Movie adaptations of books often have a bad reputation. And often, it’s deserved – not forgetting that scriptwriting and book writing are two different poles.
Some movies are seen as “lesser” than their source material. Nevertheless, there are some adaptations that challenge this stereotype.
Whether it’s due to pragmatic writing that preserves the soul of the book, or other reasons there are.
Luckily, the following nine films buck the trend of bad film adaptations.
1/9
Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Based on Matthew Quick’s 2008 novel, Silver Linings Playbook was directed by David O. Russell and released in 2012.
With an all-star cast and part of Russell’s directing prime, the film was well received and praised for its performances by Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper.
Rights to the book were acquired before its publication, therefore development of the film began instantly with its release.
There are many noticeable differences between the novel and film, perhaps deriving from Russell’s 20-something rewrites of the script.
2/9
Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Call Me by Your Name was released in 2017 and directed by Luca Guadagnino. It stars Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer.
Based on the 2007 novel by André Aciman, producers Peter Spears and Howard Rosenman read an early version of the novel before its publication and immediately sought the rights to adapt it.
After years in development-hell, the film finally came into fruition and was critically acclaimed upon release. Aciman even stated the screenplay was better than the novel.
Since its intended sequel was put to a crashing halt, many fans have turned to the books for a continuation of Elio’s story.
3/9
Jurassic Park (1993)
Who can forget Michael Crichton’s legendary novel, which he helped adapt to the big screen with acclaimed screenwriter David Koepp’s help?
And given his blockbuster success before 1993, it’s no surprise Steven Spielberg took the reins on directing this wildly successful thriller that spawned sequels, spin-offs and more.
We all know the storyline of Jurassic Park: Advancements in science and tech enable a mogul (Richard Attenborough) to create an island full of living dinosaurs.
He invites certain dinosaur experts (Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum), along with his two grandchildren, to join him at Jurassic Park.
But everything certainly does not go according to plan. The franchise’s latest films weren’t the greatest, but the 1993 stunner remains timeless.
4/9
Apocalypse Now (1979)
Apocalypse Now was first released in 1979 as an unfinished film inspired by Joseph Conrad’s novel, Heart of Darkness.
At the time of the film’s release, it was believed that no one could properly adapt Conrad’s novel into cinema, this was a challenge screenwriter John Milius decided to take on.
The film was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and stars Martin Sheen and Marlon Brando. Upon its premature release, the film was heavily criticized by critics and audiences despite a polished film still being in the works.
Most of the criticism was drawn toward Coppola’s take on Conrad’s story. The film differs greatly from the novel, taking place during the Vietnam War instead of 19th-Century Africa. Differences aside, the film kept the unifying theme the same and gave it more relevancy for its modern audience.
Praise for the film eventually grew after it was finished and has been cited as one of the greatest films of all time by critics.
5/9
The Notebook (2004)
Applauded by critics and audiences alike, The Notebook is a movie no romance buff should sleep on. It is Nicholas Sparks’ second novel adaptation on the list, and follows the love tale between Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allison (Rachel McAdams), who, during the summer in the 1940s, meet for the first time and fall in love.
They get separated only to reunite again, but that’s not all. The Notebook dictates their love story from another angle that will reduce you to tears, make you believe in soulmates, and show what passionate romance looks like.
The Notebook is the 15th highest grossing romantic drama of all time, and is also included in Us Weekly’s 30 most romantic movies of all time. READ PAGE 2 BELOW FOR MORE MOVIES
