Remade films have become a popular trend among studios, but they have a reputation for falling way short of expectations – think the 2015 version of “Point Break.” Every once in a while, however, one of these remade films achieves greater success than its predecessor.
Continue for a look at 9 super successful Hollywood movies that were actually remakes.
Robert Ludlum’s 1980s novels were the source material for the trilogy of Jason Bourne movies. “The Bourne Identity” hit theaters in 2002, but even that was a remake of a made-for-TV movie released in 1988.
Photography: Universal Pictures
The beloved 1939 film actually wasn’t the first version ever made. It was preceded by a 1925 silent film, and a book from 1900.
Photography: Warner Bros.
"Meet The Parents" is an example of an indie movie that was remade and achieved great commercial success. The original was made in 1992 with a $100,000 budget.
Photography: Universal Pictures
We all know the 1981 classic “Scarface,” featuring Al Pacino, but the original American gangster film was created in 1932. It was produced by Howard Hughes.
Photography: Universal Pictures
Of the few successful films to also have a blockbuster remake, it's ironic that this movie about twins is one of the best examples. The family-friendly film was a hit during its 1998 and 1961 releases.
Photography: Disney
This 2002 Adam Sandler classic is a remake of the 1936 film, “Mr. Deeds Goes to Town.” While he may not have inherited a fortune himself, Sandler certainly struck gold with this remake.
Photography: Sony
This star-studded film is a mash-up of the 2002 Hong Kong film “Internal Affairs,” and the story of Whitey Bulger and the Winter Hill Gang. Martin Scorcese directed “The Departed” and it casts a huge shadow over the original movie.
Photography: Warner Bros.
The 2004 film starring Denzel Washington was based on a book, but it was also a remake of a pre-existing film. The 1962 original starred Frank Sinatra who was fighting in the Korean War, instead of the second Gulf war.
Photography: Paramount Pictures
The original “Ocean’s 11” cast featured members of the 1960s collective, the Rat Pack – Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop. The 1960 heist film featured a cool group of criminals just like the 2001 version.
Photography: Warner Bros.