Writer Gary Dauberman promises theGargoylesreboot will live up to the tone that helped define the original animated show. The 1990s series focused on a group of creatures who are transported from their home in Scotland to the streets of New York City when petrified in a stone-like state, leading to them taking on the roles of the city’s protectors. Dauberman was confirmed to be helming alive-actionGargoylesrebootin 2023, with James Wan set to serve as a producer.
As Dauberman opened up toVarietyabout his work onUntil Dawn, the writer also discussed the upcoming live-action reboot ofGargoyles. Acknowledging the distinct dark tone of the original series, Dauberman promised that they are aiming to replicate what made the show stand out for a new generation. Check out his full explanation below:
Oh, yes, another beloved piece of IP. This new iteration of “Gargoyles”… The show was already pretty dark in that it was serialized, it was a mature thing, it’s operatic and the story was so epic.I’m hoping it’s very similar to the vibe that you gotwhen you were watching it back in the late ’90s. I just loved that half hour of television, falling into their world. I’m hoping we achieve that. It’s a lot of fun, though — it’s a thrill.
What Dauberman’s Response Means For Gargoyles' Reboot
The Series Could Stand Out In The Modern Streaming Landscape
While it has been 28 years since the series concluded,there have been many attempts to reawaken theGargoylesfranchiseon screen, including an animated movie adaptation with a script penned byG.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra’s David Elliot and Paul Lovett, and a pitch from Jordan Peele. As such, a variety of approaches to the original lore have likely developed over the years. However, Dauberman’s response does reveal several things.
Rather than attempting to match contemporary franchises, the showrunner’s response does suggest thatthe series is more keen on being faithfulthan creating something more in tune with modern television standards. This is not necessarily a bad move, as it could allow the newGargoylesto stand out from other streaming shows in an era where audiences are becoming more critical of current standards. Of course, without an episode count, it is unclearwhether theGargoylesreboot can match the original series’scope.
Our Take On The Gargoyles Reboot Tease
The Series Has Many Experienced Creatives On Board
It may be early days for the development of Disney+‘sGargoylesreimagining, but Dauberman’s response shows a clear understanding of what helped the original series stand out.Wan’s horror backgroundand involvement in action franchises, including theFast and FuriousandAquamanseries, already showed thatthe reboot had the capacity to blend multiple genres, from supernatural to action. As such, it is a relief to see that both creatives’ visions will likely align to make the bestGargoyleslive-action adaptation possible.
Gargoyles
Gargoylesis a Disney animated TV series that aired from 1994 to 1997. It follows a clan of ancient gargoyles who awaken in modern-day New York City after a 1,000-year curse. Known for its darker tone and complex storytelling, the series has a devoted fanbase. The franchise has expanded into comic books, video games, and merchandise. In 2023, a live-action reboot for Disney+ was announced, produced by Atomic Monster.
