Oh, remakes. They’re everywhere. They’re like those annoying zombies that just keep coming. Every so often, however, the stars align, and we’re treated to a remake that actually delivers the goods. Here’s four films that promise to be as good, if not better than the originals. Stay tuned for the antithesis to this article, as I will review the four WORST horror movie remakes. For now, let's check out the best:
4. Funny Games (2007)
The first remake on the list for Naomi Watts, Funny Games is a faithful remake of 1997’s German version. What makes this remake work so well is the translation to modern American culture. With a society completely drenched in and de-sensitized by violence, it takes a film like this one to come along and remind us of the sobering truth that violence is, in fact, terrifying. Imagine the sobering irony of becoming frustrated with a movie for not putting its most violent acts on-screen.
3. The Ring (2002)
Hollywood, if you want a successful remake, cast Naomi Watts. Her performance in this film helped to make it one of the scariest movies of our generation. Filled with startling jumps, eerie ambiance, disturbing effects, and a thrilling twist, The Ring captures the essence of the Japanese original, but perfects each element to squeeze every ounce of horror into this superior remake.
2. Dawn of the Dead (2004)
Attempting to remake a George A. Romero classic takes a lot of…guts? Even before remakes became commonplace near the close of the decade, I had many apprehensions about the film. I left the theater wonderfully surprised, as Zack Snyder opted to move in a different direction, stepping away from the original. In fact, about the most the two films have in common are the shopping mall setting, and of course, the zombies. With deeper storytelling but quicker pace, Dawn of the Dead ambitiously achieves what no person in their right mind should attempt – make a better movie than Romero did.
1. The Thing (1982)
While 1952’s original, The Thing from Another World, still holds up today as a fantastic piece of retro sci-fi, John Carpenter took from the story to craft the perfect monster movie. Really. The crippling sense of isolation compounded with the creepiest aliens ever put on film make it an irresistible flick to watch with all the lights off. With CGI monsters flooding our screens these days, The Thing proves that there is nothing more believable than the special effects that are actually captured on film. It’s no wonder there aren’t more tourists flocking to Antarctica.
Honorable Mentions:
The Omen (2006)
The Hills Have Eyes (2006)
House on Haunted Hill (1999)
The Fly (1986)
I will also be reviewing Let Me In, which is a remake of the Swedish film, Let the Right One In. Early reviews from critics allege the film is perhaps better than the original. See a recent review here.
What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with the list? What movies would you put in the very top? Let me know in the comment section below.
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