More often than not, a film adaptation of a book does the original, printed tale no justice. Luckily, however, there are a few exceptions to this rule, like Wild and Still Alice, which are probably (and hopefully) currently playing in a cinema near you. Flow’s Astrid, Jolanda and Caroline give their tips on three adaptations that they find worthwhile.
The Remains of the Day
Astrid: “A film that I really feel like staying in to watch every now and then is The Remains of the Day, based on the book of the same name by Kazuo Ishiguro. The film has all the things I like: history, England, melancholy and that beautiful drama of how life can sometimes turn out and how it could have been if things had been different. And of course, the love aspect –very subtle and therefore beautiful. If you like Downtown Abbey, you’ll enjoy this film.”
De Avonden (The Evenings)
Caroline: “An oldie, but a goodie. De Avonden by Gerard Reve is a fantastic Dutch book. And this successful (Dutch-language) film adaptation is quite clever if you know the book. Thom Hoffman stars in the role of Frits van Egters and Rijk de Gooijer plays his father.”
Atonement
Jolanda “Atonement by Ian McEwan takes part in England, just before and during World War II, and in the years that follow. A false accusation changes the lives of the three main characters for good. The surprising structure and atmosphere make it one of my favorite books, and thankfully the film is just as beautiful.”
