There’s a long list of movies and shows from our childhoods that we are eager to share with Lucas, and we choose which one to share with him depending on his age and interest.

Above: Halloween 2022

Ghostbusters is quite high on that list, and it’s easy to see why! The movie takes a potentially scary phenomenon and turns it from something vague and supernatural to something measurable, logical, and stoppable. The dialogue may be a bit adult, but the humor stands, and the actors’ dynamic is something fun even for a kid to watch.

I can’t remember when we first watched the movies with Lucas. I just know he really loved Ghostbusters, Ghostbusters II, and Ghostbusters: Afterlife. (I haven’t seen 2016, sorry!)

Above: Halloween 2023

One year, Oneal’s cousin Jim gave us the Ghostbusters jumpsuits and boots that his sons had outgrown. Oneal got to work, getting a proton pack, PKE meter and wand for Lucas. He also made goggles and put together a belt. Lucas was thrilled! For at least two Halloweens now (photos above), Lucas has been marching around our village in his uniform, zapping the ghosts in the decor. I’m pretty sure he’s worn the uniform at least once for a school party too!

Lucas likes Ghostbusters so much that he spends time playing Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed with my best friend. (above)

Lucas likes Ghostbusters so much that, for a time, he would play the song on Spotify nonstop!

Above and below: The premiere of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire in April 2024, SM Megamall

When we heard about Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, we weren’t sure we’d be able to join the premiere. We’re so glad we were on the guest list, and we got to see the movie with a bajillion other Ghostbusters in costume! Lucas was so thrilled.

I thought about dressing up as Janine Melnitz, especially given that my childhood nickname is actually Genine, but I realized that I didn’t have anything in my closet resembling any outfit she ever had in the movies of the animated shows. That’s too bad, because I think my current glasses quite resemble hers! Maybe next time I’ll show up in a jumpsuit like everyone else.

For now, that jumpsuit is too short for Lucas, and he wants a name patch! So it looks like we’re working on that first!

What movies from your childhood do your kids love most?