The Overlooked Ghostbuster

I have yet to see the 2016 remake of the 1984 Ghostbusters film.  I have reasons for this.  I do not
think it needed to be remade, for one.  The 1984 original is a comedic gem.  It had, what was then, revolutionary, scary special effects.  It was exciting and bold and extremely funny.

I'd like to take some time to focus on an overlooked Ghosbuster, a late-joiner, but an important, vital member of the crew: Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson).  The most spiritual memberof the team, the backbone  who looks at things with a more laid-back but realistic perspective.  He turned out, at the end of the first Ghostbusters film, to be an essential member of the group.

His advice at times is straight-forward and elegant, with a touch of humour.  Take when they were fighting evil spirits at the top of the hotel towards the end of the film and he offers this gem of advice to Ray Stanz (Dan Ackroyd):

"Ray, when someone asks you if you're a God, you say yes!"

Or how about his cool, spiritual outlook on religion and the afterlife in his discussion with Ray in the car:

"Well, I do [believe in God].  And I love Jesus' style, ya know?"

Furthermore, Winston is a practical,  no-nonsense guy.  When asked in a job interview whether he believed in ghosts and supernatural entities, he simply answers:

"As long as there's a steady pay check, I'll believe anything you say."

Winston Zeddemore turns out to be one of the most quotable, easy-going of the four characters in the original Ghostbusters film.  OK, perhaps Peter Venkman (Bill Murray) is a bit more quotable.  But, Zedmore offers practical advice and aphorisms that stand the test of time.  He presents a straight, no-bullshit foil to the other three Ghostbusters.

I've heard that the role of Winston was originally intended or Eddie Murphy.  This would have put an entirely new spin on the character that would have been interesting to witness.  However, Ernie Hudson does a phenomenal job of turning the Winston that now stands, into a charismatic, gentle, but straight-forward character who's blend of seriousness and humour flesh out the entire Ghostbusters team into a multi-faceted, well-oiled machine.

So lets not forget Winston Zeddemore.  Though not a founding member, an essential element in New York City's ghost-nabbing team.