Each decade’s vision of the future is informed heavily by what is currently happening. The Jetsons didn’t get it predict everything correctly in the 60’s and Verhoeven didn’t get it all right in the 80’s. This is a 2013 take on the future. We can give blind people sight, and re-attach hands, so it stands to reason that a new RoboCop would be more nimble, athletic and far less robotic in his movements. As they clearly aren’t going for total body prosthesis this time, the right hand could be kept to provide a human touch, as social interaction and image is paramount. Drones are now used in conflicts around the world, and the new film appears to take this onto a logical conclusion of using them for urban pacification.
All the changes I’ve seen so far make sense when you look at it in context. I’m hopeful that the appearance of Michael Keaton, Gary Oldman and Samuel L. Jackson means the script has some merit. Keaton in particular is interesting, as he is seldom seen, leading me to hope that he wouldn’t be involved in it just to pay the bills.
Before you pick up your pitchforks and scream for blood, think it through. Anyone can look at a spy pic from a set, and make a hasty decision. Do yourself a favour and be better than that.
No one is taking the original away from you. If the new take turns out to be a dud, we all turn our backs and go back to happily watching Weller ‘thump-thump’ his way around. No harm done.
But if it’s good, it can stand beside the old incarnation and be something to enjoyed. It doesn’t have to replace it, and we’ll all be fortunate enough to have two takes on the story. Not everything needs remaking, but strong characters and ideas can survive changes and updates. They can even thrive. I believe RoboCop is one such idea.
It may turn out terrible. But for now, why not choose to be hopeful and give the new team a chance? I’m sure they’d be thankful for your co-operation.
What are your thoughts on the RoboCop trailer? Let us know in the comments below…
Chris Cooper
Originally published September 6, 2013. Updated December 13, 2019.
