Vince Gilligan Reveals the Sci-Fi Inspirations For The New Series Pluribus

Following an extended hiatus away from sci-fi storytelling, Vince Gilligan is making a return to his roots. Starting out on The X-Files Series, where he wrote 30 episodes, plus also crafting the script behind the superhero comedy Hancock, Gilligan has spent the past decade-plus immersed in the universe from Breaking Bad. Now, with his new Apple TV series Pluribus, he’s coming back home toward the genre that kicked off his career.

A Secretive Plot and Cryptic Trailers

The plot and concept for Pluribus are top secret. The trailers and teasers have all been intentionally vague. In one, a brief scene depicts a woman alone in an office at night nonchalantly lifting donuts out of a container marked “Help yourself!” then tasting them before returning them carefully into its place. Reviewers cannot reveal to say details about the show’s thrilling first episode, except the fact the narrative kicks off as today’s society changes dramatically.

Gilligan’s Science Fiction Watchlist

Since specifics on the plot or development could not be discussed, the showrunner fielded a simple question: Which additional sci-fi shows or films should fans see to prepare before Pluribus?

“Both the 1956 and 1978 versions from Body Snatchers; that’s an excellent reference point,” Gilligan states. “The Twilight Zone, that’s forever my favorite. The Thing, the John Carpenter version. I like each one, but I especially like the John Carpenter version.”

An Homage to Science Fiction Enthusiasts

For those who are a fan of sci-fi or horror, you’ll likely recognize the tales that influenced Pluribus. The show’s influences aren’t exactly understated — and that’s the point. Gilligan says his aim with this series was to riff on the genre itself.

“I was thinking of all the sci-fi clichés and horror conventions I could throw into this show, before flip each one upside down,” Gilligan adds. “ That was made me excited.”

Put simply: Pluribus is a sci-fi show for genre lovers. Therefore, if you’re coming the show being a Breaking Bad superfan who’s never been much for sci-fi, it’s wise to complete a bit of homework beforehand. The showrunner just provided the essential watchlist.

Pluribus premieres November 7 via Apple TV+.