Classic Movies That Are Too Good to Remake
By: Ryan McLachlan (thevintagenews)
S E E D E D C O N T E N T
Classic Movies That Are Too Good to Remake
In recent years, audiences have been presented with various sequels and remakes of Hollywood classics. These five should never be remade.
Photo Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / 294 kb / MovieStills DB, 20th Century Fox / hilts / MovieStills DB
In recent years, we have had the opportunity to see sequels to films made many years ago and, in other cases, remakes of some Hollywood classics. Top Gun: Maverick (2022) and Dune (2021) are just two examples that saw audiences excited to watch what could be as good or even better than the original. In some cases, fans loved the new films, but for some, the original will always be the best.
Here are five films that are far too good to remake.
Gone with the Wind (1939)
Gone with the Wind is a classic American film released in 1939, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by Margaret Mitchell. Directed by Victor Fleming and produced by David O. Selznick, the movie is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most beloved in cinematic history. Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and its aftermath, Gone with the Wind tells a sweeping and epic tale of love, loss, and survival.
Gone with the Wind (1939). (Photo Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / 294 kb / MovieStills DB)
Starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh, Gone with the Wind beautifully captures the grandeur and tragedy of the Civil War era, showcasing stunning cinematography, elaborate costumes, and memorable performances. Despite its length of nearly four hours, Gone with the Wind continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling, lavish production values, and complex characters. It remains a timeless cinematic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the history of film.
For anyone who thinks Gone with the Wind should be remade, we only have one thing to say. "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn."
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
The Wizard of O z is a beloved fantasy musical film released in 1939, based on L. Frank Baum's children's novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The movie has become an enduring classic and a cultural icon known for its enchanting story, memorable characters, and timeless songs.
The film follows the adventures of a young girl named Dorothy Gale, portrayed by Judy Garland. Dorothy resides on a farm in Kansas but dreams of a more exciting and colorful life somewhere over the rainbow. When a tornado strikes her home, Dorothy, along with her loyal dog Toto, is whisked away to the magical Land of Oz.
The Wizard of Oz (1939). (Photo Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / ogiser / MovieStills DB)
The Wizard of Oz is widely acclaimed for its groundbreaking use of Technicolor, which allows for a stark contrast between the black-and-white Kansas sequences and the vibrant, otherworldly visuals of Oz. The film's musical numbers, including the iconic "Over the Rainbow" performed by Judy Garland, have become timeless classics, enchanting audiences of all ages.
The film continues to captivate generations with its magical storytelling, colorful characters, and timeless themes of self-discovery and the longing for home. It has remained a cherished film that has touched the hearts of millions, cementing its place as a true cinematic masterpiece - which is more than enough of a reason not to remake it.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
It's a Wonderful Life is a heartwarming and critically acclaimed film released in 1946. Often considered a holiday classic, the movie tells a poignant story about the value of life, the impact of one person's actions, and the power of community.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). (Photo Credit: Liberty Films / MoviePics1001 / MovieStills DB)
The film centers around George Bailey, played by James Stewart, a compassionate and selfless man who has spent his entire life in the small town of Bedford Falls. As George faces numerous challenges and sacrifices to help others, he finds himself on the brink of despair and contemplating ending his life on Christmas Eve. At this critical moment, his guardian angel, Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers), intervenes and shows him what life would have been like if he had never been born.
It's a Wonderful Life beautifully captures the essence of the human experience, exploring themes of love, friendship, sacrifice, and the interconnectedness of individuals within a community. The story emphasizes the power of everyday actions and highlights the profound effect one person can have on the lives of others.
The film's enduring popularity can be attributed to its compelling storytelling, memorable characters, and its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. It reminds viewers of the importance of family, love, and the value of every individual's contributions to the world around them.
The Sound of Music (1965)
The Sound of Music is a beloved musical film released in 1965, directed by Robert Wise. Based on the Broadway musical of the same name, the film tells the inspiring story of the von Trapp family and their musical adventures against the backdrop of German-occupied Austria.
The Sound of Music (1965). (Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox / hilts / MovieStills DB)
The film is renowned for its enchanting musical numbers, including iconic songs such as "Do-Re-Mi," "My Favorite Things," and the title song, "The Sound of Music." These memorable tunes, composed by Richard Rodgers with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, have become cherished classics that have transcended generations.
The film also showcases the picturesque landscapes of Austria, including the famous scenes filmed in Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. The cinematography captures the beauty of the natural surroundings, providing a visually stunning backdrop for the story.
The Sound of Music continues to be cherished by audiences worldwide, captivating viewers with its heartwarming story, dazzling musical numbers, and timeless messages. Its enduring popularity has made it one of the most beloved and successful musical films ever made.
The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride is a beloved fantasy adventure film released in 1987. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film was adapted from William Goldman's novel of the same name. The movie weaves together elements of romance, comedy, and swashbuckling action, creating a charming and memorable story that has captivated audiences for decades.
The Princess Bride (1987). (Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox / Zayne / MovieStills DB)
The Princess Bride is known for its witty and quotable dialogue, which is filled with memorable lines such as "Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die." The film masterfully blends romance, comedy, and adventure, appealing to audiences of all ages.
