10 Best Movies Based on Books Commonly Read in School

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As a cinephile with a penchant for literature, I can’t help but be enthralled by the allure of book-to-film adaptations. Take Justin Baldoni’s adaptation of “It Ends With Us,” for instance – it’s a testament to the timeless charm of transforming written tales into cinematic masterpieces. For devoted readers, the draw of witnessing their beloved stories unfold visually on the big screen is irresistible.

Experience the joy of revisiting some beloved books-turned-movies, tales that many of us remember from our school days. Even those who may not have cherished English class might find a few nostalgic favorites tucked away in their memory. Literature offers a unique opportunity to journey through different realms, meet various characters, and explore diverse cultures, time periods, and viewpoints that we might otherwise miss. Here’s a list of 10 fantastic films that will bring back the warmth of rediscovering one of your cherished old reads.

10
‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ (2012)

1999’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” penned by Stephen Chbosky, resonated deeply with its young readers soon after it was published by MTV Books, a publishing arm associated with the music video channel known for hosts like Ananda Lewis. The narrative follows the journey of Charlie, a shy and introspective high school freshman, as he navigates through emotional highs and lows, ultimately discovering his self-assurance.

A Brightly Aesthetic Adaptation

In my perspective, although this film tackled challenging topics like suicide and mental health issues, it still managed to provide an optimistic journey that concluded on a hopeful note. It was truly remarkable how Emma Watson, at the peak of her Harry Potter fame, seamlessly blended into the narrative without appearing as a mere casting gimmick. On the other hand, Logan Lerman, portraying Charlie, delivered a powerful narration with an authentic and heartfelt tone.

9
‘Holes’ (2003)

The iconic movie “Holes” has sparked countless TikTok videos with the amusing quote, “I’M TIRED OF THIS, GRANDPA!”. In this adventurous blend of neo-Western comedy and drama, a young Shia LaBeouf shines. Many consider it the greatest Disney Channel Original Movie ever made. Over the years, Holes has been a much-loved choice at Scholastic book fairs, and watching this film is likely to evoke the same nostalgic feelings.

True to the Book

The movie version of “Holes” has received acclaim for faithfully following its beloved original story. However, one notable change is that the storyline about the main character Stanley losing weight was omitted. Producers opted against requiring a young actor to undergo significant physical alterations for the role.

The movie is exceptionally skillful at crafting impactful scenes, like the powerful portrayal of Patricia Arquette’s character, Kate Barlow, as she delivers her almost last lines, “For a century, you and your descendants will search, but you will never discover it.” This sentence conveys the idea that the movie excels at creating scenes that stand out in memory.

8
‘Their Eyes Were Watching God’ (2005)

In this visually captivating film, the main character Janie’s passion for love and existence is beautifully portrayed through sensual camera angles. As she embarks on her quest for love and freedom, her journey unfolds like a lavish banquet for the eyes. However, as Janie attains the zenith of joy, her fortitude and soul are challenged by an unexpected turn of events.

Based on the 1937 novel by Zora Neale Hurston, renowned author and anthropologist, Their Eyes Were Watching God delves into themes such as sacrifice and socioeconomic advancement, chronicling heroine Janie’s transformation from a destitute granddaughter to the wife of a mayor in America’s initial all-black incorporated town.

A Win for Oprah Winfrey’s Production Company

In 2005, Harpo Productions unveiled a film adaptation titled “XXX”, where Halle Berry played the pivotal role of the enduring character Janie. The movie beautifully portrays the scenic landscapes of Florida to embody the book’s essence. One of the captivating aspects of this story lies in its message that it’s never too late for self-discovery, as exemplified by the heroine telling her last onscreen love interest that she “reserved all my youthful days to spend them with you.

7
‘Of Mice and Men’ (1992)

John Steinbeck’s 1937 novel, “Of Mice and Men,” tells the story of two itinerant ranch hands, George and Lennie, during the Great Depression. While George is known for his shrewdness, Lennie, despite being intellectually challenged, has immense physical strength. Together, they aspire to own a farm someday, but their dream encounters a tragic turn of events.

Hauntingly Tragic

The 1992 movie, a reinterpretation of the 1939 classic, skillfully employs tension to build up to its poignant conclusion. George Milton and John Malkovich deliver a powerfully realistic portrayal of their on-screen bond. Although the 1992 film captivates with its vibrant colors and contemporary feel, the original version earned a perfect 100% rating from Rotten Tomatoes critics and is equally worthy of your time.

6
‘The Color Purple’ (1985)

In a work titled “The Color Purple“, penned by Alice Walker and released in 1982, we delve into an epistolary narrative that recounts the journey of Celie, a young girl from a poor background residing in rural Georgia between 1909 and 1947. The story is conveyed through letters penned first to God and subsequently to her sister, Nettie, offering insights into her encounters with hardship, suffering, and ultimately self-empowerment. Most viewers find this original adaptation superior to the 2023 remake.

