[mousepod]

Alex, just out of curiosity, did you see the Alec Guiness or Tom Hanks version of The Ladykillers first? When the Tom Hanks version was released were you aware that it was a remake?

My specific example of pre-disgust at The Hitcher remake is based on the following: While it wasn't a blockbuster hit on its initial release, the original took the then-current expectations of the genre and turned them on their metaphorical ears. In particular, the subtext of movie in regards to relationship of the two main characters was unique and the ending of the film drove that home in a disturbing and original way. The plot was the vessel by which these points were made. In the realm of pop culture, the movie transcended the expectations and approached "art". The new movie was adapted by a screenwriter whose sole credit is the remake of the 1979 horror film When A Stranger Calls. The director is making his feature debut after a string of music videos. Based on the trailer, I can see that several key scenes were retained, but reset to "play" to today's Saw, Hostel, and Turistas audiences. If it's better than dreadful, I will be surprised. If it spoils the plot (the vehicle, if you will) of the original, it will surely diminish the initial viewing of the original for someone who is only familiar with the remake. I felt the same way about The Wicker Man.

I'm not talking classics, like Psycho and the Godfather. I'm certainly not referring to Shakespeare. I'm specifically discussing genre films that achieve cult status by fans who love them and keep them alive by sharing them with their friends.