Hey folks,
Marching on.
Best Television Lit Adaptation: Sherlock
My television watching has gone way down this year as I become less interested in "appointment" television. However there were a few high quality options in this category that made this choice difficult. But those who read here regularly won't be surprised that this great offering from the BBC was an easy selection. I've raved about it already here, so I won't go on too long. Just to say that these three television films were not nearly enough. Cumberbatch is a fantastic modern-day Sherlock Holmes. It's hard to imagine anyone else playing Holmes in this context. He is well-paired with Martin Freeman as Watson. Each actor presents a contrasting energy to their scenes together which makes them a great duo. None of this should work, but it does. Do yourself a favor and see it before it comes back in Fall 2011.
Also Worthy: The Walking Dead, Emma (2010)
More to Come. Yes Indeed, Book Slave.
Showing posts with label literary adaptation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label literary adaptation. Show all posts
2010-12-27
Best of 2010: Movie Lit Adaptation
Hey guys,
Time to Reflect and choose what was worthy of remembrance from the previous year. Here we go.
Best Movie Literary Adaptation: Girl With The Dragon Tattoo series
It could of gone so wrong. This is why the Swedish film adaptations of the Millenial trilogy books, Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Girl Who Played With Fire and Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest , should be considered small miracles. The Swedes got it right. All the way down the line in my opinion. These movies were engaging, kick-ass, and perfectly cast. I was shocked by how much I enjoyed these films as each one hit my cinema in quick secession.
The filmmakers, first Niel Oplev and later Daniel Alfredson, do not shirk away from the violence that is necessary to understand the stark message of these books. Larsson sought to expose what he felt was a misogny that lies underneath a seemingly sedate Swedish society. Their is a refreshing lack of stylization or downplaying of the violence that is perpetuated on the protagonist. However there are also throw away moments of casual misogny between male characters that also point to Larsson's intentions. This key understanding of the source material allows the writers to shape a fast-paced action film that can discard hefty prose for highly charged visuals. It is unique entertaining filmmaking without the trappings of commercial studio meddling.
However the glue that makes this movie work is the fantastic performance from actress Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth Salander. Such a difficult, insular, character would be a challenge for even the most talented of actresses, but this complete unknown nails it. Her performance is dynamic and spell-binding. Rapace shows us the intelligence (and sometimes scary) emotions behind the punk snarl. The closed off facade is barely breached by journalist Mikael Bloomquist, also well played by Michael Nyvquist, but she still has a long way to go. And she also convincingly kicks ass.
Thankfully these films are available long before the now filming American version. I highly recommend checking them out. Good luck David Fincher, you've got some mighty shoes to fill.
Also Recommend: True Grit, Never Let Me Go, The Social Network, Winter's Bone, Tamara Drewe
More to Come I assure you, Book Slave.
Time to Reflect and choose what was worthy of remembrance from the previous year. Here we go.
Best Movie Literary Adaptation: Girl With The Dragon Tattoo series
It could of gone so wrong. This is why the Swedish film adaptations of the Millenial trilogy books, Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Girl Who Played With Fire and Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest , should be considered small miracles. The Swedes got it right. All the way down the line in my opinion. These movies were engaging, kick-ass, and perfectly cast. I was shocked by how much I enjoyed these films as each one hit my cinema in quick secession.
The filmmakers, first Niel Oplev and later Daniel Alfredson, do not shirk away from the violence that is necessary to understand the stark message of these books. Larsson sought to expose what he felt was a misogny that lies underneath a seemingly sedate Swedish society. Their is a refreshing lack of stylization or downplaying of the violence that is perpetuated on the protagonist. However there are also throw away moments of casual misogny between male characters that also point to Larsson's intentions. This key understanding of the source material allows the writers to shape a fast-paced action film that can discard hefty prose for highly charged visuals. It is unique entertaining filmmaking without the trappings of commercial studio meddling.
However the glue that makes this movie work is the fantastic performance from actress Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth Salander. Such a difficult, insular, character would be a challenge for even the most talented of actresses, but this complete unknown nails it. Her performance is dynamic and spell-binding. Rapace shows us the intelligence (and sometimes scary) emotions behind the punk snarl. The closed off facade is barely breached by journalist Mikael Bloomquist, also well played by Michael Nyvquist, but she still has a long way to go. And she also convincingly kicks ass.
Thankfully these films are available long before the now filming American version. I highly recommend checking them out. Good luck David Fincher, you've got some mighty shoes to fill.
