Summary
The reboot of Disney's Goosebumps cleverly incorporates various elements from previous adaptations, resulting in a fresh and unique storyline, combined with meta-humor and comedic moments that add to its appeal. This revitalized version caters to both newcomers and longtime fans, providing a nostalgic experience with a modern twist.
Disney's Goosebumps stands out from other horror revivals due to its multigenerational cast and clever meta-elements. By delving into the cultural influence of Goosebumps, the show manages to captivate not just '90s kids, but also their own children. The inclusion of the parents of the young protagonists adds depth to the story, making it more appealing to both newcomers and dedicated fans of the original TV series.
Disney's upcoming Goosebumps reboot will revamp the franchise for modern audiences. An image released showcases the series' updated direction. Since RL Stine's bestselling children's horror novels hit the scene in the early '90s, Goosebumps has seen various adaptations. The first came in the form of a classic TV series, which condensed each book's story into an episode. In 2015, Goosebumps and its 2019 sequel, Goosebumps: Haunted Halloween, took a meta-spin on the concept as teenagers accidentally unleashed Stine's creations on their hometowns.
After a period of dormancy, the franchise is set to make a comeback in October 2023 with Disney's Goosebumps TV series. Developed by Nicholas Stoller and Rob Letterman, the directors of the 2015 Goosebumps live-action film, this new show will combine elements from both previous screen adaptations. Following in the footsteps of the original TV series, Disney's Goosebumps reboot will adapt multiple novels from the series. Additionally, similar to the meta live-action movies, the show will cleverly intertwine various Stine creations to create a fresh, original narrative filled with meta-humor and comedic relief. This series also brings a new and exciting approach to the table.
Disney’s Goosebumps Reboot Promises Multigenerational Mayhem
Disney's Goosebumps reboot has an advantage over earlier adaptations with an exclusive image that reveals its multigenerational cast and their ability to bring back the horror genre in a unique way. The younger heroes in the series become the target of supernatural forces due to a long-hidden secret kept by their parents. In a similar vein, Netflix's Fear Street trilogy, based on a book series for older readers, explored the discovery of a tragic past hidden by parents in a small town. However, Disney's Goosebumps reboot takes it a step further by incorporating meta-elements into the plot. Unlike the previous movie adaptations, the show capitalizes on the fact that there are two generations of Goosebumps fans – current children and young readers from the '90s, many of whom are now parents themselves. This allows the reboot to appeal to fans of new horror shows, the original '90s series, and classic horror films that inspired Goosebumps, all at the same time.
Why Disney’s Goosebumps Reboot Is Exciting
Disney's Goosebumps reboot is generating excitement by acknowledging the challenge of appealing to its original fanbase, now in their middle age. In a clever twist, Goosebumps incorporates self-aware comedy and even touches of pathos, considering that '90s kids are now parents themselves and reflecting on the lasting cultural impact of the Goosebumps franchise over the past few decades. It's astonishing to realize that over 30 years have passed since the release of the first Goosebumps book. With its astute ability to bridge generations, Disney's Goosebumps reboot serves as a compelling reminder of how much children's horror has evolved since then.
Disney’s Goosebumps Improves Horror Revival Formula
The 2019 revival of Are You Afraid of the Dark?, the Netflix adaptation of The Midnight Club, the live-action Goosebumps movies, and even Disney's earlier Stine series Just Beyond all chose to focus on young heroes instead of incorporating their '90s kid parents into the story. However, the Goosebumps reboot took a cue from Fear Street and recognized that young viewers are curious about their parents' teenage lives, while young parents enjoy sharing their nostalgic childhood favorites with their own kids. As a result, Disney's rendition of Goosebumps strikes a perfect balance, appealing to both new young viewers and fans of the original TV show, thanks to this approach.
The inclusion of Say Cheese and Die in the 2023 reboot is a clear indication of the plan's success. This particular Goosebumps story has always been popular, thanks in part to its iconic skeletal barbecue cover art. Additionally, the TV adaptation is well-known for featuring a young Ryan Gosling in its cast. Fans of a certain age will undoubtedly remember Say Cheese and Die for its famous guest star and memorable artwork, making it a smart decision to remind old fans of this classic episode. By appealing to older viewers and creating a sense of nostalgia, Disney's Goosebumps reboot expands the show's appeal across multiple generations. Don't miss the premiere of Goosebumps on Disney+ on October 13.