I've been saying that for years. If ya have to do a remake, make it from a badly done flick, with a kernel of great concept, throw in some contemporary, if need be and 'create' something bigger than it was.
The reasons I heard they do remakes of iconic films is strictly kids today won't see something with age. And I guess they are leaving it to the generation that recalls the original when it was memorable, to get out and see the remake? For nostalgia?
I didn't quite understand the point about The Thing. John Carpenters version was the quintessential remake from a terrible 50's flick. The recent remake of Carpenters perfect film, was a lost cause from the moment it was conceived.
Good article.