RiffTrax: Ghosthouse

RiffTrax: Ghosthouse is a humorous and engaging film that embodies the spirit of live commentary and comedic riffing that fans of the RiffTrax franchise have come to love. Released in 2012, this full-length feature brings together the comedic talents of Michael J. Nelson, Bill Corbett, and Kevin Murphy, all of whom are former cast members of the beloved cult classic Mystery Science Theater 3000 (MST3K). The film not only serves as a delightful addition to the RiffTrax catalog but also offers a unique approach to reviewing and riffing on an obscure film from the 1980s.

The original Ghosthouse is a lesser-known horror film that follows a group of people who encounter eerie occurrences in a haunted house. While many horror movies of the era relied heavily on jump scares and blood, Ghosthouse attempts to create a more atmospheric sense of dread, featuring spooky settings and strange happenings designed to unsettle its characters and audience alike. However, what sets RiffTrax: Ghosthouse apart is the clever and witty commentary provided by Nelson, Corbett, and Murphy — a trio renowned for their ability to infuse humor into even the most drab or tedious of cinematic works.

As the movie unfolds, viewers are introduced to a disjointed narrative peppered with genre cliches and a range of bizarre characters, making it rich fodder for the trio's comedic observations. The film's pacing and plot choices, which at times seem arbitrary or nonsensical, lend themselves naturally to the irreverent style of the RiffTrax team. Their commentaries consist of playful jabs, hilarious insights, and sharp observational humor that bring a fresh perspective to the clunky moments of the original film.

The format of RiffTrax: Ghosthouse invites the audience to enjoy the film as if they were watching it with friends, turning what could be a solitary movie-watching experience into a shared party atmosphere. Viewers are encouraged to synchronize their watching of Ghosthouse with the RiffTrax commentary, allowing the trio’s comedic input to seamlessly overlay the original film. This interactive element is one of the significant draws of RiffTrax, where the audience is not just passive viewers but active participants in the hilarity.

Michael J. Nelson, Bill Corbett, and Kevin Murphy each bring their unique personas and comedic styles to the project. Nelson offers a dry wit filled with clever wordplay and mock seriousness, while Corbett often encapsulates playful sarcasm and physical humor that amplifies the absurdities of Ghosthouse. Murphy, with his distinct voice and timing, rounds out the trio, adding an energetic layer to the mix that enhances the overall viewing experience. Together, they create a dynamic that mimics a jovial conversation among friends as they collectively poke fun at the film’s shortcomings.

Visual gags, absurd plot twists, and over-the-top performances from the original cast of Ghosthouse provide ample material for riffing. As the story unfolds, the RiffTrax team gleefully highlights the clichés of horror storytelling, from the illogical decisions made by characters to the frequent appearances of ghostly apparitions that seem more silly than scary. They artfully interweave modern pop culture references, witty side comments, and hilarious hypothetical scenarios, transforming potentially lackluster scenes into memorable moments bursting with laughter.

Moreover, RiffTrax: Ghosthouse effectively demonstrates the skill involved in crafting comedic commentary. The writers must strike a balance between engaging with the material in a way that feels genuine while keeping the humor flowing consistently. Nelson, Corbett, and Murphy excel at this, showcasing an innate ability to comment on scenes without overshadowing the film itself. They invite viewers to find humor in even the driest moments, encouraging a lighthearted approach to what could otherwise be a tedious horror experience.

In addition to the humor, there's an underlying sense of nostalgia that fans of MST3K will appreciate. RiffTrax: Ghosthouse harkens back to the charm of the past while also delivering a contemporary twist, catering to both old-school fans and newcomers to the riffing phenomenon. The film showcases a rich tapestry of references that not only reflect the characters' ridiculous situations but also resonate with the cultural zeitgeist, adding further layers to the comedic experience.

Overall, RiffTrax: Ghosthouse stands out as a comedic gem in the horror genre. It cleverly deconstructs the original film while providing the audience with a delightful, laughter-filled experience. Whether you’re a die-hard horror aficionado or someone who enjoys a good laugh at cinematic misfires, this film invites you to join in on the fun, making it the perfect choice for a movie night with friends. So grab some popcorn, gather your friends, and settle in for an unforgettable evening of riffing, laughter, and the spectacularly strange world of Ghosthouse.