Hollywood thrives on innovation. However, sometimes, inspiration strikes twice (or more). We’ve all seen movies with similar themes or plots released around the same time. But what if the imitator turned out to be a masterpiece? Lets take a look at ten instances where the copycat film arguably surpassed the original.
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1. The Fugitive (1993) vs. North By Northwest (1953)
Alfred Hitchcock’s ’North by Northwest’ is a classic espionage thriller. However, ’The Fugitive’ took the concept to new heights. Harrison Ford’s portrayal of a doctor wrongly accused of murder on the run kept audiences on the edge of their seats, with a more action-packed pace than the original.
While ‘North by Northwest’ is a timeless film, ‘The Fugitive’ offered a fresh spin on mistaken identity with a dash of 90s action flair. Additionally, both movies involve mistaken identity and a man on the run. Moreover, ‘The Fugitive’ is a relentless chase film with a gritty tone. Whereas, the original film offers more suspense with a dash of Cold War intrigue.
2. The Thing (1982) vs. The Thing From Another World (1951)
John Carpenter’s chilling remake of ‘The Thing From Another World’ is a masterclass in suspense and paranoia. The special effects, while groundbreaking for their time, were far superior to the stop-motion animation of the original.
In Carpenter’s version, the paranoia factor is cranked up a notch, as the shapeshifting alien keeps everyone guessing who to trust. Unlike the original’s clear ending, Carpenter leaves audiences in suspense, wondering if the true horror has truly been vanquished. Additionally, the threat of the alien shapeshifter remains a terrifying possibility adding a layer of psychological horror that the original lacked.
3. Casino Royale (2006) vs. Casino Royale (1967)
The original ‘Casino Royale’ was a goofy, campy take on the James Bond character. The 2006 reboot, on the other hand, completely reinvented Bond for a new generation.
Daniel Craig‘s gritty portrayal brought a welcome dose of realism to the character, while the plot offered a more compelling origin story. Moreover, this “copycat” was a critical and commercial darling, proving that Bond could be both sophisticated and brutal.
4. A Star Is Born (2018) vs. A Star Is Born (1937)
While ‘A Star Is Born’ has been remade numerous times throughout cinematic history, the 2018 version starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga stands out. The film tackles themes of addiction and fame with a raw honesty missing from earlier iterations.
The electrifying chemistry between Cooper and Gaga, coupled with the hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, makes this remake a powerful and unforgettable experience. Additionally, the film injects a fresh dose of emotional depth compared to the 1937 version.
5. The Ocean’s Eleven (2001) vs. Rififi (1955)
Steven Soderbergh’s stylish heist film ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ was loosely based on the French crime thriller ‘Rififi.’ While the original film is a classic of its genre, ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ brought a touch of Hollywood glitz and a star-studded cast to the heist formula.
Additionally, it is a Hollywood crowd-pleaser, filled with star power and a lighthearted tone as it showcases the elaborate planning and execution of the heist. Moreover, the focus on the planning and execution of the heist, rather than just the action, makes this remake a worthy successor.
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6. Infernal Affairs (2002) vs. Internal Affairs (1990)
The Hong Kong crime thriller ‘Infernal Affairs’ took the core concept of cops and mobsters undercover from the original ‘Internal Affairs’ and delivered a more complex and action-packed story.
The film’s exploration of identity and morality resonated deeply with audiences, and its influence can be seen in Hollywood films like ‘The Departed.’ Moreover, here, the copycat arguably expanded on the original’s themes in a fresh and exciting way.
7. Singin’ in the Rain (1952) vs. The Hollywood Revue of 1929 (1929)
This satirical musical comedy lampooned the transition from silent films to “talkies” in Hollywood. While it wasn’t based on a specific film, it drew inspiration from numerous musicals of the era.
‘Singin’ in the Rain’ is a hilarious and heartwarming ode to Hollywood’s golden age, with iconic performances and unforgettable musical numbers. Additionally, the clever script and undeniable charm make it a clear winner.
8. Cape Fear (1991) vs. Cape Fear (1962):
Martin Scorsese‘s remake of the psychological thriller ‘Cape Fear’ is a more brutal and disturbing exploration of revenge. Robert De Niro‘s chilling portrayal of the vengeful Max Cady is unforgettable, and the film’s suspenseful atmosphere keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Scorsese’s film doesn’t shy away from graphic violence, which wasn’t as prevalent in the 1962 version. Additionally, this approach adds another layer of discomfort and amplifies the film’s disturbing tone. While the original is a classic, Scorsese’s remake takes the film to new heights of intensity.
9. Total Recall (1990) vs. We Can Remember It for You Wholesale (1966)
The sci-fi action film ‘Total Recall’ is loosely based on the Philip K. Dick short story ‘We Can Remember It for You Wholesale.’ While the story explores similar themes of memory and identity, ‘Total Recall’ injects a hefty dose of action and Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s signature charm.
The action sequences and special effects were groundbreaking for their time, making this remake a crowd-pleaser. Additionally, It prioritizes thrilling chases and mind-bending twists over the psychological exploration of the original story.
10. The Fly (1986) vs. The Fly (1958)
David Cronenberg’s remake of the science fiction horror film ‘The Fly’ is a masterclass in body horror. The film’s special effects, depicting the gradual transformation of Jeff Goldblum’s character into a fly creature, are both grotesque and strangely beautiful.
Additionally, Cronenberg’s take on the story is a more disturbing and thought-provoking exploration of science gone wrong, making it a worthy remake of the original. Moreover, while both films explore the perils of scientific advancement, the 1986 version takes a more disturbing and thought-provoking approach.
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