Cult 1990s sci-fi horror classic The Faculty is set for a remake, with the original director Robert Rodriguez set to produce. Released in 1998, The Faculty follows a group of high school students who come to believe that their teachers are being controlled by parasitic aliens. The Faculty features an ensemble cast, including Josh Hartnett, Famke Janssen, and Jordana Brewster, and became a box-office success, grossing over $63 million. The movie, which was penned by Scream writer Kevin Williamson, has developed a cult following since its release and is considered among the most popular high school movies of the 90s.
Per Variety, The Faculty remake will develop a screenplay by Drew Hancock, whose debut movie Companion has just hit theaters, while Rodriguez will come on board in a producer capacity. No director or casting choices have been revealed as of yet. Alongside Rodriguez, the production company BoulderLight will also produce the movie with Miramax.
What This Means For The Faculty Remake
Having Rodriguez & Miramax On Board Is Surely A Good Thing
While idealists would likely prefer that Rodriguez was writing and directing any remake of The Faculty, the fact that he is attached to the project in a creative capacity can only be a good thing. As director of the original movie, he understood the process behind what made The Faculty such a success the first time around, and he can bring his extensive industry experience to help guide the other creatives involved and ensure the project is as successful as possible.
The stylistic blend, talented cast, high school setting, and success of teen-oriented films like the Scream movies were big factors that made The Faculty work so well, and these are factors tougher to replicate in modern times.
Most recently, Rodriguez directed the Ben Affleck mystery action thriller Hypnotic, as well as Spy Kids: Armageddon, the fifth installment of his hugely successful Spy Kids film series. Fans of Rodriguez’s work might be skeptical to check out The Faculty remake, but the acclaimed director’s involvement, albeit in a producing capacity, is likely to alleviate some concerns. Furthermore, Miramax being involved again should be viewed as a positive, with the company’s leadership change looking to revitalize some of the Miramax back catalog.
Our Verdict On The Chances Of Success For The Faculty Remake
It Could Be A Hit, But This Is A Movie That Seems Rooted In Its Era
While the idea of high school alienation, and the chasm between students and teachers is a struggle that any generation finds relatable, The Faculty definitely felt rooted in the 90s. The stylistic blend, talented cast, high school setting, and success of teen-oriented films like the Scream movies were big factors that made The Faculty work so well, and these will be tough replicate in modern times. If Hancock directs, and he and Rodriguez can be in sync, the movie has a chance, but I’d be shocked if it gets close to the legacy of the original.
Source: Variety
