Introduction to Remake and Remix

The terms remake and remix are often used in the creative industries, including film, video games, music, and art. Both processes can breathe new life into existing works, but they do so in fundamentally different ways. In this article, we will explore the definitions, examples, and purposes of remakes and remixes, as well as discuss the nuances of remixing and remastering.

What is a Remake?

Remake refers to a new version of an existing work that aims to recreate the original often with updated elements such as technology, cultural context, or artistic vision. The goal is to bring a fresh perspective to the original while retaining its core story or concept.

Examples of Remakes

Film: A new version of a classic movie, such as the 2017 .der Donnerer (The Expendables 3). Video Games: A modern adaptation of an older game, such as a modern remake of Mario.

What is a Remix?

Remix involves altering an existing piece of music or other media by adding, removing, or changing elements to create a new interpretation or version. The purpose is often to reinterpret or enhance the original work, making it more suitable for a different audience or context, such as making a song more suitable for clubs.

Examples of Remixes

Music: A new version of a song that might include different beats, additional vocals, or various instrumentation, such as a dance remix of a pop song. Art: Altering an artwork or combining elements from multiple pieces to create something new.

Summary of Remake vs Remix

Remake: A new version of an existing work focusing on fidelity to the original story or concept. Retains the core elements of the original work May or may not keep the original characteristics Concentrates on updating or modernizing the original work

Remix: A reinterpretation of a work often involving significant changes to its components, creating a new experience. May alter or recontextualize the original work Focuses on reimagining and redeploying the original components in a new way

Understanding Remixing and Remastering

In the context of music production, remixing involves going back to the original multitrack recordings and making adjustments to enhance the overall sound. This process can be both rewarding and challenging, often leading to unintended results.

Remixing Process

When you remix, you go back to the original multitrack recordings and fiddle around with them to see if you can make it sound better than it did when you first mixed it. This can be done by the original artist, producer, or someone else who may not fully understand the intended sound. Sometimes, this process results in adjustments that the original creator wanted, while other times, it may lead to unintended changes, such as making previously quiet tracks louder and vice versa.

Remastering Process

Remastering involves working with the original mix and applying mastering tools and techniques to give the work a new veneer. This process does not fundamentally change the original mix; instead, it refines and enhances it. Remastering is often performed by skilled professionals who know what the music should sound like, thereby ensuring a consistent and high-quality audio experience.

Some industry professionals argue that remastering is a form of art, and that the process is often misunderstood. For example, one prominent remixer said, "Why would you want anyone else to master your song? You know what you want it to sound like." This statement highlights the argument that remastering should be left to those who intimately understand the original work and its intended sound.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances between remaking and remixing is crucial for both creators and consumers. While remakes aim to update and modernize existing works, remixes focus on reimagining and redeploying the original components in a new context. Whether it’s through remastering or remixing, both processes have the potential to breathe new life into existing works, ensuring they remain relevant and engaging for new audiences.