There much to be said about the movie industry’s lack of originality, and movie remakes are often seen as part of the problem. However, chances are that you’re a fan of a good remake or two. 

It’s often argued that there’s simply no need to rehash and remake an original film. There are instances, however, when updating and putting a new spin on a film has created movie magic. These six films did it best. 

Scarface (1983) 

Most people don’t know that 1983’s Scarface was actually a remake of a 1932 film of the same name. The original Scarface also ends in a flurry of gunfire, but takes place during the prohibition era and is loosely based on the life of Al Capone. The Scarface remake masterfully updated the storyline and continues to appeal to audiences today. 

Batman Begins (2005) 

It’s hard to count just how many times producers have tried to reboot the Batman franchise. Attempts were made with various big-name actors in the 1940s, in 1966, 1985, 1989, and 1997. With 2005’s Batman Begins, starring Christian Bale, the franchise was finally lifted into a new era. The film was a critical and box office success that launched two successful sequels. 

True Grit (2010) 

In 2010, the Coen brothers teamed up with Jeff Bridges to remake the 1969 classic western True Grit starring John Wayne. Whereas the original was a more romanticised take on the old west, the 2010 version strove for greater realism. There are many similarities, but enough meaningful differences to make 2010’s True Grit a stand-out film in its own right. 

Ocean’s Eleven (2001) 

One of the most well-loved heist films of all time, 2001’s Ocean’s Eleven features an all-star cast of some of the biggest Hollywood names. Likewise, the 1960 original Ocean’s 11 starred the actor supergroup known as the Rat Pack (led by Frank Sinatra). The original is still a fantastic movie, but the remake features a stronger script and stronger acting overall. 

The Departed (2006) 

Martin Scorsese’s The Departed, a film which many thought would net Leonardo DiCaprio his first Oscar, is actually a remake of a 2002 Hong Kong thriller named Infernal Affairs. The original was a huge success in China and spawned two sequels. Scorsese’s remake stays true to the original while tightening up the storyline. The Scorsese film was likewise a critical and box office success. 

12 Monkeys (1995) 

12 Monkeys is a 1995 Terry Gilliam picture set in post-apocalyptic Philadelphia, starring Brad Pitt and Bruce Willis. The film is based on a 1962 French short film titled La Jetée, which has the same basic story. 12 Monkeys takes the concept of the short film and masterfully develops it into a full-length feature. 

Like it or not, remakes are an enduring part of the movie business. While you may not enjoy all of them, there’s no denying that sometimes remakes do actually work. The films above certainly show that to be true.