Top 15 Movies That Deserve A Modern Reboot
15. Waterworld (1995)
Set in a future where the polar ice caps have melted, Waterworld follows survivors battling pirates across endless oceans. The film faced notorious budget and production issues but still created a fascinating world in an otherwise saturated post-apocalyptic genre. A modern reboot, with cutting-edge CGI and realistic world-building, could finally unlock the full potential of this aquatic adventure.
14. Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)
A classic cop-turned-spy movie that never really got the appreciation it deserved. It was supposed to kick off a major franchise, but the “adventure” never continued. Based on the book series The Destroyer, it combined martial arts with spy-thriller fantasy in a unique way. A modern reboot could finally do justice to the concept, revamping it as a stylish and action-packed series.
13. The Rocketeer (1991)
The Rocketeer perfectly captured humanity’s fascination with flight. It follows a stunt pilot in Los Angeles who discovers a rocket pack and becomes a vigilante battling gangsters and Nazis. Though charming, it underperformed at the box office. A reboot with a modern tone could reintroduce this hero to a new generation and offer a refreshing alternative to the oversaturated MCU and DCU.
12. Krull (1983)
Krull was an ambitious but clunky mix of genres—an action-adventure about a prince rescuing his princess from an alien beast using a five-bladed throwing star. While the execution faltered, the concept was bold. A reboot under a skilled director could finally do justice to this fascinating mashup of fantasy and sci-fi.
11. John Carter (2012)
This classic story follows a soldier who’s transported to another planet and caught in an epic interplanetary conflict. The movie had the makings of a grand sci-fi adventure but suffered due to poor marketing and a convoluted plot. The source material (Edgar Rice Burroughs’ pulp novels) is rich in adventure, world-building, and character depth, offering plenty of material for a reboot done right.
10. Flash Gordon (1980)
Flash Gordon follows an American football player and his companions who are transported to Planet Mongo, where they must overthrow the tyrannical Emperor Ming the Merciless. Known for its Queen soundtrack and flamboyant style, the movie became a cult favorite. However, a reboot with better storytelling, deeper characters, and modern visuals could make it truly shine.
9. Event Horizon (1997)
Event Horizon explored the terrifying side of space travel, following a crew investigating a ship that emerged from a black hole—only to discover something horrifying. It had great potential but was unevenly executed. A reboot could amplify the gore, tension, and psychological horror to deliver a modern sci-fi horror masterpiece.
8. Masters of the Universe (1987)
Who doesn’t remember He-Man? Unfortunately, the movie adaptation was riddled with cheesy dialogue and barely resembled the beloved source material. The Masters of the Universe franchise deserves a proper, comic-accurate revival. With its iconic characters and deep lore, a modern adaptation could easily become a blockbuster hit among fans.
7. The Last Starfighter (1984)
Every gamer dreams of living out their favorite game and The Last Starfighter tapped into that fantasy. However, the film failed to meet expectations. A reboot with today’s technology could finally bring those dazzling space battles to life, turning this cult classic into a spectacular modern adventure. The galactic hero deserves a triumphant comeback.
6. Spawn (1997)
Spawn had a dark, fascinating premise but was ruined by poor CGI and direction. A modern reboot, with an R-rated horror focus and proper visual atmosphere, could truly capture the demonic essence of Todd McFarlane’s creation. It would give audiences a chilling, standalone antihero outside of the major superhero universes.
5. Eragon (2006)
Eragon tells the story of a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg and is thrust into a world of prophecy and magic. Despite its rich source material, the film was criticized for failing to capture the magic of the novels. A passionate fanbase still hopes for a faithful reboot that explores the full depth of this beloved fantasy world.
4. Green Lantern (2011)
A movie so poorly received that it haunted the DCU for years. Despite focusing on one of DC’s grandest intergalactic forces, Green Lantern failed to capture the scale or excitement of the Corps. A modern adaptation could finally showcase the vast cosmic mythology. The upcoming Lanterns series has the potential to correct past mistakes and reignite fan interest.
3. Logan's Run (1976)
Logan’s Run had thought-provoking social themes but couldn’t execute them effectively. Set in a future where people are executed at age 30, it follows a “Sandman” who decides to escape the system. A modern reboot could revisit this dystopian idea with updated visuals and storytelling that resonates with today’s audiences.
2. Highlander (1986)
Highlander had a brilliant concept—immortals clashing through history, but suffered from poor sequels and inconsistent storytelling. A reboot could finally explore the mythological depth and emotional weight of its story, complete with spectacular sword fights and a renewed sense of epic grandeur.
1. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)
Based on Alan Moore’s brilliant graphic novel, this steampunk adventure had enormous potential but turned into a generic action movie. The idea of a Victorian-era “Justice League” featuring icons like Allan Quatermain, Mina Harker, and Captain Nemo is pure gold. A faithful reboot could finally give this concept the depth and style it deserves.
