It only stands to reason that the book, as the source of inspiration, will be better. It also stands to reason that a book is envisioned differently by every reader and, therefore, a movie adaptation will not please everyone.
Can you think of a film adaptation that you enjoyed more than the book? In such a case did you actually read the book first or did you perhaps see the film first?
I can think of two instances in which I loved the film and didn't care so much for the book. In both instances, however, I saw the films first and later read the books. I do wonder if that has skewed my perception in each case. The titles are: Mary Poppins by P. L. Travers and The Princess Bride by William Goldman. I feel that both films are classics. I am not convinced that I'd have seen the treasure in either book; we are fortunate that someone did.
Here is an interesting article about someone else's feelings on the idea that the books is always better than the movie.
http://www.student.com/blogs/movies-film/the-book-is-better-than-the-movie/
So...what do you think? Can you name any instances where you enjoyed the film more?
The Wizard of Oz. I saw the movie first, probably before I could even read. It is rare that I see the movie first, and 98 times out of 100, I prefer the book.
ReplyDeleteOh, Sarah! You did it! That's another film that I enjoyed more than the book! Sure, it is a rarity but it does happen! So far, all three that I think that of are sort of "fairy tale-ish" it seems.
ReplyDeleteThe Painted Veil. I liked the movie better than the book, although the movie does have an adult scene at the beginning. But, the movie changed some parts that made the story more likable. The book is beautiful too.
ReplyDeleteHmmm, Heidi, I have never heard of that one! I will have to consider adding that book to my to-be-read list and the film to my Netflix queue!
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