the public versus the critics

In a couple of news sources today I see that the onslaught of film re-makes continues. First up is a cinematic adaptation of the TV series Dallas, followed by the announcement of a remake of the classic 1967 war movie The Dirty Dozen.

I should be a ghost that flits through the studios in L.A. moaning “Why, why, whhhhhyyyyyy?”

Re-makes can be successful on an artistic or even commercial level, but overall they are rare. More often they are tired, creaking, and unfunny attempts to cash in on brand familiarity.

Popular British movie magazine, Empire, has announced its 2006 Awards, as voted by the public.

It’s a much different line-up than the Oscars, with a lot of emphasis being placed on action, thrillers, and fantasy romps. Generally, it’s an indication of what people liked best–although I do think that Serenity losing to the latest Star Wars blimp was ridiculous. Shane Black should be delighted that Kiss Kiss Bang Bang won from a strong short-list, and proves the merits of his film were appreciated more outside of his native country.

There’s no sign of Brokeback, Capote, or Good Night, and Good Luck among the nominees, but I assume that is down to UK release schedules rather than homophobia or a dislike of American news reporters. Or maybe those films didn’t excite Empire voters.