Five Favorite Book to Screen Adaptations

Written By: Sky Cummings

While most avid literary loyalists contend that the books always end up better than their film counterparts, there’s no doubt a few movies and shows serve as exceptions. Below I’ve noted five of my personal favorite book-to-screen adaptations that may not necessarily surpass the books, but certainly do justice to them. When reviewing a piece of film based on a favorite book of mine, I take into account storyline accuracy, character casting, and cinematography. In my opinion, all three are needed to make an adequate, successful adaptation.  

1. Normal People

Normal People by Sally Rooney is by far my favorite novel at the moment. The story contains complex characters and relevant themes, such as mental health, complicated family dynamics, and grief. The 2020 drama miniseries inspired by and named after the book really captures the beauty and tenderness of the storyline by showcasing the breathtaking scenery of the Irish countryside. Directors Lenny Abrahamson and Hettie Macdonald, along with producer Catherine Magee, took care to maintain the integrity of Rooney’s work by bringing Marianne and Connell off the page and keeping their character traits, motivations, virtues, and flaws consistent with those in the novel. Overall, both the book and show provide audiences with characters and situations that make them feel as though they are not alone in the world. 

2. Little Women

Greta Gerwig – known today primarily for her work on Barbie – really showed off her talents with her 2019 adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel, Little Women. The four sisters were cast to perfection and Gerwig made sure to paint an accurate picture of sisterhood. Each of the girls gets her moment in the spotlight, revealing both their strengths and flaws, and all of their storylines come together wonderfully to tell the story of Alcott’s little women. Heartwarming and nostalgic, Gerwig’s Little Women is the perfect film to put on for a snow day. 

3. Pride & Prejudice

Known for its famous “hand flex shot,” Joe Wright’s 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice took Jane Austen lovers by storm as the fan-favorite. Wright’s version of the novel impeccably presents Elizabeth’s bright disposition and quiet strength, as well as Darcy’s quaint awkwardness and gentle tenderness. The renowned cinematography, including soft sunlight and tear-jerking rain, adds to the viewing pleasure of the film – what better way to watch one of the most beautiful love stories than with a background of beautiful sets? While other renditions of Austen’s masterpiece devote themselves to book accuracy, Wright’s film focuses on capturing the story’s essence regarding theme, humor, and emotion. 

4. Persuasion

Another noteworthy Jane Austen adaptation is Carrie Cracknell’s Netflix hit, Persuasion. While often critiqued for its creative liberties in terms of dialogue, I applaud the film’s playful and comedic take on the 1817 novel. I think the more updated jokes and monologues do a great job of conveying the humor and passion of the characters while also paying respect to Austen’s vision. Dakota Johnson plays the picturesque Anne Elliot: funny, clever, loyal, and loving. Anne’s character speaks to the inherent power of middling and of feeling pride in oneself. Backed by gorgeous sea views, Cracknell’s adaptation marvelously illustrates a love story that transcends both time and betrayal. 

5. Call Me By Your Name

Luca Guadagnino brought André Aciman’s novel, Call Me By Your Name, to the big screen in 2018. Taking place somewhere in northern Italy in 1983, the story details the secret relationship that blooms between Elio and Oliver during Oliver’s summer working in Italy. The pair start off with a rocky friendship that eventually evolves into a heated yet illicit passion due to both their age gap and attitudes towards gay relationships in the 1980s. While the story is certainly problematic and worthy of criticism, there’s no doubt that Guadagnino brought the novel to life, utilizing Italy’s natural beauty and the chemistry between two incredibly talented actors. For anyone longing for August afternoons and a fleeting summer romance, turn on Call Me By Your Name.