“Goosebumps” TV Series Review: Disney+ Delivers a Thrilling R.L. Stine Adaptation

Disney+’s ‘Goosebumps’ Is a Bland YA Drama With More Slime Than Shivers: TV Review

Introduction

Disney+ and Hulu have recently released a new series adaptation of R.L. Stine’s beloved “Goosebumps” books. The series, directed by Rob Letterman, promises to bring back the iconic characters and adventures that captivated a generation of readers in the 90s. However, the new “Goosebumps” series falls short of its potential, delivering a cumbersome and bland storyline that focuses more on the problems of adults rather than the thrilling trials and tribulations of teenhood that were the hallmark of Stine’s work.

A Childhood Phenomenon

The “Goosebumps” books were a staple of many childhoods in the 90s. R.L. Stine’s masterful storytelling blended horror, thrills, and comedy in a way that captivated young readers without being overwhelmingly dark. The books inspired a popular TV show and two feature films, and now Disney+/Hulu attempts to continue the legacy with a new series. However, the adaptation fails to capture the essence of the original material.

A Shift in Focus

Instead of embracing the horror and adventure that made the “Goosebumps” books so beloved, the series chooses to focus on the adultification of teenagers at the hands of their problematic parents. This narrative shift takes away from the excitement and fun of Stine’s work, forcing viewers to invest in the misdeeds of dull adult characters rather than the struggles and triumphs of the young protagonists.

A Cumbersome Plot

The new “Goosebumps” series opens in the fictional coastal town of Port Lawrence in 1993, where a teen boy named Harold Biddle faces a tragic fate. The story then jumps 30 years into the future, where we meet five high school students who are dealing with their own challenges and secrets. These characters eventually find themselves connected by the haunting events of a Halloween party at the abandoned Biddle House.

An Overwhelming Narrative

The first five episodes of the series introduce each character and their individual stories, but the narrative feels disjointed and confusing. The show struggles to find its footing until the third episode, which focuses on James, one of the main characters. The multitude of plot points and characters is overwhelming, making it difficult for viewers to fully engage with the story.

A Lack of Scare and Substance

Despite its horror genre classification, the new “Goosebumps” series fails to deliver genuine scares. The CGI effects are subpar, and the young characters find themselves chasing after 30-year-old problems caused by their flawed parents. The series lacks the finesse and chilling atmosphere that made the original books and the previous adaptations so memorable.

A Missed Opportunity

“Goosebumps” has been a beloved franchise for decades, but the new series fails to capture the essence of Stine’s work. Rather than streamlining the narrative for a more focused and refined first season, the show becomes a mishmash of YA themes with a sprinkle of Halloween for flair. It’s a missed opportunity to create a compelling and modernized adaptation that would resonate with a new generation of viewers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Disney+’s “Goosebumps” series falls short of its potential and fails to capture the essence of R.L. Stine’s beloved books. The focus on adult problems and the overwhelming narrative detract from the thrilling and engaging experiences that made the original material so iconic. While the series may still appeal to die-hard fans of the franchise, it fails to bring anything fresh or exciting to the table. The new “Goosebumps” series is ultimately a bland YA drama with more slime than shivers.

Recommendation

For those seeking a thrilling and spooky TV series, “Goosebumps” may not be the best choice. Instead, I recommend exploring other options that successfully capture the essence of horror and suspense. There are many great adaptations of R.L. Stine’s work, such as the original “Goosebumps” TV show and the feature films starring Jack Black, that better showcase the magic of Stine’s storytelling.