Movie Make-Over

BY AMORNRAT SIDHU

It’s sequel season – and not just to any old movies, but sequels to some of the most beloved classic films of all time. Did you know that they’ve announced sequels to The Devil Wears Prada (2006), The Princess Diaries (2001) Freaky Friday (2003) and Gladiator (2000)? Even the iconic Beetlejuice (1988) film, almost four decades on, has just had a successful sequel come out in cinemas. We love some productions so much that we demand extensions of the storyline. And in true gluttonous fashion, why settle for just sequels when we can extract the juice from the original storyline or characters in other ways? Sometimes, we crave a remake of a classic, like the series 90210 (2008-2013) which was based on the original Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-2000); or we need a good ol’ spin-off like Wednesday (2022- ) based on the long-running concept and classic film, The Addams Family (1991) which itself was based on the TV series of the same name.

We asked these Thai-Indian movie buffs which films or series they’d like to see more of, or again, if they had the full freedom to dictate the desi movie scene. 

NAINA SINGH
Product Manager (Banking)

What classic Indian movie would you like to see remade, and why?

As a fan of psychological thrillers, a movie I would love to see remade is Baazigar (1993). A remake would work because themes such as deception, revenge, and the motives of an ethically-complex anti-hero would be compelling even today. A new interpretation could explore the character’s psyche and shed light on how he went from being a devastated son to an unhinged anti-hero. I found the duality of the character, demonstrating compassion and vulnerability on one hand, and absolute ruthlessness on the other, to be fascinating and a movie focusing on a similar concept, that platforms the protagonist’s internal struggles, doubts, and remorse, could be well received.

In your opinion, how would the remake have to be altered in order to appeal to modern audiences?

The character in the movie is somewhat one-note in his relentless pursuit of what he sees as justice. He blindly manipulates others and even commits murder, with the viewer sympathising because of the wrongs done to him. In a modern remake, however, audiences would likely reject such actions without deeper exploration. Today’s viewers expect more complex characters and layered storytelling. The character should grapple with his decisions, or the story could delve into how grief can drive someone down such a dark path, paving the way for a more nuanced narrative.

TINA KHANIJOU
Owner and Jewellery Designer, Navara Jewelry
Model, Actress, and Influencer

Are there any beloved Bollywood films that you’d love to see a sequel to, even years later? If so, why?

Reviving classic Bollywood films or series offers a unique opportunity to blend nostalgia with contemporary issues, creating stories that resonate with both older and younger audiences and attracting both generations of audience. The sequel could be modernised but still keep to the same storyline and setting, while bringing fresh perspectives to these much-beloved movies. While some classics ended perfectly, new themes could be developed to create a sequel.

In my opinion, I would be excited to see sequels for two movies: Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), fondly known as K3G, and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998). With K3G, a follow-up could delve into the next generation of the Raichand family, exploring how family values have evolved in contemporary society. With Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, a sequel could focus on the children of Rahul, Tina, and Anjali, dealing with their own love stories, friendships, and the challenges of growing up in today’s world. Many viewers have a strong emotional connection to these films, and reviving them taps into that nostalgia, attracting both original fans and a new audience.

In your opinion, what topics or themes should these sequels tap into, in order for them to appeal to a modern audience?

These movies resonate with Indian families because they talk about common societal issues. These still exist, but at a different level today. The theme could be maintained while the storyline adapted to reflect our current reality, in order to connect with today’s audiences. Perhaps the producers could highlight the following concepts and weave them into the storyline:

• Diversity and Inclusion: Expanding the representation of different cultures, lifestyles, and identities would resonate more with today’s diverse audience.
• Family Dynamics: Exploring the evolving concept of the family unit (single parents, LGBTQIA+ families) can reflect modern societal changes while staying true to the essence of the original film.
• Technology & Communication: Integrating today’s technology (social media, smartphones) into the storylines can help make the films feel contemporary and more relevant.
• Mental Health Awareness: Addressing issues like depression, personal struggles, and societal pressures can add depth and relevance to the storyline.

RAVNEET KAUR SACHDECHA
Homemaker
Owner; Homemade chile con queso food delivery,
Yummy by Ravneet
Owner; Screen Vibes

What classic Bollywood films would you be interested in seeing a sequel to, an what do you think is key to making these sequels a success?

The key to making a successful sequel to classic films is finding the right mix of nostalgia and new stories. It’s about giving more depth to characters that people already love, while also bringing in ideas that matter more and is relevant to today’s audience. Even though many of these ‘classics’ ended in a satisfying way, exploring their stories further can bring a fresh perspective that fits better with the world today.

A sequel to Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham (2001) would be really interesting because it left many questions for the audience about how the Raichand family dynamics would unfold after the reunion. Would Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol’s characters have difficulty adjusting back in India after living apart in England for so long? Perh Kajol’s character might switch from yearning for India’s comfortable embrace, to suddenly missing the independence she had in England. How would Kajol’s mother-in-law navigate the two marriages in the home – would they move out or not? How would Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor’s characters bond with the parents as they grow older? All these can be answered in a sequel.

In your opinion, what are important topics that you’d like to see the sequel address?

For a sequel or remake of K3G to connect with today’s audience, a few things would need to change in order to speak to spectators in this day and age:

• Family Dynamics: The strict patriarchal values portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan’s character might need softening to reflect more modern, balanced views on family relationships, where individual choices and open dialogue are respected.
• Gender Roles: The depiction of women in traditional roles could be reimagined, giving characters like Kajol and Kareena more agency and focus on their personal growth and ambitions alongside their roles within the family.
• Cultural Expectations: Modernising the themes around marriage, class differences and gender roles within the marriage would make it more relatable, emphasising love, acceptance, and breaking free from rigid societal norms.
• Mental Health Awareness: Including more open discussions about emotional struggles and mental health could resonate deeply with today’s audiences, offering a more empathetic take on the characters’ inner conflicts.