Chris Columbus is officially directing Gremlins 3 for Warner Bros. The beloved horror-comedy franchise returns after 37 years with a theatrical release on Nov. 19, 2027. Steven Spielberg reunites with Columbus as executive producer. This marks the first live-action film in the franchise since 1990.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Release Date: November 19, 2027 in theaters nationwide
- Filmmakers: Chris Columbus directing and producing; Steven Spielberg as executive producer via Amblin Entertainment
- Writers: Columbus, Zach Lipovsky, Adam B. Stein penning the screenplay
- Original Classic: 1984 Gremlins earned $151.9 million domestically on an $11 million budget
- 37-Year Gap: Last live-action Gremlins film was Gremlins 2: The New Batch in 1990
Breaking: Spielberg and Columbus Reunite After Four Decades
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav announced the project during Thursday’s earnings call. Columbus, who wrote the original 1984 screenplay, returns to the director’s chair. Spielberg, who produced both originals, officially joins as executive producer.
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The announcement marks a major studio win for theatrical releases. Zaslav emphasized Warner Bros. commitment to “magic, mayhem, and heart.” Production companies include Amblin Entertainment, 26th Street Pictures, Kristie Macosko Krieger, Holly Bario, Michael Barnathan and Mark Radcliffe. The studio has not yet revealed casting information.
“Few titles are as beloved and iconic as Gremlins, and we’re beyond excited to bring it back for both lifelong fans and a whole new generation.”
Columbus penned the original screenplay watched by millions. His involvement signals respect for the source material. Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein co-wrote this installment. Both directed the Final Destination films for theatrical success.
Why Gremlins 3 Comes at the Perfect Time
The 1984 original changed Hollywood forever. It famously sparked the creation of the PG-13 rating due to intense scenes. Joe Dante directed, and the film dominated theaters alongside Ghostbusters. Gremlins earned $164 million worldwide against an $11 million budget.
Gremlins 2: The New Batch arrived in 1990 but failed commercially. It earned only $41.5 million but found cult status. The franchise lay dormant for over three decades until now. Fans have long awaited “Gizmo’s” return to theaters.
The studio recently released “Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai,” an animated prequel series on Max. This fresh take explored Gizmo’s origins in 1920s China. The series proved sustained audience interest in the property. Warner Bros. capitalized on this momentum for a theatrical return.
Box Office Legacy and Production Details
Gremlins 3 arrives with significant box-office expectations. Here’s the franchise history:
| Film | Release Year | Domestic Box Office | Director |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gremlins | 1984 | $151.9 million | Joe Dante |
| Gremlins 2: The New Batch | 1990 | $41.5 million | Joe Dante |
| Gremlins 3 | 2027 | TBA | Chris Columbus |
Columbus stepping into the director’s role is significant. He directed all eight Harry Potter films, proving blockbuster credentials. He also created 1990’s Home Alone. His affinity for Spielberg collaborations spans decades.
The Nov. 19, 2027 date places the film in prime holiday season territory. Gremlins has always maintained Christmas-time significance. This timing capitalizes on nostalgia and family viewing habits.
What Fans Should Anticipate
- Original trilogy stars like Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Howie Mandel status unclear
- Potential plot connections to 1984 and 1990 films remains undisclosed
- CGI versus practical effects approach for Gizmo and gremlins unconfirmed
- Possible theatrical release strategy ahead of 2028 awards season
- Integration of Max animated series canon into film narrative possible
The production timeline gives the creative team two years for development. Spielberg’s approval requirement signals creative input. This pairing worked flawlessly on the original franchise.
Can Gremlins 3 Capture the Original’s Lightning Again?
Gremlins revolutionized horror-comedy in 1984. Columbus crafted a screenplay blending scares with genuine humor. Spielberg shepherded the vision to theatrical greatness.
The 2027 release inherits substantial legacy pressure. Audiences expect quality storytelling, not just nostalgia-mining. Columbus has proven capable of respecting source material. His Harry Potter adaptations honored beloved books while modernizing them.
Can this team balance respect for the 1984 original while crafting something fresh and relevant? The casting decisions and plot details will determine success. Gremlins 3 arrives when theatrical franchises dominate box office charts globally. Will it join the pantheon of superior legacy sequels?
Sources
- Deadline Hollywood – Official announcement and production details from David Zaslav’s earnings call
- Variety – Steven Spielberg and Chris Columbus partnership confirmation
- Los Angeles Times – Cast history and franchise legacy reporting
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.