DVD Corner

10 Films In Need Of A Reboot

Last week I posted a list of 10 films in need of a sequel. This week I thought I’d dedicate a list to films (and or franchises) in need of a reboot. Normally I’d advocate for original films, but there are many IPs (including several near and dear to my heart) that haven’t been given their due. On with the list!

1. The Shadow- Aside from some odd moments, 1994’s “The Shadow” is an underrated and respectable big screen take on the iconic character. For whatever reason, the character has yet to receive a new film since then. It’s a shame because now is the perfect time to introduce the character to a whole new generation. 

2. The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy- Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy” is one of my personal favorite novels. The 2005 film adaptation had its moments, but fell short. I’d love to see someone take another crack at it and possibly adapt the sequel novels as well. It could even work as a TV series.

3. Flash Gordon- There’s a reason why George Lucas was initially planning to make a film version of this before he moved on to “Star Wars.” The sci-fi IP is ripe with potential. Sure, we got the campy cult classic from 1980, but I’d love to see a more serious and comic accurate version.

4. The Phantom- 1996’s “The Phantom” remains a fun adventure flick. Sure, it tries to be a bit too much like Indiana Jones, but it still captured the comic strips fairly well. With that said, I’d love to see a new take on the character. Perhaps it could be darker, perhaps it could be more of a pirate adventure story, or perhaps it could focus on another Phantom in another era. The possibilities are endless with this franchise.

5. Creature From The Black Lagoon- We’ve seen tons of “Dracula” and “Frankenstein” films over the years, but the beloved Creature hasn’t had a film since 1956’s “The Creature Walks Among Us.” It’s time to see the Gill-man back on screen.

6. Stargate- There have been several Stargate TV series, but only one theatrical film. Given that the franchise has been dormant for years now, it seems like the perfect time to bring it back to the big screen. 

7. Buck Rogers- Much like “Flash Gordon,” “Buck Rogers” is another iconic multi-media character that is overdue for a reboot. These heroic sci-fi creations of yesteryear should not fade into obscurity. They deserve to continue on and on for generations to come. They are part of our mythology.

8. The Black Hole- I’m a fan of the 1979 Disney live-action original, but it’s a little surprising that we never got a sequel, remake or reboot. It’s another sci-fi property that has a lot of storytelling potential.

9. Mars Attacks!- Tim Burton’s more comedic spin on “Mars Attacks!” didn’t work. I’d love to see a darker version that is more akin to the original 1962 Topps trading card story and artwork.

10. Power Rangers- Yes, there have been many TV series, but there’s only been 3 films since the show’s inceptions. 2 of them were based on series while 2017’s “Power Rangers” was an attempt to create a new film franchise. The fanbase did not gravitate towards the 2017 film (and for good reason). Still, there is a lot of potential to make an epic Power Rangers movie that will excite fans (and create new ones).

August 15, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | List | 10 Films In Need Of A Reboot, Buck Rogers, Creature From The Black Lagoon, Flash Gordon, Mars Attacks!, Power Rangers, Stargate, The Black Hole, The Hitchhiker's Guide To the Galaxy, The Phantom, The Shadow