What sets The Princess Bride apart is its self-awareness and meta-narrative. The movie frequently breaks the fourth wall, with the young boy and his grandfather commenting on the story as it unfolds, adding an additional layer of charm and humor.
The film's enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to simultaneously spoof and pay homage to traditional fairy tales and adventure stories. It embraces both the tropes and the spirit of classic adventure tales while infusing them with a modern sensibility. Who would want to possibly ruin that by making a remake?
Ryan McLachlan
Ryan McLachlan is a historian and content writer for Hive Media. He received his Bachelor of Arts in History and Classical Studies and his Master of Arts in History from the University of Western Ontario. Ryan’s research focused on military history, and he is particularly interested in the conflicts fought by the United Kingdom from the Napoleonic Wars to the Falklands War.
Ryan’s other historical interests include naval and maritime history, the history of aviation, the British Empire, and the British Monarchy. He is also interested in the lives of Sir Winston Churchill and Admiral Lord Nelson. Ryan enjoys teaching, reading, writing, and sharing history with anyone who will listen.
In his spare time, he enjoys watching period dramas such as Murdoch Mysteries and Ripper Street and also enjoys reading classical literature and Shakespeare. He also plays football and is an afternoon tea connoisseur.
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There are so many movies that could be added to such a list, but how in the hell is Casablanca omitted from his list?
And let's not forget The Marx Brothers
A Night At the Opera: Crowded Cabin Scene
Contrary to popular belief, Karl was not one of the original Marx Brothers!
I've got the whole movie on bilibili, will watch it later today.
Good thing Joe McCarthy knew that.
Perhaps I shouldn't have seeded it. It might not be considered one of the great all-time films.
But if someone is in the mood for zany humor-- it can be pretty funny!
I suppose some would label it "Slapstick"-- but IMO its a much more "sophisticated" form of Slapstick than that of, for example, The Three Stooges.
I suppose some would label it "Slapstick"-- but IMO its a much more "sophisticated" form of Slapstick than that of, for example, The Three Stooges.
Glad you did. I'm looking forward to watching it.
Yeah, but it's CLASSIC slapstick.
It was one-of-a-kind.
I don't think Casablanca could or should be remade.
Agreed, and there are so many reasons why. For example, it was made and released with the backdrop of WW2 during WW2, many of the actors were actual refugees from Nazi Germany so their acting bore genuine emotions with the primary example of Yvonne shedding real tears during the playing of The Marseillaise, and anyway, Humphrey Bogart is no longer available,
Heck at times watching that even I have shed a few tears-- and I'm not even a refugee from anything. (But there is part of me that is a real Francophile).
Long ago (I think it was when I was in college) I asked my mother a question about something I had never before even thought about-- what was her major in college? For some reason her answer surprised me-- she was a French major! (I may have mentioned that before?)
Here's an example of not a movie but rather books remade. When I was a kid two of my favourite books were Winnie The Pooh (first published 1925) and The House At Pooh Corner. Both books illustrated by E. H. Shepard. I loved his illustrations.
Later Disney had come out with illustrations that IMO lost all the strength and beauty of Shepard's originals.
As you probably know, in Canada the study of French is mandatory.
When I was a kid around that age my favourite books were about Freddy the Pig and the farm animals, written by Walter R. Brooks.
I understand the comparison.
They were simple and satisfying. They can't seem to do it anymore.
A few thoughts - It's A Wonderful Life was remade as a TV movie. Marlo Thomas played the lead as a female. If they can remake West Side Story , which won 8 or 10 Oscar's, they can remake anything
The grandfather and the boy in Princess Bride did not break the fourth wall.
Of course any movie could be remade, but of the ones listed by the author, do you think they (and Casablanca) could be better than the originals? The Magnificent Seven was remade, but I cannot fathom how the remake could be considered better.
You lost me. Can you explain that?
Breaking the fourth wall in movies is generally when a character in the film looks into the camera and talks to the audience, although I think it could pertain to anything that is not part of the story. In Blazing Saddles the scene at the end where the cowboys break into the set of a movie musical is also breaking the fourth wall.
In Princess Bride the grandfather and the boy are part of the original story. Princess Bride was taken from a novel which includes those characters.
I wouldn't remake any real iconic movie.
Oh, okay, thanks.
Nor would I.
I agree with that.
They always try to remake good movies, and it never works.
How about we remake something like "Santa with muscles?"
Santa With Muscles? LOL In that case anything could be better.
Can you believe it?
I actually saw the original (that was long ago!)-- it was excellent!
I was thinking about great works of music. For example:
Beethoven's best and most influential works span his symphonic, piano, and chamber repertoires, with masterpieces like the 9th Symphony ("Choral"), 5th Symphony, "Eroica" (No. 3), and "Moonlight" Sonata standing out as pillars of Western music.
His late string quartets and the Missa solemnis are often cited as his absolute creative peaks, showcasing profound emotional depth and revolutionary complexity
I would imagine people have attempted to "remake" those. (I can't imagine the remakes would be anywhere as excellent as the originals).
My mother often played the Moonlight Sonata on the piano in oiur home.