Joe Dante discusses Keke Palmer"s TV remake of classic film

Joe Dante has reacted to the announcement of a TV remake of his 1989 film, The ‘Burbs, which originally starred Tom Hanks and has since gained a cult following. The new adaptation, produced by Peacock, will feature Keke Palmer and is being developed by Celeste Hughey and Seth MacFarlane. Dana Olsen, who penned the original film, is also involved in the project. The storyline centers on a couple returning to the husband’s childhood home, only to face unsettling secrets and threats from new neighbors. Dante expressed his surprise at not being included in the project, humorously commenting on social media, “Call me maybe.” His post garnered significant attention, with many fans advocating for his involvement, highlighting his extensive experience and contributions to the film industry. The director has a history of voicing his opinions on remakes, previously criticizing the trend of revisiting films that audiences did not express a desire to see remade. The original The ‘Burbs was a moderate box office success but has since become a beloved classic, much like Dante’s other works such as Gremlins and Piranha. The remake aims to capture the essence of suburban life while introducing contemporary themes and challenges. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to see how the new version pays homage to the original while carving out its own identity. This adaptation is part of a broader trend where streaming platforms like Peacock are revamping classic films and series, including notable titles like Ted and Bel-Air. The response to Dante’s comments reflects a strong desire among fans for original creators to be involved in adaptations of their work, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in remakes.