Why Film Remakes Can Be Just as Good (or Better) Than the Originals?
As movie-goers, we often cringe when we hear that one of our beloved films is about to be remade. We ask ourselves, «Why fix something that isn’t broken?» However, while there have been some truly terrible remakes over the years, there have also been some that have completely blown us away.
Although it’s hard to believe that a remake can be better than the original, there are a few reasons why this can actually happen. Here are just a few:
1. Advances in Technology
One of the biggest advantages of remaking a film is that it can be done with newer and better technology. This means that filmmakers can create a more visually stunning film with special effects that are beyond what was possible in the original.
For example, the 2017 version of «Beauty and the Beast» used CGI animation to bring the enchanted objects to life in a way that was impossible in the 1991 animated film. This resulted in more vibrant, detailed and realistic characters that added depth to the story.
Other examples include the 2010 version of «The Karate Kid,» which showcased the stunning beauty of China, and the 2018 version of «A Star is Born,» which used modern music technology to elevate the soundtrack and musical performances.
2. Fresh Interpretations
Sometimes a remake can bring a fresh perspective on a classic story. A new director, scriptwriter or even casting choice can give a new spin on an old favorite.
For example, the 2005 version of «Pride & Prejudice» updated the classic Jane Austen novel with director Joe Wright’s sweeping cinematography and an updated script that made the story relevant to modern audiences. The film’s fresh point of view, combined with strong performances from the cast, resulted in a critical and commercial success.
Similarly, the 2016 version of «Ghostbusters» had a female-led cast that gave the classic comedy a modern twist. While many fans were skeptical before the movie was released, the female-led cast brought a new energy to the story and made it feel like a fresh take on the classic.
3. Filling in the Gaps
Sometimes, a remake can fill in plot holes or character gaps from the original film. This is especially true when the original was made with a smaller budget or when the original source material was limited.
For example, the 2010 version of «True Grit» was truer to the original novel by Charles Portis than the 1969 John Wayne version. The newer film was able to capture the nuances of the novel that were lacking in the original film, resulting in a more faithful adaptation.
Similarly, the 2016 version of «Ben-Hur» was able to expand on the story from the original 1959 Charlton Heston classic. The newer film fleshed out the characters and added new plot elements that made the story feel more complete.
4. Updating for Modern Audiences
Finally, a remake can update an older film or story for modern audiences. This is especially important when the original was made before modern audiences or societal norms were established.
For example, the 2017 version of «It» updated the Stephen King novel and 1990 miniseries. The new version used modern technology and special effects to bring the horrific clown Pennywise to life in a way that was far more terrifying than the original. It also updated the story’s themes to resonate with modern audiences, including bullying, trauma and the fear of the unknown.
Another example is the 2019 version of «Aladdin,» which updated the 1992 animated favorite with a modern twist. The filmmakers added new songs and dialogue that made the characters more relatable to modern audiences, while also addressing some of the problematic racial and cultural elements of the original.
Conclusion
While there will always be bad remakes, these examples show that they don’t always have to be. Technology, fresh interpretations, new perspectives, filling in gaps or updating for modern audiences are all reasons why a remake can be just as good or even better than the original. As film lovers, we should try to approach these remakes with an open mind and not dismiss them outright, as they have the potential to surprise us in the best way possible.
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