Award-Winning Creator Gilligan Himself Unveils His Sci-Fi Influences Behind His New Series Titled Pluribus
Following a long break from the science fiction genre, the celebrated showrunner is staging a return back to where he began. Launching his career on The X-Files, in which he penned 30 episodes, and even crafting the script for the superhero comedy Hancock, Gilligan has spent recent years immersed in the world from Breaking Bad Universe. Now, with his new Apple TV project Pluribus, he returns full circle to sci-fi that launched his journey.
A Mysterious Premise and Cryptic Trailers
The storyline and concept for Pluribus are closely guarded. The trailers and previews have all been intentionally vague. For example, a short clip shows a female character by herself in an office after hours nonchalantly lifting donuts out of a container marked “Feel free!” then tasting each one prior to placing the treats neatly into the box. Critics aren’t allowed to disclose details regarding the show’s thrilling premiere, beyond that the story kicks off as today’s society transforms in a significant way.
Gilligan’s Science Fiction Watchlist
Since details on the story or production could not be discussed, the showrunner fielded an innocuous inquiry: What additional science fiction series or films ought fans see to prepare for Pluribus?
“Each of the original and the remake adaptations from Body Snatchers; that's a good touchstone,” he explains. “Twilight Zone, that's always my go-to. The Thing, the John Carpenter film. I enjoy both versions, but I especially like Carpenter’s take.”
An Homage to Science Fiction Fans
For those who are an admirer of science fiction or scary movies, you will probably recognize the tales that influenced Pluribus. The show’s influences are far from understated — which is exactly the idea. Gilligan says his goal for the new show was to riff on sci-fi tropes.
“My thought process involved of every sci-fi clichés and horror-movie trope I could incorporate into the series, and then flip all of those tropes onto their head,” Gilligan says. “ That’s what what tickled me.”
In other words: Pluribus serves as a sci-fi show aimed at sci-fi fans. So if you’re coming the show being a Breaking Bad superfan who’s never been much for science fiction, you may want to complete some preparation in advance. Gilligan just provided the curriculum.
Pluribus premieres Nov. 7 on Apple TV.
