While many films stand the test of time, others fade into obscurity. Whether this happens over a period of years or almost instantly upon a film’s release, one thing is clear: The Crazies has slipped through the cracks of our collective memory to join the ranks of the Films That Time Forgot.
2010 saw the release of The Crazies, a modern remake of the 1973 movie of the same name. While many remakes are totally pointless, some are actually a good idea, and The Crazies can be counted among the latter. With the advancements in visual effects since the early ’70s, remaking George A. Romero’s cult horror wasn’t a terrible idea.
Directed by Brett Eisner, the film stars Timothy Olyphant and Radha Mitchell as a married couple who serve as the sheriff and the doctor of their small town community. The movie concerns a biological outbreak following a plane crash that sees those infected turn violently crazed and homicidal. 2010’s The Crazies also features Joe Anderson and Danielle Panabaker in supporting roles.
As Romero is the father of the modern zombie genre, remaking his movies requires a respectful touch. By employing a modest $20 million budget and focusing mostly on practical effects, the remake is able to evoke the horror genre of the ’70s while still maintaining a modern air. This allows the 2010 remake to feel more organic than many similar titles, and helps it to stand on its own merit.
The Crazies Is A Rare Horror Remake That Actually Works
Throughout the history of the horror genre, countless remakes have served only to diminish the legacy of their source material. Thankfully, The Crazies actually works well, partly due to the less iconic nature of the original compared to other remakes, and partly due to sensible filmmaking. It’s a tensely shot, atmospheric take on the zombie genre that doesn’t attempt to elevate itself beyond its station. The film knows what it is, and embraces it fully.
Timothy Olyphant’s performance is what really makes the film work. It’s a grounded and emotional performance that brings a well-written character to the screen in compelling fashion, making him an example of a quintessential survival horror protagonist. By playing into such tropes, The Crazies works on an organic level, feeling at home conceptually within the genre.
The reason the 2010 remake has largely been forgotten is simply that it’s not all that memorable. It’s an entertaining watch, but it’s not outstanding in any specific area that would feed any notable reputation. Though it’s a rare horror remake that is actually worth watching, it’s not innovative enough to have earned a place among the greats of the genre.
Rating: 65%
Summary: 2010’s The Crazies is a solid, enjoyable remake that stands well on its own. Despite being a little unremarkable, it’s a well-made survival horror that’s worth watching.
Highlight: One particularly suspenseful scene sees characters strapped to beds and menaced by an infected former friend. It’s dark and atmospheric in all the best ways.