The art of remaking and expanding classics: Why Hollywood can’t let go of its originals

BY AMARI SUKHDEO

Hollywood has long had a love affair with remakes, reboots, and sequels, but in recent years, the trend has exploded in popularity. From Superman to Ghostbusters, studios seem obsessed with revisiting their most iconic franchises. This ongoing cycle of recreating, or expanding beloved films raises a question: Why does Hollywood keep going back to the past instead of creating something entirely new?

One of the driving forces behind this trend is nostalgia. Movies like: Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021) and Superman: Legacy (2025) tap into audiences’ emotional connections to the original films. For many, these iconic movies represent a simpler time, evoking childhood memories, or cultural milestones. In a world where sequels and franchises dominate, it’s no surprise that both new generations and original fans are drawn to these revisited universes. Take Ghostbusters: Afterlife for example. While the 2021 film introduces a new generation of characters, it doesn’t forget its roots. It weaves in references and cameos from the original Ghostbusters films, giving longtime fans a sense of continuity while appealing to younger viewers unfamiliar with the original.

In addition to remaking films, many franchises are opting for a different strategy: adding to the original universe. The idea of a shared cinematic universe (or “multiverse”) has become a popular approach for reviving classic properties. Marvel’s success with the MCU has influenced studios like Warner Bros. and Sony to follow suit with their own expanded universes, such as: The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and Spider-Man’s multiverse. For example, Superman is getting a reboot in 2025 with Superman: Legacy under the direction of James Gunn, who is known for his work in shaping the: Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad franchises. While the film is technically a new beginning for the character, it is set against the backdrop of a larger interconnected universe of DC films. By expanding the universe, studios can create a cohesive narrative that engages fans across multiple films and platforms, from movies to TV series.

For studios, remaking films, or adding sequels to successful franchises is often a safer financial bet. Original films are a risk, while a remake, or sequel can build on an established brand with a built-in fan base. This is especially true for high-budget films where studios want a guaranteed return on investment. Take Top Gun: Maverick (2022) as an example. The movie’s success wasn’t just due to its action-packed plot, but also because it capitalized on the original film’s popularity, appealing to both nostalgic adults and younger moviegoers discovering the franchise for the first time.

Furthermore, the global box office plays a role in this remake boom. Big-budget action films, like: Fast & Furious, or the Jurassic World series, are increasingly geared toward international audiences. Franchises with built-in recognition are much more likely to succeed in diverse markets, making them a more attractive investment for studios.

Remakes and sequels have become a core part of modern cinema, driven by nostalgia, financial incentives, and the appeal of shared cinematic universes. Whether it’s revisiting Superman or expanding on Ghostbusters, Hollywood’s fascination with reimagining and adding to original films shows no sign of slowing down. The challenge remains to balance honoring the past with creating something fresh for future generations. As long as studios find ways to connect with audiences, both new and old, the trend of remakes will continue to shape the film industry for years to come.