Ghostbusters Trailer Tuesday: 'Ghostbusters II" (1989)

So, with this week's Ghostbusters Trailer Tuesday we will step in it, sequel territory that it. This is 'Ghostbusters II' (1989).

Video Provided by Andy Mitchell

OK, let's not delve into the validity or the problems of GB2 (that, as I have come to say a lot, will come later) first we must go back to simpler time with a exciting proposal: The Ghostbusters were coming back. To be a kid at this time was a big deal. You loved the Ghostbusters but according to time tables you probably weren't old enough to see the first film in theaters. You might have become a fan of the franchise through continued viewings on TV or perhaps got into them by way of 'The Real Ghostbusters'. Whatever the avenue was all kids now had the chance to see them, all of them, on the big screen. It was a big deal. I know, I was there. I was super excited. I was five, but still...excited.

The plot is a somewhat remake of 'Ghostbusters' with the differences being a new villain, a evil wizard painting, and the years that have passed. Oh, and slime. Lots of pink slime. Truth is we all know the film because we've all seen it, it's Ghostbusters, so let's go over if the trailer works. If the purpose of this trailer is to get us excited for a new Ghostbusters film (and it is) then it works. It not only shows us that the Ghostbusters are back, it tells us (several times) that they're back. It will also be mentioned plenty of times in the film as well. I'm surprised the film wasn't titled 'They're Back!, A Ghostbusters Sequel'. They also show plenty of action, plenty of suspense, and plenty of slime.  So the "Ghost-" part of the title is taken care of.

You know what it's missing? Humor. Where's all the funny moments? Where's the "-Busters" part? Don't get me wrong, it has some funny moments (all from Peter) but the humorous tone that is present in the original trailer seems to be lacking. Maybe they figured that since you already know what Ghostbusters is it doesn't need to explain it. You know what it should be, a combination of spooky and silly, so instead they just need to inform you that the guys are back. Fair enough, I'm just saying a sampling of humor could of helped. Also, why does Ernie Hudson get last billing? OK, I'm getting to far into it now and strating to step on future discussions.

So that's the trailer to 'Ghostbusters II' (1989). Does it work? Am I wrong in my judgement? Let me know if you feel different.

 

 




I've also included the 'Ghostbusters II' (1989) deleted scenes that were included with the recent Blu-Ray release. Check them out.