No, Proud Mary is not a direct remake of Gloria, but it is loosely based on the 1980 film Gloria.
Understanding the Connection
While not a shot-for-shot remake, the 2018 film Proud Mary draws significant inspiration from the core premise of John Cassavetes' 1980 crime drama Gloria. Both films center on a tough, independent woman who unexpectedly finds herself protecting a young boy from dangerous criminal elements. The term "loosely based" implies that Proud Mary takes the fundamental concept and themes of Gloria but develops its own distinct plot, character arcs, and stylistic approach, rather than faithfully reproducing the original narrative.
Key Similarities and Differences
Understanding the distinction between a direct remake and a film "loosely based" on another can be crucial for film enthusiasts.
| Aspect | Gloria (1980) | Proud Mary (2018) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Premise | Ex-gangster's girlfriend protects a boy whose family was murdered by the mob. | A hitwoman protects a young boy after a job goes wrong. |
| Protagonist's Role | Tough, unwilling caretaker suddenly thrust into danger. | Seasoned professional hitwoman whose maternal instincts awaken. |
| Genre Focus | Gritty crime drama, character study, thriller. | Action thriller with stylized violence. |
| Originality | An original screenplay by John Cassavetes. | Inspired by and loosely based on the 1980 Gloria. |
| Pacing & Tone | More realistic, deliberate pacing, character-driven tension. | Faster-paced, action-packed, often stylized with a cool, neo-noir aesthetic. |
| Law Enforcement Role | Police often present, though ineffective or part of the background. | Notably, for all the shootings and killings, no police are ever visible in the movie. |
Notable Production Details
Proud Mary also features interesting casting choices that connect to other well-known films. The movie reunites actors Danny Glover and Margaret Avery, who previously starred together in the critically acclaimed 1985 film, The Color Purple. This reunion adds a subtle layer of cinematic history for viewers familiar with their past work.
The film establishes a distinct world where the criminal underworld operates without visible interference from law enforcement, a deliberate narrative choice that shapes the plot's progression and the characters' self-reliance.
What Defines a Remake?
A film remake typically involves retelling a story with significant fidelity to the original's plot, characters, and often key scenes, though it might update the setting, cast, or stylistic elements. In contrast, being "loosely based" on a film means drawing inspiration from its central premise, themes, or characters, but then developing an entirely new story with substantial deviations from the original's narrative structure or specific events. Proud Mary falls into the latter category, using Gloria's foundational idea as a springboard for a new action-thriller.
For more information on these films, you can visit their respective pages:
