The longest-running franchise in Lionsgate history is getting a revival. “Leprechaun” is reviving for the modern age. Filip Vargas of award-winning film “Milk Teeth” will be at the helm of this revival film. The script will be written by Mike Van Waes, who’s also currently working on the live-action “Lilo and Stitch.”
The original “Leprechaun” came out in 1993, and starred Warwick Davis (“Willow“) as a vengeful Leprechaun who dispensed warped justice with a vicious glee. To the surprise of many, the film became a massive success, and spawned several sequels in its wake. And for three decades, the films became a cornerstone of Lionsgate’s success. The films also introduced Jennifer Aniston to the screen. When Lionsgate acquired TriMark in 2000, the series became more long-standing than any horror franchise.
“Thirty years after its debut, this franchise still casts a spell, and we’re thrilled to be bringing it back with a new vision,” Erin Westerman, president of production for Lionsgate’s Motion Picture Group said in a statement. “Roy and Miri are two of our most trusted producers, especially with this genre, and we’re excited by Felipe’s vision for the film as a director. In his hands, this movie should be very scary and a ton of fun.”
Vargas is no stranger to the horror of a creature of mischief. His award-winning film “Milk Teeth” observed the story of an orphan boy who befriends a monstrous “tooth fairy”. It became a big hit on film festival circuits, winning several awards. So the franchise seems to be in good hands.
