An In-Depth Comparison of Suspiria: The Original vs. the Remake

When it comes to the 1977 cult classic Suspiria and its 2018 remake, opinions are often divided. Some viewers prefer the original, citing its unique and groundbreaking aspects, while others are drawn to the modern take on the story. In this article, we will explore both versions and provide a detailed analysis of their strengths and weaknesses.

Suspiria (Original) vs. Suspiria: Red Nhi No (Remake)

From a technical standpoint, the remake offers a more structured narrative, superior acting performances, and visually appealing dance sequences. Dakota Johnson delivers a compelling performance in the lead, while Tilda Swinton shines with her incredible portrayal. The presence of Jessica Harper in both versions is also seen as a positive aspect.

Why I Prefer the Original

However, the original version of Suspiria has several compelling aspects that make it slightly superior in my opinion. One of the things I love about the original is its Alice in Wonderland-inspired opening, which immerses the viewer in a unique and dreamlike world. The cinematography, color filtering, and quirky characters contribute to the film's distinctive atmosphere. The film's 1970s fashion and its haunting, overdrawn pacing also stand out.

The soundtrack is perhaps the strongest aspect of the original. Composed by the Italian band Goblin, the soundtrack is extremely unique, creepy, and perfectly complements the film's unsettling tone. Listening to the soundtrack on its own remains a unique experience, even for those familiar with the film. However, the remake's music, composed by Thom Yorke of Radiohead, is entertaining but not as iconic as the original's.

Why the Remake is Better

The remake stands out for its better story structure, acting performances, and dance sequences. It is also worth watching once, though in my opinion, it is not as re-watchable as the original. The film addresses some of the original's structural issues and delivers a more cohesive story. The performances by Dakota Johnson and Tilda Swinton are exceptional, and the dance sequences are a significant improvement over the original.

What Doesn't Work

However, the remake has some noticeable flaws. Firstly, the film runs much longer at nearly three hours, which can be a deterrent for some viewers. Additionally, the muted color palette, while fitting the film's tone, lacks the vibrant hues of the original. Lastly, the feeling of a committee or focus group approach is evident, as evidenced by the many producers involved in the remake's production, compared to the single producer in the original.

The Unique Selling Points of the Original

The original version of Suspiria is notably unique for its vibrant colors and distinctive style. The film's iconic status cannot be overstated, and its visual and aural impact remains unparalleled. Even the poster and trailer for the original are over-the-top in a way that is admirable. The film's transfer from 1977 to 4K is especially impressive, showcasing the enduring appeal and technical proficiency of the original.

While the remake is certainly a worthy adaptation, it struggles to match the original's charm and uniqueness. If you are a loyal fan of Suspiria, I would highly recommend watching the Blu-ray remastered or 4K version. It is truly a classic horror film, and this version remains my preferred iteration.

Conclusion: Whether you prefer the structured narrative of the remake or the unique charm of the original, both versions offer something special. Ultimately, Suspiria stands out as a cult classic, and my recommended version remains the original film.

Thank you for reading.

Recommended Versions for Watch:

4K Version (Blu-ray) Trailer for Red Nhi No (Remake)