9 Remakes That Were More Influential Than The Original
2. The Bourne Identity
Production on The Bourne Identity was such a nightmare it’s doubtful the studio thought it would break even, let alone become a huge franchise. The film pioneered the shaky came style of action – for better or worse – and gave Matt Damon his most iconic role.
What many don't realise is that the movie was preceded by a TV adaptation in 1988, where Richard Chamberlain played the forgetful spy. It’s a solid old-fashioned thriller, but the only reason people remember it today is because of the new movies, and this miniseries lacks the propulsive energy of its younger brother.
Damon’s Bourne Identity went on to influence pretty much every spy movie or show made after it. Shows like 24 adopted the jittery handheld camerawork and action, while Daniel Craig’s reboot of Bond owes a huge debt to the original. The choppy, quick cut action can also be seen in everything from The Dark Knight trilogy to the Captain America films.