Vince Gilligan Reveals the Sci-Fi Inspirations Behind The Upcoming Series Titled Pluribus
After an extended hiatus from sci-fi storytelling, the celebrated showrunner is making a return to where he began. Starting out on The Iconic X-Files, in which he wrote 30 episodes, plus also crafting the screenplay for Will Smith’s film Hancock, Gilligan has spent the past decade-plus immersed in the world from Breaking Bad. Now, via his new Apple TV series Pluribus, he’s coming back home to the genre which kicked off his journey.
A Secretive Premise with Vague Trailers
The storyline and concept of Pluribus remain closely guarded. The trailers and teasers have all been intentionally ambiguous. In one, a short clip depicts a woman by herself in an office after hours nonchalantly lifting pastries out of a box marked “Help yourself!” and licking them prior to placing the treats carefully into its place. Critics aren’t allowed to say details regarding the show’s explosive premiere, except that the story begins when our modern world transforms in a significant way.
Gilligan’s Sci-Fi Watchlist
Because specifics on the plot or production could not be discussed, Gilligan was asked an innocuous inquiry: What additional science fiction series or films should fans watch to get ready before Pluribus?
“Both the 1956 and 1978 adaptations from Invasion of the Body Snatchers; that’s an excellent touchstone,” he states. “Twilight Zone, that's always my go-to. The Thing, John Carpenter's version. I enjoy both versions, though I especially like the John Carpenter version.”
An Homage to Science Fiction Fans
For those who are an admirer of science fiction or scary movies, you’ll likely recognize the tales inspiring Pluribus. Its inspirations aren’t exactly understated — which is exactly the idea. Gilligan notes his aim with the new show was to play with the genre itself.
“My thought process involved of every sci-fi clichés and horror conventions I could throw into this show, and then turn all of those tropes onto their head,” he says. “ That’s what what tickled me.”
In other words: Pluribus serves as a sci-fi show for genre lovers. So if you’re coming to it being a Breaking Bad devotee who isn’t typically into sci-fi, it’s wise to complete some preparation in advance. The showrunner has now offered the essential watchlist.
Pluribus premieres November 7 on Apple TV+.
