I took a little break from 5 Fandom Friday but I couldn’t pass this one up! I can’t wait to see what everyone picks this week. There’s a lot of adaptations out there to pick from. Now let’s get to it!
1. Jurassic Park
This shouldn’t be a surprise at all. I love both the book and the movie. They really did a great job of bringing the story to life but making changes when needed. In my opinion, some of the best adaptations are when changes are made. It helps keep it fresh and exciting. Plus I spend less time comparing them mentally!
2. Silence of the Lambs
Again, no surprise here! I’ve read the book more times than I can count, and watched the movie more times than I can remember. Again, there are enough differences between the two that you might like one more than the other. I enjoy both for various reasons. I actually have a few different copies of both the book and the movie. Maybe I have a problem.
3. Misery
I actually didn’t read this book until recently and whoa boy. You think the movie is violent? You should read the book! I think it’s one of the better Stephen King adaptations. I think part of the reason for that is the story isn’t anything mystical or magical. It’s just a stalker who happens across her target.
4. The Martian
This book had me on the edge of my seat and actually in tears more than once. I still can’t believe how stressed out I was. I picked the book up before the movie came out and was really pleased with how they took it from page to screen. Again, changes were made but they worked and added to the story. The book had a lot of science (for obvious reasons) but the movie did a great job of making it more “user friendly.”
5. JAWS
It might be time for a JAWS re-read. It’s been awhile since I’ve read it but I watch the movie anytime it’s on TV. Plus I own a few different versions of it. There’s a lot of stuff in the book that didn’t make it into the film but I don’t think it affects it negatively. It’s a fine balance, especially when a book it on the larger size. You really have to pick and choose what will make the best story.
I feel like I’ve made this exact list before, probably for a Thursday Movie Picks list. But oh well. I like what I like and none of these choices should surprise anyone. I expect to see “Jurassic Park” on a few lists but I’m curious if any of the others will. I expect to see a few “Hunger Games” and “Harry Potter” picks! What are some of your favorite book to movie adaptations?