Disney+ is bringing Louis Sachar’s beloved Holes to a new generation with a modern twist. The streaming service has officially ordered a pilot for a reimagined series based on the iconic 1998 novel and its 2003 film adaptation. This time, the story will feature a female lead, offering a fresh perspective on the original tale.
The new series, penned by Alina Mankin and helmed by showrunner Liz Phang, follows a teenage girl sent to a detention camp. There, she and her fellow campers are forced by the camp’s ruthless Warden to dig mysterious holes under the hot sun. Like its predecessor, the story is expected to combine adventure, suspense, and themes of resilience, but with an updated lens that reflects today’s audiences.
Backing the series are industry heavyweights, including Drew Goddard and Sarah Esberg of Goddard Textiles, along with Mike Medavoy, producer of the 2003 film. Walden Media, which played a pivotal role in the original movie, is also involved, with 20th Television serving as the production studio under Goddard’s first-look deal.
Fans of the original film will remember Shia LaBeouf’s breakout performance as Stanley Yelnats IV, a boy wrongfully sentenced to Camp Green Lake, where he uncovered a web of secrets tied to his family’s past. The movie also boasted a star-studded cast, including Sigourney Weaver, Jon Voight, Patricia Arquette, and Tim Blake Nelson, bringing Sachar’s words vividly to life.
While no casting announcements for the series have been made, the creative team’s involvement signals a strong commitment to honoring the original while introducing a compelling new protagonist. With Holes remaining a staple in classrooms and book clubs, the pilot has the potential to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
The original Holes movie received critical acclaim for its faithful adaptation of Sachar’s novel, combining humor and heart with an undercurrent of mystery. Disney+ appears eager to strike that same balance while reinterpreting the narrative for today’s streaming audience.
This modern adaptation could open up fresh opportunities for revisiting the story’s timeless themes, including friendship, perseverance, and uncovering hidden truths. If picked up to series, Holes promises to be a meaningful addition to the growing catalog of literary adaptations on Disney+.
Sources: Deadline, Variety
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