Hollywood has a long history of making film remakes, often to mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike. While some remakes have been successful, many have been criticized for lacking the creativity and originality that makes films truly memorable. With the rise of streaming services and new technologies, audiences have more access to content than ever before. It’s time for Hollywood to invest in original content rather than relying on tired remakes to attract audiences.
Remakes Lack Creativity and Originality
One of the main criticisms of film remakes is that they lack the creativity and originality that make films memorable. Instead of creating something new, filmmakers often rely on existing storylines and characters, which can lead to a lackluster final product. Additionally, many remakes fail to capture the spirit of the original film, often resulting in a lack of critical and commercial success.
For example, the 2016 remake of «Ghostbusters» received mixed reviews from critics and failed to meet box office expectations. While the film had a talented cast and crew, many felt that it paled in comparison to the original film. Similarly, the 2019 remake of «The Lion King» received criticism for its lack of originality and overly realistic animation, with some accusing the film of being a shot-for-shot retelling of the original.
Original Content Can Be More Profitable
Investing in original content can also be more profitable for Hollywood in the long run. While remakes can be seen as a safe bet because of the familiarity of the story, they also come with high production costs and often fail to meet box office expectations. According to Box Office Mojo, only one of the top ten highest grossing films of 2020 was a remake: «The Invisible Man.»
On the other hand, original content can often lead to unexpected commercial success. In 2017, Jordan Peele’s original horror film «Get Out» grossed over $255 million worldwide, despite having a relatively low budget. The film also received critical acclaim, winning the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Investing in original content can also lead to long-term profits through streaming and licensing deals. Netflix, for example, has invested heavily in original content and has seen massive growth in subscribers as a result. According to CNBC, over 85% of Netflix’s spending in 2020 went towards original content, with the company projecting that it will have over 200 million subscribers by the end of the year.
The Need for Diversity in Hollywood
Investing in original content can also help address the lack of diversity in Hollywood. Many remakes feature predominantly white casts, leading to accusations of whitewashing and limiting opportunities for actors of color. By investing in original content, Hollywood can create more diverse stories and characters, leading to greater representation on screen.
One example of a successful original film with a diverse cast is «Crazy Rich Asians,» which grossed over $238 million worldwide in 2018. The film featured an all-Asian cast and crew and was praised for its portrayal of Asian characters and culture.
Investing in original content can also create opportunities for underrepresented voices in Hollywood. Filmmakers like Ava DuVernay and Ryan Coogler have gained recognition for their original work, and have used their success to create opportunities for other filmmakers of color.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hollywood needs to prioritize investing in original content rather than relying on tired remakes to attract audiences. Not only can original content lead to greater creativity and profitability, but it can also help address the lack of diversity in Hollywood. As audiences become increasingly selective in their entertainment choices, it’s time for Hollywood to step up and create content that is truly original and groundbreaking. It’s only through investment in original content that Hollywood can truly move forward and continue to succeed in the future.