Disney+ and Disney Channel have ordered a pilot for a series adaptation of the 2006 film “Aquamarine,” Variety reports. Emma Roberts, who starred in the original feature, is set to guest star as Claire Brown and will serve as an executive producer on the project. The series, written by Sarah Watson, centers on a teenager named Coral who discovers her mother was a mermaid after moving to a seaside town.
Why is Disney prioritizing IP reboots for television?
The “Aquamarine” pilot is part of a broader strategy by Disney to leverage its existing film library for streaming and cable television. According to Variety, the company has previously ordered pilots for adaptations of “Holes” and “Witch Mountain.” This approach mitigates risk by utilizing titles that already possess built-in brand awareness and established fan bases, even if those properties originally saw mixed critical reception.
While the 2006 “Aquamarine” film was not a major critical success upon its theatrical release, it has since developed a significant cult following, a trend common among mid-2000s teen cinema that studios are now looking to capitalize on through serialized formats.
Who is leading the “Aquamarine” production team?
The production features a mix of original film talent and experienced television creators. Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum, who directed the 2006 film, is attached to direct and executive produce the pilot, as reported by Variety. Sarah Watson, known for creating the Freeform series “The Bold Type” and writing for the Disney+ series “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” is the lead writer. Susan Cartsonis, a producer on the original film, is also returning as an executive producer.
How does this project compare to recent Disney television trends?
Disney’s move toward adapting youth-oriented literature and film reflects a shift in how the studio populates its streaming and cable slates. For instance, the recent pickup of “Coven Academy” to series, as noted by Variety, shows a preference for projects with established literary or cinematic roots. Unlike the original “Aquamarine,” which focused on two friends helping a mermaid find love, the new pilot shifts the narrative focus toward a mystery involving a mother’s disappearance and the awakening of magical powers.
When tracking media acquisitions, look for the involvement of the original film’s producers. Their participation often signals an effort to maintain the “tone” of the original property while updating the narrative for a new generation of viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the original cast returning for the “Aquamarine” series?
Emma Roberts is confirmed to guest star, but there is no word on the return of other original stars like Joanna “JoJo” Levesque or Sara Paxton. - Will the original writers be involved?
No. According to Variety, John Quaintance, Jessica Bendinger, and original novelist Alice Hoffman are not involved in the new pilot. - Where will the show air?
The project has received a pilot order for both Disney+ and Disney Channel.
Are you excited to see a reimagined version of this cult classic, or do you prefer the original film? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Disney’s upcoming television slate.
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