“Ghostbusters: The Frozen Empire” may warrant a streaming viewing. However, it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression or justify a trip to the cinema.

In Ghostbusters: The Frozen Empire, the iconic New York City firehouse once again serves as the battleground for a supernatural showdown. Led by the Spengler family, including the brilliant Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), the Ghostbusters must confront an ancient evil that threatens to plunge the world into a second ice age.

The premise holds promise, blending nostalgia with a fresh take on ghost-busting antics. However, the film struggles to maintain momentum, feeling sluggish in its buildup and hurried in its resolution. While the concept of an evil entity freezing objects to absolute zero is intriguing, much of the runtime is consumed by exposition and one-liners that miss the mark.

Despite the narrative shortcomings, the film benefits from a stellar cast who inject energy into their roles. Paul Rudd, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Carrie Coon deliver solid performances, with special mention to Kumail Nanjiani, whose comedic timing shines brightly amidst the chaos.

Visually, the film impresses with its CGI and effects, bringing the villain and spectral entities to life with chilling authenticity. However, the reliance on CGI spectacle cannot fully compensate for a lackluster storyline.

Ultimately, Ghostbusters: The Frozen Empire offers moments of entertainment but fails to capture the magic of its predecessors. While fans may find enjoyment in revisiting familiar characters and settings, newcomers may struggle to connect with the convoluted narrative. As a standalone film, it falls short of expectations, earning a modest rating of 5/10.

For those seeking a dose of nostalgia and the comedic stylings of the cast, Ghostbusters: The Frozen Empire may warrant a streaming viewing. However, it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression or justify a trip to the cinema.

5/10