10 American Films You Didn’t Know Are Remakes of Foreign Films
Hollywood has long been lauded for its creativity, but even the most inventive storytellers sometimes borrow inspiration from beyond their borders. From gritty crime dramas to eerie horror flicks, many beloved American movies are actually remakes of foreign films. Here are ten such films that may surprise you!
1. The Departed
Released in 2006, "The Departed" is an intense crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese. This film follows an undercover cop infiltrating South Boston's Irish Mafia and a mole within the police department. Both sides soon realize that they are compromised. This thrilling narrative—filled with deception and suspense—was inspired by the 2002 Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs." Its star-studded cast includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson.
Rating: 4/5
Watch on Likewise2. The Ring
When "The Ring" hit theaters in 2002, it terrified audiences with its tale of a cursed videotape. Journalist Rachel Keller, portrayed by Naomi Watts, has just seven days to solve the mystery behind the video to save herself and her son. This American horror classic is a remake of the 1998 Japanese film "Ringu." The original film, directed by Hideo Nakata, is considered a cornerstone of Japanese horror that blended folklore with modern fears.
Rating: 3.6/5
Watch on Likewise3. Vanilla Sky
Directed by Cameron Crowe, "Vanilla Sky" was released in 2001, featuring Tom Cruise as a wealthy playboy whose life spirals into chaos after a horrific car accident disfigures his face. The lines between reality and illusion blur in this psychological thriller, which is a remake of the Spanish film "Open Your Eyes" ("Abre Los Ojos") released in 1997.
Rating: 3.4/5
Watch on Likewise4. Let Me In
"Let Me In" (2010) is a chilling horror drama about a bullied young boy who befriends a mysterious young female vampire. This remake of the acclaimed 2008 Swedish film "Let The Right One In" stays true to the dark, eerie atmosphere that captivated international audiences. Both films are adapted from John Ajvide Lindqvist's novel.
Rating: 3.4/5
Watch on Likewise5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
David Fincher's "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" (2011) stars Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, bringing to life Stieg Larsson's gripping tale of a disgraced journalist and a computer hacker who delve deep into a decades-old mystery. This English-language film is based on the original 2009 Swedish film adaptation, which gained worldwide acclaim for its dark and intricate storytelling.
Rating: 4.1/5
Watch on Likewise6. True Lies
The 1994 action-comedy "True Lies," directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, tells the story of a secret agent whose domestic life is disrupted when he uncovers his wife's supposed affair and a terrorist plot. This film is a remake of the 1991 French comedy "La Totale!" Known for its blend of humor and high-stake action, "True Lies" remains a fan favorite.
Rating: 3.5/5
Watch on Likewise7. Insomnia
In the 2002 thriller "Insomnia," Al Pacino and Robin Williams face off in a remote Alaskan town where the sun never sets. The film revolves around two Los Angeles detectives investigating a teenager's murder. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this movie is a remake of the 1997 Norwegian film of the same name, intriguing audiences with its psychological depth and moral ambiguity.
Rating: 3.4/5
Watch on Likewise8. The Birdcage
"The Birdcage" (1996), directed by Mike Nichols, stars Robin Williams and Nathan Lane as a gay cabaret owner and his partner who must play it straight for their son's fiancée's conservative parents. This comedy, which remains a cultural touchstone, is a remake of the 1978 Franco-Italian film "La Cage aux Folles."
Rating: 3.5/5
Watch on Likewise9. Brothers
The 2009 film "Brothers," directed by Jim Sheridan, follows the emotional turmoil of a Marine's family after he is presumed dead and his brother steps in to help his wife and children. Starring Tobey Maguire, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Natalie Portman, this drama is a remake of the 2004 Danish film "Brødre" by Susanne Bier. The film explores themes of loyalty, love, and trauma.
Rating: 3.4/5
Watch on Likewise10. The Upside
"The Upside," released in 2019, is a heartwarming tale of an unlikely friendship. Bryan Cranston stars as Phillip, a quadriplegic in need of a caretaker, and Kevin Hart as Dell, the struggling parolee who lands the job. This film is an American take on the 2011 French hit "The Intouchables," which charmed audiences worldwide with its blend of humor and humanity.
Rating: 3.5/5
Watch on LikewiseFrom Scandinavia to the Far East, Hollywood continues to look globally for inspiration, transforming diverse narratives into blockbusters. These films remind us that some of the best stories transcend language and culture, proving that a great film can captivate audiences worldwide, no matter its origin.
Next time you watch an American movie, you might just be witnessing the magic of storytelling from another part of the world.