Amazon MGM Studios breathes new life into ‘Poltergeist’ series
A fresh take on a classic horror
The “Poltergeist” television series, currently in development at Amazon MGM Studios, is making significant strides. The project, which has been in the works since October 2023, has now enlisted the talents of Kalinda Vazquez and Robbie Thompson as writers, showrunners, and executive producers.
The creative minds behind the series
Kalinda Vazquez: A versatile storyteller
Kalinda Vazquez brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her impressive resume includes work on popular TV shows such as Star Trek: Discovery, Once Upon a Time, Fear the Walking Dead, Prison Break, and Nikita. Vazquez has also made her mark in the comic book world, co-writing the series “America Chavez: Made in the USA” with Carlos Gomez.
Robbie Thompson: A supernatural touch
Robbie Thompson is no stranger to the supernatural genre. He was a writer and co-executive producer on multiple seasons of Supernatural and later created and served as showrunner for the prequel series The Winchesters. Thompson’s comic book credentials are equally impressive, having written for characters like Silk, Venom, Doctor Strange, and Spider-Man.
The legacy of ‘Poltergeist’
A Spielberg classic
The original “Poltergeist” film, released in 1982, was a landmark in horror cinema. Directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg, the movie tells the chilling story of the Freeling family, who move into a new home only to discover it is haunted by malevolent spirits. When their young daughter is abducted by the ghosts, the family enlists the help of a parapsychologist and a spiritual medium to rescue her.
Box office success and critical acclaim
The film was a massive hit, grossing approximately $121 million worldwide against a budget of $10.7 million. It also garnered three Academy Award nominations for best visual effects, best sound effects editing, and best original score. The success of the original film led to two sequels in 1986 and 1988, with Zelda Rubinstein and Heather O’Rourke reprising their roles in all three films. A reboot was released in 2015, attempting to capture the magic of the original.
The new series: What to expect
Plot details remain a mystery
While specific plot details for the new series are still under wraps, it is known that the show will draw inspiration from the iconic 1982 film. Given the involvement of Vazquez and Thompson, fans can expect a fresh yet respectful take on the beloved horror classic.
Spielberg’s continued influence
Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Television is producing the series, with Darryl Frank and Justin Falvey serving as executive producers. Spielberg’s original vision and storytelling prowess will undoubtedly influence the new adaptation, ensuring it stays true to the spirit of the original while exploring new narrative avenues.
A new era for ‘Poltergeist’
The development of the “Poltergeist” series at Amazon MGM Studios marks an exciting new chapter for the franchise. With talented writers and producers at the helm, the series promises to deliver a thrilling and modern take on the classic horror story. Fans of the original film and newcomers alike can look forward to a spine-chilling experience that honors the legacy of “Poltergeist” while bringing it into the contemporary era.
For those eager to revisit the original film or explore the reboot, you can find more information and trailers here.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the upcoming “Poltergeist” series, blending personal reflections with in-depth analysis. By highlighting the creative talents involved and the legacy of the original film, it offers a unique perspective for cinema and TV series enthusiasts.