1. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Image retrieved December 1, 2007, from http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n30/n153992.jpg.
Laurie Halse Anderson’s novel, Speak, and the film adaptation produced by Showtime Entertainment contain many similarities, as well as some striking differences. The film version allows us to see Melinda’s metamorphosis on screen as she comes to terms with being raped, and in turn becomes a stronger person as a result. The film eliminates much of the seemingly unnecessary dialogue, leading to a more concise image of Melinda and her interactions (or lack thereof) with the people around her. For example, the novel contains details about Melinda’s relationship with her art teacher, Mr. Freeman, as it slowly builds throughout the school year. In the film version, many of these details are eliminated, and Melinda’s growing trust in Mr. Freeman centers around the scene involving the creation of her turkey bone sculpture.
The film version uses voiceovers in place of the internal dialogue Melinda uses throughout the novel. However, much of the film and novel centers around what is unsaid. Melinda effectively expresses herself through her actions, body language, and facial expressions, in many instances eliminating the need for words. This is especially helpful in conveying Melinda’s unique voice and adds depth and realism to her character. The film also uses flashbacks to a greater extent than the novel, to show the change Melinda has undergone as a result of her rape. In addition, viewing Melinda’s numerous “tree based” art projects on screen helps the audience better understand the emotions she is expressing through her artwork.
2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling
After reading the book and then seeing the movie, I was disappointed. The movie started roughly at chapter 4 in the book. Unfortunately for movie goers, the beginning of the book was very important since it foreshadowed what happens throughout the book. I actually viewed the movie with someone who had not read the book, and he became very confused. After filling him in on parts skipped from the book, he understood more thoroughly and enjoyed the rest of the movie. However, the movie did nail the characters’ descriptions and behaviors, which is important to understanding their motives. Overall, the movie portrayed the book accurately, besides the exposition of the story being skipped. However, as in most cases, I enjoyed the book more than the movie.
Image retrieved December 1, 2007, from http://www.sorenz.dk/Harry%20Potter%20and%20the%20Goblet%20of%20fire%20teaser.JPG.
Laurie Halse Anderson’s novel, Speak, and the film adaptation produced by Showtime Entertainment contain many similarities, as well as some striking differences. The film version allows us to see Melinda’s metamorphosis on screen as she comes to terms with being raped, and in turn becomes a stronger person as a result. The film eliminates much of the seemingly unnecessary dialogue, leading to a more concise image of Melinda and her interactions (or lack thereof) with the people around her. For example, the novel contains details about Melinda’s relationship with her art teacher, Mr. Freeman, as it slowly builds throughout the school year. In the film version, many of these details are eliminated, and Melinda’s growing trust in Mr. Freeman centers around the scene involving the creation of her turkey bone sculpture.
The film version uses voiceovers in place of the internal dialogue Melinda uses throughout the novel. However, much of the film and novel centers around what is unsaid. Melinda effectively expresses herself through her actions, body language, and facial expressions, in many instances eliminating the need for words. This is especially helpful in conveying Melinda’s unique voice and adds depth and realism to her character. The film also uses flashbacks to a greater extent than the novel, to show the change Melinda has undergone as a result of her rape. In addition, viewing Melinda’s numerous “tree based” art projects on screen helps the audience better understand the emotions she is expressing through her artwork.
2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. RowlingAfter reading the book and then seeing the movie, I was disappointed. The movie started roughly at chapter 4 in the book. Unfortunately for movie goers, the beginning of the book was very important since it foreshadowed what happens throughout the book. I actually viewed the movie with someone who had not read the book, and he became very confused. After filling him in on parts skipped from the book, he understood more thoroughly and enjoyed the rest of the movie. However, the movie did nail the characters’ descriptions and behaviors, which is important to understanding their motives. Overall, the movie portrayed the book accurately, besides the exposition of the story being skipped. However, as in most cases, I enjoyed the book more than the movie.
Image retrieved December 1, 2007, from http://www.sorenz.dk/Harry%20Potter%20and%20the%20Goblet%20of%20fire%20teaser.JPG.
3. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Image retrieved December 1, 2007, from http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/christmas/kids-books/the-polar-express.html.
Hardly any differences exist between the book and movie versions of The Polar Express, a story about restoring a boy's belief in Santa Claus. The the animation in the movie mirror the illustrations in the book. While the illustrations are pleasing, the animation is stunning. They kept by four-year old enthralled. Additionally, the dialogue used in the movie is verbatim the dialogue used in the book.
However, the book itself is only 2o pages or so long. Thus, to create a story that is long enough to be a feature film, the script writer had to take some liberties with the plot and add some additional elements. These elements did not detract from the original theme of the book. With the addition of the soundtrack, The Polar Express movie is quite captivating. I would highly recommend it and the book to others.
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