From Book to Film

 Which is better: a book or a movie? Some may say that the written word leaves the reader room to be creative and use their imagination. Others may think that seeing a story unfold in front of them on the screen is more stimulating and appealing. Sometimes it can be hard to choose, so why not pick both? If done right, sometimes books that are adapted to film can allow both readers and film lovers to come together and agree that great stories can be both written and watched. Here are a few adaptations from book to film that are worth reading and watching. 

The Godfather:

Mario Puzo's infamous story about Italian mob life came to the big screen in 1972. Francis Ford Coppola directed this action packed and memorable crime drama. The film hosts famous scenes involving Al Pacino, a daughter's wedding, crime, and lots of money. In this case, some say the movie is actually better than the book but that is up to you to decide. 

The Princess Bride:

This 1987 gem features Cary Elwes, Andre the Giant and an appearance from Billy Crystal, who is at his finest as the grumpy Miracle Max. Although the title, The Princess Bride may sound like a ‘chick flick', it has humor, sword fighting, fairy tale themes and a lot of quotable lines all wrapped up into 98 minutes. The film is one that can be watched over and over again and the book is the same way. William Goldman's novel of the same title is very similar to the movie but contains more detail and a few more jokes.

Jaws:

This 1975 thriller contains the classic suspensful score that convinced viewers to stay out of the water. The novel by Peter Benchley only confirmed viewers' suspicions that the water was no longer safe with Jaws on the loose.

Fight Club:

Known for his violent, graphic, sex and drug-riddled writing, Chuck Palahnuik's novel, Fight Club wraps all of these elements together. Released in 1999, Edward Norton and Brad Pitt play very convincing roles and truly embody the gritty writing in the novel.

To Kill a Mockingbird:

An oldie but goodie, To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic tale embodying themes of mystery, youth and racism. Harper Lee's novel is often read as a curriculum for young children as a teaching tool regarding social justice. Oftentimes the book is paired with the movie after reading to truly understand the complex and thought provoking tale of a white lawyer defending a black man who is undeservingly charged with rape.

The Shining:

"Heeere's Johnny!" Jack Nicholson's convincing portrayal of Jack in Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of The Shining has left viewers wondering if that wasn't entirely acting on Nicholson's part. This thriller taking place in a lonely hotel in winter sets the scene for many strange happenings in master horror writer Stephen King's novel. 

Other notable movies that came from books:

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

Iron Giant

War of the Worlds

The Thin Man 

American Psycho

Harry Potter