Original Film Versus Remake/Reboot
VERDICT: I have heard both rave reviews for "Red Dawn" (1984), and poor reviews for "Red Dawn" (2012). "Red Dawn" (2012) doesn't butcher the legacy of "Red Dawn" (1984). Maybe that's because their was twenty-eight years in-between the movies or just because times have changed. Within the next twenty-eight years, I can see another iteration of these "Red Dawn" movies. When it comes down to it "Red Dawn" (1984) is the stronger movie, but both are entertaining to watch.
VERDICT: While both movies had potential, neither really hit the mark. The original has an ending that you can be satisfied with, while the remake ends somewhat incomplete. The original has the star power, while the remake has four recognizable actors. Even though the original is dated, it is the over all better choice.
VERDICT: Judge Dredd (1995) feels like a complete story arc where as Dredd (2012) feels like a single mission within a much needed story arc. I have read that a Dredd sequel was still in the works, but nothing seems to be in the works right now. Judge Dredd has such a huge fan base, I'm surprised their isn't more sequels or even a cable show. While Dredd is much more serious, Judge Dredd is the superior movie.
VERDICT: Both movies are visually hard to watch. The original is dark and red and the remake is strobe and lens flares. If you remember the days when Arnold was an action blockbuster icon and have never seen this movie then I would say go with the original. While both are good Sci-Fi movies the movies appeal is with the remake. Dean Norris was in the original and Bryan Cranston was in the remake (as I am a huge Breaking Bad fan). While Sharon Stone is gorgeous in the original, I think I preferred Kate Beckinsale