There are currently two Gremlins movies: the original Gremlins (1984) and its sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990). While discussions and plans for a third film have circulated for years, as of today, only two Gremlins feature films have been officially released.
The Original Gremlins: A Christmas Horror Classic
The Birth of a Mogwai
Released in 1984, Gremlins introduced the world to Gizmo, a cute and cuddly Mogwai, a creature with three very important rules: don’t expose him to bright light, don’t get him wet, and never, ever feed him after midnight. These rules, of course, are broken, leading to the terrifying transformation of other Mogwai into mischievous and destructive Gremlins.
A Dark Comedy with Bite
Directed by Joe Dante and written by Chris Columbus, Gremlins blended family-friendly adventure with genuine horror elements. Its success was phenomenal, cementing its place in pop culture and spawning countless merchandise. The film’s subversive humor and surprisingly dark themes appealed to a wide audience, making it a commercial and critical hit. Its Christmas setting added another layer to its enduring popularity.
Gremlins 2: The New Batch: A Meta-Sequel
More Gremlins, More Mayhem
Six years later, Gremlins 2: The New Batch arrived. Moving the setting from the idyllic Kingston Falls to the chaotic Clamp Center in New York City, the sequel took a decidedly more comedic and meta approach.
Breaking the Fourth Wall
Gremlins 2 didn’t shy away from poking fun at itself and its predecessor. With appearances by Hulk Hogan and more outlandish Gremlin mutations, the film embraced absurdity. While it wasn’t as universally loved as the original, Gremlins 2 has gained a cult following for its self-aware humor and willingness to experiment. The sequel’s creativity and commitment to subverting expectations sets it apart from many other sequels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gremlins
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the Gremlins franchise:
What are the three rules for Mogwai?
The three rules for caring for a Mogwai are:
- Don’t expose them to bright light, especially sunlight, as it will kill them.
- Don’t get them wet, as it will cause them to multiply.
- Never feed them after midnight, as they will transform into Gremlins.
What happens if you feed a Mogwai after midnight?
If a Mogwai is fed after midnight, it will undergo a painful and grotesque transformation into a Gremlin, a scaly, reptilian creature that is mischievous, destructive, and often violent.
Who directed the Gremlins movies?
Joe Dante directed both Gremlins (1984) and Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990).
Was there ever a Gremlins 3 planned?
Yes, there have been numerous discussions and plans for a Gremlins 3 over the years. Writers and producers have explored different ideas, but none have made it to production as of yet. Chris Columbus, who wrote the original Gremlins, has repeatedly expressed interest in a potential sequel. The constant development hell surrounding Gremlins 3 highlights the difficulty in recapturing the magic of the original while delivering something fresh and innovative.
Will there ever be a Gremlins 3?
The possibility of a Gremlins 3 remains open. While no official announcements have been made, continued interest from fans and filmmakers suggests that it could still happen in the future. Developments in CGI and practical effects could also contribute to a potential revival. The potential success of the animated series, Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, might also influence future film projects.
Is Gremlins a Christmas movie?
Yes, Gremlins is widely considered a Christmas movie due to its setting during the Christmas season and its themes of family and goodwill, albeit with a dark and subversive twist.
What is the name of the main Mogwai?
The main Mogwai in both Gremlins movies is named Gizmo.
Are Gremlins good or bad?
Gremlins are inherently mischievous and destructive, and are generally considered to be bad. They enjoy causing chaos and mayhem and are often portrayed as violent and dangerous.
What made Gremlins 2 different from the first movie?
Gremlins 2: The New Batch adopted a more comedic and meta approach compared to the original. It featured more outlandish Gremlin mutations, broke the fourth wall, and poked fun at the conventions of sequels and horror films.
Where does Gremlins 2 take place?
Gremlins 2 takes place in the Clamp Center in New York City.
What is the origin of the name “Mogwai”?
The word “Mogwai” comes from Cantonese and means “evil spirit” or “devil.”
Is there a Gremlins animated series?
Yes, there is an animated prequel series called Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, which premiered on HBO Max (now Max). The series explores the origins of Gizmo and his adventures in 1920s Shanghai. This serves as further proof of continued studio interest in the franchise’s legacy.