Bill Murray’s $85M Comedy That Started Ghostbusters Franchise Exits Netflix Soon
Bill Murray’s comedic legacy continues to thrive, especially with pivotal films like Stripes. This iconic R-rated comedy is set to leave Netflix soon, marking a significant shift for streaming fans.
Stripes: A Pivotal Comedy
Stripes, released on June 25, 1981, was directed by Ivan Reitman. The film stars Bill Murray as John Winger, a cab driver seeking a change in life by joining the army. He convinces his best friend, Russell Ziskey, played by Harold Ramis, to enlist alongside him.
Plot Overview
Upon arrival at basic training, Winger and Ziskey team up with fellow underdog trainees. The group embarks on a major mission, solidifying their bond and creating memorable comedic moments. This film, which has become a defining classic, will exit Netflix on March 1, 2024.
Box Office Success
Stripes was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $85 million against a production budget of $10 million. It currently holds a Certified Fresh rating of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing its lasting appeal.
Influence on the Ghostbusters Franchise
Remarkably, Stripes also played a crucial role in the development of the Ghostbusters franchise. Dan Aykroyd wrote the original script for Ghostbusters with a vision of starring alongside John Belushi and Eddie Murphy. After Belushi’s passing, Aykroyd approached Bill Murray to take on a leading role.
Ivan Reitman, known for his work on Stripes, was brought in as the director, with Harold Ramis joining as a co-writer. Ghostbusters ultimately surpassed Stripes in box office earnings, becoming Murray’s highest-grossing film.
Cast and Crew Highlights
- Bill Murray – John Winger
- Harold Ramis – Russell Ziskey
- John Candy – A standout in his first American hit post-The Blues Brothers
- Warren Oates – In one of his final roles
- P.J. Soles, John Larroquette, Sean Young, Judge Reinhold, and John Diehl
Future Streaming Possibilities
After its departure from Netflix, Stripes has not yet been confirmed for a new streaming platform. Columbia Pictures, the studio behind the film, has partnerships with various streaming services including Peacock and Disney+. This opens up possibilities for fans to see Stripes on another platform soon.
Conclusion
As Stripes exits Netflix, fans of Bill Murray and Harold Ramis are reminded of the film’s significance in comedy history. With its legacy intact, audiences look forward to its potential return to a new streaming service.