Also Recommend: True Grit, Never Let Me Go, The Social Network, Winter's Bone, Tamara Drewe
More to Come I assure you, Book Slave.
2010-09-01
Hey they're making a movie of that.
Hey folks,
Looking at my calendar I noticed that it's September. September! Yeah!
Don't get me wrong. Summer can be awesome. In my neck of the woods it means insanely high temperatures, the ritualistic burning of my fair skin, and a dryness that will suck every drop of moisture from your body. Oh but I digress.
For me the fall season means that my two passions collide: movies and books. Traditionally high class movie adaptations appear in the fall so that they can be released as award-bait. Hollywood's cynical calculation is my gain as I get excited seeing what's coming up. I will always support movie-adaptations of books because it does drive people to check out the
original source material. Whether the movie is good or bad, readers will be naturally drawn to the original which is a great thing. Anything that leads to more reading by our civilization is a beneficial act.
Case in point: Recently I was motivated to finally read Never Let Me Go because I saw the trailer for the upcoming film. I ended up loving this book and now I'm even more psyched for the movie. (read my review here) Now it's completely plausible that this book may have sat on my TBR pile for another 5 years if this movie adaptation didn't happen. Sometimes it takes the simplest of reasons for one book to push to the top.
As I've written before I'm not a purist. I don't expect movies and books to be the same. I'll save that for BBC. I actually expect a screenwriter and director to bring their own style/interpretation to the material. We've all seen Pride and Prejudice a billion times. Same goes for Jane Eyre. I don't want to see what I've seen already. In some strange cases the movie is better than the book. It does happen every once and awhile. I've felt that the Swedish movie adaptations of Stieg Larsson's Millenium Trilogy have been phenomenal. However I also feel that the streamlining of the plot elevates the material. Larsson's books sometimes suffer due to too much detail and not enough editing. The movies increase the action and tension but cuts down on some of the tedious details that I don't care about. If you get the chance to check out the Swedish movie versions I highly reccommend them based on Noomi Rapace's performance alone.
Anyway here's three book to movie adaptations coming out this year (along with the aforementioned Never Let Me Go) that I am now compelled to read the book based on the trailers that I have seen:
*Accidental Billionaires by Ben Mezrich. This is the original source material for the film The Social Network.
*The Adjustment Bureau by Philip K. Dick.
*Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan. This is the original source material for the film The Town.
Look for these reviews in the future. (Well Maybe...) Have a great mid-week! Book Slave.
Looking at my calendar I noticed that it's September. September! Yeah!
Don't get me wrong. Summer can be awesome. In my neck of the woods it means insanely high temperatures, the ritualistic burning of my fair skin, and a dryness that will suck every drop of moisture from your body. Oh but I digress.
For me the fall season means that my two passions collide: movies and books. Traditionally high class movie adaptations appear in the fall so that they can be released as award-bait. Hollywood's cynical calculation is my gain as I get excited seeing what's coming up. I will always support movie-adaptations of books because it does drive people to check out the
original source material. Whether the movie is good or bad, readers will be naturally drawn to the original which is a great thing. Anything that leads to more reading by our civilization is a beneficial act.Case in point: Recently I was motivated to finally read Never Let Me Go because I saw the trailer for the upcoming film. I ended up loving this book and now I'm even more psyched for the movie. (read my review here) Now it's completely plausible that this book may have sat on my TBR pile for another 5 years if this movie adaptation didn't happen. Sometimes it takes the simplest of reasons for one book to push to the top.
As I've written before I'm not a purist. I don't expect movies and books to be the same. I'll save that for BBC. I actually expect a screenwriter and director to bring their own style/interpretation to the material. We've all seen Pride and Prejudice a billion times. Same goes for Jane Eyre. I don't want to see what I've seen already. In some strange cases the movie is better than the book. It does happen every once and awhile. I've felt that the Swedish movie adaptations of Stieg Larsson's Millenium Trilogy have been phenomenal. However I also feel that the streamlining of the plot elevates the material. Larsson's books sometimes suffer due to too much detail and not enough editing. The movies increase the action and tension but cuts down on some of the tedious details that I don't care about. If you get the chance to check out the Swedish movie versions I highly reccommend them based on Noomi Rapace's performance alone.
Anyway here's three book to movie adaptations coming out this year (along with the aforementioned Never Let Me Go) that I am now compelled to read the book based on the trailers that I have seen:
*Accidental Billionaires by Ben Mezrich. This is the original source material for the film The Social Network.
