By Sara Bright
On 8 June 1984, Joe Dante’s “Gremlins” premiered, introducing audiences to a new standard of horror-comedy. As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of this cult classic, it’s fascinating to explore how Dante, along with writer Chris Columbus and producer Steven Spielberg, created a film that not only entertained but also embedded itself deeply into popular culture. This article delves into the origins, impact, and enduring legacy of these charming yet mischievous creatures.
Origins of the Gremlins Mythology
From British Folklore to the Big Screen
The mythology of gremlins can be traced back to the 1920s when British Royal Air Force pilots blamed these imaginary creatures for technical malfunctions. The term “gremlin” is a combination of the word “goblin” and the name of a popular beer, Fremlin, enjoyed by the pilots. The idea gained traction during World War II, culminating in Roald Dahl’s 1943 book “The Gremlins,” which depicted these creatures as vengeful spirits targeting British pilots.
Dahl’s gremlins, despite their initial antagonism, ultimately allied with humans to fight the Nazis in Warner Bros. cartoons like “Falling Hare” and “Russian Rhapsody.” These animated gremlins played a significant role in embedding the creatures into American pop culture.
The Making of “Gremlins”
Chris Columbus’ Dark Script
Chris Columbus, then a young screenwriter, penned the initial script for “Gremlins” inspired by the eerie sounds of rats in his apartment. His script, discovered by Steven Spielberg, was much darker than the final film, featuring scenes of gremlins killing the protagonist’s mother and devouring customers at McDonald’s. Spielberg, recognising the potential of Columbus’ idea, decided to produce the film but sought to tone down its horror elements.
Joe Dante’s Vision
Joe Dante, known for his work on “Piranha” and “The Howling,” was chosen to direct “Gremlins.” Dante’s vision balanced horror with humour, a perfect fit for Spielberg’s more family-friendly approach. Together, they transformed Columbus’ script into a movie that blended scares with laughs, creating a new genre of horror-comedy.
The Creation of Gizmo and the Gremlins
Special effects artist Chris Walas was tasked with bringing the gremlins to life. Initially, there were plans to use real animals, but this idea was quickly abandoned due to the animals’ fear of the costumes. Instead, Walas created animatronic puppets. Gizmo, the adorable Mogwai, was designed to be endearing with large eyes and a small stature. The gremlins, in contrast, were more grotesque, enhancing the film’s horror elements.
Plot Summary and Themes
A Christmas Horror Tale
“Gremlins” starts with inventor Randall Peltzer (Hoyt Axton) purchasing a Mogwai named Gizmo from a mysterious shop in Chinatown. Gizmo comes with three strict rules: avoid bright light, do not get him wet, and never feed him after midnight. Naturally, these rules are broken, leading to the creation of malevolent gremlins who wreak havoc on the small town of Kingston Falls.
A Blend of Horror and Comedy
The film cleverly balances horror and comedy, with the gremlins’ antics providing both scares and laughs. Scenes such as the gremlins disrupting a bar and sabotaging Christmas decorations highlight Dante’s skill in blending these genres. This unique combination was revolutionary at the time and has since influenced countless films.
The Cultural Impact of “Gremlins”
Box Office Success and Critical Acclaim
“Gremlins” was a box office hit, earning nearly $213 million worldwide. It became the third highest-grossing film of 1984, behind “Ghostbusters” and “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.” Critics praised the film for its originality and entertaining blend of horror and comedy. The film’s success helped cement Joe Dante’s reputation and demonstrated the commercial viability of horror-comedy.
The Birth of a Franchise
The success of “Gremlins” led to a sequel, “Gremlins 2: The New Batch,” released in 1990. Directed again by Joe Dante, the sequel took a more satirical approach, poking fun at corporate culture and even the original film itself. Though not as commercially successful, it has gained a cult following for its bold humour and inventive gremlin designs.
Influence on Popular Culture
“Gremlins” left an indelible mark on popular culture. The film’s influence is evident in various media, from other horror-comedies to merchandise like toys and video games. The band Mogwai took their name from the film, and the franchise continues to inspire new projects, including the recent animated series “Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai.”
Revisiting “Gremlins” Today
Timeless Appeal
Forty years later, “Gremlins” remains a beloved classic. Its blend of horror and comedy continues to entertain, while its themes of responsibility and the unforeseen consequences of breaking rules resonate with modern audiences. The film’s innovative use of practical effects still impresses, and Gizmo’s cuteness remains timeless.
New Projects and Continued Legacy
The legacy of “Gremlins” endures with ongoing discussions about potential sequels and reboots. Chris Columbus is reportedly working on a new script that delves into darker themes, exploring the origins of the Mogwai and the gremlins. Fans eagerly await these developments, hoping to see their favourite mischievous monsters return to the big screen without the use of CGI, maintaining the charm of the original.
“Gremlins” as a Cultural Icon
“Gremlins” is more than just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has influenced the horror-comedy genre and remains relevant decades after its release. Its success is a testament to the creative vision of Joe Dante, Chris Columbus, and Steven Spielberg, who together crafted a film that was both innovative and entertaining. As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of “Gremlins,” we not only reflect on its impact but also look forward to its continued influence on future generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
By revisiting the world of Gizmo and the gremlins, we honour a legacy that has transcended time, leaving a lasting impression on the landscape of cinema.