Lionsgate is once again breathing new life into the Leprechaun franchise, a cult classic that first appeared in theaters in 1993. This horror-comedy series has always explored the misadventures of unsuspecting victims who find themselves entangled with this malevolent Irish figure after seizing his coveted pot of gold. While the films have often blended terror with humor, the franchise took increasingly bizarre turns as it ventured into space and urban settings, all the way through the early 2000s. Recognizing the enduring appeal of this iconic character, Lionsgate is working on a reboot aimed at a modern audience.
This upcoming revival marks not the first reboot attempt by Lionsgate since acquiring the rights from Trimark in the early 2000s. In 2014, the studio released Leprechaun: Origins, but it failed to make a significant impact. A sequel, Leprechaun Returns, arrived in 2018 but similarly fell short. Undeterred, Lionsgate sees further potential in the Leprechaun saga’s stereotypes and formulaic structure that has the potential to rekindle interest in this supernatural antagonist.
The Leprechaun Reboot Latest News
Recent Developments: Director Departure
Details surrounding the reboot remain sparse; however, the most significant news is that Felipe Vargas, initially set to direct the film, has stepped down from the project. Bloody Disgusting reported that no reasons have been provided for this decision. Although Vargas is reportedly engaged with another film titled Rosario, it is expected that Lionsgate will not have trouble securing a new director.
The Leprechaun Reboot Is Confirmed
Confirmed Reboot with Notable Producers
Despite the recent shake-up in director roles, the reboot of Leprechaun has been officially confirmed. Set thirty years after the original, renowned producer Roy Lee, known for his work on It, is at the helm, joined by co-producer Miri Yoon, who also contributed to Don’t Worry Darling. Following Felipe Vargas’ departure, it remains uncertain who will step into the director’s role. Notably, the script is in the hands of Mike Van Waes, who recently penned Disney’s live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch.
Will The Leprechaun Reboot Be Released In Theaters?
Theatrical Release Possibility
| Leprechaun Movie | Release Year | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|
| Leprechaun | 1993 | 35% |
| Leprechaun 2 | 1994 | 6% |
| Leprechaun 3 | 1995 | 0% |
| Leprechaun 4: In Space | 1996 | 44% |
| Leprechaun In the Hood | 2000 | 33% |
| Leprechaun: Back 2 tha Hood | 2003 | 20% |
| Leprechaun: Origins | 2014 | 0% |
| Leprechaun Returns | 2018 | 45% |
As a genre, horror is often best enjoyed in a communal setting, and films like Leprechaun thrive in theaters. Historically, following the disappointment of Leprechaun 2, later installments were relegated to straight-to-video releases or VOD. At this time, Lionsgate has yet to clarify whether the new reboot will follow suit or make its way to theaters, but the latter appears more likely given the caliber of producers involved. With a history such as Lionsgate’s—balancing lower-budget VOD projects and substantial blockbusters like The Hunger Games—the newest Leprechaun could ride the wave of budget-friendly films that reap a bigger box office yield.
The Leprechaun Reboot Cast
Potential Returns from Franchise Stars
While the details of the cast remain largely unknown, speculation abounds regarding potential appearances, particularly from franchise favorite Warwick Davis. Having portrayed the titular Leprechaun in the first six films, Davis brought notable charisma to the character, even as the series became increasingly absurd. After departing the role due to personal changes following fatherhood, Davis recently indicated a willingness to return to horror, increasing the prospects of his comeback.
Additionally, the idea of Jennifer Aniston reprising her role from the original film, where she played Tory Redding, might seem appealing to fans. However, as documented by Bloody Disgusting, she reportedly cringed upon revisiting the film. Thus, while the nostalgia factor is present, her return remains improbable at best.
The Leprechaun Reboot Movie Story Details
Plot Expectations
When it comes to storytelling conventions in horror films, originality can often take a backseat. Consequently, the Leprechaun reboot is anticipated to follow a similar narrative arc, wherein a new group unwittingly incurs the wrath of the menacing creature after pilfering his gold. It appears likely that the reboot will steer away from the overt comedy of previous sequels, instead opting for a more sinister portrayal of this infamous folk character. Regardless of the direction taken, fans can expect a sprinkle of the luck and charm that made the Leprechaun a memorable figure in horror folklore.