Ghostbusters: Afterlife

Parents need to know that Ghostbusters: Afterlife reboots the beloved Ghostbusters franchise as a frighteningly good comedy adventure about kids ridding a town of ghosts. This installment takes place decades after the events of the original and was written to appeal to kids (including a self-possessed tween girl scientist leading the charge), who don't need to have seen the original to enjoy this one. But longtime fans will be rewarded with a basketful of Easter eggs and cameos from all of the original living Ghostbusters: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, and Annie Potts (Egon/Harold Ramis died in 2014). Count on seeing ghosts both funny and fearsome; keep in mind that special effects have improved since 1984, and what didn't scare you as a kid might be more frightening through the lens of modern technology. There are references to virginity (without an explanation of what that term means) and a couple of other sexual insinuations that will likely go over most kids' heads. You can also expect a few swear words ("a--hole," "s--t"). Still, this is definitely a more family-friendly film than the original, with themes of friendship, forgiveness, and redemption. Watch through the end of the credits for an extra treat.