10 Horror Films Perfect for a Contemporary Remake

      Vanessa Maki presents ten horror films that could benefit from contemporary remakes...

      The debate over remakes is a polarizing topic within the horror community. Some individuals have an inherent aversion to remakes, while others appreciate certain ones that have emerged over the years. While horror remakes don’t always measure up to the originals, there are instances where they rival or even surpass the original films.

      What about those horror films that haven't yet been remade, or have but were so forgettable that they barely made an impact? The prospect of reimagining particular horror movies, whether they're cult classics or not, is intriguing. We have numerous filmmakers capable of crafting exceptional horror remakes. It's simply a matter of having the right talent attached to the fitting titles.

      The films listed below are prime candidates for a remake, incorporating a modern perspective. All but one of them has never been revisited in any form. Take a journey down this hypothetical path…

      The Birds

      Among Hitchcock's works, this is one of his most recognized horror films. The Birds depicts a town besieged by aggressive birds. Admittedly, the premise may seem absurd at first, but once you consider the reality of animal attacks and their potential ferocity, it becomes quite chilling. A modern remake could explore numerous possibilities regarding violent avian assaults.

      For the remake, various approaches could be taken, and practical effects would be essential. Relying on poor CGI birds throughout would diminish the viewing experience. Additionally, the ambiguous ending should remain intact, as predictable conclusions often fall flat in narratives like this.

      Ganja & Hess

      In the realm of Black horror cinema, Ganja & Hess is often overlooked in discussions. The story revolves around an anthropologist and a widow who become vampire lovers, presenting a disorienting love story that diverges from traditional vampire horror narratives. The film's themes delve deep into issues of race, addiction, and class.

      Any modern adaptation would require careful handling, with plenty of talented actors who could resonate in this context. Given that the original film was released in the early '70s, it could either retain its original setting or embrace a '70s aesthetic. While not the most mainstream choice for a remake, it holds promise for modernization.

      Prom Night

      There is indeed a 2008 remake, but it's subpar, warranting a more competent remake. The story follows a group of friends who are stalked and killed one by one due to actions from their childhood. The original film isn’t particularly remarkable as a slasher, and the previous remake left little impression.

      Revisiting this film from a modern perspective could greatly enhance it. The characters could be portrayed by genuinely younger actors, and there are ample scream queens and kings available for casting. This '80s slasher could potentially thrive in a contemporary setting, especially with improved production quality.

      Tourist Trap

      While some might contend that House of Wax (2005) is more akin to a remake of Tourist Trap, it hasn't been officially categorized as such. Tourist Trap tells the tale of a group who find themselves endangered in a roadside museum by a telekinetic killer. It offers a unique twist with its supernatural elements compared to typical slashers featuring human antagonists.

      A remake would likely be rated R and could incorporate more graphic violence than the original. This would resonate better with modern viewers than the more restrained scenes of the past. Additionally, the scarcity of supernatural slashers today makes this an intriguing option for audiences.

      Night of the Comet

      This cult classic remains without a modern remake—a missed opportunity. Night of the Comet centers on two sisters fighting for survival amid a zombie apocalypse. Instead of a universal outbreak, the aftermath of a comet has either turned people to dust or transformed them into crazed zombies. This film is noted as an influence on Buffy Summers, a connection that's evident upon viewing.

      With the right cast, a remake could revitalize the fun of the original. Zombie apocalypses are now commonplace, but a comet's impact on a city adds a fresh twist worthy of exploration for new audiences.

      The People Under the Stairs

      When discussing Wes Craven's films, The People Under the Stairs deserves more recognition. The narrative follows a young boy whose robbery attempt goes awry, leading to unsettling discoveries about the homeowners. The film addresses themes of gentrification, class inequality, and capitalism, which remain relevant today.

      There were discussions about Monkeypaw Productions possibly remaking this film, but nothing has progressed lately. The outcome of this potential remake will depend heavily on who ultimately takes the reins. Addressing satire in today's media landscape poses challenges, but remaking this horror film could prove worthwhile.

      Event Horizon

      This sci-fi horror film divides viewers; some adore it, while others wish for more depth. Event Horizon follows a space crew on a rescue mission that becomes compromised by a malevolent force aboard the ship. It can be likened to Hellraiser set in space, though