Goosebumps Season 2 Explores Iconic Twist From R.L. Stine’s Novels

Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Goosebumps (2023) and Goosebumps: The Vanishing

Analyzing Goosebumps: The Vanishing and Its Inspirations

The recent adaptation, Goosebumps: The Vanishing, effectively utilizes some of the most shocking twists from the beloved original book series. However, it fails to fully capitalize on these moments. While the 2023 Goosebumps series draws from the classic elements of R.L. Stine’s iconic ‘90s novels such as The Cuckoo Clock of Doom and Say Cheese and Die, it primarily serves as a springboard for its own unique narrative. The first season deftly blends teen drama with supernatural intrigue against the backdrop of a small town, culminating in a storyline that, while reminiscent of the source material, holds a distinct identity.

In the context of character development, Goosebumps: The Vanishing introduces an original cast that, despite their connections to Stine’s work, stands apart. The series revolves around Anthony Brewer, a botanist haunted by his brother’s mysterious disappearance in 1994. Joined by his teenage twins, Devin and Cece, they forge friendships with local teens—CJ, Frankie, Alex, and Trey. Their camaraderie leads them to unearth the baffling circumstances surrounding Anthony’s brother’s case, ultimately revealing a shocking conspiracy linked to shape-shifting aliens. This interplay of original characters and R.L. Stine’s references ensures the narrative feels intrinsically rooted in the Goosebumps universe.

The Ghostly Revelation: Hannah’s Unveiling

Hannah’s Connection to The Ghost Next Door

Goosebumps Season 2-7 — Image via Disney+

In season 2, episode 6, titled “The Girl Next Door,” viewers discover the unsettling truth about Devin’s friend Hannah—she is, in fact, a ghost. This narrative twist harkens back to Goosebumps Book 10, The Ghost Next Door, where the protagonist grapples with the realization that her neighbor is a ghost. The original novel delivers one of the series’ most spine-chilling twists: Hannah, the girl in question, turns out to be the ghost herself. However, Goosebumps: The Vanishing does not execute this revelation as masterfully as the book did.

Right from her introduction, Hannah’s eerie demeanor and her attempts to entice Devin hint at something amiss. Devin’s conversations with her come across as disjointed and trance-like, diminishing the suspense surrounding the reveal of her true nature.

Missed Opportunities: Squandering the Twist

Introduction and Engagement with Hannah

After a heated conflict with his love interest Frankie, Devin encounters Hannah, an opportunity for the series to present her as a true character. Yet, her immediate appearance, characterized by her unblinking gaze and unsettling dialogue, signals her otherworldly nature too clearly, undermining the suspense. The episode title further clues viewers into her supernatural status, depriving them of any engagement with her as a believable person.

Unlike The Ghost Next Door, which encourages empathy for Hannah, Goosebumps: The Vanishing depicts her solely as a menacing figure. By the time Hannah aims to manipulate Devin, her character transforms from a potential ally into an outright antagonist—this choice doesn’t just detract from the suspense; it erodes the complexity of the show’s villains.

Comparison with 2015’s Goosebumps Movie

The Surprise from Odeya Rush’s Portrayal of Hannah

In contrast to the current adaptation, the 2015 Goosebumps movie effectively executed the twist of Hannah’s ghostly identity, providing viewers with surprising depth and shock value. The subtle development of her character created a more nuanced and compelling story. Unfortunately, Goosebumps: The Vanishing rushes to turn Hannah into a threatening presence, ultimately squandering a potentially superb plot twist.

The series is currently available for streaming on Hulu, inviting both dedicated fans and newcomers to explore its intriguing mysteries.

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