|
I have always been a reader. Even when my kids were young, I found time to read. I remember my son coming up to me one day while I was deep into a novel (he was about five at the time) and he asked me which I preferred -- books or movies. Before I could answer, he said, "I know -- it's books, because you get to make your own pictures."
He was right. I have always preferred books. In fact, I have been disappointed by the film version of books so many times that more often than not, I avoid them altogether.
It's not the filmmakers' fault (not entirely anyway), because films don't lend themselves to the emotional and cerebral aspects of story in the same way narration in novels can. In theatre, soliloquy is used to achieve this inner facet of story, but movies seldom employ this tool. Instead, they alter the storyline, delete threads and add others to make the work more plot-driven -- an approach which lends itself well to films. But the end result is often a story that is radically changed with a totally different focus.
I have been burned so many times that if I accidentally see a film -- and enjoy it without realizing it was originally a book, I won't read the book for fear of changing my opinion of the movie. (Silly, I know, but I am part ostrich -- which you would know if you've seen my business card.)
Another shortcoming of movies (in my opinion) is the casting of characters. More often than I care to remember, I have been disappointed by the actors chosen to portray characters from my favourite novels. It's not that the actors aren't adept at their craft; it's that while reading the novel, I developed my own image of the characters, and the filmmakers' interpretations jar.
A difference between books and movies not often considered is that a book allows you to move through a story at your own pace, pausing to reflect on something or reread an especially engaging passage. The story waits for you and you can read as much or as little as you want into it. Movies, however, have their own agendas. The producers, directors, and actors have made all the interpretative decisions for you. You simply have to watch and listen. (But make sure you have used the washroom and set out your snacks beforehand, because the movie isn't going to wait for you.)
Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, and one that comes to mind is Harry Potter, especially the early films directed by Christopher Columbus (I want him to direct The Druid and the Dragon). I read the books before I saw the movies, and I was pleasantly surprised and impressed. The movies reflected the books perfectly, and I enjoyed them as much as I did the novels. I'm sure JK Rowling's insistence on having a say in the productions had an impact on the end result. (I shall contact her for tips.)
At any rate, it's fun to dream. Feel free to make your own suggestions for casting. We have time to get it right.
|
