Both are definitely on my list. Excellent review, De.
Having also watched both movies, I agree with most of your observations. I found it strange that I had a difficult time making the comparisons, however. Isn't that odd, considering the almost identical dialogue?
The remake was to the sensibilities of the Third Millenium and had to be longer to fit the expectations of the movie-going public. I found some of the padding to be just that--interesting additions that did not add to the plot, but that could have gone somewhere, given a less slavish devotion to the original.
The bad guy as artist--what is that all about? Surely, we are not to believe that the exquisitely charismatic scoundrel is actually a sensitive sort? Please. Give me my bad boys straight.
Speaking of which, the remake takes the faithful sidekick and adds a decidely contemporary touch. Gabby Hayes, he ain't. This new insight could have added an interesting psychological twist to an already psychological plot, but it was just there. It seemed to be there just...because.
I think that what I saw as the major flaw in the remake was making Ben "beholdin'" to Dan Evans. This goes against the character of the scoundrel who plays with people for fun. His murderous reaction to Dan's death also takes him outside the character as he had been drawn. There is a great disparity of characterization in the rendition of the role in the remake.
Glenn Ford's Ben Wade is the Bad Guy as Gamester with no deviation. He thinks only of himself and views other people as toys to be manipulated. Even the run to the train is a game for him with a worthy playmate. He's not looking forward to prison, but bustin' out is just another game to be experienced.
I liked them both and would watch them both again, but I think the original sang in its own voice. The remake didn't quite pick up the tune.
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