Reinventing the 80’s

The 1980’s were definitely a memorable time.  After all, that was my childhood.  While I may not have grasped the full meaning of films like The Breakfast Club or Fast Times at Ridgemont High when they came out in theaters, I was definitely onboard with others such as Gremlins and Ghostbusters.  These films may not have been Oscar-worthy, but they all staked their claim in the hearts and minds of an entire generation and their success at the box office didn’t hurt either.

Now three decades later, Hollywood seems to be scrambling with unique, original material at times.  It wasn’t that long ago when I read one director’s quote who said something to the effect of ‘this is what Hollywood wants right now,’ referring to remakes in general.  The proof is in the pudding.  You’ve had a remake of Halloween, Clash of the Titans, Friday the 13th, and A Nightmare on Elm Street is just days away.  With that theory in mind, it has been announced that pop-cult films from the 80’s such as Robocop, Highlander, Footloose, Police Academy and yes, even Ghostbusters will have either new life breathed into them or will feel the wrath of the remake, depending on the final product.

With Police Academy, I say why bother?  Highlander I’m indifferent on as the original never did much for me.  Throw a shoe at me because I’ve never seen Footloose.  I know, I know; a dancer who’s never seen Footloose.  It’s like a fisherman who’s never been in a boat.  Robocop could be good (operative word is ‘could’) and Ghostbusters could hit a homerun.  Here’s my recommendation for that last of those four; include at least Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd (if not all four) in the remake as retiring from the supernatural trade along with their two compadres.  Bring on three or four new guys to carry on the torch.  Cast Ryan Reynolds as your new Peter Venkman-style character.  Throw Mike Meyers in to cover Aykroyd’s ground and good luck with Winston and Egon.  If anyone says Ben Stiller, you will be the one with shoes thrown at you.

Well there is my two cents on four films from three decades ago.  So far, the track record for remakes has not been a good one.  Audiences and critics alike have ripped on Clash for its putrid attempt at 3D and the sub-par CGI.  Friday the 13th was enjoyed by few and while many gave Halloween two thumbs up, the same group gave the sequel two thumbs down.  Keep your fingers crossed, people.  If you throw your hook into the water enough times, you’re bound to catch something sooner or later.

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