Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2003 is definitely one of the better horror remakes out there, it manages to capture the essence of the original while also adding its own twist to it all.
Andrew Bryniarski's performance as Leatherface was really good, as was R. Lee Ermey's who played Sheriff Hoyt.
While the remake is good, it can't quite match the original's level of fear and intensity. But still, at least it was a hell of a lot better than the 2022 version of TCM.. [Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2003 on IMDB]
Friday the 13th (2009)
The 2009 version of Friday the 13th has its strengths and weaknesses. The actors in the film delivered decent performances, with Derek Mears standing out as a convincing Jason Voorhees.
It would have been more intriguing though to see the story continue from where the original series left off, exploring what happened to Jason after his supposed drowning.
But it manages to pay homage to the original while delivering its own take on the story and avoids falling into the traps of being a watered-down, soulless cash grab or a pointless shot-for-shot remake. [Friday the 13th 2009 on IMDB]
IT (2017)
Although IT (2017) is technically a remake, I consider it more of a book adaptation. As a fan of Stephen King's novel and the original movie, I was looking forward to watch this version when I first heard about it, and I must say, I really enjoyed it.
The young cast deliver solid performances as well, and Bill Skarsgård's portrayal of Pennywise the Dancing Clown is brilliant.
Despite IT not being a traditional remake really, I decided to include it on this list because it successfully captures the spirit of the original story and helped introduce a new generation of horror fans to the horrifying world of Pennywise the Clown. [IT 2017 on IMDB]
Dawn of the Dead (2004)
Dawn Of The Dead is another that manages to capture the essence of the original while adding its own unique elements. And that is always a good thing in my book!
One of the best features of the movie is the portrayal of the actual zombies. They are faster, more fierce, and more violent than the zombies in the original film.
One aspect that I wished it had explored further though was the presence of the evil bikers, similar to the ones in the original film. These characters added some extra danger and chaos, but you can't have everything. [Dawn Of The Dead 2004 on IMDB]
The Hills Have Eyes (2006)
This is a movie that holds its own against the original film, although I still have a slight preference for the original. Michael Berryman's performance in particular was really strong. Berryman, who also appeared in the original film, brings a memorable presence to his role with his portrayal of Pluto.
While Berryman's performance is excellent, the decision to make Pluto mentally disabled and deformed though felt unnecessary and potentially perpetuates harmful stereotypes, the character could have been just as menacing without relying on these tropes I think.
A big positive though that I really liked was the depiction of the family dynamics in the film. The interactions between the family members feel realistic and the filmmakers did a good job of showcasing the struggles and tensions within the family as they fight for survival. [The Hills Have Eyes 2004 on IMDB]
My Bloody Valentine 3D (2009)
This movie gets some heat, but I think it deserves some recognition, it's quite underrated in my opinion.
The 3D effects added an extra layer to the film and it offered a fresh take on the story and added its own style and scares, while still paying homage..
While there are areas that could have been improved, it deserves more love. Many will argue it should not be on this list, but it's my list, so bog off. [My Bloody Valentine 3D 2009 on IMDB]
The Blob (1988)
The Blob, released in 1988, is a remake of the 1958 film of the same name. While the original film holds a certain charm, this version manages to surpass it in several aspects. (And guess what, it's getting ANOTHER remake).
The Blob itself is incredibly well-designed and the practical effects used to depict its movements and attacks are pretty impressive. Fans of the horror genre will not be disappointed in the level of gore and special effects present in this one.
One major criticism of the film I have though is the design of the blob itself. If you're like me, you may find the blob's appearance a lot less menacing compared to the original, nevertheless, the practical effects used to bring the blob to life is still pretty good. [The Blob 1988 on IMDB]
The Fly (1986)
The Fly is one of the most praised horror remakes of all time, and for good reason. The special effects and creature design in this film are absolutely phenomenal. The transformation of Seth Brundle into the grotesque Brundlefly is both horrifying and mesmerizing to watch, and the practical effects used to bring this creature to life still hold up today.
In comparison to the original 1958 film, the 1986 version surpasses it in pretty much every way. While the original had its charm, the remake takes the concept to a whole new level. The blending of science fiction and horror in this film is just seamless, and Jeff Goldblum delivers a standout performance as Seth Brundle, perfectly capturing the character's descent into madness.
Personally, I have a deep love for The Fly, it is a film that I can watch over and over again and never tire of the themes, transformation, obsession, and the horrors of science gone wrong. [The Fly 1986 on IMDB]
The Thing (1982)
The Thing is the best horror remake of all time. Period. Directed by John Carpenter, this film surpasses the original in every aspect.
Kurt Russell delivers a stellar performance as the lead, showcasing his talent and solidifying his status as a horror icon. The special effects in this film are great, with the creature design being some of the best ever seen in a horror film.
When comparing the remake to the original 1951 film, it's clear that Carpenter takes the whole concept to a whole new level, and the blend of science fiction and horror is executed flawlessly, and the practical effects used to bring the creature to life are still awe-inspiring today. [The Thing 1982 on IMDB]
Do you agree or disagree with any of these, and have I missed out one of your favorites? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on my horror twitter and horror Instagram pages.
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