Vince Gilligan Unveils the Sci-Fi Inspirations For The Upcoming Show Titled Pluribus
Following a long break away from the science fiction genre, the celebrated showrunner is making a comeback back to where he began. Starting out on The Iconic X-Files Series, where he wrote three dozen installments, plus even writing the screenplay for Will Smith’s film Hancock, Gilligan has spent the past decade-plus immersed in the universe from Breaking Bad Universe. Now, with his latest streaming series Pluribus, he returns full circle toward the genre that launched his journey.
A Mysterious Plot and Cryptic Trailers
The storyline and premise for Pluribus remain closely guarded. Promotional clips and previews have all been tantalizingly vague. In one, a short clip shows a female character alone at work after hours nonchalantly lifting pastries from a box labeled “Help yourself!” and licking them before placing them carefully back in the box. Critics cannot reveal to disclose anything regarding the series’ thrilling premiere, except the fact the narrative kicks off as today’s society changes dramatically.
The Creator’s Science Fiction Recommendations
Since specifics on the story or production were off-limits, the showrunner was asked an innocuous inquiry: Which additional sci-fi shows or movies should fans watch to prepare for Pluribus?
“Each of the original and the remake adaptations from Invasion of the Body Snatchers; that's a good touchstone,” Gilligan states. “Twilight Zone, that's always my go-to. The Thing, John Carpenter's version. I enjoy both versions, though I particularly love Carpenter’s take.”
A Love Letter for Science Fiction Enthusiasts
For those who are a fan of sci-fi or horror, you will probably recognize the tales inspiring Pluribus. Its inspirations aren’t exactly understated — which is exactly the idea. The creator says his aim with this series was to play with sci-fi tropes.
“My thought process involved of all the science fiction trope and horror-movie trope I could incorporate into this show, and then flip all of those tropes onto their head,” he adds. “ That’s what what tickled me.”
Put simply: Pluribus serves as a science fiction series for sci-fi fans. Therefore, if you’re coming the show as a Breaking Bad devotee who’s never been into sci-fi, you may want to complete a bit of homework beforehand. The showrunner just provided the essential watchlist.
Pluribus debuts November 7 via Apple TV.
