Ghostbusters (1984) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?

Moderate innuendo and suggestive situations are present. The character of Peter Venkman constantly makes flirtatious and unprofessional remarks to his client, Dana. In a brief dream sequence, a ghostly figure unzips a character's pants, implying oral sex. Later, a possessed Dana, wearing a revealing garment, aggressively tries to seduce Peter by straddling him on a bed. There is also a brief, comedic line where a character asks a woman if she is menstruating.

Violence is mostly comedic and without gore, but includes several scenes that may frighten younger children. There are multiple jump scares, most notably when a quiet librarian ghost transforms into a screaming, skeletal creature. Supernatural beings like the demonic "terror dogs" are menacing, and one chases a character through a park. The Ghostbusters use their proton packs to cause explosions and significant property damage. The climax features a giant monster stomping through New York City, and the final…

The language is mild for a modern film but contains some profanity that might be surprising from its original PG rating. Throughout the film, there are several uses of "shit," "ass," and "hell." Other terms include "bitch" and "goddamnit." In one notable scene, Peter Venkman directly calls a government official "dickless."

There is frequent smoking throughout the film. Several of the main characters, particularly Ray and Winston, are seen smoking cigarettes in numerous scenes, including indoors and in their vehicle. Social drinking is also depicted, with characters drinking beer and champagne is served at a party.

The film's primary themes involve supernatural peril, possession, and an impending apocalypse, though they are treated with a comedic tone. The possession of Dana and Louis is a central plot point, with scenes showing them levitating, speaking in demonic voices, and ultimately transforming into monstrous creatures. These sequences can be intense. The villain's plan is to end the world, and there are scenes of city-wide panic and destruction.

No standout scary moments have been catalogued for Ghostbusters yet. Because this title is recommended for younger kids, sign up to get community-flagged jump scares, tense scenes, and startling imagery as parents submit them.