A Gender-Swapped Reboot ‘Holes’ Pilot in the Works for Disney+

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement as Disney+ is breathing new life into the classic tale of “Holes” with an innovative TV series adaptation! This project has been officially greenlit for a pilot episode. The series promises to re-envision Louis Sachar’s beloved 1998 novel, but with a captivating twist: instead of focusing on Stanley Yelnats, the story will revolve around a resilient teenage girl. I can’t wait to see how this modern take unfolds!

Similar to the original plot, the latest main character encounters a detention facility in the desert, where the Camp Warden compels the prisoners to excavate peculiar pits.

The initial story revolves around Stanley Yelnats, a boy mistakenly sent to Camp Green Lake due to an unjust accusation. As time passes, he gradually discovers his family’s intricate ties to the camp and its hidden truths. First published in 1998, this novel soared to unprecedented heights of popularity, earning the National Book Award and the Newbery Medal, and selling millions of copies across the globe.

Apart from the original work, Sachar additionally wrote a follow-up titled “Small Steps“, as well as a related guidebook named “Stanley Yelnats’ Survival Guide to Camp Green Lake“.

In the forthcoming series, Alina Mankin (known for her work on ‘Lodge 49’, ‘The Mindy Project’, and ‘Anne with an E’) will take on both writing and executive production roles. Meanwhile, Liz Phang (renowned for her work on ‘Yellowjackets’, ‘Foundation’, and ‘The Haunting of Hill House’) will serve as the showrunner and executive producer.

Drew Goddard (known for “The Martian” and “Daredevil”) will collaborate as an executive producer along with his production company, Goddard Textiles, as well as Sarah Esberg and Walden Media, who previously produced a 2003 movie adaptation. Furthermore, Mike Medavoy and Shamrock, the owners of the property’s rights, are also set to serve as executive producers.

In 2003, the movie “Holes” saw Shia LaBeouf portray Stanley Yelnats, with an impressive ensemble including Sigourney Weaver, Jon Voight, Patricia Arquette, and Eartha Kitt. The film was helmed by Andrew Davis and earned $71 million worldwide on a production budget of $20 million, making it a lasting favorite among fans.

Drew Goddard revealed a personal link to the project, acknowledging his mother – a former schoolteacher – for sparking his interest in the book back in the late 1990s. “Mom always knows what kids are into,” he said in an interview with Variety. “_Holes_ was the first book she suggested, and it’s amazing to complete this circle by working on it now.

As of now, no actors have been confirmed for the upcoming “Holes” series. Enthusiasts of the original tale and the 2003 movie are eagerly waiting to discover how this new interpretation will breathe life into the timeless themes and enigmas that made “Holes” a classic.

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2025-01-08 10:46