Opening today: the remake of the classic Dudley Moore comedy, “Arthur,” starring Russell Brand. From the early reviews you might conclude that certain classics are better left untouched. But the recent success of “True Grit” shows that, in the right hands, even a legendary film can be improved in remake. In my opinion, a great film or other work of art should only be remade if the new version can add a new dimension, or make the story more relevant for a different generation.
This got me thinking about remakes in general, and I wanted to proffer some elements of the PR trade that might just be due for an update, or a total remake.
The Movie Publicist – Most PR pros agree that our public image could use a makeover, and nowhere is the stereotype more grating than in entertainment. Happily, the Sidney Falco cliche has been updated by PR people like Kelly Bush of ID, who was recently profiled in the New York Times as pushing the publicist role beyond that of media gatekeeper. And she’s not a schemer or a screamer. How refreshing!
The Press Release – Though the news release’s reinvention was heralded a few years ago with the advent of the social media release, that remake didn’t really stick. And we’re still complaining about empty jargon, poor writing, and unnecessary releases. The distribution side has fared better as technology has taken over press release delivery.
The Agency Search – If not a total remake, this is due for a streamline at least. If a client has done his/her due diligence, can’t we just cut out capabilities presentations? If you have read enough about us, assume we are all capable and let us strut our creative stuff!
Surely there are parts of our business you would like to “remake,” or those things, like “Arthur,” that are great just the way they are. Let us know!