Feb. 22, 2006
Don't Judge a Book By Its Movie
Posted in Movies
"Don't judge a book by its movie" is one of my favorite quotes about books. I can't tell you the number of times I have been disappointed by a movie adaption of a favorite book. For instance, although I liked the first two Anne of Green Gables movies, I was unhappy with the third movie in the series. Did the writers and director read any of the other books in L.M. Montgomery's wonderful series? How disheartening! Lest you think I am a snob about this, I must admit I liked all of the Sarah Plain and Tall movies much better than the books, which were originally written as much simpler children's books that the author expanded into beautiful story lines anyone can enjoy.
I must say, I have not been always been thrilled with screen adaptions of Jane Austen novels. I am a huge Austen fan, and have read all of her novels at least once (some twice). Therefore, it was with a bit of apprehension that I purchased the most recent BBC production of Pride and Prejudice. There is absolutely no way that this particular novel can be improved upon, and I believe it does fans of the novel a great disservice to attempt to do so. At any rate, this production (made in 1995) was one of the most faithful movie adaptions I have ever seen. It was very true to the spirit of Austen's novel, and I must say, I was very pleased. In fact, I would have to list it among my favorite movies. The acting is superior, and the costumes are so beautiful. It was filmed on location is some truly lovely spots of English countryside. Extra features on the DVD include a "Making of" documentary, which I found very interesting.
A homeschooling friend of mine (Maggieraye) and her daughter (LizBeth) like to watch movie versions of books they have read and compare the two. This is an excellent movie to use in that capacity.
Plus, it's just really fun to watch! 
So, what do you think? What is your favorite movie taken from the story line of a book?
Comments
Feb. 22, 2006 - I agree
Posted by lvg4him
I will admit thought that I have not read any of the Anne of Green Gables books, I do LOVE the Candian version three part series. They did interview the dirctor/writer and they admit that by the third book they are so far from the original book series, that there isn't even one iota of anything in the movie that resembles the book. I really like the Focus on the Family dramatized radio version of Anne. My girls do too. I grew up on movies (not books). Something I am trying to change for my children. One of my favorite movies in The Princess Bride. We are currently reading the book to the children right now (although I must admit it is WAY over their heads). It is SO DIFFERENT. I guess every writer/director feels they have to change SOMETHING to make it THEIRS. Oh well, just babbling some thoughts that came to mind while reading your blog entry today.
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Feb. 22, 2006 - forgot
Posted by lvg4him
to mention that I also really liked Emma (which is supposed to be based on one of Austen's novels. And while the Disney version of Pollyanna is a favorite, I have been told that there is another version which is very similar to the actual book.
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Feb. 23, 2006 - <i>Untitled Comment</i>
Posted by
I agree! Usually the books are better than the movies! I love the Anne of Green Gable movies (the first 2) but I had seen them before I read the books...and I like both! I love the new version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and as excellent of a job that Johnny Depp did as Willie Wonka..I dont think he fit the personality of the true Willie Wonka in the book.
My favorite Pride and Prejudice adaption is the 1995 version (is that the one you meant with Jennifer Ehle...I dont know of a 1999 version) again I saw this before I read the book, but when I did read the book I felt like most of it was from the movie.
I think of all the Little Women Movies that the one with Katherine Hepburn was truest to the book, although you would need a miniseries to make a true adaption!....Well enough rambling...those are some of my thoughts.
I loved Sarah Plain and Tall, but have never read the books. I did hear that Patricia Maclachlan had a hand in writing the script though.
I was a bit dissappointed with the "Love Comes Softly" series as they were not very true to the books (especially the second and I have hear the third one) but if I separate them as two different, but similar stories I can enjoy the movies!
Edited by KayinPA on Feb. 23, 2006 at 12:09 PM
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Feb. 23, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by lynan
My favorite is Wives and Daughters which is by Elizabeth Gaskell and I think the movie version is BBC. I am an Austen addict also and I like Persuasion and Emma (Gwyneth Paltrow) and the P&P BBC version. Have not allowed myself to see the newest P&P.
We moved from Maine to VA last year so its nice to meet you!
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Feb. 23, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by KayinMaine
Great comments, everyone! Thanks so much!
I also liked Emma and Persuasion. :-)
You're right, KayinPA, it is the 1995 version. (Oops!)
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