Hey movie buffs! Ever wondered which Total Recall reigns supreme? The original 1990 Schwarzenegger classic or the 2012 remake starring Colin Farrell? Well, you're not alone! This is a question that's been debated for years, and Reddit, the home of passionate opinions, has plenty to say about it. Let's dive into the Total Recall universe, exploring the differences, the strengths, and, of course, the weaknesses of each film, with a little help from the Reddit community.

The Original Total Recall (1990): A Sci-Fi Action Masterpiece

The 1990 Total Recall, directed by Paul Verhoeven, is a mind-bending, action-packed thrill ride that has become a cult classic. This movie is a product of its time. We’re talking practical effects, Schwarzenegger's iconic one-liners, and a healthy dose of 80s cheese. The film's core concept, adapted from Philip K. Dick's short story "We Can Remember It for You Wholesale," centers on Douglas Quaid (Arnold Schwarzenegger), a construction worker who has recurring dreams about Mars. He visits Rekall, a company that implants false memories, hoping to experience a vacation on Mars. However, the procedure goes awry, and Quaid finds himself thrust into a reality-bending conspiracy where he's unsure whether he's a secret agent or just a guy with a faulty memory. One of the things that the original Total Recall is known for is the use of practical effects. This was before the widespread use of CGI, so the filmmakers relied on detailed sets, animatronics, and clever camera tricks to create the Martian landscapes and the various creatures. This gives the film a tangible, gritty feel that's hard to replicate with modern CGI. The film's violence is also noteworthy. Verhoeven is known for his over-the-top, often gory action sequences, and Total Recall is no exception. There are explosions, gunfights, and plenty of memorable moments of violence. Of course, the movie isn't just about action. It also explores themes of identity, reality, and the nature of memory. Quaid's journey is a psychological one, as he struggles to figure out who he really is and what is real. This ambiguity is one of the things that makes the film so compelling, and it's something that has kept audiences talking about it for decades. The casting is also a big part of the film's success. Schwarzenegger is perfectly cast as Quaid, bringing his signature blend of physicality and charisma to the role. The supporting cast, including Sharon Stone as Quaid's wife, and Michael Ironside as the villain, is also excellent. They add depth and complexity to the film and help to create a rich and immersive world. This movie is a classic for a reason. It's a thrilling, thought-provoking, and visually stunning film that has stood the test of time. It's a must-see for any sci-fi fan or anyone who appreciates a good action movie.

Key Strengths of the 1990 Version

• Practical Effects: The tangible, gritty look creates a more immersive experience.
• Arnold's Iconic Performance: His charisma and one-liners are legendary.
• Verhoeven's Direction: His unique style adds a layer of depth and intrigue.
• Cult Classic Status: The film's memorable moments and quotable lines have cemented its place in film history.
• Originality: A groundbreaking film for its time, with a unique premise and execution.

Total Recall (2012): A Modern Take with a Different Approach

Fast forward to 2012, and we get a remake directed by Len Wiseman. This version takes the core concept of the original but updates it with modern CGI, a more streamlined narrative, and a different cast, including Colin Farrell as Quaid. The 2012 version attempts to modernize the story for a new generation. The movie moves away from the Martian setting and focuses on a more dystopian Earth, where the wealthy live on one side of the planet, and the working class lives on the other. Quaid is still a worker who gets caught up in a conspiracy, but the details are different. The action sequences in the 2012 version are more visually impressive, thanks to the advancements in CGI technology. There are elaborate chases, impressive gunfights, and stunning visual effects. However, some fans feel that the reliance on CGI takes away from the gritty, tangible feel of the original. The casting of Colin Farrell is another key difference. While Farrell is a talented actor, some fans feel that he lacks the larger-than-life charisma that Schwarzenegger brought to the role. The supporting cast includes Kate Beckinsale and Jessica Biel, who are both solid in their roles. The 2012 version is a decent action movie, but it falls short of the original in several ways. The story is less compelling, the characters are less memorable, and the overall experience is less immersive. This version is a visually impressive film, but it lacks the depth and originality of the original. It attempts to modernize the story for a new generation but ultimately fails to capture the magic of the original.

Key Differences in the 2012 Version

• CGI-Heavy Action: Relies heavily on CGI, which may feel less impactful than practical effects.
• Different Setting: Focuses on a dystopian Earth rather than Mars.
• Colin Farrell's Portrayal: A different take on Quaid, with a different feel from Schwarzenegger.
• Streamlined Narrative: A more direct plot that lacks the original's ambiguity.
• Modern Visuals: Updated visuals, although they sometimes feel less unique.

Reddit's Verdict: What Does the Internet Say?

So, what does Reddit think? The general consensus leans towards the original. Many Redditors appreciate the practical effects, the over-the-top violence, and Schwarzenegger's iconic performance. They also value the ambiguity and the mind-bending nature of the story, which keeps you guessing until the end. However, some Redditors appreciate the 2012 version's updated visuals and fast-paced action. They find it more accessible and entertaining, although they often acknowledge that it doesn't have the same depth or impact as the original. Many discussions on Reddit focus on the comparison of effects. Fans of the original often praise the practical effects, arguing that they give the film a more tangible and immersive feel. They find the CGI in the remake to be less impressive and feel that it takes away from the film's realism. The 2012 version is also often criticized for its lack of originality. Many Redditors feel that the remake is too similar to other action movies and that it doesn't offer anything new. They miss the unique and mind-bending qualities of the original, which sets it apart from other films in the genre. However, some fans of the remake appreciate the updated visuals and fast-paced action. They find it to be a more entertaining film and enjoy the updated special effects. But the overall consensus on Reddit is clear: the original Total Recall is generally preferred.

Top Reddit Comments & Opinions