15 Best U.S. Adaptations of Foreign Shows and Movies
Taking a beloved foreign show or movie and remaking it for American audiences is a tricky task, but when it works, it can feel like a fresh story that resonates widely. The best adaptations keep the heart of the original while tweaking the tone, setting, or style to fit a new cultural context.
From gritty dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, these 15 U.S. adaptations of international shows and films shine by balancing respect for their roots with bold changes. Here’s my list of the top ones that nailed the remake.
15. The Masked Singer (2019-2025)
‘The Masked Singer’ (2019-2025) is a wild singing competition where celebrities perform in outrageous costumes, adapted from South Korea’s ‘The King of Mask Singer.’ The U.S. version, hosted by Nick Cannon, leans into glitzy production and big-name stars.
Its charm lies in the guessing game, with judges like Ken Jeong adding humor. The elaborate masks and high-energy vibe make it a fun, family-friendly hit.
14. Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986)
‘Down and Out in Beverly Hills’ (1986) remakes the 1932 French film ‘Boudu Saved From Drowning.’ Nick Nolte stars as a homeless man who shakes up a wealthy family, played by Richard Dreyfuss and Bette Midler.
The U.S. version amps up the comedy with sharp wit and a satirical look at L.A.’s elite. It’s a hilarious take that adds heart to the original’s social commentary.
13. Shameless (2011-2021)
‘Shameless’ (2011-2021) comes from the U.K. series of the same name (2004-2013). William H. Macy leads as the chaotic Frank Gallagher, heading a dysfunctional Chicago family.
The U.S. show shifts the setting to fit American struggles, blending raw humor and drama. Its bold take on poverty and family dynamics made it a long-running hit.
12. The Good Doctor (2017-2024)
‘The Good Doctor’ (2017-2024) is based on a South Korean drama of the same name (2013). Freddie Highmore plays Shaun Murphy, a surgeon with autism facing workplace challenges.
The U.S. version expands the emotional depth and medical cases, making Shaun’s journey relatable. Its strong cast and heartfelt stories kept it running for seven seasons.
11. Three Men and a Baby (1987)
‘Three Men and a Baby’ (1987), directed by Leonard Nimoy, remakes the French film ‘Trois Hommes et un Couffin’ (1985). Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson play bachelors caring for an unexpected baby.
The U.S. version leans into 80s comedy, with charm and lighthearted chaos. It became a box-office smash, proving the story’s universal appeal.
10. Homeland (2011-2020)
‘Homeland’ (2011-2020) adapts the Israeli series ‘Hatufim’ (2010-2012). Claire Danes stars as a CIA agent tracking a potential terrorist, played by Damian Lewis.
The U.S. show ramps up the political intrigue and psychological tension, fitting American audiences. Its gripping plot and strong performances earned critical acclaim.
9. True Lies (1994)
‘True Lies’ (1994), directed by James Cameron, reworks the French film ‘La Totale!’ (1991). Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a secret agent hiding his job from his wife, Jamie Lee Curtis.
The U.S. version adds blockbuster action and humor, with iconic scenes like the tango dance. Its mix of thrills and laughs made it a 90s classic.
8. The Parent Trap (1998)
‘The Parent Trap’ (1998) remakes the 1961 U.S. film, itself based on the 1950 German film ‘Das Doppelte Lottchen.’ Lindsay Lohan plays twin sisters plotting to reunite their parents.
The U.S. version’s charm comes from Lohan’s dual performance and family-friendly humor. It’s a nostalgic favorite that captures the original’s heart.
7. Ugly Betty (2006-2010)
‘Ugly Betty’ (2006-2010) adapts the Colombian telenovela ‘Yo soy Betty, la fea’ (1999-2001). America Ferrera stars as Betty Suarez, navigating the fashion world with grit.
The U.S. show mixes comedy and drama, making Betty a relatable icon. Its focus on identity and ambition resonated widely, spawning global remakes.
6. The Office (2005-2013)
‘The Office’ (2005-2013) reimagines the U.K. series (2001-2003) created by Ricky Gervais. Steve Carell leads as Michael Scott, the awkward boss of Dunder Mifflin.
The U.S. version finds its own humor, with quirky characters and heartfelt moments. It became a cultural juggernaut, outlasting its British counterpart.
5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ (2011), directed by David Fincher, adapts the 2009 Swedish film and Stieg Larsson’s novel. Rooney Mara shines as hacker Lisbeth Salander.
Fincher’s moody style and intense pacing elevate the thriller. Mara’s fierce performance makes this remake a gripping standout.
4. The Birdcage (1996)
‘The Birdcage’ (1996) remakes the French film ‘La Cage aux Folles’ (1978). Robin Williams and Nathan Lane play a gay couple navigating a conservative family visit.
The U.S. version blends sharp comedy with social commentary, carried by stellar performances. It’s a joyful, heartfelt take that resonates today.
3. The Magnificent Seven (1960)
‘The Magnificent Seven’ (1960) reworks Akira Kurosawa’s ‘Seven Samurai’ (1954). Yul Brynner and Steve McQueen lead a group of gunslingers protecting a village.
The Western setting and iconic cast make it a classic. Elmer Bernstein’s score and epic action give it a distinct American flair.
2. The Ring (2002)
‘The Ring’ (2002), directed by Gore Verbinski, adapts the Japanese horror film ‘Ringu’ (1998). Naomi Watts stars as a journalist investigating a cursed videotape.
The U.S. version keeps the eerie vibe while adding a Seattle setting and chilling visuals. Its creepy atmosphere made it a horror milestone.
1. The Departed (2006)
‘The Departed’ (2006), directed by Martin Scorsese, remakes the Hong Kong thriller ‘Infernal Affairs’ (2002). Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon play a cop and a mole in a tense crime drama.
Scorsese’s fast-paced direction and all-star cast, including Jack Nicholson, make it a masterpiece. It won Best Picture, proving remakes can outshine originals.
Which U.S. remake of a foreign show or movie is your favorite, or did I miss a great one? Share your thoughts in the comments!