This could very well be a prequel to a movie about a serial killer.

The original movie was bleak and violent; Sobel's movie is softer in approach. This isn't necessarily a bad thing but you won't get the same emotional experience with this one.

I liked it. And yes, I have not watched the original, but as a movie I think it stands for itself. It is a good thriller that made me wonder what was happening until the last minutes when I got it, so it is not predictable nor absurdly unpredictable.

So people are not liking this because they've watched the original and think it's better I just think they want to brag that they've watched the original It's becoming a trend "oh it's just an unnecessary remake" or "it's not as good as the book" Well, I don't care if it had an original or a book or a true a story. A movie should be judged as a standalone movie It's good, for people who love the creepy thriller genre I'd say go and watch it, don't give a damn about complainers By the way, even the kids did some good acting & the director successfully managed to bring the desired creepy atmosphere.