In the summer of 1984, a sci-fi comedy film debuted in theaters and became a international smash hit.

Ghostbusters, starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, Harold Ramis, and Sigourney Weaver, chronicled the hilarious misadventures of four paranormal investigators.

The movie's unique blend of slapstick comedy, charismatic cast, catchy theme song, and (at the time) cutting-edge visual effects made it a classic, delighting fans for decades.

When film students from the University of Alabama (UA) had to scramble to salvage their class project, they turned to Ghostbusters for inspiration.

Alabama Ghostbusters: A Web Series is the result, and it is impressive indeed.

Written by Nicky Stevens and director Adam Schwartz (a professor of telecommunication and film at UA), the series follows the exploits of the Alabama franchise of New York based "home office."

When we meet the members of the Alabama branch, portrayed by Brock Parker, Bo Bearden, and David Railey, it is revealed business has been quite slow for the spectral exterminators.

However, things take a turn for the bizarre when the team is hired to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a young woman.

First, it is important to note, the web series a not-for-profit fan film produced with assistance from the fan community, Alabama Ghostbusters.

Second, it is very evident from the look and feel of the project that a lot of passion and zeal went into its production.

The cinematography is clear and vibrant. The costumes look as though they were borrowed directly from the movie set.

Being filmed on location in Tuscaloosa, Alabama gives the project a distinct tone and atmosphere.

The script wisely focuses on character relationships, and creating chills using ambiance instead of explicit visual effects - a prime example is the cold open of the pilot episode.

As of this writing, three, 9-minute episodes have been produced with more planned.

I certainly hope we see more because I enjoy revisiting this world.

Kudos to the fan community of Alabama Ghostbusters and the students of UA for creating a thoroughly entertaining work.

Watch the pilot episode for a taste of the series tone and aesthetic:

To view current episodes, visit the series YouTube channel Alabama Ghostbusters.

For more information about the production, visit the Facebook fan page Alabama Ghostbusters.

Alabama Ghostbusters: A Web Series is a fun tribute to a great comedy.

Who You (Still) Gonna Call?

Ghostbusters!

Help Keep The 7th Matrix Independent and Ad-Free!