Page to Screen in 2020
We’re always excited to hear of our favourite books getting adapted to the screen. 2020 has seen heaps of books turned into movies and TV shows, with more yet to be released. Will they do the books justice? We give you our honest opinions…
“Emma” by Jane Austen
Pretty, rich, and clever, Emma believes herself to be a gifted matchmaker. As she navigates her way through the challenges of growing up, misguided matches and romantic missteps, will Emma realize love has been there all along?
Librarian’s verdict: ” I expected the movie to be rubbish but was pleasantly surprised! It was brilliant and captured the humour of the book.”
“David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens
In his wildly eventful life, David Copperfield moves from the cruelty of his stepfather’s care to the heights of success as a novelist. Dickens’s own favourite among his novels, “The Personal History of David Copperfield” is a classic of comedy and tragedy that never ceases to delight and surprise.
Librarian’s Verdict: “Although a period drama, the movie manages to feel modern and stay faithful to the spirit of the book.”
“The Invisible Man” by H.G. Wells
The classic science-fiction novel, which was first published in 1897, concerns the life and death of a mad scientist. Having learned how to make himself invisible, the scientist begins to use his invisibility for nefarious purposes. The movie brings the story into the modern day, when a woman with an abusive ex desperately tries to prove she is being hunted by someone nobody else can see.
Librarian’s Verdict: “Great spin to update the story, but it looks way too scary for me to watch!”
“Phryne Fisher” books by Kerry Greenwood
The Honerable Miss Phryne Fisher, Lady Detective, is an irresistible heroine living in Melbourne at the end of the 1920s. Continuing the storyline of the “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries” TV series, the full-length film is based on the character rather than being a direct adaption of the series.
Librarian’s Verdict: “I enjoy the books and love the TV series, and I really wanted to like the movie. But I really didn’t.”
Other books that we can’t wait to see the adaptations of include:
Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie
The Witches by Roald Dahl
Luminaries by Eleanor Catton
The Irishman by Charles Brandt
Kiss the Ground by Josh Tickell
So, did we get it right? Click the images to reserve your copy and decide for yourself!