There really hasn't been a film in quite some time that's generated as much controversy as Paul Feig's Ghostbusters.

The trailer is now the most disliked trailer in YouTube history, Judd Apatow's compared its detractors to Donald Trump supporters and there's even been calls for a boycott of the film by certain fans. That's all before the film has even seen a release.

Ivan Reitman, who directed the original film back in 1985 and the so-so sequel in 1989, has spoken up about the backlash that the new Ghostbusters has received and, to be honest, his thoughts are quite surprising.

"I think there's way too much talk about gender (when it comes to this film)," said Reitman in a recent interview with Mashable. "I think that many of the people who were complaining were actually lovers of the [original] movie, not haters of women."

While that is definitely true, it can't be denied that there's definitely been a misogynist streak going through some of the criticism on Ghostbusters. Hell, we've even seen it on some of the comments left underneath articles relating to the film.

Reitman went on, explaining that "lovers of the (original) movie felt there was some kind of sacrilege to re-do it, because it was a seminal part of their moviegoing experience as a 7- or 8-year-old. That's something that can't be minimized, and I totally respect that love."

Either way, it's interesting to see Reitman speak up on the topic - especially considering he had a third Ghostbusters film in the works that was quietly cancelled when Paul Feig's version began to gain traction. As it stands, Reitman's seen the film and is more than happy to go to bat for it.

"All I am asking is that they give the film a shot," said Reitman. "I think it is a very satisfying and wonderful experience on its own (and) I think most people are going to go with it."

 

Via Mashable