Like many other movie-loving households, no holiday or family gathering is ever complete without watching a movie — almost always a “classic.” This has led to many of my nights on the couch watching, and later re-watching, the original “Ghostbusters.” 

As the franchise expanded through inadequate and thrilling movies alike, “Ghostbusters” kept its hold on my heart. Released on March 22, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is no exception. 

Set two years after the events of the 2021 box office smash “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” the movie follows the Spengler family, now accustomed to the Ghostbusters’ first base —  the firehouse — and taking ghost-busting to the next level. After unleashing an evil force upon the world, new and old Ghostbusters unite to save the world from a second ice age.

Joining the original “Ghostbusters” cast was a crew of just as flawless actors and actresses. Renewing their characters, McKenna Grace and Paul Rudd steal the show as Phoebe Spengler and Gary Grooberson, figuring out their relationship with each other and proving they’ll go to the end of the world for their family. They’re not the only ones who “ain’t afraid of no ghost,” because Nadeem (Kaamil Ali Nanjiani) proves a hilarious and brave new addition to the Ghostbusters’ group.

The film balances humor and heartfelt moments wonderfully, and the jokes make the fictional story feel real without taking away from the emotional aspects of the plot. Unlike “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” where the original cast only made small cameos near the end, this film blends nostalgia with modern life beautifully. Every character — new and old — of the extensive main cast list was given their moment to shine. 

But what can make or break a movie is always the special effects. Thankfully, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” does not disappoint. The regular ghosts seen throughout the movie continue to shine, and the ancient evil force — Garaka — is done just enough justice to be downright terrifying. Whether the story ends here or continues for years to come, I will forever remain a “Ghostbusters” fan. Full of fantastic acting, perfectly-timed jokes and realistic special effects, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” proves that, when wanting to watch an amazing movie, there’s truly no one better to call.