Hey guys! Let's dive into a comparison that's been debated for years: the original Total Recall (1990) versus the remake (2012). This comparison is a hot topic on Reddit, and for good reason. Both films take on Philip K. Dick’s We Can Remember It for You Wholesale, but they do so with vastly different approaches. The 1990 version, directed by Paul Verhoeven and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, is known for its over-the-top violence, dark humor, and practical effects. On the flip side, the 2012 remake, directed by Len Wiseman and featuring Colin Farrell, aims for a more serious, grounded, and visually sleek science fiction experience. Reddit users often dissect every aspect, from the casting choices and plot deviations to the overall tone and visual style. This article aims to break down those discussions and provide a comprehensive comparison, highlighting why the original holds such a special place in many hearts while also acknowledging what the remake tried to achieve. So, grab your popcorn and let's get into it!

Plot and Story Differences

When we talk about the Total Recall movies, the plot is the first thing most Redditors jump on. In the 1990 film, Douglas Quaid, played by Schwarzenegger, is a construction worker who feels unfulfilled in his life. He decides to go to Rekall, a company that implants memories of vacations, to experience a trip to Mars. However, during the procedure, it's revealed that Quaid is actually a secret agent whose memory has been suppressed. He's then thrust into a dangerous mission on Mars, fighting against the tyrannical Cohaagen to liberate the oppressed mutants. The 2012 version, starring Colin Farrell as Quaid, keeps the basic premise of a factory worker seeking escape through Rekall. However, instead of Mars, the remake introduces a dystopian Earth where the planet is divided into two habitable zones: the United Federation of Britain (UFB) and the Colony (Australia). Quaid discovers he's a highly skilled secret agent named Hauser, fighting for the UFB against the resistance led by Matthias (played by Bill Nighy). One of the most debated changes is the absence of Mars. Many Reddit users feel that taking the action away from Mars significantly diminishes the unique atmosphere and themes of the original. The red planet's desolate landscapes and mutant society added a layer of social commentary and surrealism that the remake simply couldn't replicate. The 2012 film focuses more on political intrigue and corporate control within a futuristic Earth, which, while interesting, lacks the outlandish charm of the original. Furthermore, the ambiguity of whether Quaid is truly a secret agent or merely a victim of a false memory implant is handled differently. The 1990 film keeps the audience guessing, embracing the paranoia and mind-bending possibilities of Philip K. Dick's story. The remake, however, tends to lean towards confirming Quaid's identity as Hauser, reducing the psychological depth and impact. On Reddit, you'll find countless threads discussing how these plot deviations affect the overall enjoyment and thematic resonance of the films. Many argue that the original's faithfulness to the source material, combined with its willingness to embrace absurdity, makes it a more compelling and memorable adaptation.

Casting and Performances

The cast of the Total Recall movies is another major point of comparison on Reddit. Arnold Schwarzenegger's portrayal of Douglas Quaid in the 1990 film is iconic. His physique, combined with his sometimes wooden acting, strangely works in the film's favor, adding to the sense of disorientation and uncertainty about his character's true identity. Sharon Stone as Lori, Quaid's seemingly loving wife who turns out to be an agent assigned to monitor him, delivers a memorable performance filled with deception and menace. Michael Ironside as Richter, Cohaagen's ruthless enforcer, is the quintessential villain you love to hate. Reddit users often praise these performances for their campy charm and memorable one-liners. In contrast, the 2012 remake features Colin Farrell as Quaid/Hauser. Farrell brings a more serious and grounded approach to the role. While he delivers a solid performance, some Redditors argue that he lacks the larger-than-life presence that Schwarzenegger brought to the character. Jessica Biel as Melina and Kate Beckinsale as Lori offer competent performances, but they often pale in comparison to their counterparts in the original. Biel's Melina, while capable, doesn't quite capture the rebellious spirit and vulnerability of Rachel Ticotin's version in the 1990 film. Beckinsale's Lori is a formidable adversary, but she lacks the subtle manipulation and chilling betrayal that Sharon Stone brought to the role. The supporting cast in the remake, including Bryan Cranston as Cohaagen and Bill Nighy as Matthias, are talented actors, but their characters often feel underdeveloped compared to the original. Cranston's Cohaagen, for example, is more of a generic corporate villain than the complex and power-hungry antagonist portrayed by Ronny Cox in the 1990 film. Reddit discussions often highlight how the casting choices and performances contribute to the distinct tones of the two films. The original's campy and over-the-top performances align with its darkly humorous and satirical style, while the remake's more serious and grounded performances reflect its attempt to create a more realistic and politically charged sci-fi thriller. Ultimately, many Redditors feel that the original's cast is more memorable and iconic, even if the performances are not always the most nuanced.

