Chair de poule

Fans of the original book series should know this show is nothing like that- it's darker and the protagonists are teenagers instead of younger kids. Zero nostalgia factor, so if that's what you were hoping for, look elsewhere.

That said, the episodes in the middle of the first season were fairly okay and overall the series had potential.

The writing is why this isn't getting a higher rating from me. The motivations behind the characters' actions- particularly those of the villains- are nonsensical to the point of frustration. The last two episodes of the first season were disappointing and fell flat in their attempt to create lore and explain the origin of the evil that had been haunting the characters.

I don't have an issue with the showmakers changing the tone of the OG series to appeal to an older, Gen Z audience but there are too many plotholes- too much about the choices characters make and about the world that just doesn't make sense within the context of the series, and that's never really explained to the point of satisfaction.

I'm not sure why they decided to use the "Goosebumps" brand for this series, but I imagine they thought they'd get a lot more views playing the nostalgic reboot card. Had they just given it an original name, there wouldn't be as many reviews from viewers who are incapable of separating the style and format of the original series and accepting this new one. There would also be fewer viewers claiming this new show ruined their childhood, not because the show is bad, but because they grew up to become idiots who refers to everything that doesn't fit into their narrow-minded per views as woke. The good news is, if you're a decent, functioning member of modern society who can look past the fact that not every character is straight and white, and how those characters actually speak and act like people of their age in 2023, you might enjoy the creepiness and sometimes genuinely gross and chilling aspects of this series. More so, if you're intelligent, too, you might appreciate the smart writing and the metaphors woven into the specific storylines featured in each episode. As much as I'm enjoying it, I have some issues with it being derivative (Nightmare On Elm Street), predictable (I figured out what happened in the past in episode 2), and having a major plot hole (why doesn't one character's kid and their friend back up their story and prevent them from having to be taken away?) Aside from these small gripes, it's an enjoyable series, especially if you like the horror genre and you're looking for something new to watch around Halloween.

As someone who grew up reading the books and giving every atrocious cinematic attempt the benefit of the doubt, I am pretty pleased with this one.

I winced when I hit play, and settled back, prepared to be disappointed.

I finished every episode in two days, and am excited for the next.

It is very much a show aimed at teenagers, so it has the high school shenanigans and drama. The acting skill varies, as does the script writing. Justin Long is Justin Long (which I love. YMMV).

Every attempt at trying to exactly duplicate the stories and spirit of the books has failed miserably, so this show went in a different direction. They used a Goosebumps villain and created a framework from it, then wove different Goosebumps stories into an episodic/serialized show.

If you're looking for Masterpiece Theater, this ain't it. If you're looking for something fun inspired by delightful Goosebumps books, enjoy!

Disney+ and Hulu's Goosebumps takes R. L. Stine's beloved book series and gives it a modern, serialized twist. Unlike its 1990s anthology predecessor, this version weaves together multiple horror elements into a continuous story, blending teen drama, supernatural chills, and nostalgia for longtime fans.

Positives

✔ Engaging Storytelling: Unlike the original anthology format, this adaptation creates an interconnected mystery that keeps viewers invested across episodes.

✔ Creepy Yet Fun Atmosphere: The show captures the eerie yet playful tone of Goosebumps, making it perfect for both older fans and new audiences.

✔ Strong Cast: The young ensemble delivers solid performances, and the presence of Justin Long adds extra star power.

✔ Nostalgic References: Fans of the original books will appreciate the nods to classic Goosebumps stories and characters.

✔ Great Visual Effects: Compared to the original 1990s series, the production values here are much higher, with well-executed practical and CGI effects.

Negatives

• Less Anthology, More Drama: Some fans might miss the episodic, standalone nature of the original series, as this version leans more into a continuous teen drama format.

• Pacing Issues: While the long-form storytelling works well, some episodes feel stretched out, making the buildup slower than necessary.

• Not as Scary as Expected: While the show has creepy moments, it leans more toward suspense and mystery rather than full horror, which may not satisfy fans looking for true frights.

Conclusion

Goosebumps successfully modernizes R. L. Stine's spooky world while keeping it accessible for both young and older audiences. While it sacrifices some of the classic anthology style in favor of a serialized mystery, the engaging cast, fun scares, and nostalgic callbacks make it a worthy watch for fans of supernatural thrillers.

Something people are gonna have to realize is that there are so many books to the goosebumps series and would probably take more than several life times to make into a cartoon or live action. People love Goosebumps and want more, but the thing is not everything can be made perfect especially with time and money. I couldn't care less what anybody thinks this show was great each episode and probably my favorite adaptation of Goosebumps. If you're gonna cry about how it won't follow the story just stick to the short and more accurate 1990's TV show. The people who made this show did their best to bring as many books as they could into this show with a great plot, so stop saying it was bad.

MY REVIEW: Best adaptation so far, amazing acting, rushed endings for most of the episodes, great on transitioning to each character after each episode, foreshadowing was great, and was kinda upset how there wasn't too much bloody stuff but ehh still alright. I haven't watched a better Halloween movie or show since Hubie Halloween.