A Brief Look: Rich Kelly’s ‘Ghostbusters’

 

Illustrator Rich Kelly‘s poster design for the film Ghostbusters gives us a unique perspective on the well known story. He’s not re-telling the narrative of the comedic supernatural thriller so much as placing its characters into the broader canon of storytelling archetypes. Kelly avoids irony and ’80s nostalgia and puts the unsung hero of the story front and center, Lewis Tully, the accountant who doesn’t get the girl.

Of all the characters in the film Tully is the one who changes the most, he’s the simple farm boy forced into an frightening new world. Tully experiences the torrent of supernatural phenomena with no knowledge or understanding, but has the four Ghostbusters, the all-knowing wizards, to guide him through his journey. Kelly’s take on Ghostbusters is an incredible feat, highlighting the beauty and truth inside of a seemingly simple yet inspiringly imaginative Hollywood blockbuster.

Rich Kelly’s ‘Ghostbusters’ is part of Gallery 1988‘s traveling art gallery of work celebrating the 30th anniversary of the film.

For more information on the exhibit visit Ghostbusters 30th Dot Com.