Whoopi Goldberg Stuns in ‘The Color Purple’

In 1985, crowds rushed to cinemas to watch The Color Purple, a movie that ultimately raked in nearly $100 million at the box office. The public’s affection for the film is clearly demonstrated by its 94% rating among fans on Rotten Tomatoes, a significantly higher score than it received from professional critics, some of whom deemed it overly sentimental. Notably, Whoopi Goldberg, who had already won an Oscar at that time, starred in this film just a few years before securing her role in Star Trek. In 2023, director Zach Braff stated that Goldberg’s performance in the movie “remains one of the best I have ever witnessed.

5
‘Passing’ (2021)

According to Nella Larsen’s captivating novel “Passing”, the story revolves around a tense reunion of two former schoolmates. As these friends grow closer, an intense fixation looms, potentially revealing a hidden truth that could bring about devastating consequences for everyone involved. Rebecca Hall directs this film, featuring Ruth Negga and Tessa Thompson in lead roles. Supporting actors include André Holland and Alexander Skarsgard, portraying their respective husbands.

Historically Accurate World-Building

One standout aspect of this movie is the intricate attention to detail in its set design, which successfully transports us back to the world of 1929. Many viewers have commended the choice of props, deeming it a more authentic portrayal of the ’20s compared to the 2013 remake of The Great Gatsby. Initially, the story is suspenseful and exciting in the first half an hour, but later the pace slows down. However, the movie picks up again with a climactic ending that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. Despite some flaws, it’s a film worthy of analysis.

4
‘The Great Gatsby’ (1974)

A 1974 movie titled “The Great Gatsby” is a cinematic interpretation of renowned author F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel. Robert Redford, an experienced and talented actor, plays the mysterious Gatsby character, while Mia Farrow assumes the role of Daisy. The screenplay for this project was penned by Francis Ford Coppola, who claimed that the filmmakers didn’t stick to his original script.

The film proved to be financially victorious, earning $26 million compared to its production cost of just $7 million. Despite not reaching great heights in terms of quality, it offers pleasant entertainment and is currently the most successful screen adaptation of “The Great Gatsby.” For those eager to delve into the life of F. Scott Fitzgerald, explore his tumultuous relationship with Zelda through the Prime Video series titled “Z: The Beginning of Everything,” which offers a fictionalized portrayal of their romantic tale.

A Reserved, Elegant Take

Despite the 2013 release of a contemporary adaptation of The Great Gatsby, it is likely that devoted readers of the novel will find more appeal in the earlier film due to its authentic portrayal of the era. The 1974 production, with its period-specific accents and settings, truly encapsulates the timeless elegance of the story’s setting. Although Baz Luhrmann’s rendition is visually stunning, the original film more accurately reflects the essence and style of the iconic novel.

3
‘Romeo + Juliet’ (1996)

1996’s film titled “Romeo + Juliet” was a fresh take on the timeless play “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare, masterfully directed by Baz Luhrmann. This movie unfolds in a modern-day cityscape called “Verona Beach,” skillfully integrating the classic dialogue with contemporary aesthetics, music, and cultural nuances. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes portray the ill-fated couple.

Modernization Was a Smart Move

Despite Shakespeare’s work being rich in educational value, Luhrmann wisely chose to modernize the film’s setting, making it more appealing to the ’90s teenage audience it was intended for. The movie resonated strongly with this demographic, and remains popular today. Some critics found it excessive and lacking nuance, but overall, it was well-received and commended for its powerful soundtrack.

2
‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ (1930)

1930’s film “All Quiet on the Western Front,” adapted from Erich Maria Remarque’s celebrated war novel, is an enduring classic in the annals of cinema. This film offers a unique viewpoint of World War I from the losing side, as it follows a band of young soldiers embarking on a harrowing journey into the heart of combat. The vintage film spurred a 2022 remake, which received widespread praise upon its release.

A Gem of Its Time

Despite adhering to a conventional narrative framework, it superbly captures the essence of the novel through its outstanding execution. The movie stands as an impressive representation of 1930s cinema craftsmanship, eschewing the high-tech special effects common in contemporary action films. Instead, it powerfully portrays the devastation and unavoidable struggles of war, making it a compelling watch. Lew Ayres delivers an exceptional performance that perfectly complements the film.

1
‘Rebecca’ (1940)

Delve into the enigmatic and captivating world of a woman, unnamed in this gripping tale, as she embarks on her fresh chapter following marriage to high-society figure Maxim DeWinter. Struggling to come to terms with a phantom from his history, this film adaption is drawn from Daphne du Maurier’s 1938 novel, a classic text often studied in advanced literature circles. Featuring the talented Joan Fontaine, who remains iconic not only for her exceptional acting but also for her involvement in an infamous Hollywood squabble with Olivia De Havilland, this movie also stars Laurence Olivier and Judith Anderson, completing a spellbinding ensemble cast.

A Near-Flawless Alfred Hitchcock Work

The movie on Rotten Tomatoes earned a 100% Fresh rating, and it truly deserves it, because the film masterfully blends real tension with an appropriately eerie ambiance, fitting for a gothic novel. The story’s exploration of obsession resonates strongly, and Fontaine’s innocence is effectively contrasted by Anderson’s chilling demeanor. The film was a cinematic achievement, but its 2020 remake fell short, leaving fans longing for the original’s excellence.

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2025-01-11 19:02