Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones star in the remake of “Ghostbusters.” (Hopper Stone / Sony Pictures Entertainment)

Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones star in the remake of “Ghostbusters.” (Hopper Stone / Sony Pictures Entertainment)

‘Ghostbusters’ redo works very well with kooky female cast

In answer to the musical question, “Who you gonna call?”, Sony Pictures has given a novel answer. You gonna call women, is who you gonna call.

The idea of a female “Ghostbusters” squad was greeted with a mix of curiosity and some hilariously sad diatribes by internet deep-thinkers who complained that their childhood memories would be ruined by the presence of icky girls.

For those of us who didn’t grow up worshiping the 1984 original (except for Bill Murray’s gloriously koo-koo presence), the stakes were maybe not so high. If anything, a female cast is about the only reason I could imagine getting interested in a remake.

The good news is, it works — for a long time, anyway. The crew of paranormal investigators is here played by crack comedy hands Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones.

These are not only funny people, but they’ve actually got funny lines and situations to play with. Director Paul Feig (“Bridesmaids”), who wrote the film with Katie Dippold, takes the fast-and-furious approach: with so many gags coming along every minute, it doesn’t matter much if some of them flop.

Wiig plays to her understated strengths, especially when trying to catch the attention of the ghostbusters’ receptionist, a dimwitted hunk played by Chris Hemsworth. His non sequiturs (“You know, an aquarium is like a submarine for fish”) are consistently loopy.

McCarthy could use one or two more opportunities to cut loose with her patented verbal improvs. Otherwise, the four make a lively ensemble, and “SNL” regular Kate McKinnon steals the show, with a twitchy performance that marks her as an authentic oddball.

The plot you know: Ghosts are loose in New York, and the city needs protecting. The movie doesn’t have much interest in the paranormal stuff — here, it’s just an excuse for jokes — but the villain (Neil Casey, who summons up a real weirdie vibe) is creepy enough.

The original “Ghostbusters” helped invent a certain kind of lumbering, effects-heavy comedy, and eventually this reboot must pay heed to the requirements of giant ghosts and citywide mayhem. There’s a definite letdown when that happens, but thankfully the jokes keep coming.

Obligatory cameos from 1984 cast members are scattered throughout. Nothing can be a surprise these days, and you can guess who’s in there. Still, the preview audience loudly cheered every appearance.

All in all, an agreeably silly evening at the movies. Even the end credits are peppy. That’s what makes this “Ghostbusters” click: The high spirits are maintained from the ectoplasmic opening sequence to the very end. That’s good enough for a big summer party.

“Ghostbusters” 3 stars

The 1984 hit gets all shook up with a female cast—and when the females are Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones, the movie is going to have some laughs. This one maintains its high spirits throughout, even if it doesn’t seem too interested in the paranormal stuff.

Rating: PG-13, for violence

Showing: Alderwood Mall, Cinebarre, Everett, Monroe, Marysville, Stanwood, Meridian, Sundance, Thornton, Woodinville, Cascade Mall, Oak Harbor

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid (Provided by Kia).
2025 Kia Carnival lineup includes a hybrid model

Fuel economy is more than 50 percent better with the hybrid powertrain.

Cacti Green Equinox ACTIV photo provided by Chevrolet Newsroom.
Chevrolet Adds ACTIV trim to 2025 Equinox Compact SUV Refresh

Light Off-Roading Added To Its Bag Of Tricks

Open for the past 120 years, The Historic Everett Theatre plays a vital role as a venue for the Everett community. Photo courtesy of Historic Everett Theatre.
Feel the rhythm – Discover the best places for live music

Ready to soak in some incredible live performances? Herald readers have you covered.

Stay in, have fun: Top three indoor experiences to explore

Rain or shine, these exciting indoor spots guarantee a great time!

Children play and look up at a large whale figure hanging from the ceiling at the Imagine Children’s Museum (Olivia Vanni / The herald)
Fun for all ages: The best places for family adventures

From thrilling activities to relaxing outings, here’s where to make unforgettable family memories!

Everett P. Fog, 15, in front of an Everett mural along Colby Avenue on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Hello, Everett! No escape when your name is same as the town

Everett P. Fog, 15, sees and hears his first name wherever he goes. His middle name is also epic.

2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek edition (Provided by Nissan).
2025 Nissan Rogue has new Rock Creek edition

Enhanced outdoor capability is a boon for the more adventurous.

Futuristic Kona Limited Photo Provided By Hyundai Newsroom.
2025 Hyundai Kona Limited SUV Gets Roomier

All-Wheel Drive Option Add To All Trims

Jared Meads takes a breath after dunking in an ice bath in his back yard while his son Fallen, 5, reads off the water temperature on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Chill out: Dive into the cold plunge craze

Plungers say they get mental clarity and relief for ails in icy water in tubs, troughs and clubs.

Schack exhibit to highlight Camano Island watercolorists

“Four Decades of Friendship: John Ebner & John Ringen” will be on display Jan. 16 through Feb. 9.

Provided by Bridges Pets, Gifts, & Water Gardens.
Discover where to find the best pet supplies in town

Need the perfect store to spoil your furry friends? Herald readers have you covered.

XRT Trim Adds Rugged Features Designed For Light Off-Roading
Hyundai Introduces Smarter, More Capable Tucson Compact SUV For 2025

Innovative New Convenience And Safety Features Add Value

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.