“Goosebumps” TV Series Review: Disney+’s R.L. Stine Adaptation Is a Thrilling Journey into the Supernatural

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

The Decline of the Goosebumps Franchise

For those of us who grew up in the ’90s, R.L. Stine’s “Goosebumps” books were childhood staples. The novelist knew how to center horror and thrills in books aimed toward tweens. He brilliantly swirled in elements of comedy so the plot points weren’t overwhelmingly dark. A literary phenomenon, Stine’s books spawned a popular TV show in the ’90s and two feature films starring Jack Black in the mid-2010s. However, with the new Disney+ series “Goosebumps,” it seems that the franchise has lost its way.

A Shift in Focus and Tone

The pilot episode of the “Goosebumps” series, directed by Rob Letterman, promises some of the same iconic characters and adventures for a new generation. However, instead of capturing the essence of Stine’s work, the show focuses on the adultification of teens at the hands of their awful parents. This shift in focus away from the trials and tribulations of teenhood and the fun elements of Stine’s books forces viewers to focus on the selfish misdeeds of dull adults.

The Premise of the Show

Set in the fictional coastal town of Port Lawrence in 1993, “Goosebumps” follows a group of five high school students as they navigate the challenges of their daily lives. Each episode focuses on a different teen and their experiences leading up to a Halloween party at the abandoned Biddle House. However, despite the potential for spooky thrills and supernatural adventures, the show falls short.

A Lackluster Execution

The major problem with the new “Goosebumps” series is its execution. With its numerous plot points and characters, the show feels cluttered and overwhelming. The episodes lack a cohesive narrative and fail to deliver on the promised scares. The CGI effects are comically bad, and the young characters are left trying to solve problems caused by their terrible parents rather than encountering genuine supernatural threats. Overall, the show lacks the atmosphere and tension that made Stine’s books so beloved.

A Missed Opportunity for Generational Appeal

While “Goosebumps” understands that a significant part of teenhood is finding your tribe, it fails to capture the Gen Z audience or offer anything distinctive to modern viewers. Instead of streamlining the storylines and focusing on one or two characters for a refined first season, the show feels like a generic blend of YA themes with a sprinkle of Halloween for flair.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, Disney+’s “Goosebumps” series is a disappointment. It fails to capture the essence of R.L. Stine’s beloved books and lacks the scares and thrills that made the franchise so popular. The show’s convoluted narrative and subpar execution make it difficult to engage with, and the focus on adult issues detracts from the intended target audience. I would recommend exploring other options for fans of the “Goosebumps” franchise who are hoping for a thrilling and nostalgic journey back into the world of Stine’s imagination.