The final word on GBIII? Get your proton packs primed but without Bill Murray

     I made a solemn vow to fans of Flicktastic that I would not report anymore information on the proposed Ghostbusters III until there was a definitive answer as to whether it was actually happening.
     That answer has arrived.
      After much equivocation, delays, screams, threats, promises, and (reportedly) shredded scripts, Mr. Ray Stanz (Dan Aykroyd) sat down for an interview with "The Metro" regarding the project.  According to Aykroyd the third installment in the franchise IS happening with production set to begin next year.  Aykroyd says they "have a great new writer on it" that's going to "satisfy the fans."
     For those of you hoping that Bill Murray would be a part of this film, you can put that desire in the Ecto Containment Unit.  Aykroyd says Murray will not be involved and though he's sad about the prospect of a Ghostbusters movie without Murray, he goes on to say that "Ghostbusters III can be a successful movie without Bill."  The vodka magnate* also says that the third film will be a passing of the torch to a new generation of ghostbusters.  This makes sense because the other three of them (Ray, Egon, and Winston) will all be in their 60s when the next film takes place.  However, it does seem like a blatant move to restart the franchise.  As long as they get the right people (Jessie Eisenberg anyone?) I'm totally on board with this.
     I can honestly say that I'm relieved to see Ghostbusters III finally moving forward, even if it is without Bill Murray.  Although he would have added value to the film, the bottom line is that he dragged his feet on this project for over two years.  He's about 70% to blame for Ghostbusters III not already being on DVD, rather than months away from production.  Frankly, I no longer care that he's not a part of this movie. 
     Furthermore, Akyroyd reveals that the project has the studio's full backing which is excellent news.  There were rumors circulating that the studio wouldn't get behind the project without Murray but with the recent financial success of the last Indiana Jones movie and also Rambo, they've obviously changed their tune.
     If production starts next year I anticipate a summer 2014 release date which would dovetail nicely into the 30th anniversary of the original Ghostbusters.
     My only question is if Ray Parker Jr. is going to make another music video.  Well that and who ya gonna call?

*Dan Aykroyd has his own brand of vodka called Crystal Vodka that comes in a skull bottle.  Weird.