbusters.