“Amazon MGM Studios Embarks on ‘Poltergeist’ TV Series: What to Expect”
A new television series inspired by the legendary horror classic, “Poltergeist,” is currently in the early stages of development at Amazon MGM Studios. Exclusive details, courtesy of Variety, reveal that this chilling project is set to resurrect the spine-tingling tale that once terrified audiences.
As of now, the series lacks a designated writer, but the project will be spearheaded by Darryl Frank and Justin Falvey, executive producers representing Amblin Television. The original 1982 film was a creation of Amblin Productions, with none other than the visionary Steven Spielberg contributing to the storyline, co-writing the screenplay, and producing it. While specific plot details remain shrouded in mystery, it is confirmed that the show will immerse viewers within the eerie world of the film.
“Poltergeist” originally revolved around the Freeling family, whose seemingly perfect new home conceals a terrifying secret: it’s infested with malevolent spirits. When these restless souls abduct their young daughter, the Freelings seek help from a parapsychologist and a spiritual medium to rescue her and break free from the sinister grip of the ghosts.
The 1982 film emerged as a major box office success, raking in an impressive $121 million worldwide, all while being produced on a reported budget of $10.7 million. It also earned recognition with three Academy Award nominations, spanning categories like best visual effects, best sound effects editing, and best original score.
Following the original masterpiece, two sequels, released in 1986 and 1988, kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Only Zelda Rubinstein, the iconic medium Tangina Barrons, and Heather O’Rourke, the unforgettable Carol Anne Freeling, appeared in all three films. A reboot of the original film thrilled audiences in 2015.
Should the Amazon MGM Studios venture move forward, it will mark the second television series set in the spine-tingling “Poltergeist” universe. “Poltergeist: The Legacy” previously aired on Showtime for three gripping seasons before concluding with a fourth season on the Sci-Fi Channel in 1999. This series followed The Legacy, a global organization dedicated to safeguarding humanity from supernatural threats.
This endeavor signifies Amazon’s latest effort to adapt renowned MGM intellectual property following its acquisition of the prestigious studio. The streaming platform of the e-commerce giant is already hard at work developing fresh projects based on beloved titles like “Robocop,” “Legally Blonde,” “Barbershop,” and many more. In a recent exclusive report, Variety unveiled that a series set in “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” universe had secured its showrunner. Additionally, an adaptation based on the book “Glossy” and the Glossier company, along with numerous other projects, are in the pipeline.
