Books and movies have been competing sources of entertainment for decades. Both of them siphoning off one another, adapting, changing and morphing to fit the whims of consumers. But one question has always been asked and argued: are books better than their movie adaptations? Regardless, book and movie adaptations have their own ways of expressing stories that contrast and complement each other in unexpected ways.
“It’s cool catching small details that carried over in the adaptations as well as what didn’t,” sophomore Kiera Olivarez said.
Movie adaptations can expand upon the book’s original material, possibly showing new angles on the characters.
“The movie ‘The Outsiders’ primarily showed the character’s relationship, which was definitely more prominent than in the book. It was nice to see a new perspective almost,” sophomore Vivienne Ortiz said.
Movies can also make it so books that are sometimes overlooked get the attention they deserve because the movies bring light to them in a shorter, more easily accessible manner.
“I really like being able to see characters from books in movies because it gives authors a chance to have their art appreciated in a different way,” sophomore Genesis Rivarez said.
However, movie adaptations can be considered rushed and these rushed movies that cut out parts of the book in an attempt to not make the movie feel slow can impact the weight of the story.
“Some movies left out details about characters that would have made a bigger impact if they were included. Sometimes even missing scenes, characters or plot lines entirely,” Rivaz said.
In the end, sometimes the original format will prevail against the adaptation.
“I preferred the book because I always feel more immersed in the characters and story because I can feel the emotions and points of view better,” Ortiz said.
Nevertheless, books and movies are two different media, and what is preferred is up to the consumer. Perhaps it’s not fair to judge one against the other, but appreciate them both for their art forms and strengths.
“A lot of directors take liberties… and that’s why many book-readers get upset. They were infatuated with what the story was, and any change feels like an injustice to their book. But it isn’t their book, and it isn’t their movie. So it’s not fair to say movies mess up the books; they adapt them,” Olivarez said.
