The Remake of The Fly is Better Than the Original

David Cronenberg's 1986 remake of "The Fly" is often cited as one of the greatest horror films ever made, and for good reason. While the original 1958 film is certainly a classic in its own right, the remake manages to surpass it in several key ways, making it a superior film in every respect.

The basic premise of both films is the same: a brilliant scientist develops a teleportation device but accidentally merges his DNA with that of a housefly, leading to a horrifying transformation. However, the remake takes the story in a much darker and more disturbing direction, fully embracing the body horror elements of the concept.

One of the most striking differences between the two films is the use of special effects. While the 1958 film relied on some basic makeup effects to depict the scientist's gradual transformation, the 1986 version features some of the most iconic and realistic special effects of its era. The use of animatronics and puppetry to create the various stages of the creature's metamorphosis is nothing short of breathtaking, and the makeup work on star Jeff Goldblum is truly impressive.

Another key difference between the two films is the approach to characterisation. In the original, the scientist is a sympathetic figure who becomes a victim of circumstance, while in the remake, Goldblum's character is portrayed as a more complex and flawed figure. The audience is given a glimpse into his obsessive and self-destructive tendencies, making his transformation all the more tragic and terrifying. His relationship with Geena Davis's character also adds a deeper emotional layer to the story, making it more than just a simple horror movie.

Perhaps the biggest reason that the remake is superior, however, is the directing of David Cronenberg. Known for his body horror films and his willingness to push boundaries, Cronenberg's vision for "The Fly" was a much darker and more intense take on the material. He eschews the campy, B-movie feel of the original and instead delivers a film that is truly disturbing and emotionally resonant.

In conclusion, while the original "The Fly" may have been a groundbreaking film in its time, it is the 1986 remake that truly stands the test of time. With its groundbreaking special effects, complex characters, and uncompromising direction, the film is a masterpiece of horror that is both terrifying and emotionally engaging. It's a film that is not only a great horror movie, but a great movie in general, and a testament to the power of the genre to explore complex themes and emotions.