New TV Show 'The 'Burbs' Is Based on Old Movie

A new TV show, 'The 'Burbs,' has arrived on Peacock. It is based on a movie from 1989. Keke Palmer plays a new mom who feels her neighbors are acting strangely in their quiet town. The show mixes funny moments with scary feelings.
By Newsroom | TV Shows, Comedy |

A new television series, "The 'Burbs," has premiered on Peacock, reimagining the 1989 Tom Hanks film for a modern audience. The show, starring Keke Palmer, centers on a new family moving into a suburban neighborhood and encountering mysterious neighbors. Critics have noted the series' attempt to update the original's themes of suburban suspicion for a new generation, blending humor with darker elements.

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Series Context and Production

The "The 'Burbs" series was developed by showrunner Celeste Hughey, who sought to adapt the 1989 cult classic for "dark modern times." Keke Palmer, who was not initially familiar with the original film, became involved after reading Hughey's script and understanding the story's appeal. Palmer, who plays a new mother named Samira, found the project to be an opportunity to explore themes she admired in television, such as addressing social tensions through entertainment. Jack Whitehall stars alongside Palmer as her husband, Rob, who is returning to his hometown. The series is set in Hinkley Hills, a suburban community.

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Narrative and Thematic Shifts

Unlike the original film where Tom Hanks' character was an established resident observing new, eccentric neighbors, "The 'Burbs" positions Keke Palmer's character, Samira, and her husband Rob as the newcomers. Samira, a former city lawyer on maternity leave, immediately senses something unusual about their neighbors, particularly a reclusive individual named Gary. This narrative shift allows the series to explore Samira's anxieties about fitting into a new environment, compounded by her awareness of standing out as a Black woman in a culturally unfamiliar setting. The series also appears to pivot away from the overt racial tensions present in some interpretations of the original, focusing instead on a group of flawed but well-meaning characters.

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Character Dynamics and Ensemble Cast

The ensemble cast supporting Palmer includes Paula Pell, Julia Duffy, and Mark Proksch, who play a group of curious and somewhat outcast neighbors. Their interactions with Samira evolve from casual get-togethers to "strategy meetings" as they investigate the mysteries of their neighborhood. Julia Duffy portrays Lynn, a recently widowed wine enthusiast, while Paula Pell plays Dana, a bored ex-Marine. Mark Proksch is cast as Tod, a mysteriously wealthy individual. The chemistry and comedic timing of this group are highlighted as a key element of the show's appeal, with Tod's non-verbal humor noted by one critic.

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Critical Reception and Adaptational Choices

Reviews of "The 'Burbs" suggest a mixed reception, with some critics finding the series to be an "inessential binge-watch" that follows a familiar streaming pattern of adapting older films. However, others acknowledge instances where film-to-TV adaptations have been successful. The series is described as a "frothy TV remake" and a "dark comedy reboot." While some critics note a departure from the original's focus on suspicious suburbanites, the show's blend of jokes with underlying dread and its exploration of "timeless issues" are also mentioned. The show's use of comedy as a means to examine "heavy subjects" is seen as an accessible approach, echoing Keke Palmer's admiration for Norman Lear's work. The series incorporates subtle nods to the 1989 film, such as a scene involving sardines and pretzels, and a moment where a character steps on a neighbor's lawn with menacingly swirling leaves.

Sources Used

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is 'The 'Burbs' TV show about?
It is about a new family moving into a neighborhood and thinking their neighbors are acting strange. It is based on an old movie.
Q: Who is in the show?
Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall are the main stars. Paula Pell, Julia Duffy, and Mark Proksch are also in the show.
Q: Is it like the old movie?
It is similar but updated for today's time. Keke Palmer's character is the one who is new to the town, not the neighbors.
Q: Where can I watch it?
The show is available on the Peacock streaming service.
Q: What do people think of the show?
Reviews are mixed. Some people think it is a fun remake, while others feel it is not very new.