You know you’re old when Hollywood starts remaking films released whenyouwere in high school. Premiering on Christmas day in 1998,The Facultywas the meta answer to sci-fi films in the same way 1996’sScreamwas to the slasher movie sub-genre. It was a modest hit upon release, but it has gone on to develop a major cult following with genre fans. This was bound to happen sooner or later, and it looks like that time is now, because a remake is officially in the works.
PerVariety, a remake ofThe Facultyis set at Miramax and the director of the original film, Robert Rodriguez, is on board as a producer. What makes this remake news promising is that Drew Hancock is writing the project. That name may not be immediately recognizable, but he’s an emerging talent who wrote and directed this weekend’sCompanion, a new horror filmthat currently sits at a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes. If any fans are uneasy about a remake of one of their favorites, having new talent like this behind the film should make them all rest a little easier.
Miramax escaped the shadow of co-founder Harvey Weinstein, as it has gone through a leadership change in recent years. Jonathan Glickman is currently the CEO, and he is very interested in using Miramax’s extensive library for remakes or sequels. Last year, the studio made a big move when it announced plans toresurrect theScary Moviefranchise, bringing the Wayans Brothers back as the creative minds behind the new film.Scary Movie 6is set forrelease on June 07, 2025.
‘The Faculty’ Is the Sci-Fi Genre’s Answer to ‘Scream’
Directed by Rodriguez from a screenplay byScreamwriter Kevin Williamson,The Facultyfollows students at Herrington High School who begin to suspect that their teachers on campus are actually aliens. Much like Williamson did withScream,The Facultywas intended to be a self-referential take on the sci-fi horror genre and featured characters that were well aware of the tropes from films such asInvasion of the Body Snatchers. The movie stars a mix of emerging young talent and veterans, including Jordana Brewster, Clea DuVall, Laura Harris, Josh Hartnett, Shawn Hatosy, Famke Janssen, Piper Laurie, Bebe Neuwirth, Robert Patrick, Usher Raymond, Elijah Wood, and Jon Stewart.
Why Didn’t Robert Rodriguez Participate in the 4K Release of His Own Sci-Fi Classic?
‘The Faculty’ finally received a substantial 4K release this week with bonus features but director Robert Rodriguez chose not to be involved.
Upon release,The Facultyreceived mixed reviews from critics, registering a 58% on Rotten Tomatoes, with a consensus that claims it’s a"Rip-off of other sci-fi thrillers.“Despite the reviews,The Facultystill became a modest hit, grossing $63.2 million worldwide on a $15 million budget. More importantly, its popularity has only grown since its initial release, and it has gone on to generate a considerable cult following.
If anyone is listening to this little guy writing for MovieWeb, it would be a huge missed opportunity to not cast some of the original actors as teachers in this one. Call up Hartnett, Brewster, Wood, DuVall, and Hatosy – hell, maybe even Usher – and see if they’re interested. Just a little advice from a huge fan of the original film.
The Faculty
