Original ‘The Crow’ Director Not Enthused About Remake, Says 1994 Film Is Brandon Lee’s Legacy And “That’s How It Should Remain”

Alex Proyas, who directed the original version of The Crow in 1994 is not a fan of the idea remaking the film, the new version of which will be released on June 7.

Proyas’ reservations, he says, stem not from some sense of proprietorship, but from fidelity to the original film’s star, Brandon Lee, who died when a gun malfunctioned during production.

“I really don’t get any joy from seeing negativity about any fellow filmmakers work,” wrote Proyas in a post online. “And I’m certain the cast and crew really had all good intentions, as we all do on any film. So it pains me to say any more on this topic, but I think the fan’s response speaks volumes. [‘The Crow’] is not just a movie. Brandon Lee died making it, and it was finished as a testament to his lost brilliance and tragic loss. It is his legacy. That’s how it should remain.”

Lionsgate’s remake of The Crow stars Bill Skarsgård in the titular role in the new take on James O’Barr’s original graphic novel. FKA Twigs plays his fiancée.

Proyas’ post includes a link to an article from Comic Book Resources about the unusual number of dislikes garnered by the first trailer for the new film.

When the first image from the film was released, Proyas posted a less generous assessment, referring to the questionable hairline of Skarsgård’s lead character and writing, “Eric Draven’s having a bad hair day. Next reboot thanks.”

The upcoming film’s cast also includes Danny Huston, Isabella Wei, Laura Birn, Sami Bouajila and Jordan Bolger.

Rupert Sanders directs from a script by Zach Baylin and William Schneider. Edward R. Pressman, Samuel Hadida, Victor Hadida, John Jencks, Molly Hassell serve as producers.

Watch the trailer for the remake below.