The Faculty, a 1990s sci-fi horror classic, is set to receive a remake, with its original director, Robert Rodriguez, on board to produce. The 1998 film, penned by Scream writer Kevin Williamson, follows a group of high school students as they discover their teachers are being controlled by parasitic aliens.
The remake is being developed with a screenplay by Drew Hancock, whose debut movie Companion has just hit theaters, and Rodriguez’s production company BoulderLight will work alongside Miramax to produce the film. The original film became a box office success, grossing over $63 million and developing a cult following.
As the original director, Rodriguez’ involvement in a producing capacity could be a great asset to the project. The film’s director, who directed the original as well as a number of successful films, understood the process that made The Faculty a success first time around.
The original’s success was partially due to the stylistic blend, talented cast, high school setting, and success of teen-oriented films at the time, such as Scream. Fans of Rodriguez’s work may have concerns about his involvement in this remake, given his recent track record, including directing the Spy Kids: Armageddon installment.
However, the involvement of Miramax as a production company could be a positive, particularly given the leadership change aimed at revitalizing its back catalog of films.
While the chances of success are uncertain, Rodriguez’ involvement alongside Miramax does offer some level of reassurance. However, the film seems rooted in the 90s, and modern audiences may be skeptical about an updated version capturing the same lightning in a bottle.
