Following an extended hiatus from sci-fi storytelling, the celebrated showrunner is making a return back to his roots. Starting out on The Iconic X-Files Series, in which he wrote three dozen installments, plus even crafting the script behind the superhero comedy Hancock, the creator devoted recent years immersed in the universe from Breaking Bad. Now, with his latest Apple TV series Pluribus, he’s coming back home to the genre which kicked off his career.
A Secretive Plot with Vague Trailers
The plot and concept for Pluribus remain closely guarded. The trailers and previews have all been tantalizingly ambiguous. For example, a short clip depicts a woman by herself at work after hours calmly taking pastries out of a box labeled “Help yourself!” and licking them prior to placing the treats carefully back in the box. Critics aren’t allowed to say anything about the show’s explosive first episode, beyond that the story begins as today’s society transforms dramatically.
The Creator’s Sci-Fi Watchlist
Since specifics on the plot or production could not be discussed, Gilligan was asked a simple inquiry: Which other science fiction series or films should viewers watch to prepare before Pluribus?
“Each of the original and the remake adaptations from Body Snatchers; that's a good reference point,” he states. “Twilight Zone, that's always my go-to. The Thing, John Carpenter's film. I like each one, though I particularly love Carpenter’s take.”
A Love Letter for Science Fiction Enthusiasts
If you’re an admirer of science fiction or scary movies, you’ll likely recognize the stories that influenced Pluribus. The show’s influences are far from understated — and that’s exactly the idea. Gilligan notes his aim for the new show was to play with sci-fi tropes.
“I was thinking of all the sci-fi clichés and horror-movie trope I could incorporate into the series, and then turn each one upside down,” Gilligan adds. “ That was made me excited.”
In other words: Pluribus is a science fiction series aimed at sci-fi fans. Therefore, if you’re coming to it being a Breaking Bad devotee who’s never been into science fiction, it’s wise to complete some preparation in advance. The showrunner just provided the essential watchlist.
Pluribus premieres November 7 on Apple TV+.
