Ghostbusters International #5 – A Supernatural Showdown
in the City of Art
Genre
Supernatural Comedy, Paranormal Action, Sci-Fi Adventure
Main Characters
- Dr.
Peter Venkman – The ever-charismatic and sarcastic leader of the team.
- Dr.
Ray Stantz – The enthusiastic believer in the paranormal and team
optimist.
- Dr.
Egon Spengler – The intellectual and scientific backbone of the
Ghostbusters.
- Winston
Zeddemore – The grounded, no-nonsense ghostbuster and team realist.
- Janine
Melnitz – Their dependable receptionist and occasional field
operative.
Writer
Erik Burnham – Known for his long-running work on Ghostbusters
comics, Burnham continues to deliver witty dialogue, dynamic pacing, and deep
respect for the source material, all while expanding the universe beyond New
York City.
Artist
Dan Schoening – With a signature
cartoonish-yet-detailed style, Schoening blends nostalgia with energy. His
panel composition captures both the chaotic comedy and eerie tone of the
paranormal scenes with precision.
Editor Details
Tom Waltz – With experience managing major
franchises, Waltz ensures narrative consistency and character authenticity
while maintaining a brisk and engaging pace.
Publisher and Brand
IDW Publishing under the Ghostbusters
International brand – A spin-off extension of the popular Ghostbusters
series published by IDW, known for revitalizing legacy franchises with new
energy and scope.
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In Ghostbusters International #5, the team is
dispatched to the Louvre Museum in Paris following an unexplained surge in
paranormal activity. What begins as an investigation quickly spirals into a
full-blown spectral assault, threatening not only the safety of museum patrons
but also the priceless works of art housed within its walls. The Ghostbusters
must navigate the supernatural chaos without causing irreparable damage to
cultural treasures. With ancient spirits clashing amidst Da Vinci and Monet,
it’s a high-stakes game of busting ghosts without breaking history.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
This issue forms part of the "Viva La Louvre"
arc, a segment of the Ghostbusters International series that explores
how global locations intersect with paranormal lore. It is notable for blending
real-world landmarks with Ghostbusters’ unique brand of science-fiction and
comedy. This arc is especially compelling as it expands the team's global relevance
and tests their adaptability outside of familiar territory.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
Some fans suggest the haunting at the Louvre may be linked
to suppressed supernatural energy stored in ancient relics hidden beneath the
museum. The resurgence of this energy could be interpreted as a commentary on
how historical artifacts carry spiritual weight, echoing the Ghostbusters’
earlier New York-based adventures, like Gozer's return in the original film.
There is also speculation about a broader force manipulating events behind the
scenes, potentially hinting at a series-long villain.
Review Summary
Ghostbusters International #5 is a clever and tightly written issue that balances humor, action, and respect for global heritage. Erik Burnham’s writing keeps the characters lively and familiar while pushing them into new, challenging scenarios. Dan Schoening’s artwork is dynamic and expressive, perfectly capturing the comedic chaos of a ghost attack in the world's most iconic art museum. The pacing is brisk, the dialogue crackles with personality, and the stakes are refreshingly different thanks to the international setting. This issue is a standout chapter in an already ambitious series.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
