In a move that feels like a nostalgic fever dream come to life, comedy legends Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell are officially reuniting for a project that blends their legendary chemistry with the macabre. The Hollywood Reporter has broken the news that the duo is set to star in the upcoming horror-comedy feature, Kenan & Kel Meet Frankenstein.
A Nostalgic Homage to Monster Classics
For those of us who grew up watching the chaotic energy of the Kenan & Kel sitcom or the cult-classic Good Burger, this news is nothing short of monumental. However, the pivot to horror isn't just a random genre jump. The title itself serves as a direct nod to the golden age of cinema, specifically the 1948 classic Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. By positioning Thompson and Mitchell in this framework, the production is clearly aiming for a blend of slapstick humor and genuine creature-feature thrills.
Leading the charge behind the camera is Jonah Feingold, the writer-director who recently gained acclaim for 31 Candles. Feingold is penning the script, and his attachment suggests a film that will respect the tropes of the horror genre while leaning heavily into the comedic timing that made Kenan and Kel household names. Feingold has proven his ability to balance heart and humor, and applying that to the Universal Monster mythos offers a fresh perspective on a story we’ve seen told a thousand times.
The Resurgence of the Duo
This announcement comes on the heels of the successful 2023 release of Good Burger 2, which proved that the duo’s rapport hasn't aged a day. While Kenan Thompson has become a cornerstone of Saturday Night Live and Kel Mitchell has continued to thrive in the world of voice acting and independent projects, their joint appearances remain a "holy grail" for fans of 90s television. Kenan & Kel Meet Frankenstein represents a more mature—though likely still PG-13—exploration of their partnership.
From an analytical standpoint, this is a savvy move for the horror genre. We have seen a significant rise in "gateway horror"—films that provide enough spooks for the seasoned fan while remaining accessible to a broader audience. With Thompson's mainstream appeal and the pair's collective nostalgia factor, this film could easily become a seasonal staple for years to come. The intersection of comedy and horror has never been more popular, and having two performers with decades of shared history is a major win for the project.
What to Expect from the Script
While plot details are being kept under wraps at the secret laboratory, the core premise involves the two friends stumbling into a situation far beyond their control—likely involving a misunderstood monster and a series of hilarious, high-stakes mishaps. If Feingold’s previous work is any indication, we can expect a script that is meta, self-aware, and packed with Easter eggs for long-time fans of both the actors and the Frankenstein legacy.
As of now, the film is in the early stages of development, but the buzz is already deafening. Stay tuned to ScreamDesk for more updates as casting continues and a production schedule is finalized. One thing is for certain: the monster doesn't stand a chance against the power of orange soda—or the funniest duo in Hollywood.