Little Shop of Horrors Reboot Gets Disappointing Update From Gremlins Director

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Director Joe Dante recently provided an update on the progress of the reboot for “Little Shop of Horrors,” a project that has been in the works since March 2024, following the footsteps of Roger Corman’s 1960 horror-comedy film with the same title.

Initially, when the project was introduced, it became known that Dante would be taking up directorial duties for a new take on Little Shop of Horrors. This version was scripted by Charles S. Haas, who is also known for writing Gremlins 2: The New Batch. Prior to his passing in May 2024, Corman had been linked to produce the remake, along with Emmy-nominated producer Brad Krevoy and Charles Cohen.

What was Joe Dante’s Little Shop of Horrors reboot update?

In a recent conversation, Dante shared that work on his revamped version of Little Shop of Horrors has temporarily halted. He didn’t provide a particular explanation for the film’s uncertain cancellation, but he hinted that it’s tough for productions to secure funding in the current climate.

Dante explained, “The term you’re looking for is ‘stasis,’ not ‘status.’ At this point, much like many aspects of our town, there seems to be a standstill, and we can only hope that things will start moving again soon. However, the current situation isn’t the best for launching new projects.

Originally released in 1960, the movie was helmed by director Corman, with a script penned by Charles B. Griffith. The cast included Jonathan Haze as Seymour, Jackie Joseph as Audrey, Mel Welles as Gravis, Dick Miller as Burson, Myrtle Vail as Winifred, and Wally Campo as Joe Fink/narrator; a relatively unknown Jack Nicholson was also part of the crew. Today, it boasts a Tomatometer rating of 94%, based on 16 reviews. In 1982, fueled by its devoted fanbase, the film inspired an off-Broadway musical, composed by Alan Menken and written by Howard Ashman. This musical was later adapted into a movie in 1986, featuring Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, and Steve Martin.

In the 1960’s musical “The Little Shop of Horrors,” I, Seymour Krelboin, work at Mr. Mushnik’s flower shop on Skid Row. During my free time, I craft a unique plant species that I name Audrey Junior, after my dear girlfriend Audrey. However, this plant has a peculiar habit – it starts talking and insists on being fed human blood and flesh! To satisfy its demands, I find myself persuaded to end the lives of a railroad detective, a cruel dentist, and a woman of ill repute. Riddled with guilt over these deaths, I’m compelled to challenge Audrey Junior in a heart-wrenching final showdown.

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2025-04-09 19:12