Though the Critters films have never been popular with the critics, the franchise’s four-movie run from 1986 to 1992 apparently left enough of an impression on horror fans for the series to be resurrected decades later in the form of an upcoming TV show titled Critters: A New Binge.
With a title so inescapably reminiscent of the 1990 film Gremlins 2: The New Batch, it’s almost as though Critters is embracing its reputation as a Gremlins rip-off franchise, though going by the show’s first trailer, A New Binge is leaning further into campy comedy than the Critters’ mogwai cousins ever did. Complete with goofy, gory death scenes, over-the-top acting and low-budget FX, the 1-minute preview should provide all the footage you need to decide whether or not the series is for you.
Earlier this week, it was announced that streaming service Shudder had acquired exclusive US rights to A New Binge, which will be released as an 8-episode short-form series produced under the Warner Bros. Television Group’s digital studio Blue Ribbon Content. The studio’s Executive Vice President Peter Girardi has also issued a statement, saying that the show is bringing the franchise back to the fans:
“It’s been more than 30 years since the Critters first landed on the big screen, and we’re incredibly proud to bring this cult classic franchise back to fans. Shudder is the perfect platform for this fun, scary new take on everyone’s favorite, furry extraterrestrial threat. We are committed to delivering Shudder members the best horror content available and this time we are also bringing the laughs.”
The story sees the Critters return to Earth while being pursued by intergalactic bounty hunters. Upon arriving, they soon cross paths with a high-schooler named Christopher, played by Joey Morgan (Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse), along with his crush Dani (Stephi Chin-Salvo, iZombie) and his best friend Charlie (Bzhaun Rhoden, Van Helsing). The show is written and executive produced by Jordan Rubin, Jon Kaplan and Al Kaplan, the trio behind the horror-comedy films Zombeavers and The Drone.
We’ll find out if Critters: A New Binge can usher in a new era for the violent little furballs when it premieres exclusively on Shudder on March 21st.
