The sequel to the 2021 film “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” has been officially named “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” and it’s bringing a chilling twist to New York City.
The first trailer for the movie has just been released, providing a glimpse of what’s to come. In “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” the action unfolds in New York City, much like the original two Ghostbusters films, and introduces a new supernatural threat called “the Death Chill.” This menacing force, as explained by Dan Aykroyd’s veteran Ghostbuster Raymond Stantz, is capable of freezing bones and turning veins into icy rivers, ultimately causing a person’s tear ducts to freeze up.
The story follows the Spengler family, who return to the iconic New York City firehouse where it all began, teaming up with the original Ghostbusters. These original Ghostbusters have established a top-secret research lab for ghost-busting. However, when the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an evil force, the new and old Ghostbusters must unite to protect their home and save the world from a second Ice Age.
The trailer offers glimpses of the summertime New York City transforming into a lethal winter wonderland and showcases a mix of returning franchise cast members and newcomers, including Mckenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, Celeste O’Connor, Carrie Coon, Logan Kim, Paul Rudd, Ernie Hudson, Bill Murray, and, of course, Dan Aykroyd. The teaser also introduces newcomers Kumail Nanjiani and Patton Oswalt.
“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” is directed by Gil Kenan and written by Kenan and Jason Reitman, who directed “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” and is the son of the late Ivan Reitman, director of the original Ghostbusters in 1984. Jason Reitman expressed his hopes that “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” would set the stage for further sequels, and in June 2022, during a “Ghostbusters Day” event, he confirmed that the next installment in the franchise was in development and would return to New York City. The film is set to release on March 29, 2024.