Vince Gilligan Reveals His Sci-Fi Inspirations For The Upcoming Show Titled Pluribus
Following an extended hiatus from sci-fi storytelling, the celebrated showrunner is staging a return back to where he began. Starting out on The X-Files Series, where he wrote 30 episodes, plus also crafting the script for the superhero comedy Hancock, the creator has spent recent years immersed in the universe of Breaking Bad. This fall, via his latest Apple TV project Pluribus, he returns back home to the genre which kicked off his career.
A Mysterious Plot with Vague Trailers
The plot and concept of Pluribus remain top secret. The trailers and previews are intentionally vague. In one, a brief scene depicts a woman alone in an office after hours nonchalantly lifting pastries out of a container marked “Feel free!” and licking them prior to placing them neatly back in the box. Critics aren’t allowed to disclose details about the show’s explosive premiere, beyond the fact the narrative begins as our modern world changes in a significant way.
The Creator’s Sci-Fi Watchlist
Since details on the story or production were off-limits, the showrunner was asked a simple question: What additional science fiction series or films should fans see to prepare for Pluribus?
“Each of the 1956 and 1978 versions of Body Snatchers; that's a good reference point,” Gilligan explains. “The Twilight Zone, that's always my favorite. The Thing, John Carpenter's version. I enjoy each one, but I particularly love the John Carpenter version.”
An Homage for Science Fiction Enthusiasts
If you’re an admirer of sci-fi or horror, you will probably recognize the tales that influenced Pluribus. The show’s influences are far from understated — which is the point. Gilligan says his aim with the new show was to riff on the genre itself.
“My thought process involved of every science fiction trope and horror-movie trope I could throw into this show, and then flip each one onto their head,” Gilligan says. “ That’s what made me excited.”
Put simply: Pluribus serves as a sci-fi show aimed at genre lovers. So if you’re coming the show being a Breaking Bad superfan who’s never been much for science fiction, it’s wise to do some preparation beforehand. The showrunner has now offered the essential watchlist.
Pluribus debuts November 7 on Apple TV.
