**Spoiler Warning**: This article delves into key plot details and the climax of “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” currently showing in theaters. If you haven’t watched it yet, proceed with caution.
In the latest addition to the Ghostbusters saga, “Frozen Empire,” a sinister new adversary challenges the Ghostbusters right at their doorstep. However, a dynamic alliance between the franchise’s beloved veterans and fresh faces ensures victory, albeit setting the stage for future confrontations.
Set against the iconic backdrop of New York City, the original site of the 1984 Ghostbusters phenomenon, “Frozen Empire” introduces the malevolent spirit Garraka. Intent on assembling an army of the undead to wage war on humanity, Garraka’s plans are thwarted by the combined efforts of the original Ghostbusters—Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), and Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson)—and a new generation led by the young Phoebe Spengler (Mckenna Grace).
Director Gil Kenan, alongside his talented cast, hints at what the conclusion of “Frozen Empire” and a tantalizing end-credits scene might mean for the future of the Ghostbusters franchise.
### The Climactic Battle of ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’
Upon Garraka’s escape from his brass orb prison, he envelops Manhattan in ice, targeting the Ghostbusters’ headquarters. With the help of Nadeem (Kumail Nanjiani), whose grandmother had kept Garraka captive, the Ghostbusters confront and defeat the demonic entity. However, the destruction of the ghost containment unit releases all previously captured ghosts, setting the scene for potential future chaos in New York City. Director Kenan teases, “When you’ve got a city full of ghosts, there’s only one number to call.”
### The Fate of the Original Ghostbusters
Despite the trend of significant characters meeting their end in franchise sequels, “Frozen Empire” spares our beloved Ghostbusters. A particular scene does cast a shadow of concern over Ray, who ponders the experience of being a ghost. Director Kenan clarifies that while Ray’s musings are crucial to the narrative, especially in relation to Phoebe’s journey, they also serve to heighten the audience’s anticipation and concern.
### The Promise of Future ‘Ghostbusters’ Adventures
The end-credits scene, set to the iconic “Ghostbusters” theme by Ray Parker Jr., reveals a Stay Puft Marshmallow truck being hijacked by the mischievous Mini-Pufts, hinting at more supernatural mischief to come. Kenan expresses his intent to explore various supernatural threats in future installments.
As for what lies ahead, the original Ghostbusters have their visions. Dan Aykroyd envisions a story where the torch is passed to the younger generation, led by Phoebe. Ernie Hudson, now portraying a wealthy Winston, imagines a global ghostbusting initiative, drawing inspiration from every culture’s unique ghost stories. He expresses a desire to revisit the ghost-chasing adventures alongside Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd, proving that the original Ghostbusters are still ready for action.
“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” not only pays homage to its roots but also paves the way for new tales of spectral heroism, ensuring the legacy of the Ghostbusters continues to thrive.