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Despite the persistent calls to preserve the integrity of classic films, the film industry, particularly Hollywood, continues to produce remakes that often diverge from the original source material. While remakes typically adhere to the same premise and genre, there are instances where filmmakers opt for a bold departure.
Numerous factors contribute to such deviations. Some directors may have a deep appreciation for a particular story but find themselves more inclined towards a different genre. In other cases, economic considerations may necessitate a shift in genre to appeal to a broader audience. While these departures from the original formula often prove successful, there are occasions when the result falls short.
Below, we explore 10 instances where movie remakes took a departure from the original genre, showcasing the diversity and risk-taking in the ever-evolving world of filmmaking.
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10 Movie Remakes That Aren’t the Same Genre as the Original
Anna and the King (1999)
Anna and the King is a reimagining of the 1956 musical film, The King and I, with the newer version opting for a period drama approach rather than incorporating musical elements. The story follows Anna Leonowens (played by Jodie Foster), an Anglo-English teacher assigned to educate the wives and children of King Mongkut of Siam in the 19th Century. However, her unconventional teaching methods create tension between her and the king.
The decision to shift the genre from a musical to a period drama has been criticized for diminishing the film’s appeal. Unlike the original, which earned multiple Oscars, including Best Scoring of a Musical Picture, the remake did not receive recognition from award organizations. While still considered a noteworthy teacher-focused movie, the absence of song and dance numbers contributes to a lackluster and somber viewing experience. Additionally, this change in direction is perceived to make many characters seem rigid and less engaging. The film is available for streaming on Max.
The Magnificent Seven (1960)
The Magnificent Seven is a reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s classic Japanese film Seven Samurai, where seven gunslingers are hired by a small town to liberate them from the oppressive outlaw, Calvera (Eli Wallah). Kurosawa’s original masterpiece centers around villagers enlisting seven samurai to confront bandits planning to steal their crops post-harvest.
The decision to shift the genre from martial arts to western was a wise one, considering the peak popularity of westerns in Hollywood during the ’60s, while martial arts gained prominence in the ’70s. Director John Sturges skillfully adapted the narrative to the Old West, earning the film acclaim. His adept transplantation has cemented The Magnificent Seven as a standout western, highly recommended for those exploring the genre. Watch it on Paramount+.
The Stepford Wives (2004)
The black comedy remake of “The Stepford Wives,” featuring Nicole Kidman as reality television producer Joanna Eberhart, who moves to a suburban town where husbands implant microchips in their wives’ heads for submission, faced criticism for its genre change. Unlike the original horror film, the remake failed to resonate with audiences and suffered financial losses. Critics argued that the serious themes of gender discrimination and feminism were not effectively addressed through humor. The suggestion was that the movie would have been more successful if it had maintained the original’s ominous tone, exploring the dangers of men seeking submissive partners. Ultimately, the remake missed the opportunity to establish itself as a significant feminist film. You can watch it on Paramount+.
Cruel Intentions (1999)
Keeping your plans private is a lesson quickly learned by teenager Annette Hargrove (played by Reese Witherspoon) when she openly declares her decision to remain a virgin until marriage. This declaration makes her the target of a sexual competition, where her peers aim to make her break the promise she made to herself.
The shift in genre from the original “Dangerous Liaisons” to “Cruel Intentions” proves to be a positive change. “Cruel Intentions” has gained much more popularity, even spawning a few sequels, unlike its predecessor that came and went without much attention. The film’s success can be attributed to its intriguing characters, each embodying various teenage themes, serving as a blueprint for directors aiming to create compelling teen dramas. The change in setting from ancient Paris to modern New York also adds relatability to the story.
Outland (1981)
Outland, a space adaptation of the highly praised western High Noon, stands as one of the underappreciated gems in ’80s sci-fi cinema. Featuring Sean Connery as a police marshal stationed on one of Jupiter’s moons overseeing mining operations, the plot unfolds as he uncovers a drug ring masterminded by the manager. Determined to thwart the illegal operation, he faces a race against time.
