The second season of Disney+’s “Goosebumps,” subtitled “The Vanishing,” takes a decidedly botanical turn, much to the delight of one particular carnivorous plant enthusiast and writer. A conversation with executive producers Rob Letterman and Hilary Winston revealed a shared fascination with the strange and wonderful world of flora, albeit with a comedic twist. While the show’s creators admitted to prioritizing “dad plant jokes” over strict botanical accuracy, they drew inspiration from real-world plants like the Rafflesia, also known as the stinking corpse lily, for their depiction of a sinister, spore-birthed bulb. The visual effects team at Weta Digital contributed to the show’s botanical richness, providing a wealth of bizarre plant imagery that fueled the creative process. While the writer laments not being consulted on the show’s botanical elements earlier, the prospect of a spin-off centered around their own carnivorous plant collection, tentatively titled “The Famishing,” emerges as a humorous possibility.
“The Vanishing” represents a departure from the first season of the rebooted “Goosebumps” series, which had already surprised fans accustomed to the lighter scares of the original books and television adaptation. Embracing the anthology format inherent to the “Goosebumps” franchise, Letterman and Winston sought to create a distinct experience for the second season, shifting the setting to New York and adopting a grittier, more grounded tone. This allowed them to explore a different facet of the “Goosebumps” universe while remaining true to the spirit of R.L. Stine’s penchant for twist endings and unsettling narratives. The creators aimed to maintain a consistent tone with the first season, ensuring a thematic connection through a central mystery that intertwines with the individual journeys of the characters, mirroring the structure of the first season while incorporating new stories and classic “Goosebumps” titles like “Stay Out of the Basement.”
The creative process behind “The Vanishing” involved a playful approach to selecting source material. The writers described carrying around a tote bag filled with “Goosebumps” books, drawing inspiration from the evocative covers much like children browsing a bookstore. This nostalgic method allowed them to tap into the primal fear and excitement that the books evoke, informing the development of the season’s overarching narrative and individual character arcs. This intuitive process led to the inclusion of various nods to classic horror films and literature, woven into the fabric of each episode, inviting viewers to engage in a bit of detective work to uncover the show’s influences.
One of the key challenges in crafting “The Vanishing” was writing for a contemporary teenage audience. Letterman, who lives with two teenagers, humorously described drawing inspiration from their real-life experiences, even resorting to recording their conversations to capture authentic dialogue and behavior. The writers acknowledged the unique pressures and anxieties faced by teenagers today, recognizing that real-world challenges often surpass the horrors conjured by fiction. This understanding of the modern teenage experience informs the show’s portrayal of its characters, grounding the fantastical elements in relatable emotional realities.
The delicate balance of comedy and horror in “The Vanishing” is a crucial element of its appeal, resonating with both younger and older audiences. The show’s ability to elicit laughter and screams in equal measure provides a cathartic release from the stress and anxieties of everyday life. David Schwimmer’s performance as the botanist Anthony is singled out for his adept handling of this comedic-horror dynamic, bringing both humor and intensity to his role. Schwimmer’s commitment to the role extended beyond acting, as he actively engaged with the botanical aspects of his character, researching and even suggesting botany-themed t-shirts for his wardrobe. This dedication adds a layer of authenticity and humor to his portrayal.
Schwimmer’s immersion in the role involved connecting with real-life botanists and meticulously crafting his character’s mannerisms and reactions, particularly in scenes involving the sinister plant. His performance, involving physical actions and expressions mimed on set, was later enhanced with visual effects by Weta Digital. This collaborative effort between actor and visual effects artists highlights the attention to detail and commitment to creating a believable and unsettling portrayal of a man entangled with a malevolent botanical force.
Overall, the second season of “Goosebumps” promises a blend of classic horror tropes with contemporary teen anxieties, laced with humor and anchored by compelling performances. The show’s creators embrace the anthology format, allowing for a diverse range of stories and scares while staying true to the spirit of R.L. Stine’s original work. The blend of genuine scares, character-driven narratives, and comedic touches creates a viewing experience that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers to the “Goosebumps” universe. The attention to detail, from the botanical inspiration to the nuanced performances, suggests a thoughtful and engaging continuation of the series.
