Funny Games 1997 vs. Funny Games 2007
What's the Difference?
Funny Games 1997 and Funny Games 2007 are both psychological thriller films directed by Michael Haneke, with the latter being an American remake of the former. Both films follow a similar plot, where a family is terrorized by two young men in their vacation home. However, the 2007 version features a more star-studded cast, including Naomi Watts and Tim Roth, and has a slightly different ending. Overall, both films are equally disturbing and thought-provoking, with Haneke's signature style of challenging the audience's expectations and exploring themes of violence and voyeurism.
Comparison
| Attribute | Funny Games 1997 | Funny Games 2007 |
|---|---|---|
| Director | Michael Haneke | Michael Haneke |
| Release Year | 1997 | 2007 |
| Country | Austria | USA |
| Language | German | English |
| Runtime | 108 minutes | 111 minutes |
Further Detail
Plot
Funny Games, both the 1997 and 2007 versions, follow a similar plot where a family is terrorized by two young men during their vacation. The 1997 version is set in Austria, while the 2007 version takes place in the United States. In both films, the family is subjected to psychological and physical torture by the two intruders, who seem to be playing a sadistic game with their victims.
Character Development
In the 1997 version of Funny Games, the characters are not given much depth or backstory. The focus is more on the suspense and tension created by the home invasion. However, in the 2007 version, the characters are more fleshed out, with the audience getting to know more about their lives and motivations. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the story and makes the audience more invested in the outcome.
Violence
Both versions of Funny Games are known for their graphic violence and disturbing scenes. However, the 2007 version is often criticized for being even more brutal and intense than the original. Director Michael Haneke wanted to make a statement about violence in media and society, and he pushed the boundaries even further in the remake. Some viewers may find the violence in the 2007 version to be gratuitous and excessive.
Tone
The tone of Funny Games is bleak and unsettling in both versions. However, the 1997 version has a more subtle and understated approach to the horror, relying on tension and suspense to create a sense of unease. The 2007 version, on the other hand, is more in-your-face and confrontational, with the characters breaking the fourth wall and directly addressing the audience. This meta approach adds an extra layer of complexity to the film's tone.
Ending
One of the most controversial aspects of Funny Games is its ending, which is intentionally ambiguous and unsatisfying. In the 1997 version, the film ends with one of the intruders breaking the fourth wall and rewinding the film to change the outcome. This meta twist leaves the audience questioning the nature of violence and entertainment. The 2007 version follows a similar ending, but with a few subtle differences that add to the overall impact of the film.
Reception
Both versions of Funny Games have received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. The 1997 version was praised for its innovative approach to the home invasion genre and its thought-provoking themes. However, some viewers found the film to be too slow-paced and pretentious. The 2007 version was met with similar reactions, with some critics praising its boldness and intensity, while others criticized it for being too disturbing and nihilistic.
Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.