The Real Ghostbusters Writer Criticizes Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Villains

The Disappointment of The Real Ghostbusters Writer

The upcoming release of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire has sparked a wave of controversy as J. Michael Straczynski, the renowned writer behind The Real Ghostbusters, voices his discontent with the film's approach towards the iconic villains from the animated series.

A shadowy ghost figure silhouette with glowing eyes stands menacingly in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

The Real Ghostbusters, an animated series that captivated audiences from 1986 to 1991, introduced a plethora of unique and eccentric villains, each contributing to the show's distinct charm and allure. However, Straczynski, the creative mind behind these 'weird-as-f*ck villains,' was notably absent from the character development process of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

Finn Wolfhard wielding a proton pack in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

In a humorous yet poignant tweet, Straczynski humorously reflects on his lack of involvement in the adaptation, stating that he was 'trying to remember who created and/or developed some of those 'weird-as-f*ck villains.'' His comments carry a hint of saltiness as he expresses his disappointment in not being consulted for the incorporation of these iconic characters.

Paul Rudd as Gary Grooberson, Finn Wolfhard as Trevor, Carrie Coon as Callie, and McKenna Grace as Phoebe Spengler stand on a rooftop with proton packs in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

Twitter article posted by J. Michael Straczynski

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire's Connection with The Real Ghostbusters

The controversy surrounding Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire further unfolds as Straczynski's critique sheds light on the film's connection with The Real Ghostbusters. Director Gil Kenan's intention to feature some of the 'wild, original and weird-as-fuck villains' from the animated series has sparked both excitement and skepticism among fans and industry insiders.

Mckenna Grace and Logan Kim look up at Dan Aykroyd in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

Kenan's ambition to infuse the film with the 'looseness and fearlessness' of The Real Ghostbusters is evident in the monsters set to make an appearance, including a Sewer Dragon and a horned beast in the mist. However, the absence of Straczynski's creative influence in the character development process raises questions about the authenticity of the film's connection with the original series.

The Ghostbusters firehouse surrounding by ice and icicles.

Despite Straczynski's significant contribution to the creation of iconic villains such as the werechicken and the boogeyman, it is perplexing that the film's co-writers did not seek his input. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, co-written by Kenan and Ghostbusters: Afterlife director Jason Reitman, diverges from the stories developed by Straczynski, attributing its inspiration to the original Ghostbusters film.

Paul Rudd Carrie Coon and Mckenna Grace In the Ghostbusters Frozen Empire Trailer

The decision to exclude Straczynski from the character development process raises concerns about the film's fidelity to The Real Ghostbusters, especially as it aims to strike a balance between nostalgia and a new storyline. The absence of the creators behind the franchise's oddities brings into question the authenticity and integrity of the upcoming film.

The Impact of Collaboration with Straczynski

The absence of J. Michael Straczynski's involvement in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire's character development highlights the potential missed opportunity for the film to authentically honor the legacy of The Real Ghostbusters. Kenan's assertion that they 'wanted to bring that show’s looseness and fearlessness to this movie' raises the question of why the creators of the original show were not consulted for their invaluable insights and creative vision.

Consulting with Straczynski could have been a pivotal move for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, especially as the film endeavors to capture the essence of the beloved animated series. Straczynski's expertise and deep understanding of the iconic villains from The Real Ghostbusters could have enriched the character development process, ensuring that the film remains faithful to the spirit of the original show.

As the release date of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire draws near, the decision to overlook the creators' involvement in crafting the villains from The Real Ghostbusters remains a point of contention. The anticipation for the film's ability to deliver worthwhile villains persists, with the hope that it will successfully capture the essence of the animated series while forging a new and compelling narrative.