The Disney+ Goosebumps show has turned out to be one of the biggest surprises of this year. It’s not just a modernized version of the old stories from R.L. Stine’s best-selling book series; it delves into the darker aspects of the plot. The show has a talented cast and decent special effects that can potentially evoke fear in its audience.
This version of Goosebumps is different from the 1995 horror anthology series but more similar to the Jack Black films directed by Rob Letterman. It has a central plot that incorporates elements from popular books in the series. Letterman and Nicholas Stoller were given the freedom to create a more mature show, including swearing, body horror, and a new way of combining tales of cursed items and monstrous entities into a single, cohesive story. The result is a surprisingly spooky experience for both new and old Goosebumps fans, especially in the first five episodes of the 10-episode season that were available for preview.
Goosebumps doesn’t shy away from weighty themes typical of other horror media. The show explores the destructive nature of adultery, harrowing details of murder, and the shocking implications of potential suicide, themes not commonly featured in Stine’s books. These elements serve to terrorize the lives of five teens who accidentally come across a long-kept secret. Now haunted by a vengeful spirit resulting from a misguided Halloween party in a recently refurbished house filled with forbidden items, they must work together to survive the coming days.
The teenagers also struggle with everyday challenges such as love triangles, absentee parents, and scholarships tied to important sporting events. Their struggles, laden with typical teenage angst and romantic distractions, are made compelling by the talented cast.
One standout is Zack Morris, who delivers a charming portrayal of the star quarterback, Isaiah. His character deviates from the stereotypical self-centered “jock” trope, making his interactions with deadly objects more meaningful. Isa Briones’ depiction of the quick-witted, socially awkward Margot is both comical and emotionally resonant.
Miles McKenna’s portrayal of Isaiah’s best friend, James, offers positive representation for the LGBTQIA+ community. Ana Yi Puig’s strong portrayal of Isabella as a modern-day Daria with rage issues is also notable. Will Price’s portrayal of the accident-prone, extreme-sport enthusiast Lucas is equally impactful.
Almost every member of the cast is likable to some degree, and their impressive performances are backed by an equally engrossing plot. The show cleverly incorporates popular books into a cohesive storyline while delving into darker themes.
Whether it’s the comical, spooky, or disturbingly unhinged moments, Goosebumps offers a solid introduction to horror for younger viewers. While it may not scare older fans with its PG-13 approach to violence and teenage melodrama, the incorporation of body horror is remarkable. Its clever plot and talented cast should resonate with viewers. If the remaining episodes are as great as the first five, Disney+ and Hulu subscribers are in for a treat come Halloween season.
