Warner Bros. Delays 'Gremlins' and 'Dynamic Duo' to Fall 2028 Amid Paramount Merger

2 min read
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
Warner Bros. Delays 'Gremlins' and 'Dynamic Duo' to Fall 2028 Amid Paramount Merger
Photo: The Hollywood Reporter
TL;DR

Warner Bros. has pushed the release of the untitled third 'Gremlins' film from November 19, 2027, to October 6, 2028. Simultaneously, the animated DC feature 'Dynamic Duo' has moved from June 30 to September 22, 2028. These schedule changes occur as the studio finalizes its merger with Paramount.

Key points

  • The 'Gremlins' sequel, directed by Chris Columbus, is delayed by nearly 11 months to October 6, 2028.
  • The animated 'Dynamic Duo' film, focusing on Dick Grayson and Jason Todd, shifts to September 22, 2028.
  • Deadline notes the 'Dynamic Duo' move avoids a clash with Paramount's 'Call of Duty' film.
  • Variety confirms the 'Gremlins' delay but notes no official title or plot details have been released.
  • The changes align with Warner Bros.' pending merger with Paramount, though specific causal links are debated.

Background

The original 1984 'Gremlins' film, directed by Joe Dante, grossed $212 million worldwide. A 1990 sequel followed, and an animated series 'Secrets of the Mogwai' has aired on HBO Max since 2023. Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav first revealed the third 'Gremlins' project in 2025.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter and Variety report the date changes as standard scheduling adjustments. Deadline emphasizes strategic positioning, noting 'Dynamic Duo' now targets a back-to-school audience and avoids Paramount's 'Call of Duty' film. A.V. Club expresses skepticism about the project's viability, citing a history of delayed nostalgia-driven sequels. All sources agree on the new dates but differ on the underlying motivations, with Deadline highlighting competitive avoidance and others focusing on the broader merger context.

Why it matters

The delays reflect Warner Bros.' strategic repositioning of major IP titles ahead of its merger with Paramount. The shift of 'Dynamic Duo' to September 2028 aims to capture a broader demographic, while the 'Gremlins' delay to October 2028 leverages a historically strong box office window. These moves signal a cautious approach to integrating Paramount's slate and maximizing revenue from legacy franchises.

What to watch

Warner Bros. will likely finalize its 2028 release schedule as the Paramount merger progresses. 'Dynamic Duo' is expected to compete in the fall animated market, while 'Gremlins' will debut in October 2028. No further casting or plot details for 'Gremlins' have been announced.

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