Why People Dislike the Remake of The Haunting

The original release of The Haunting in 1963 is renowned for its brilliance. Considered by many to be a masterpiece in both horror and psychological depth, it sets an exceedingly high bar for any subsequent adaptation. However, the cinematic interpretation made in 1999 didn't live up to its predecessor, prompting significant criticism. This article explores the reasons behind the dislike for the remake, focusing on how it falls short compared to the original work.

The Original vs. the Remake

The subtlety of the original is a key factor in its enduring appeal. In the 1963 version, The Haunting wisely avoids showing any ghosts, leaving room for interpretation. Incidents such as the unexplained banging noises and the moving staircase are ambiguously attributed to psychic phenomena, driven by the sensitive character of Nell. This ambiguity is lost in the remake, which, in an attempt at overt spectacle, overflows with vivid, CGI-enhanced supernatural occurrences that often feel less suspensful and more crass.

Visual and Emotional Differences

In the 1999 remake, the house becomes an active agent, with objects coming to life and attacking the characters, making the environment almost overly cartoonish. While the original mansion is described as plausible, reminiscent of what a 19th-century philanthropist might build, the modern version is described as bizarre, resembling a theme park rather than a lived-in dwelling. These visual and emotional shifts alienate viewers who appreciated the original's nuanced portrayal.

Backstory and Plot Changes

The remake introduces a new backstory, making Nell a descendant of Hugh Crain and adding a storyline where she obsesses over freeing the children trapped in the mansion, ultimately sacrificing her life for this cause. In contrast, the original film presents Nell's death as a tragedy, highlighting her potential and the opportunities she could have pursued. The remake, however, makes her sacrifice more noble, implying a lack of hope for escape that can feel exploitative and insensitive to those who value the original's tragic nuances.

Scene Mismatch

A notable scene where Nell is held in the dark by an unseen force, initially thought to be Theo, but later revealed to be something else, is underutilized and fails to resonate effectively. In the original, this moment was chillingly foreboding, leaving the audience questioning the identity of the hand holding Nell. The remake missteps the setup, leaving the question of who held Nell’s hand as an ambiguous and underwhelming query.

Good Points

Despite its issues, the 1999 remake has some commendable elements. The performances, especially by young Owen Wilson, add an element of warmth and sympathy to Nell's character. The film remains engaging during its first 45 minutes, providing a solid foundation. However, after this point, the remake drifts into a stylistic obsession, losing its grounding in substance and depth.

In conclusion, the remake of The Haunting faces criticism for its departure from the original's subtlety and psychological depth. While it has its merits, particularly in its attempt to explore Nell's character, the overreliance on spectacle and the misalignment with the original's emotional core marks its downfall in the eyes of many viewers.