Movie Remakes That Surpass The Original:
Remakes are a common occurrence nowadays as it is the easiest way to make money at the box office. But remakes are not always bad, as sometimes the original movie lacks some elements which prevent it from becoming great. If the remake manages to improve upon the flaws of the original, like the movies in this list, then who are we to complain?
#10: It (2017)
Original Mini-Series: It (1990)
Based on Stephen King’s work, the original mini-series became an instant hit but there was something missing. The book could only be adapted properly with an R-Rated movie, and we got our wishes fulfilled in 2017. The remake did not hold back on the blood and gore and gave us an adaptation we always wanted to see.
#9: The Fly (1986)
Original Movie: The Fly (1958)
The Fly has a very simple but bizarre story that can disturb anyone. The special effects still look amazing for a movie that came out more than three decades ago. It is an exceptional horror movie that surpasses the original in every department. David Cronenberg’s impeccable direction made all the difference.
#8: The Mummy (1999)
Original Movie: The Mummy (1932)
No, we are not talking about Tom Cruise’s The Mummy which came out in 2017, as it was a total disaster. The Mummy franchise was iconized by Brendan Fraser as his charming performance made this movie into a blockbuster. This remake is a lot more adventurous, is full of humor and a complete package when it comes to entertainment.
#7: True Grit (2010)
Original Movie: True Grit (1969)
John Wayne’s Oscar-winning portrayal of Rooster Cogburn in the original was flawless but that didn’t intimidate Jeff Bridges as he was exceptional as well. The original movie is not bad in any way, the remake is just better. The Coen Brothers are masters when it comes to western movies and only they could have managed to pull off something like this.
#6: 3:10 to Yuma (2007)
Original Movie: 3:10 to Yuma (1957)
The remake surpasses the original as it focuses a lot more on character development. Russell Crowe and Christian Bale shine in this movie and their performance makes all the difference. The original movie is more story-oriented whereas the remake focuses a lot on the characters, all in all, which makes the remake a tad more entertaining.
#5: The Thing (1982)
Original Movie: The Thing from Another World (1951)
The Thing is considered to be one of the greatest horror movies of all time and there is not a single person who believes that the original comes close to the masterful remake. The original movie is not bad at all, but the remake is just that good.
#4: 12 Monkeys (1995)
Original Movie: La Jetee (1962)
La Jetee is a French Short movie that inspired the classic movie 12 Monkeys. Both the movies are creepy and have an eerie atmosphere. The addition of Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt made the remake a worldwide sensation. The crux of the story remains the same but it is the execution where the remake surpasses the original.
#3: Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
Original Movie: Ocean’s 11 (1960)
Ocean’s Eleven has always been about flair and suave. The remake took all the positive points of the original and added a lot to them. It is without a doubt one of the coolest movies of all time. It is full of entertainment and you will always have fun watching this movie no matter how many times you have watched it.
#2: The Departed (2006)
Original Movie: Internal Affairs (2002)
This might be the most controversial entry in this list as the original movie is a masterpiece itself. The sheer star power and acting talent of the remake make it a masterpiece and push it one notch above the original. It even bagged four awards at the Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director.
#1: Scarface (1983)
Original Movie: Scarface (1932)
Al Pacino was already a star before Scarface, but he became a legend after this movie. Both movies are very similar when it comes to the plot, but the remake manages to outperform the original in every aspect. Brian De Palma’s fantastic direction mixed with Al Pacino’s spectacular acting made the remake into something special.
