There’s nothing new under the sun—and in Hollywood, this sometimes rings truer than anywhere else. Some films feel like they’re looking at themselves in a mirror, with near-identical plots and characters that seem all too familiar. Because these 15 movie pairs are so similar, you’ll think you’re watching a remake.
The Prince of Egypt (1998) vs. Thor (2011)
You wouldn’t expect an animated biblical epic and a Marvel superhero movie to have much in common, but The Prince of Egypt and Thor share striking narrative parallels. Both films focus on two brothers—one destined for greatness, the other in conflict with that destiny. The dynamic of brotherhood, destiny, and rebellion ties these two movies together.
No Strings Attached (2011) vs. Friends With Benefits (2011)
Released just months apart in 2011, No Strings Attached and Friends With Benefits both revolve around the concept of two friends engaging in a casual, no-strings-attached physical relationship, only to inevitably catch feelings. The plotlines mirror each other so closely that you might have trouble remembering which one you watched first.
Deep Impact (1998) vs. Armageddon (1998)
Apocalyptic asteroid movies dominated 1998, with Deep Impact and Armageddon telling the tale of a giant space rock hurtling toward Earth. The heroes in each film race to prevent a global disaster. However, Deep Impact leans into the emotional impact (pun intended), whereas Armageddon is more of an over-the-top action spectacle.
Girls Trip (2017) vs. Rough Night (2017)
Two comedies about female friendships were released in 2017, each presenting a distinct approach to the wild girls’ night out theme. Girls Trip emphasizes feel-good moments and uplifting humor, in contrast to Rough Night, which leans into dark humor and farcical situations, highlighting the varied dynamics of female camaraderie.
The Hidden Fortress (1958) vs. Star Wars (1977)
Both films revolve around a story told through the perspective of lower-class characters—peasants in The Hidden Fortress and droids in Star Wars. In each film, these characters become entangled in a larger conflict involving royalty: a princess in distress and her companions trying to escape enemy forces.
Turner & Hooch (1989) vs. K-9 (1989)
These two films are all about law enforcement teaming up with man’s best friend—only the dogs in question are big and full of personality. In Turner & Hooch, Tom Hanks partners with a drooling mastiff, while in K-9, Jim Belushi’s cop gets a German shepherd. Both films combine crime fighting and the hilarious antics of unruly dogs.
The Truman Show (1998) vs. EdTV (1999)
The Truman Show explores a man unaware that his entire life is staged for TV, blending drama and deep existential questions. On the flip side, EdTV brings a lighter touch, where the lead willingly broadcasts his life, poking fun at the absurdity of reality TV. Both films tap into society’s obsession with surveillance.
Forrest Gump (1994) vs. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
These are both heartwarming, epic tales about unconventional protagonists living extraordinary lives. Themes of love, loss, and destiny permeate both films, with relationships driving the emotional core of the stories. Whether it’s Forrest and Jenny or Benjamin and Daisy, both men fall for women who, despite obstacles, deeply influence the course of their lives.
Gremlins (1984) vs. Transformers (2007)
Gremlins and Transformers may seem like an odd comparison, but they share a key similarity: both feature seemingly innocent, small creatures (or objects) that quickly transform into something dangerous. These films play with the idea of appearances being deceiving and combine humor with action-packed destruction.
The Fugitive (1993) vs. Minority Report (2002)
Both The Fugitive and Minority Report center on protagonists who are on the run after being falsely accused of crimes they didn’t commit. The chase element drives both films and the theme of proving one’s innocence in the face of overwhelming odds, blending crime thriller and sci-fi genres.
Chasing Liberty (2004) vs. First Daughter (2004)
Both films revolve around the president’s daughter rebelling against her sheltered life. Chasing Liberty takes Mandy Moore on a wild European escape, blending freedom with romance. Meanwhile, First Daughter keeps Katie Holmes closer to home, focusing more on self-discovery within the constraints of her role as America’s first daughter.
Madagascar (2005) vs. The Wild (2007)
Both Madagascar and The Wild feature animals escaping from a zoo and embarking on an adventure. Madagascar relies on humor as its quirky animal cast adjusts to their new freedom. The Wild, however, takes a more heartfelt approach, centering on a father’s mission to reunite with his lost son amidst danger.
The Cave (2005) vs. The Descent (2006)
The common thing in The Cave and The Descent is the game Claustrophobia.These films involve explorers venturing into dark, dangerous underground worlds and encountering terrifying creatures. The Descent is more focused on psychological horror, and The Cave offers a more action-packed thriller. Either way, both films deliver chills deep beneath the surface.
Point Break (1991) vs. The Fast and the Furious (2001)
At their core, both Point Break and The Fast and the Furious follow the same structure: an undercover cop joins a group of adrenaline-fueled thrill-seekers, forms a bond with the leader, and eventually faces a moral dilemma. The high-octane action, combined with themes of loyalty, makes these two films spiritual siblings despite their different settings.
Iron Man (2008) vs. Doctor Strange (2016)
Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Studios/TVDBstudios
At first glance, these movies appear to be vastly different superhero films, but they follow nearly identical character arcs. Both Stark and Strange are highly arrogant, successful men at the top of their fields. A life-changing accident causes each man to lose what defines him. Their transformations from selfish to selfless individuals anchor both films.
