The Mogwai Are Coming Back: 'Gremlins 3' Sets a 2027 Theatrical Return

After more than three decades, the mischievous Mogwai and their destructive counterparts are officially headed back to the big screen, with original creative forces firmly in place.

TL;DR: The Essentials You Need to Know

• It's Official! Warner Bros. has greenlit Gremlins 3 for a theatrical release on November 19, 2027.
• Original Minds Return: Chris Columbus (writer of the 1984 original) will direct and produce, while Steven Spielberg returns as an executive producer.
• Long-Awaited Sequel: This marks the first live-action Gremlins movie in 37 years, following 1990's Gremlins 2: The New Batch.

Remember those three golden rules for caring for a Mogwai? No bright light, no water, and absolutely no feeding after midnight. For over three decades, fans have been eagerly—and sometimes nervously—wondering if a new generation would ever get to learn those rules the hard way on the big screen. Well, get ready, because the wait is officially over: Gremlins 3 is not only happening but has a locked-in theatrical release date of November 19, 2027.

Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav made the long-anticipated announcement during a recent company earnings call, confirming that the iconic 1980s creature feature is being revived. This news puts an end to years of fervent fan speculation and signals a major return for the beloved franchise that first captivated audiences in 1984 with its unique blend of horror and dark comedy.

Bringing Back the Original Magic with Familiar Creative Hands

One of the most exciting aspects for longtime fans is the return of the original creative powerhouses behind the first film. Steven Spielberg, who served as executive producer on the initial movies, is back in the same capacity through Amblin Entertainment. But perhaps even more significant for many is that Chris Columbus, the screenwriter responsible for the beloved 1984 original, is set to direct and produce this new installment.

Columbus won't be tackling the screenplay alone; he's teaming up with Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, the directing duo known for their work on this summer's horror hit Final Destination: Bloodlines, to co-write the script. While there were prior drafts from Toby Halbrooks and Carl Ellsworth, this combination of veteran and fresh talent aims to capture the classic feel while bringing something new to the mayhem. Kristie Macosko Krieger, Holly Bario, Michael Barnathan, and Mark Radcliffe are also on board as producers, ensuring a seasoned team is guiding the project.

Decades in the Making: Why Now for the Mogwai's Return?

It's been 37 years since Gremlins 2: The New Batch hit theaters in 1990, making Gremlins 3 the first live-action film in the franchise in nearly four decades. For a film that left such a lasting cultural imprint, influencing everything from rating systems to merchandising, this prolonged absence has only fueled its cult status.

The original 1984 film, directed by Joe Dante, was a significant box office success, grossing $151 million domestically against a modest $11 million budget. It famously contributed to the creation of the PG-13 rating, bridging the gap between child-friendly fare and R-rated horror. The sequel, while not as financially successful at $41 million, later garnered its own cult appreciation for its self-aware humor and satirical take on the original, even earning praise from director Quentin Tarantino.

"With Gremlins 2, [Dante] was able to do a MAD Magazine take-off on the first Gremlins for the entire movie. They actually start goofing on every aspect of Christopher Columbus’ original premise… and it was hysterical… it actually gets better every time you see it. It’s the first of those gag-like movies to 100 percent work from beginning to end since Airplane!" — Quentin Tarantino, as quoted by The Hollywood Reporter

In recent years, Warner Bros. and Amblin have been quietly testing the waters for a revival. The animated series Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, which premiered on Max in 2023 and has aired two seasons, offered a prequel exploring the creatures' Chinese origins. This series not only introduced the Mogwai to a new generation but also reignited interest among existing fans, proving there's still a strong appetite for the mischievous critters.

A Broader Strategy: Warner Bros. Discovery's Ambitious Lineup

The announcement of Gremlins 3 isn't an isolated incident but rather a key piece in Warner Bros. Discovery's larger strategy of leveraging beloved intellectual properties. CEO David Zaslav highlighted the film as part of the studio's broader theatrical resurgence, emphasizing their leading position in the 2025 box office, having surpassed $4 billion in revenue globally. He touted a diverse slate of successful releases, from kid-friendly films like A Minecraft Movie to adult-skewing horror like The Conjuring: Last Rites.

This commitment to both original content and established franchises indicates a robust environment for a film like Gremlins 3. The studio is banking on the inherent nostalgia of the brand, coupled with the proven talent returning to the helm, to deliver a movie that appeals to both lifelong fans and newcomers who might have only just discovered Gizmo through the animated series.

Addressing Fan Concerns: The Road Ahead for a Beloved Franchise

While excitement is undoubtedly high, some longtime fans might harbor a few lingering questions. The success of Gremlins 2 at the box office wasn't as strong as its predecessor, leading some to be wary of decades-later sequels that might struggle to recapture the original magic. However, the sequel's eventual rise to cult classic status, as championed by figures like Quentin Tarantino, showcases the lasting impact of the franchise and its ability to resonate with audiences over time.

