Warner Bros. has once again shifted the release date of Gremlins 3, the third installment in the legendary horror-comedy saga that has spent more than three decades waiting to return to the big screen. The film, originally set for November 17, 2027, has now been moved to October 6, 2028.
The change is significant because it confirms the project is still moving forward despite successive delays, and because the studio has deliberately chosen a date closer to Halloween, a strategic move given the festive and spooky tone that has defined the franchise since its origins in the 1980s.
One More Year of Production to Polish the Film
The postponement is not due to production problems, according to reports, but rather to the intention of giving the creative team more time to work before the release. In any case, it amounts to just twelve additional months of waiting for fans who have been calling for this sequel for years.
The project remains in the hands of Chris Columbus, screenwriter of the original Gremlins, who this time will also take on directing duties in the absence of Joe Dante, who directed the first two installments. Columbus also worked on an early version of the script, though the final screenplay is credited to Hannah Marks.
Steven Spielberg remains attached to the project as executive producer, a role he also held on the previous films in the saga, reinforcing the creative pedigree behind this new installment.
Another Shift in Warner Bros.’ Release Calendar
The delay of Gremlins 3 has had a ripple effect on another of the studio's releases. Dynamic Duo, a DC Comics animated film centered on Nightwing and Red Hood, has been moved up three months to avoid clashing with Gremlins 3.
The film, which explores the clash between both characters' past as Robin and Bruce Wayne's adopted sons and their present as superheroes with conflicting principles, was originally scheduled for September 22, 2028. Warner Bros. has moved its release up to June 30, 2028.
More Than 35 Years of Waiting for the Third Installment
The last time mogwais and gremlins starred in a theatrical release was with Gremlins 2: The New Batch, released more than thirty-five years ago and remembered for its more lighthearted tone compared to the more unsettling nature of the first film.
Since then, the franchise has maintained some presence thanks to projects like the animated series Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, but the third live-action film has gone through several announcements and delays before finally settling on this new 2028 date.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Gremlins 3 come out?
The film is scheduled to be released on October 6, 2028, according to the latest date confirmed by Warner Bros.
Why has Gremlins 3 been delayed?
The studio has chosen to give the project an extra year of work and place the release on a date closer to Halloween, in keeping with the spirit of the saga.
Who is directing Gremlins 3?
Chris Columbus, screenwriter of the original Gremlins, will handle directing duties in the absence of Joe Dante, director of the first two films.
Who wrote the screenplay for Gremlins 3?
The final screenplay is credited to Hannah Marks, though Chris Columbus worked on an early version of the script.
Is Steven Spielberg involved in Gremlins 3?
Yes, Spielberg remains executive producer on the project, a role he also held on the previous installments of the saga.
How long has it been since the last Gremlins movie?
More than thirty-five years since the release of Gremlins 2: The New Batch.
What other Warner Bros. release has been affected by this change?
Dynamic Duo, a DC Comics animated film about Nightwing and Red Hood, has moved its release up to June 30, 2028 to avoid coinciding with Gremlins 3.
