The science fiction genre is one that's often been susceptible to reboots and reimaginings. It makes sense since they often demand other-worldly premises, epic cinematography, and high-intensity action, which modern-day film tech can more easily accommodate.
Unfortunately, many efforts to "modernize" these classic but perhaps somewhat dated films tend to fall flat more than they shine. In fairness though, there are times when a sleeker, modern-day reboot actually does manage to make for a film that's impressive and captivating in its own right.
With that said, let's travel through space and time itself as we examine 5 of these sci-fi remake blunders, in addition to 5 that actually turned out great.
Great: Solaris (2002)
Here we have a film based on an older film that was adapted from a book; specifically, a '61 science fiction novel by Stanislaw Lem. While the original Russian '72 film version is still largely considered the "definitive" iteration of Solaris, this more modern adaptation is no slouch, proving interesting and unique in its own way. given that it's produced by James Cameron and stars George Clooney, it has to at least be decent, right?
While the original film takes more of a personal and cerebral approach, the 2002 remake draws more from its sleeker aesthetics and its emotional love story for most of its intrigue.
Didn't Work: The Stepford Wives (2004)
Fans of the original version of The Stepford Wives might be scratching their heads as to just how director Frank Oz and writer Paul Rudnick can make such a leap from dark and unsettling sci-fi thriller to a film that's largely a goofy comedy. While the book from which it's based, a '72 novel by Ira Levin does at least contain a tinge more humor, this '04 film takes that comedy angle a bit too far.
The social commentary of the subservient suburban housewife - which is conveyed by the literal replacement of women with obedient robots - gets lost among the wacky gags and overall cheesy performances. Aside from a fairly-amusing twist ending, there's really not a ton redeeming about this; not even the inclusion of acting greats Glenn Close and Christopher Walken can save The Stepford Wives.
Great: Alita: Battle Angel (2019)
Given that this film sat in development purgatory for quite a few years - as James Cameron put this off to focus on the sci-fi megahit Avatar, it's a bit disappointing that this sci-fi romp based on a Japanese manga series is just "good" and not phenomenal. Still, the relatively few in the West who are aware of the manga will tell you that this fun action sci-fi adventure manages to do it justice.
The film features the memorable protagonist named Alita, a female cyborg who seeks to rediscover her lost past and try and make due in the imaginative and captivating dystopia of Iron City. Alita makes for both a thrilling adventure and a visual marvel, rich with tons of cool cyberpunk flair and intense action.
Didn't Work: Godzilla (1998)
Poor Matthew Broderick seems to be getting picked on in this list - but just like the modern take on the Stepford Wives, this mediocre reboot of a classic monster movie is really no fault of his. Rather, it's the overall premise and tone of the film that tends to fall flat. While the more recent 2014 iteration of Godzilla was released to fairly mixed reviews, this Roland Emmerich remake was universally panned.
Aside from some neat special effects (at least for the late '90s), this film tends to fail more than it succeeds, with some goofy gags, lame dialogue, and nonsensical plot-points - including a scene where Godzilla is lured by a huge mound of fish.
Great: War Of The Worlds (2005)
While this fairly recent rendition of War of the Worlds might not exactly have that same epic aura and overall quality of the '53 classic, let alone the memorable H.G Wells novel, it's a solid reimagining in its own right. It shouldn't be too much of a shock that this film tends to buck the trend of typically disappointing sci-fi remakes, given that it was in the more-than-capable hands of director Steven Spielberg and actor Tom Cruise.
Given the rather dated look of the old film, a modern retelling of this iconic Wells story isn't only sufficient, but quite welcomed. Some thrilling action, terrific performances, and impressive digital effects remind us exactly why this classic tale of an alien invasion is so renowned and timeless.
Didn't Work: Planet Of The Apes (2001)
Ironically enough, this tepid remake of the dystopian sci-fi epic featuring those "damn dirty apes" has actually birthed some pretty solid sequels within the last decade. Yet, the first revisiting of the ape-dominated earth in 2001 by Tim Burton proved to be a dud for the most part, especially when compared to the iconic '68 film.
This movie is more of a "reimagining" than a straight-up remake as it doesn't follow the original point-for-point. This does give it a touch of authenticity - and in fact, partly tries to adhere more to the novel from which it's based. Yet, it's also far less interesting, aside from some strong visual elements. For a premise involving a global showdown between hyper-evolved primates and humans, this 2001 rendition of Planet of the Apes feels pretty dull and insignificant.
Great: Stark Trek (2009)
This is an oddity, in that it's partly a sequel, in that it acknowledges events of the various older Star Trek TV and film adaptations. Yet, it's also somewhat a reimagining with a number of parallels to old Star Trek, as it recasts many of the show's original characters. This, of course, includes Captain James Kirk and Spock; a dynamic duo whose distinct qualities are recaptured marvelously by Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto.
While the film has received a mixed reception amongst the most diehard of classic Star Trek fans - especially when it comes to the more average sequels - this '09 reboot by J.J. Abrams contains some undeniably thrilling action and a gripping plot. It's a different take on the more subtle, cerebral, and nuanced style of the old films and TV show, to be sure, but it's a fun sci-fi odyssey in its own right.
Didn't Work: RoboCop (2014)
The original RoboCop had a certain charm and authentic sense of character, with its blend of fun cheesy action and lighthearted gags that showed viewers it didn't take itself all too seriously. At the same time, there was a subtle degree of cleverness and nuance that made the film endearing, despite the goofy concept of a half-man and half-cyborg cop who fights crime with his juiced-up gadgetry and artillery.
Regardless of the spruced-up visuals of this 2014 remake, RoboCop just feels hollow and bland in comparison. The action is typically generic, the narrative drags along with its abundance of exposition, and the characters are largely forgettable. This film leans in the direction of "style over substance," a trait most other sci-fi remakes fall victim to.
Great: Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
This 2017 movie can technically be considered a sequel, but it's somewhat a "soft reboot" of the original, which was itself a reimagining of a cerebral Philip K. Dick novel. Unlike some on our list, this film manages to be visually stunning while having the substance to back it up.
Similar to Ridley Scott's classic, Blade Runner 2049 takes on a cool cyber punk-meets-noir style with its environments, which set the stage for a gripping dystopian tale involving human-like "replicants." The film stays fairly true to the vibe of the original while doing its own thing and amping up the grandiosity, as it takes place decades after the first film.
Not only this, but it even features Harrison Ford and Edward James Olmos, who reprise their original roles as Deckard and Gaff, offering some nostalgia for fans of the '82 original. With that said, 2049 is very much its own entity with its own distinct plot.
Didn't Work: Total Recall (2012)
Sure, the original Total Recall wasn't exactly a masterpiece, and certainly had its share of cheesy moments. Still, it had its own authenticity and a respect for detail through cool set pieces and elaborate makeup - traits that are mostly lacking with this remake, which comes across as artificial and soulless.
While one of the film's stars, Jessica Biel, has claimed that the film attempts to adhere more to the original story, it just doesn't quite work in execution. The CGI bombast is over-the-top, to say the least, and the film just doesn't do enough to differentiate itself.