Problem is, the project became a little too violent and dark for the kiddies.
It started with a script written by Gavin Scott, who worked on the Young Indiana Jones TV series. Five more writers added their contributions, including uncredited script doctoring by Anne Spielberg - sister to Big Steve. Even director Joe Dante got into the act, adding references to his earlier hit on the same theme, Gremlins. Those who read the credits will note that the choice of voices in the movie are allusions to earlier films, too. The soldiers are played primarily by members of The Dirty Dozen, while the Gorgonites are voiced by members of Spinal Tap.