Revamp, Retelling, Reimagining, Re-What??

Re-imagining.  Re-telling.  Re-model.  These are words used to describe part of the landscape that is Hollywood.   One has to wonder what it takes to sell a script, let alone put an original idea on the screen that hasn’t been seen before.  Inception (2010) is one of those rare films that comes out and is it refreshing to watch and it also makes you think as well, but also, it is not a retread of something that has come before.   

While reviewing Deadline.com (run by Nikki Finke) earlier today, I saw a particular short article regarding the sale of a spec script called The Rabbit (12/6/2010) that would be a starring vehicle for Chris Tucker.  What caught my eye is that the article stated, “think Midnight Run”.   Midnight Run was a film that I hold in very high regard with Robert DeNiro and Charles Grodin headlining the cast from back in the day. Until more details emerge,  it potentially stands to be another re-tread, re-make, re-imagining of the original film. 

I’ve noticed with many films that have come out of late, they have been remakes or re-imaginings.  Now, not all re-makes are bad (for example, The Thing 1982 version from its 1951 counterpart).  On the other hand, not all remakes are good either (think Planet of the Apes 2001 compared to its 1960’s version which was far more superior).

The Hollywood that I’ve seen has put out one remake too many compared to original ideas that up-and-coming screenwriters struggle to get out.  The studio system basically sticks to what is “safe” most of the time with its retreads, as opposed to venturing into new territory from fresh and up-and-coming new voices.  On the other hand, more films that have original content are usually independent and that doesn't get as much publicity or visibility like remakes do.  Will this trend continue?  That remains to be seen.  But as long as the public is willing to pay to see them, then the Hollywood machine will give the public what they want…as long as it contributes to their bottom line.   

What are your thoughts on the matter?

http://www.deadline.com/2010/12/another-spec-script-hops-to-warner-bros/