Garris Nails it on Remakes

By Eric N on March 06th, 2009

Before a recent screening of "Parasomnia", Mick Garris, Wes Craven and Tobe Hooper were all asked about remakes, and their opinions on the subjects. I think we all know how Craven and Hooper feel, but it's Garris' words that really stuck with me. He perfectly sums up the issue with some remakes. Here's what he said:

I'd like to say one thing about the Chainsaw remake, it's a product. A nicely made film, but Tobe's movies really reflect Tobe's personalities and sensibilities. I mean this as a compliment when I say the remake of Texas Chainsaw, what was wrong with it, is that it lacked the madness the original had. The madness was displayed through humor that was so dark, it was red. It was red humor. That, and the under-appreciated Chainsaw 2, which I think is a masterpiece of horror. It evolved. Wes has his Last House on the Left remake reflecting that filmmaker's personality. Tobe's work reflects his personality. If a remake has a personality that's one thing, if it's not just a product. And unfortunately, most of the crap out there is just product.

I'm sure some of you will disagree with his point because of what he said about "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" remake. And while I enjoy the film, he does make a great point about it being a "product". It's that same canned, pre-packaged feel that soured me on the "Friday the 13th" remake, and is bound to do the same with PD's upcoming "Nightmare on Elm St." redux. As much as they try to bring out a love for the genre, it all feels overly-produced and under-loved. Any thoughts?

Source:
Hooper, Garris, Craven Address Remakes

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Eric N

Co-Founder / Editor-in-Chief / Podcast Host

Eric is the mad scientist behind the BGH podcast. He enjoys retro games, tiny dogs, eating fiber and anything whimsical.

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