In recent years, Hollywood has hit the headlines for a number of reasons. But one of the most common complaints is their tendency to turn their attention to remakes and remasters of existing films or movie franchises released decades ago. In 2019 alone, some of the highest grossing titles were Toy Story 4, 14 years after the first instalment, Men in Black International, 12 years after the release of the inaugural picture, and the live-action remake of family favourite The Lion King. Aside from a lack of fresh talent, it begs the question of whether or not movie studios are worried about losing fans by creating new instalments. Continue reading to find out more on remakes and remasters.
A nod to nostalgia
With a current fixation of 1990s and 2000s culture, remakes and remasters can be attributed to nothing more than a nod to nostalgia. With the first generation of digital natives now nearing adulthood, the ongoing trend within the film industry can be a great way to remember the good times whilst, at the same time, appreciating a number of key technological advancements in their own right. Whether you enjoy wagering on the latest online slots with a free no deposit mobile casino bonus or revisiting your favourite cartoon, the decisions we make on a daily basis can be indirectly influenced by nostalgia, regardless of whether we are consciously aware of this or not. In times of trouble or hardship, a sprinkle of nostalgia can only be a good thing.
A sign of the times
In today’s digital landscape, the possibilities available to Hollywood movie studios are endless. But just because technology has allowed for movie remakes and remasters crafted entirely from CGI-generated imagery, doesn’t necessarily mean it caters to growing demand. For example, Warner Bros. are reportedly in talks to continue the Matrix saga in one way or another. Upon its release in 1999, it was not only the first pre-summer blockbuster but inspired a whole host of moviegoers and directors alike to focus on curating original, never-been-seen-before content. This is one of the main reasons why it ended up defining an entire generation of cinema. By revisiting the saga and, as some would argue, flogging a dead horse, fans are unlikely to respond with the same level of enthusiasm as they did over 20 years ago.
A passing trend
Despite a global shift to remakes and remasters within the film industry, experts and fans alike are convinced it is nothing more than a passing trend. With the entertainment industry as a whole suffering from a substantial lack of revenue and investment in recent years, it can be a great way to relaunch the cinema experience and ensure fans return time and time again. With a lack of fresh talent and unique titles available, remakes and remasters are guaranteed to attract cinemagoers that are familiar with big blockbuster names or are just looking to expand their existing film history and knowledge. For example, today’s young adults are unlikely to have been given the opportunity to experience the original release of A Star is Born in a cinema environment. By remaking the film with a modern cast three times over the years, fans of all ages and interests can familiarise themselves with a timeless story in a way that is reminiscent of the times.
A ruined legacy
A growing number of movie fans, and industry executives, are worried remakes and remasters have the potential to ruin the legacy of the original version. With the world changing at a rapid pace, the likelihood of a reboot attracting the same reception as it did decades ago is rare. Despite a prolonged fascination with the time period between 1910 and 1960, otherwise known as the Golden Age of Hollywood, there is no denying that it is impossible to replicate a movie frame for frame and capture the magic of the era half a century later. With replication techniques at risk of going awry, sometimes classic movies are better left to age gracefully.
In the past decade, remakes and remasters have taken over Hollywood. From classic tales of the 1950s to 1990s blockbusters, no era is safe. But with differing opinions, it can be difficult to balance the pros and cons of the ongoing trend. Whether it is a nod to nostalgia, a sign of the times, a passing trend, or a ruined legacy, movie studios and film enthusiasts are more than conflicted on the issue.
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The Toronto International Film Festival 46th edition begins
