Experience a Captivating Twist: This Sci-Fi Remake Transcends the Source Material

Horror remakes often have a dismal track record, despite the potential for improvement with a larger budget and a fresh perspective. Unfortunately, most examples manage to ruin the original film's good ideas and permanently tarnish its legacy. Even influential cult classics like Cube can be transformed into dull imitations with poorly thought-out remakes.

In the realm of science fiction, one of the most intriguing aspects is its ability to recombine old ideas into something new. Many stories share similar concepts, but a different societal response, unforeseen consequences, or innovative twists can completely revolutionize the execution. However, there are also instances where additional elements can actually worsen the story.

What Is Cube About?

How Does Cube Differ From the Original?

In a similar vein to the iconic 1997 film, Koji Tokuo's Cube unravels the perplexing tale of several individuals who awaken in a peculiar enclosed space. With no discernible explanation, Goto, an ingenious engineer, Ochi, an unemployed individual, and Uno, a 13-year-old boy, find themselves trapped within the enigmatic cube. As they acquaint themselves with one another and endeavor to comprehend their surroundings, the entry of two additional figures, Kai, a mysterious woman, and Ide, a seasoned man, adds another layer of intrigue.

Ide elucidates that a seemingly infinite number of rooms stretch out in every conceivable direction. However, many of these rooms harbor treacherous traps, capable of swiftly dispatching anyone unfortunate enough to enter. During their perilous journey, they cross paths with Ando, an elderly man. Ide's survival tactic involves tossing a boot into each room and only proceeding into the ones devoid of combustion. As the strangers venture deeper into the intricacies of the cube, they gradually unravel its unique scientific elements and strive to find a means of escape from their bewildering prison.

Vincenzo Natali's Cube, released in 1997, has become a beloved cult classic within the realm of sci-fi horror. With its unique appeal to a specific niche audience, the film has introduced new subgenres to many viewers. Despite being created on a limited budget, it marked the impressive feature debut of Natali, who skillfully drew inspiration from filmmakers Cronenberg and Gilliam without directly borrowing from them. What sets Natali apart is his fascination with geometry and social hierarchy, aspects that greatly influenced Cube and subsequently played a significant role in the evolution of torture fiction. The true strength of the film lies in its excellently crafted characters, namely Quentin, Holloway, Worth, Leaven, Rennes, and Kazan. These intricately designed individuals mirror the complexity of the titular structure, making them some of the most memorable characters in the history of horror cinema. Cube masterfully juxtaposes the harsh brutality of its environments with the rich, multifaceted humanity of its victims. Regrettably, the 2021 remake attempts to incorporate elements from both the first and second halves of the original film but ultimately fails to grasp their intended applications.

How Does Cube End?

The most noticeable deviation from the original film's presentation in Cube (2021) is its frequent departure from the confines of the cube. In stark contrast, Cube (1997) maintains an unwavering focus on the superstructure throughout its entirety, only releasing the audience from its grip when the credits roll. Additionally, the original film features an ensemble cast, with all six prisoners sharing the protagonist's responsibilities. However, in the 2021 remake, Goto, a character inspired by David Worth, takes center stage while the other characters receive minimal development. Instead of preserving the claustrophobic ambiance of the original, Cube (2021) continuously delves into Goto's past through repetitive flashbacks, fixating on a single scene that loses its impact with each repetition. This misalignment of focus restricts the narrative to one character's perspective, tethering all events to an inconsequential moment. Furthermore, Cube (2021) reintroduces numerous elements that were astutely eliminated by Natali, resulting in a film that falls short compared to other works inspired by Cube.

Goto's tragic past unfolds when he fails to dissuade his younger brother from taking his own life. In a heart-wrenching scene, viewers witness Goto desperately reaching out to his brother Hiruto before the tormented young man plunges off a building. Ide valiantly sacrifices himself to save the other captives. Ando falls victim to Ochi's murderous intentions. Convinced that existence beyond the cube is unbearable, Ochi resolves to eliminate every fellow inmate and end his own life. Ochi viciously attacks Goto, nearly choking him to death. In a moment of sheer bravery, Uno distracts Ochi and frees Goto from the clutches of death. With Ochi no more, only Goto, Uno, and Kai remain among the living. Goto selflessly sacrifices himself, finding redemption for his inability to save his brother. Kai leads Uno to the cube's exit, permitting him to depart, although his destiny remains uncertain. The film unveils that Kai is an android programmed to guide and monitor prisoners. Uno appears to have regained his freedom, Goto is still alive, and Kai proceeds to oversee the next group, commencing the cycle anew.

Cube (2021) retains elements from the original film, yet lacks the same level of boldness, cleverness, and innovation. While the concept of revisiting Cube with a larger budget and modern camera technology has potential, the Japanese remake falls short in grasping the essence of what made the original film exceptional. The 1997 cult classic remains enduring, while its 2002 sequel and 2004 prequel are commendable contributions to the franchise. For fans seeking the true Cube experience, returning to the original spine-chilling structure is the safest choice.