A couple of years ago we heard that Screen Gems was planning an American remake of Gareth Evans’ hit action film The Raid: Redemption. Shortly after, things went quiet on that front and many had hoped that the silence signalled the studio’s intention to scrap the project. Unfortunately, Screen Gems is still intent on remaking it, and now we’re hearing that The Expendables 3 director Patrick Hughes is in talks to direct.
While I have no doubt that Hughes has learned a few things about the action genre during his time working with heavyweights like Sylvester Stallone and Jason Statham on the aforementioned threequel, it’s highly unlikely that a remake of Evans’ original film will bring anything new to the table. In my view, it’s completely unnecessary, and I don’t think it’s something that fans want to see. I can only speak for myself, but with the original ranking as one of my favorite action films of all time, I’m really not looking forward to seeing an inferior, surely tamer American take.
Tthe original film already has a sequel hitting theatres next month, and early word is that it’s even better than its predecessor. If The Raid is a franchise that is only getting better with each installment, do we really need an American remake? The last time we see a high profile American remake of a terrific foreign film was back in the fall with Spike Lee’s Oldboy. While that re-do wasn’t a complete abomination, it wasn’t anything memorable either, and considering that it completely tanked at the box office, it’s possible that Screen Gems is now feeling a little less certain about The Raid remake’s prospects.
Of course, with an American remake comes American stars and we’re hearing that both Hemsworth brothers (Chris and Liam) are being eyed for roles in the film. However, that is unconfirmed, and no formal offers have been made. If that’s true though, it gives you an idea of what kind of route this remake is looking to go down, and it’s not a pretty one.
Tell us, do you want to see an American remake of The Raid: Redemption? Do you think the film has any chance of being as impressive as the original? Let us know in the comments below.