Ghostbusters #17 Review


Can this title really live up to the legacy of this blockbuster film franchise? Read on to find out.

The official description from IDW:

New York’s unknown dead are buried on Hart Island… and their spirits are about to be stirred, raised and conscripted into an army with but one purpose: raising chaos on the streets of Manhattan. The second half of Mass Hysteria! begins here in our celebration of 30 years of Ghostbusters!

Ghostbusters 17_Preview PageI’ll be honest I have a bit of a ritual when it comes to comic book fun time. First I find a nice quiet spot, grab a cold drink, silence my phone and get comfy before I peel back that first page. There are plenty of times where I get up frustrated after perusing a disappointing outing, but rest assured my fellow fanboys and fangirls this was not one of those instances.

Erik Burnham once again helms this ship and he delivers an engaging romp that suits the 30th anniversary of the Ghostbusters. The narrative at play revisits both original features but in a slightly new light, while the likes of Venkman, Egon, Ray and Winston get to tackle recognizable occurrences. The inclusion of a rather expansive supporting cast makes the literary space tight but for the most part the audience is given enough room to care as this tale grows in scope. This entire saga involving Tiamat, sister of Gozer, has been ripe for reflection and the author makes use of that.

My personal favorite aspect of this monthly series has got to be the quirky renditions turned in by Dan Schoening. Whether the talent is approaching iconic paranormal manifestations or revamped interpretations of familiar events he delivers pencil strokes that back up and even elevate the written word. Add into the mix the expressive color scheme drafted by Luis Antonio Delgado and we’re left with a complete visual package.

Ghostbusters #17 is a fun trip down memory lane. It never seeks to change the past as it blends seamlessly with present day shenanigans. No matter where you point your Proton Pack this one easily comes recommended.

OUR RATING
8.5
  • + Feels like the right way to spend a 30th anniversary.
  • + The Ghostbusters take on a paranormal army!
  • + More excellent art from Dan Schoening.
  • - Wanted more time in Ray's mind...

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