It’s been decades in the making, but the Gremlins are finally squeaking back into the spotlight: Warner Bros. has confirmed Gremlins 3, with a theatrical release set for November 19, 2027.
This is huge - especially when you think about how this news could spark a renaissance for Gremlins merch, statues, and collectibles (yes, that includes Iron Studios).
What We Know So Far: The Real Deal Behind Gremlins 3
Here’s a breakdown of the key facts, plus what makes this new sequel meaningful for fans old and new.
1. Creators from the Original Are Coming Back
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Chris Columbus, who wrote the screenplay for the 1984 original, is returning as director and producer for Gremlins 3.
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Steven Spielberg will serve as executive producer through Amblin Entertainment.
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This reunion taps into real legacy energy: Columbus got his start in Hollywood with Gremlins.
2. A Fresh, Experienced Writing Team
Columbus is co-writing the script with Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein, the directing duo behind Final Destination: Bloodlines. Their involvement brings a modern sensibility and horror writing chops to the mix, which feels right for a franchise that balances creepy and comedic so well.
3. Release Date - Mark Your Calendars
The new film is officially locked in for November 19, 2027. According to Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, the announcement came during an investor call.
4. High Standards, Not Just a Cash Grab
Chris Columbus has made clear that they’re not just doing this for nostalgia or box office - they want to do it well. He told GamesRadar+ that there are “a bunch of scripts” in play, but nothing has been approved yet. He and Spielberg are reportedly very selective: they don’t want to make a film “just for the title.”
5. Will They Use Practical Effects?
Longtime Gremlins fans will remember how much of the original creature work relied on puppetry and practical effects. While no public confirmation has come from the studio yet, Chris Columbus has expressed interest in using practical effects, not over-relying on CGI. That could really set Gremlins 3 apart in an era of slick digital monsters.
Why This Matters - Especially for Old-School Fans and Collectors
This isn’t just another sequel - it feels like a tribute. Here’s why longtime fans (and collector communities) should be especially pumped:
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Legacy + Authenticity: With Columbus returning and practical effects potentially in play, the film is leaning into what made Gremlins special in the first place. It’s not a cheap reboot - it’s a continuation with heart.
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New Generations, Old Heart: The creative team is clearly thinking about both longtime fans and a younger audience. That balance is promising for the tone: mischievous, eerie, fun.
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Merch Potential Is Exploding: With a major film on the way, there’s likely to be a surge in collectible interest - statues, gremlin figures, dioramas, you name it.
What Now?
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Mark your calendar for November 19, 2027.
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Keep an eye on announcements from both Warner Bros. and collectible companies like Iron Studios - limited-edition items are almost inevitable.
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Engage with the fan community (forums, social media) now. Let other longtime fans know: the Mogwai are coming home.
