SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 22:00 Min.
First aired in syndication on November 17, 1987, this episode was directed by Masakzu Higuchi. At Tombstone, Arizona, celebrated Western novelist Dewey LaMort (spoofing Louis L’Amour) is the guest of honor for a press conference announcing a new Old West theme park. Yet, the restless ghost of Wyatt Earp interrupts … appropriately enough, at Boot Hill cemetery. Earp’s fast-shooting ghost has no intention of giving up Tombstone to anyone. It’s time to call in the Ghostbusters!
Upon their arrival in present-day Tombstone, the team (including a stowaway Slimer) splits up and faces ambushes from a spectral Earp and his re-materialized allies (brother Virgil & Morgan, along with “Doc” Holliday). Ultimately, the Ghostbusters reckon that the trigger-happy Earp faction intends to replay the ‘Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.’ Yet, what can the team do in self-defense standing in for the hapless Clanton Gang outlaws?
Dr. Peter Venkman (and either Morgan or Virgil Earp): Lorenzo Music
Winston Zeddemore (and either Virgil or Morgan Earp): Arsenio Hall
Dr. Egon Spengler, “Doc” Holliday, & Mayor of Tombstone: Maurice LaMarche
Dr. Raymond Stantz, Dewey LaMort, & Slimer: Frank Welker
Wyatt Earp & Boris Mealey: Jonathan Schmock
Janine Melnitz: Laura Summer
Note: Although a gun is seen in Earp’s holster, the Earps & Holiday use their hands to simulate guns for their rapid-fire ‘ghost bullets.’
REVIEW:
On its surface, the premise practically duplicates a lesser Star Trek: The Original Series episode: “Spectre of the Gun.” Like that Star Trek episode, again Wyatt Earp and his faction are conveniently the cold-hearted bad guys, regardless of actual American history. Yet, upon a comparison of entertainment value, “Ghost Fight at the O.K. Corral” ages far better.
Specifically, this Tombstone-themed episode sports more accurate historical research (including appropriate visuals for Wyatt’s squad) and, most obviously, a far-superior script where the Ghostbusters are forced into a defensive mode. With the voice cast in terrific form, the much-better-than-expected “Ghost Fight at the O.K. Corral” merits a chance for re-discovery.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6½ Stars
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