20 Cinematic Surprises: Movies You Didn’t Know Were Remakes

1. Per un pugno di dollari 1964，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 235246, ID: 0058461
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A classic spaghetti western, ‘Per un pugno di dollari’ (A Fistful of Dollars) is a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s ‘Yojimbo’. The film, directed by Sergio Leone, features Clint Eastwood in his first leading role. Despite its remake status, it stands out for its unique interpretation and has even inspired a recent remake. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of its story and characters.
2. Heat 1995，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 726447, ID: 0113277
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Michael Mann’s ‘Heat’ is a remake of his earlier TV movie ‘L.A. Takedown’. The film, starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, is a thrilling cops-and-robbers tale that has stood the test of time. It’s exciting to learn that a sequel is in the works, proving that good stories can be retold in new and interesting ways.
3. A Star Is Born 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 423445, ID: 1517451
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The 2018 version of ‘A Star Is Born’, directed by Bradley Cooper and starring Lady Gaga, is a remake of the 1937 film of the same name. The film received rave reviews for its music, performances, and fresh approach to the classic story. It’s fascinating to see how this story has been retold over the years, each time resonating with a new generation of viewers.
4. Ocean’s Eleven 2001，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 624906, ID: 0240772
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The 2001 ‘Ocean’s Eleven’, directed by Steven Soderbergh and featuring a star-studded cast, is a remake of the 1960 film. This comedy-heist film is known for its fast-paced, witty narrative and cool style. It’s interesting to note that a sequel is currently in development, showing that the charm of the original story continues to captivate audiences.
5. Father of the Bride 1991，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 85122, ID: 0101862
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The 1991 ‘Father of the Bride’, starring Steve Martin and Diane Keaton, is a remake of the 1950 classic. Despite some criticisms, the film was generally well-received for its humor and heartwarming story. It’s a delightful example of how a good story can be retold for a new generation, preserving the charm of the original while adding a modern twist.
6. Scarface 1983，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 926137, ID: 0086250
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Scarface, a remake of the 1932 film, is a crime drama directed by Brian De Palma. It’s a tale of ferocious greed, corruption, and power, showcasing Al Pacino’s aggressive and flamboyant performance. The film’s portrayal of the darker side of the ‘American Dream’ is both captivating and thought-provoking.
7. Ben-Hur 1959，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 255335, ID: 0052618
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Ben-Hur, a remake of the 1925 silent film, is a religious epic film directed by William Wyler. It’s a tale of redemption and revenge, with Charlton Heston delivering a powerful performance. The film’s chariot race remains one of cinema’s most famous action sequences.
8. The Italian Job 2003，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 391095, ID: 0317740
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The Italian Job, a remake of the 1969 British film, is a slick caper movie directed by F. Gary Gray. It features stupendous chase scenes and an ingenious plot to steal gold bars. The film’s tight pacing and charismatic cast make it a thoroughly enjoyable watch.
9. The Birdcage 1996，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 102219, ID: 0115685
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The Birdcage, a remake of the French comedy ‘La Cage aux Folles’, is a delightful comedy directed by Mike Nichols. It explores themes of identity and acceptance through the lens of a gay couple trying to play it straight for their son’s wedding. The performances by Robin Williams and Nathan Lane are both heartwarming and hilarious.
10. The Departed 2006，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 1435270, ID: 0407887
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The Departed, a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong film ‘Infernal Affairs’, is a gritty crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese. It features a star-studded cast and a complex plot of moles within the police and the mob. The film’s authenticity and moral ambiguity make it a modern American classic.
11. The Fly 1986，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 204233, ID: 0091064
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The Fly (1986) is a remake of the 1958 film of the same name. Directed by David Cronenberg, it stars Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis. The film was praised for transcending the original and exploring its underutilized potential. It’s a grotesque transformation story that leaves a lasting impression.
12. The Magnificent Seven 2016，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 230485, ID: 2404435
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The Magnificent Seven (2016) is a remake of the 1960 film, which was a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 film Seven Samurai. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, it stars Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising the performances and action scenes.
13. The Ring 2002，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 378188, ID: 0298130
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The Ring (2002) is a remake of Hideo Nakata’s 1998 film Ring, based on the 1991 novel by Koji Suzuki. It stars Naomi Watts and received mixed-to-positive reviews for its atmosphere, visuals, and performances. The film’s psychological horror elements make it a memorable viewing experience.
14. The Thing 1982，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 472258, ID: 0084787
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The Thing (1982) is a remake of the 1951 film The Thing from Another World, and is a more faithful adaptation of the 1938 novella Who Goes There?. Directed by John Carpenter, it stars Kurt Russell. Despite initial negative reviews, it has been reappraised as one of the best science fiction and horror films ever made.
15. True Grit 2010，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 359664, ID: 1403865
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True Grit (2010) is a remake of the 1969 film of the same name, based on Charles Portis’ 1968 novel. Directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, it stars Jeff Bridges and Hailee Steinfeld. The film was praised for its acting, directing, story, score, and production values.
16. The Mummy 1999，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 465917, ID: 0120616
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The 1999 version of ‘The Mummy’ is a remake of the 1932 film. It’s a fun-filled adventure that, despite its flaws, manages to entertain. The movie, starring Brendan Fraser, is a blend of action and horror, with a touch of humor. It’s a thrilling ride that takes you through ancient tombs and battles with mummies.
17. The Parent Trap 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 156942, ID: 0120783
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‘The Parent Trap’ 1998 is a remake of the 1961 film. This version, starring Lindsay Lohan, is a charming family film that tells the story of twin sisters who, after being separated at birth, meet at a summer camp and plan to reunite their divorced parents. It’s a sweet and enjoyable film that has stood the test of time.
18. The Jungle Book 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 293732, ID: 3040964
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‘The Jungle Book’ 2016 is a CGI adaptation and remake of Disney’s 1967 animated film. Directed by Jon Favreau, this version is a visually stunning adventure that brings the beloved characters to life in a whole new way. Despite its photorealistic animation, the film retains the charm and humor of the original.
19. The Lion King 2019，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 269390, ID: 6105098
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The 2019 ‘The Lion King’ is a photorealistically animated remake of the traditionally-animated 1994 film. Despite mixed reviews, the film was a box office success, grossing over $1.6 billion worldwide. It’s a testament to the enduring popularity of the original, even though some critics felt it lacked the original’s heart and charm.
20. Little Shop of Horrors 1986，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 87381, ID: 0091419
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‘Little Shop of Horrors’ 1986 is a remake of the 1960 film. This musical comedy about a man-eating plant is a cult classic that’s both entertaining and touching. Despite its dark theme, the film manages to be funny and engaging, making it a favorite among audiences.