Classic films for a new generation

Sam Vander Forest

I know classic films should be left the way they are because let’s face it, they’re classics for a reason. At the same time though, it couldn’t hurt to carry over those classic stories to new generations by updating them and tailoring them for their newer lifestyles. Here is a list of a few classic films that could maybe be re-done authentically to bring them to the newer generations.

1. The Goonies- How can you not love this adventure movie? It’s basically every kid’s dream to find a pirate’s treasure. That’s why bringing it back or making a sequel could both be smart for the movie studios and fans of the original, if done right. There have been rumors of a sequel that have floated around with the “Gremlin” remake, but we’ll have to see how they choose to approach it and if they can do it well.

2. The Breakfast Club- I’m sure high school cliques are the same as they were back when this film came out, but boy is it annoying to hear about. A remake of this, and a majority of 80’s classics, would really benefit these newer generations. Teenagers in the 80’s, 90’s and today have fairly similar struggles and stories, so bringing this film back could really influence a lot of them and cause them to think twice.

3. Gremlins- “Gremlins” was, and still is, a name that pops up in the list of classics ever since its release in 1984, and it’s actually getting a revamp that is set to release sometime in 2016, and is being produced by Spielberg. With the same writer as the original, hopefully the remake can deliver the same laughs and jumps as the first time around.

4. Jaws- Spielberg has always been a pioneer when it comes to visual effects and terrifying movies like this one and “Jurassic Park,” but his technology from “Jaws” is now outdated. This movie’s story is amazing and what he was able to do at the time was unheard of, but the new generation will be able to se through those phony effects in no time. I doubt it will ever get done, but a CGI remake of this movie could be truly terrifying once again.

There are countless classics that could be remade to their full potential with new technology, but the tough question that studios need to ask themselves is, is it really appropriate? Yes, some films can be redone and have been done quite well, but there are some movies that to redo them would just be an insult to their original tone and quality. Hopefully Hollywood knows where to draw the line between genuinely bringing an old classic to its full potential, and cranking out films just for a mediocre profit.