Horror franchise Ghoulies is set to make a triumphant return with a new trilogy of films, helmed by the original creators Luca Bercovici and Jefery Levy. The duo has successfully reclaimed the rights to the franchise from Sony, paving the way for a fresh take on the cult classic series.
Ghoulies, known for its blend of horror and comedy, first hit the screens in 1985, alongside other iconic films like Gremlins and Critters. While the special effects in Ghoulies may not have matched the standards set by Spielberg and Dante, the franchise garnered a loyal fan base and achieved cult status over the years.
The team, along with writer and producer Theo Lemasters, managed to secure the rights under the Copyright Act of 1975 after a prolonged wait. Their efforts culminated in a successful petition to Sony in 2020, leading to the reboot of the franchise.
The original Ghoulies movie followed the story of a cult leader's son who inadvertently summons malevolent creatures, unleashing chaos in his family home. Subsequent sequels, Ghoulies II, Ghoulies Go to College, and Ghoulies IV, continued the saga, each adding its own twist to the narrative.
The new Ghoulies trilogy promises to expand the universe beyond the silver screen, with plans for a book series that delves deeper into the dark realms of Ghoulies. Fans can also anticipate a range of figures, apparel, and collectibles to immerse themselves in the demonic world of Ghoulies.
In a time where big-budget spectacles dominate the industry, Ghoulies aims to capture audiences with its retro charm and practical effects. The resurgence of low-budget horror films post-pandemic, exemplified by hits like Terrifier, hints at a receptive audience for Ghoulies' brand of horror and humor.
Legacy sequels have been a trend in Hollywood, with franchises like Ghostbusters and Beetlejuice making successful comebacks. While Ghoulies may not have enjoyed the same level of success in the '80s, the new trilogy seeks to engage both old fans and a new generation of viewers in a fresh and exciting way.
For those eager to revisit the original, Ghoulies is currently available for streaming on platforms like Tubi, Roku, and Pluto TV, offering a trip down memory lane for fans of the delightfully demonic creatures.