Visuals and Special Effects

The visual style and special effects are areas where the two Total Recall movies diverge significantly, sparking considerable debate on Reddit. The 1990 film, directed by Paul Verhoeven, is famous for its practical effects, which, while dated by today's standards, have a unique charm and visceral impact. The grotesque mutants of Mars, the over-the-top violence, and the memorable scenes like the exploding head are all brought to life with practical effects that are both shocking and strangely amusing. Reddit users often praise the creativity and ingenuity of these effects, noting that they contribute to the film's distinctive and unforgettable atmosphere. The 2012 remake, directed by Len Wiseman, relies heavily on CGI and visual effects to create a sleek and futuristic world. The dystopian cityscape, the advanced technology, and the action sequences are all visually impressive, showcasing the capabilities of modern filmmaking. However, some Redditors argue that the overuse of CGI makes the film feel generic and less memorable than the original. The practical effects in the 1990 film, despite their limitations, have a tactile quality that CGI often lacks. The remake's visuals, while polished, can feel sterile and lacking in personality. One of the most significant visual changes is the absence of Mars. The original film's Martian landscapes and mutant settlements are replaced with a dystopian Earth divided into two habitable zones. While the remake's futuristic cities and transportation systems are visually interesting, many Redditors feel that they lack the unique and surreal atmosphere of Mars. The red planet's desolate beauty and the plight of its mutant inhabitants added a layer of social commentary and thematic depth that the remake simply couldn't replicate. Reddit discussions often compare specific scenes and effects from both films, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. While the remake's visuals are undoubtedly more advanced, many Redditors feel that the original's practical effects have a more lasting impact due to their originality and visceral quality. The debate over practical versus CGI effects is a recurring theme in these discussions, with many arguing that practical effects, when done well, can create a more immersive and believable experience.

Themes and Tone

The themes and tone of the Total Recall movies are crucial points of comparison, heavily discussed on Reddit. The 1990 version, directed by Paul Verhoeven, embraces a darkly humorous and satirical tone. It explores themes of identity, memory, and corporate control, but it does so with a sense of irony and over-the-top violence that is both shocking and entertaining. The film doesn't take itself too seriously, allowing it to delve into complex issues without becoming preachy or heavy-handed. Reddit users often praise the original for its willingness to embrace absurdity and its satirical commentary on consumerism and political corruption. The 2012 remake, directed by Len Wiseman, aims for a more serious and grounded tone. It explores similar themes of identity, memory, and corporate control, but it does so with a greater emphasis on political intrigue and social commentary. The film attempts to create a more realistic and believable dystopian world, but some Redditors argue that it loses some of the original's charm and satirical edge in the process. One of the key differences in tone is the way the two films handle the ambiguity of Quaid's identity. The 1990 film keeps the audience guessing, blurring the line between reality and illusion. This ambiguity is central to the film's exploration of identity and memory, forcing the viewer to question what is real and what is not. The remake, however, tends to resolve the ambiguity, confirming Quaid's identity as Hauser. This reduces the psychological depth and impact of the story, making it a more straightforward action thriller. Reddit discussions often focus on how these differences in tone affect the overall enjoyment and thematic resonance of the films. Many argue that the original's darkly humorous and satirical tone makes it a more memorable and thought-provoking experience, while the remake's more serious tone makes it feel less unique and impactful. The debate over whether a remake should stay true to the original's tone or attempt something new is a recurring theme in these discussions, with many arguing that the original's tone is an integral part of its identity.

Reddit's Verdict

So, what’s the final verdict from Reddit on the Total Recall showdown? Generally, the 1990 original tends to be the favorite among Reddit users. Its over-the-top violence, memorable one-liners, practical effects, and darkly humorous tone have made it a cult classic. The original's willingness to embrace absurdity and its exploration of complex themes with a sense of irony have resonated with viewers for decades. While the 2012 remake has its merits, such as its sleek visuals and more serious tone, it often falls short in comparison. Many Redditors feel that the remake lacks the originality and charm of the original, and that its reliance on CGI and its more straightforward plot make it less memorable. However, some users appreciate the remake's attempt to create a more realistic and politically charged sci-fi thriller. They argue that it offers a fresh take on the story and that it should be judged on its own merits. Ultimately, the Total Recall debate on Reddit reflects the diverse opinions and preferences within the sci-fi community. While the original holds a special place in many hearts, the remake has its defenders who appreciate its modern visuals and more serious approach. No matter which version you prefer, both films offer an interesting exploration of Philip K. Dick's themes of identity, memory, and reality. So, whether you're a die-hard fan of the original or a defender of the remake, there's plenty to discuss and debate in the world of Total Recall! What are your thoughts? Jump into the Reddit threads and let your voice be heard!