Iconic Horror Flick Set for a Terrifying Small Screen Adaptation

Article Key Points

Poltergeist TV series in development at Amazon MGM Studios, offering a new lease on the franchise after a lackluster remake in 2015.

As part of their streaming strategy, Amazon is leveraging popular franchises such as Poltergeist, Robocop, and Legally Blonde. Amazon's goal is to offer Poltergeist fans a thrilling and innovative experience, further solidifying its position as one of the top streaming services available.

Amazon MGM Studios is currently developing a TV series adaptation of the renowned horror film, Poltergeist. The franchise gained widespread recognition and praise following the successful release of the first movie in 1982. Produced by Steven Spielberg, the original film portrayed the Freeling family's harrowing experiences after discovering their new residence had become infiltrated by malicious spirits. In addition to its horror elements, the original films sparked eerie rumors, including speculations of a curse on the cast and crew, further amplifying the fanbase's enthusiasm for the project.

Following a lackluster remake of Poltergeist in theaters in 2015, it seems like a new opportunity for the franchise to reach a global audience has emerged. Variety recently reported that Amazon MGM Studios and Amblin Television, the television production wing of Amblin Partners, are currently in the process of developing a Poltergeist TV series. While specific information about the project's writing and casting is still unknown, it has been confirmed that Darryl Frank and Justin Falvey will serve as executive producers on behalf of Amblin.

This is just one example of how Amazon has been effectively utilizing the intellectual property it acquired when MGM, the holder of the James Bond IP, was put up for sale in late 2020. While many may view 007 as the standout, Amazon recognized the potential in other iconic franchises such as Robocop, Legally Blonde, Barbershop, and now Poltergeist. With all these projects currently in early development and likely headed for Amazon's streaming platform, it is clear that major players in the industry are adopting diverse streaming strategies in response to the ever-changing landscape.

Miramax has revealed plans to bring the Halloween franchise to the small screen, joining Poltergeist in the move to television. While Poltergeist has had a previous television series, this new development shows a consolidated effort by rights holders for the franchise. Although the release dates for these projects are not yet known, the timing of the announcements during the Halloween season helps to build anticipation for the eventual releases, which may align with the spooky season.

Amazon Prime has been striving to establish itself as a top streaming service and continues to focus on expanding its content library to cater to a wide range of preferences. Soon, fans of Poltergeist will have the opportunity to judge for themselves if Amazon's strategy pays off, as they eagerly await fresh and thrilling content.

The Poltergeist franchise is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video with the AMC Plus add-on.

Source: Variety

Editor's P/S

As a fan of the original Poltergeist film, I am both excited and apprehensive about the upcoming TV series adaptation. On the one hand, I am thrilled that the franchise is being revived and that a new generation of fans will have the opportunity to experience the terror and suspense of the original film. On the other hand, I am worried that the TV series will not be able to capture the same magic as the original film and that it will simply be a rehash of the same old story.

I think the key to a successful Poltergeist TV series will be to find a way to update the story for a modern audience while still staying true to the spirit of the original film. The series will need to have strong characters, a compelling story, and plenty of scares. If the show can do all of those things, then I think it has the potential to be a big hit.