10 American Remakes That Are Better Than Their Foreign Originals

American remakes of foreign films and TV shows often get a bad rap for missing the mark. But sometimes, Hollywood nails it, taking a great concept and giving it a fresh spin that resonates with new audiences.

Whether it’s a sharper script, standout performances, or a cultural tweak that clicks, these remakes prove the U.S. can elevate an original. Below, we dive into ten examples—movies and shows—that arguably surpassed their foreign inspirations, listed from tenth to first.

10. The Ring (2002)

The Ring (2002), based on Japan’s ‘Ringu’ (1998), follows a journalist investigating a cursed videotape that kills viewers in seven days. Director Gore Verbinski amps up the eerie atmosphere with a Pacific Northwest setting and a bigger budget for chilling visuals.

Naomi Watts delivers a gripping performance as Rachel, diving into the mystery with raw intensity. While ‘Ringu’ set the standard for J-horror, the American version’s polished production and iconic imagery—like Samara crawling out of the TV—made it a horror classic.

9. Insomnia (2002)

Christopher Nolan’s ‘Insomnia’ (2002), a remake of the 1997 Norwegian film, tracks a sleep-deprived detective solving a murder in an Alaskan town where the sun never sets. Al Pacino’s haunted performance as the guilt-ridden cop adds depth to the psychological thriller.

The original, starring Stellan Skarsgård, is brooding and stark, but Nolan’s version tightens the pacing and leans into its noir roots. With Robin Williams as a chilling villain, the remake feels more cinematic and emotionally charged.

8. Three Men and a Baby (1987)

‘Three Men and a Baby’ (1987), remade from France’s ‘Trois Hommes et un Couffin’ (1985), stars Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson as bachelors fumbling to care for an unexpected infant. Leonard Nimoy’s direction brings a warm, family-friendly vibe.

The French original is witty and sharp, but the American version dials up the heart and humor, making it a box-office smash. Its sentimental touch and relatable chemistry among the leads give it broader appeal.

7. The Italian Job (2003)

F. Gary Gray’s ‘The Italian Job’ (2003), based on the 1969 British film, follows a team of thieves pulling off a gold heist in Los Angeles. Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, and a slick Mini Cooper chase scene steal the show.

The original, led by Michael Caine, is a stylish caper, but the remake cranks up the action and modern flair. Its fast-paced energy and star-studded cast make it a fun, rewatchable thrill ride.

6. The Birdcage (1996)

‘The Birdcage’ (1996), adapted from France’s ‘La Cage aux Folles’ (1978), centers on a gay couple pretending to be straight to impress their son’s fiancée’s conservative parents. Robin Williams and Nathan Lane shine with heartfelt chemistry.

Directed by Mike Nichols, the remake balances sharp comedy with emotional depth, outpacing the broader humor of the original. Hank Azaria’s hilarious turn as the housekeeper adds a memorable spark.

5. True Lies (1994)

James Cameron’s ‘True Lies’ (1994), based on France’s ‘La Totale!’ (1991), follows a secret agent whose wife gets caught in his spy games. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Curtis bring blockbuster charisma to the action-comedy.

The French film is a solid comedy, but Cameron’s version goes big with explosive set pieces and sharp humor. Curtis’s Golden Globe-winning performance elevates it into a ‘90s classic.

4. Let Me In (2010)

‘Let Me In’ (2010), based on Sweden’s ‘Let the Right One In’ (2008), tells a dark tale of a young boy befriending a mysterious vampire girl. Kodi Smit-McPhee and Chloë Grace Moretz deliver chilling, tender performances.

The Swedish film is a haunting gem, but Matt Reeves’s remake sharpens the emotional stakes and visuals, creating a gripping horror-drama. Its American setting feels fresh yet faithful.

3. The Departed (2006)

Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Departed’ (2006), based on Hong Kong’s ‘Infernal Affairs’ (2002), follows an undercover cop and a mole in a Boston mob. Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson deliver electric performances.

The original is taut and acclaimed, but Scorsese’s gritty Irish-American spin and rapid-fire editing make it a Best Picture winner. Its intense pacing and raw energy push it ahead.

2. Some Like It Hot (1959)

‘Some Like It Hot’ (1959), remade from France’s ‘Fanfare of Love’ (1935), follows two musicians posing as women to escape mobsters. Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon deliver comedy gold under Billy Wilder’s direction.

The original is fun but lacks the remake’s zippy pace and iconic lines, like the legendary closing quip. Its sharp script and timeless charm make it a comedy benchmark.

1. The Office (2005-2013)

‘The Office’ (2005-2013), adapted from the UK’s ‘The Office’ (2001-2003), is a mockumentary about paper company employees. Steve Carell’s Michael Scott and a stellar ensemble create a distinct, heartfelt vibe.

Ricky Gervais’s original is brilliant but lean. The American version expands the world, deepens characters, and runs for nine seasons, becoming a cultural juggernaut with universal appeal.

Which remake do you think tops its original, or did we miss a gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!