Filmation Ghostbusters
Ghostbusters, also known as Filmation Ghostbusters, is an American animated TV show that aired in 1986.
“Filmation Ghostbusters” follows the misadventures of two bumbling paranormal investigators, Jake Kong Jr. and Eddie Spenser Jr., along with their talkative gorilla sidekick, Tracy. Together, they form the Ghostbusters team, armed with their trusty Ghost Buggy and a variety of supernatural gadgets. Their mission? To rid the world of mischievous ghosts, ghouls, and otherworldly villains.
The production is made up of 65 episodes and is based on Filmation’s action TV show The Ghost Busters. This cartoon series is often confused with the 1984 feature film Ghostbusters and its cartoon spin-off, The Real Ghostbusters. Hence the name Filmation Ghostbusters.
The Show
The plot revolves around the sons of the 1975 TV show, Jake Kon Jr and Eddie Spencer, and Tracy the Gorilla. Their headquarters, called Hauntquarters, is situated in a city of skyscrapers. Together they endeavor to rid humanity of all evil spirits. The animation style of “Filmation Ghostbusters” is a nostalgic trip back to the ’80s, with its vibrant colors, exaggerated character designs, and energetic animation sequences. While it may not boast the cutting-edge animation techniques of its time, the series has a charm that captures the essence of Saturday morning cartoons from that era.
No cartoons planned
In 1984 Columbia started production of the film “Ghostbusters”. Failing to realize that the name is the same as the 1975 TV show, they had to settle on a deal with Filmation. This agreement carried a price tag of $ 608,000, and Columbia acquired the license. At that stage, none of the two parties even conceived the idea of an animated series.
The Scramble
The film was released in 1984 and turned out to become a box office hit. Since no agreement on an animated series was in place, Filmation approached Columbia to create one based on their movie. It was declined and Columbia opted to go with DiC. Filmation then started production on their version based on their own 1975 TV series. It was called Ghostbusters and featured the characters of the 1975 TV show. The catchphrase “Let’s go, Ghostbusters!” was used in each episode. Filmation Ghostbusters was released on 8 September 1986, a couple of days before Columbia’s version.
No discussion of “Filmation Ghostbusters” is complete without a nod to its catchy theme song. With lyrics that embed themselves in your memory, the theme song is a testament to the era’s penchant for memorable tunes. Additionally, the show introduced catchphrases like “Let’s go, Ghostbusters!” that became iconic among its fan base.
The Real Ghostbusters
Columbia Pictures called their version “The Real Ghostbusters” to avoid confusion. It was released by Sindication on 13 September 1986, five days after Filmation’s version. The catchphrase “Who You Gonna Call? Ghostbusters!” was used in each episode. Everything possible was done to diversify the two shows. The latter went on to produce 7 seasons with 140 episodes.
Conclusion
While “Filmation Ghostbusters” may not have achieved the same cultural impact as some of its animated counterparts, it remains a beloved piece of ’80s nostalgia. Its legacy endures through the fond memories of those who grew up watching the adventures of Jake, Eddie, Tracy, and Futura. The series serves as a charming time capsule, offering a glimpse into the animated landscape of a bygone era.
“Filmation Ghostbusters” may not have been the most high-profile animated series of the 1980s, but it carved its niche in viewers’ hearts. With its memorable characters, imaginative monsters, and infectious theme song, the show is a delightful trip down memory lane for fans of ’80s animation. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or introducing it to a new generation, “Filmation Ghostbusters” remains a spirited and entertaining addition to the animated offerings of its time.