Bill Murray’s $85M Comedy That Launched Ghostbusters Franchise Leaving Netflix
Bill Murray’s comedic masterpiece, Stripes, continues to hold a special place in cinematic history. However, it is set to leave Netflix, creating a shift for fans eager to revisit this classic.
Stripes: A Timeless Comedy
Released on June 25, 1981, Stripes was directed by Ivan Reitman. The film features Bill Murray as John Winger, a cab driver determined to revamp his life by enlisting in the army. He persuades his best friend, Russell Ziskey, portrayed by Harold Ramis, to join him in this new adventure.
Plot Summary
Upon arriving at basic training, Winger and Ziskey collaborate with other quirky trainees. They undertake significant missions that challenge them and forge strong camaraderie, resulting in unforgettable comedic moments. Stripes will exit Netflix on March 1, 2024.
Box Office Triumph
Stripes achieved remarkable success, grossing over $85 million against a production budget of merely $10 million. Today, it boasts a Certified Fresh rating of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Impact on the Ghostbusters Franchise
Stripes significantly influenced the development of the Ghostbusters franchise. Dan Aykroyd originally penned the Ghostbusters script, envisioning leads like John Belushi and Eddie Murphy. Following Belushi’s untimely death, Aykroyd approached Bill Murray for a starring role. Reitman, who had directed Stripes, was brought on to helm the Ghostbusters film, with Harold Ramis as a co-writer. Ultimately, Ghostbusters outperformed Stripes at the box office, becoming Murray’s highest-grossing film.
Cast and Crew Highlights
- Bill Murray – John Winger
- Harold Ramis – Russell Ziskey
- John Candy – A notable appearance in his post-The Blues Brothers career
- Warren Oates – Featured in one of his final roles
- P.J. Soles, John Larroquette, Sean Young, Judge Reinhold, John Diehl – Supporting cast
Future Streaming Options
While Stripes is set to leave Netflix, its availability on alternative platforms is currently unconfirmed. Columbia Pictures, the studio responsible for the film, collaborates with several streaming services, including Peacock and Disney+. This development keeps fans hopeful for Stripes’ return on a new platform in the near future.
Conclusion
As Stripes departs from Netflix, aficionados of Bill Murray and Harold Ramis are reminded of its crucial role in comedy history. With its established legacy, viewers eagerly await potential streaming opportunities for this beloved film.
