| remakes, re-releases and director's cuts |
Thu, 08 May 2008 17:55  |
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Two subjects here really:
1. Remakes - the best and the most pointless (may be the same film)
King Kong - the 70s one was pointless, as was Jackson's recent effort, but at least the latter was splendid entertainment
The Italian Job - not so much a remake as a hijack
The Vanishing - why remake your own (fine) film, adding in pointless love-interest and a happy ending that undercuts the essence of the film - oh yeah, money!
Roxanne - loved it & almost prepared to forgive those that thought Cyrano de Bergerac was the remake 
2. Re-releases - the UK suffers a real paucity of choice compared to the US, especially when it comes to world cinema, black and white films etc. When I worked in a video shop I despaired at the 300th re-release and repackaging of 'The Italian Job' and numerous other 'classics' when there were so many other great films being ignored. The advent of director's cuts in some ways added insult to injury, though some of them have proved better than the original cinema releases.
Apocalypse Now - loved the additional footage, which made it a more complete film in so many ways
Blade Runner - mentioned in another thread - is two "director's cuts" taking the pee?
Aliens - liked the extra footage, felt it added tension
Alien - clearly a studio rip-off
Dune - wish they would release the extended version!
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