The decision to shift genres from western to space opera proves to be a strategic move. In the late ’70s and early ’80s, space operas gained immense popularity, largely fueled by the success of the Star Wars franchise. Originally conceived as a western remake, director Peter Hyams astutely recognized the prevailing trend and adapted the film accordingly. The outcome is a testament to his creative ingenuity, delivering a compelling narrative that caters to the audience’s demand for space-themed adventures. Explore it now on AppleTV.
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For a Few Dollars More (1965)
In Sergio Leone’s “For a Few Dollars More,” bounty hunter Manco (Clint Eastwood) pursues the outlaw El Indio. He crosses paths with Col. Douglas Mortimer (Lee Van Cleef), who shares the same objective, leading them to join forces. This western is an adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s film “Sanjuro.”
The shift in genre is advantageous for several reasons. While both movies are commendable, “For a Few Dollars More” excels in its dialogue, featuring some of the most memorable quotes in the Dollars trilogy. Lines like “If Wild sees me, the sun will catch fire” and “No amore, no dinero, no sun” add to the film’s entertainment value, absent in Sanjuro’s subtitles. Additionally, superior performances by Lee Van Cleef and Clint Eastwood enhance the overall quality of the western. You can rent it on AppleTV.
Emma (2020)
The shift in genre from the period drama “Emma” to the modern-themed coming-of-age teen comedy “Clueless” brings about a positive transformation in the storytelling. While “Clueless” is filled with typical teen tropes and prioritizes humor over romantic elements, “Emma” delves into the intricacies of dating and courtship in the Regency-era setting. This change allows for a more cultured exploration of the plot. Additionally, the genre switch contributes to the film’s recognition, earning it a Best Costume Design nomination at the Oscars, thanks to the charming period attire. The movie is available for streaming on Peacock.
Colorado Territory (1949)
The uniqueness of Colorado Territory lies in its director, Raoul Walsh, who also helmed the original, High Sierra. Notably, these films were released only eight years apart, a rarity in the realm of remakes. Both movies share the theme of an outlaw (portrayed by Humphrey Bogart in both instances) breaking out of jail for a final job. However, while the 1941 film is a noir, its 1949 counterpart takes on a western genre.
The shift in genre is seen as a positive move, possibly reflecting Walsh’s adaptability to the evolving trends in Hollywood. Recognizing the growing preference for westerns among movie lovers, Walsh adjusted his approach accordingly. Although the original still excels in terms of plot and dialogue, both films are recommended for enthusiasts of Bogart and Walsh. You can stream them on Plex.
Barb Wire (1998)
Reimagining the classic war film Casablanca in the form of Barb Wire was a misguided decision by its producers. The story, now set in the midst of the Second Civil War in 2017, follows nightclub owner and mercenary Barb Wire, played by Pamela Anderson Lee. This genre shift from a war/romance drama to a sci-fi narrative proved disastrous, evident from the movie’s six Razzie nominations and Pamela Anderson’s Worst Actress nod at the Stinkers Bad Movie Awards. The film also struggled at the box office, making it clear that this venture should have been abandoned. Casablanca, akin to timeless classics like The Godfather and Shawshank Redemption, is a film that should never have been and cannot successfully be remade in any form.
Casino Royale (2006)
Casino Royale is often praised as an exceptional film, yet its roots trace back to the 1967 version where James Bond confronted Dr. Noah and the villainous organization SMERSH. In the 2006 reboot, directed by Martin Campbell, Bond faces the criminal banker Le Chiffre, retaining some characters like Vesper Lynd.
The shift in genre in Campbell’s Casino Royale is lauded for its departure from the franchise’s previous cheesiness, presenting a darker and more realistic spy film. This change marked the beginning of the Craig-era Bond movies, widely regarded as the best or second-best phase in the franchise’s history. The Craig-era is celebrated for its well-choreographed action and more intricate plots, making the recent 007 adventures truly impressive. Available for streaming on Prime Video.
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