Another point of discussion is the absence of Joe Dante, who directed both original films and whose "madcap sensibilities" were crucial to their distinct tone. While Dante's vision defined much of the franchise's chaotic charm, the return of original screenwriter Chris Columbus to the director's chair offers a different, yet equally authentic, connection to the material's roots. Columbus, with his experience directing blockbusters like Home Alone and the first two Harry Potter films, is well-equipped to manage a large-scale production while hopefully staying true to the heart and humor he injected into the original script.

Plausible Real-World Scenario: A Fan's Hopes and Anxieties

Consider Sarah, a lifelong fan who remembers convincing her parents to let her watch the original Gremlins way back when. She adored Gizmo and was equally fascinated by the terrifying Gremlins. Now, as a parent herself, she’s watched the animated Secrets of the Mogwai with her own kids, introducing them to the lore. When she saw the news about Gremlins 3, a wave of excitement washed over her – finally! But it quickly mixed with a touch of anxiety. Would it be too silly? Too serious? Would it capture that unique blend of scares and laughs she loved? Could Chris Columbus, the original storyteller, truly bring that specific spark back for her kids, in a way that feels fresh but also deeply familiar?

This blend of excitement and apprehension is a common thread among fans whenever a beloved, long-dormant franchise is revived. Warner Bros. Pictures president of development and production, Jesse Ehrman, acknowledged this sentiment, stating, "Few titles are as beloved and iconic as Gremlins, and we’re beyond excited to bring it back for both lifelong fans and a whole new generation." This statement underscores the studio's ambition to create an installment that honors its legacy while captivating new viewers.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, fans can expect the film to lean into the "magic, mayhem, and heart" that defined the first two movies. The return of Spielberg as executive producer, along with Columbus directing and co-writing, suggests a concerted effort to maintain the franchise's identity while potentially introducing new twists on those classic Mogwai rules. With the film arriving in time for the 2027 holiday season, it aims to be a festive, if frightful, treat.

Your Burning Questions About the Gremlins' Return, Answered

Frequently Asked Questions About 'Gremlins 3'

When is Gremlins 3 being released? Gremlins 3 is slated for a theatrical release on November 19, 2027.

Who is directing and producing Gremlins 3? Chris Columbus, who wrote the original 1984 film, will direct and produce. Steven Spielberg is returning as an executive producer.

Who is writing the screenplay for Gremlins 3? Chris Columbus is co-writing the screenplay with Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein.

Will any original cast members return for Gremlins 3? No cast members have been officially announced yet. However, there's speculation about the potential return of original leads like Zach Galligan and Phoebe Cates, though nothing is confirmed.

What were the three famous rules for caring for a Mogwai? The three rules are: 1) Don't expose them to bright light, 2) Don't get them wet, and 3) Never, ever feed them after midnight.

Final Takeaways for Expectant Gremlins Fans

• Circle November 19, 2027, on your calendar for the big theatrical comeback.
• Feel confident that core creators Chris Columbus and Steven Spielberg are back in key roles.
• Prepare for a fresh take on the classic story, helmed by the original screenwriter and new writing talent.
• Remember the franchise’s history: from its box office success and PG-13 legacy to its cult sequel and recent animated series.
• Anticipate more "magic, mayhem, and heart" as Warner Bros. aims to please both old and new generations.

Sources

• Warner Bros. Pictures/Amblin E/Sunset Boulevard/Corbis/Getty ImagesEntertainment. "Gremlins 3 is officially in development with a theatrical release date of November 19, 2027". Fortress of Solitude - Movie News, Nov 6, 2025.
• Hibberd, James. "'Gremlins' Warner Bros/Courtesy Everett Collection". The Hollywood Reporter, Nov 6, 2025.
• Rubin, Rebecca. "'Gremlins 3' Movie Sets November 2027 Release Date". Variety, Nov 6, 2025.
• Hayes, Dade. "Gremlin statues on display during New York Comic Con in 2022. Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for ReedPop". Deadline, Nov 6, 2025.
• Del Rosario, Alexandra. "‘Gremlins 3’ is real: Steven Spielberg, Chris Columbus reuniting for 2027 Mogwai movie". Los Angeles Times, Nov 6, 2025.
• Marston, George. "Iconic Horror Franchise to Return After 37 Years". The Daily Beast, Nov 6, 2025.
• Cinema Express Desk. "Gremlins 3 release date announced; Zach Lipovsky, Adam B Stein join Chris Columbus as writers". The New Indian Express, Nov 8, 2025.
• stanisland team. "Gremlins 3: Everything You Need To Know". Stanisland Magazine, Nov 7, 2025.