*The Adjustment Bureau by Philip K. Dick.
*Prince of Thieves by Chuck Hogan. This is the original source material for the film The Town.
Look for these reviews in the future. (Well Maybe...) Have a great mid-week! Book Slave.
2010-06-25
If only the makers of Jonah Hex had Listened.
Hey folks,
After I've seen a few disasterous literary adaptations come down the pipe lately I felt compelled to write the following. If only anyone in charge were actually reading. *sigh*
5 Ways Not to Eff-Up A Literary Adaptation
1. It's about the characters.
As long as it's clear that Frodo needs Samwise to save him from the Ring, then I don't care what you change. It is these characters that we love and are willing to follow. That can't be replaced by a special effect or story twist. Strong consistent characters can steer any successful page-to-screen adaptation.
2. It's got to be an interesting World.
The world of the movie has to be made interesting and new by the writers, directors, and cast. The original author went to a lot of trouble describing the world inhabited by these characters. At least do the author the favor of doing the same when you translate it into a visual medium. Actually it might be a good thing just to let the author do the screenplay. If they want to. What you got to lose?
3. Casting is Key.
I don't care if you get the hottest "It" girl/guy of the moment, if she's not right for the part, then your sunk. And not all actresses are Meryl Streep, Helen Mirren or Cate Blanchett. Those actresses can do any part on earth. Frankly if I heard they were gonna be the leads in an adaptation of anything, I would buy a ticket. I tell anyone who will listen that a great performance from any actor will always gain more than a mediocre performance from a "star" actor. Cast for talent not popularity. Please.
4. If it's not good. Then it's not good.
Okay so you may be able to fool those folks who go see anything the first day it comes out, but a book will outlast a bad literary movie adaptation. In the end that bad movie will end up in a bargain bin at Walmart. Go ahead put it out in January, March or September. However no fan of a book wants to see a poor adaptation of their favorite book. If the movie looks like it's gonna be bad, then just cut your losses and move on to the next project. Don't change the ending, or recast, or bury it. Just don't make the movie in the first place.
5. Not Every Book is Meant to Be a Movie.
It's true. For every great movie adaptation of a book that everyone said "couldn't be done" their are utter abhorrent mistakes. Books and movies are two different mediums. One is visual. One is created with words only. Not everything can or should be both. There are also books that are so iconic that you may want to avoid adaptation completely. I'm looking at you On The Road.
So having said all this here are 5 books that I think would make great movies if done right:
Special Topics In Calamity Physics by Marissa Pessl
Northline by Willy Vlautin
Alias by Brian Michael Bendis
Winesburg Ohio by Sherwood Anderson
Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane by Sean McKeever
Have a great weekend! Book Slave.
After I've seen a few disasterous literary adaptations come down the pipe lately I felt compelled to write the following. If only anyone in charge were actually reading. *sigh*
5 Ways Not to Eff-Up A Literary Adaptation
1. It's about the characters.
As long as it's clear that Frodo needs Samwise to save him from the Ring, then I don't care what you change. It is these characters that we love and are willing to follow. That can't be replaced by a special effect or story twist. Strong consistent characters can steer any successful page-to-screen adaptation.
2. It's got to be an interesting World.
The world of the movie has to be made interesting and new by the writers, directors, and cast. The original author went to a lot of trouble describing the world inhabited by these characters. At least do the author the favor of doing the same when you translate it into a visual medium. Actually it might be a good thing just to let the author do the screenplay. If they want to. What you got to lose?
3. Casting is Key.
I don't care if you get the hottest "It" girl/guy of the moment, if she's not right for the part, then your sunk. And not all actresses are Meryl Streep, Helen Mirren or Cate Blanchett. Those actresses can do any part on earth. Frankly if I heard they were gonna be the leads in an adaptation of anything, I would buy a ticket. I tell anyone who will listen that a great performance from any actor will always gain more than a mediocre performance from a "star" actor. Cast for talent not popularity. Please.
4. If it's not good. Then it's not good.
Okay so you may be able to fool those folks who go see anything the first day it comes out, but a book will outlast a bad literary movie adaptation. In the end that bad movie will end up in a bargain bin at Walmart. Go ahead put it out in January, March or September. However no fan of a book wants to see a poor adaptation of their favorite book. If the movie looks like it's gonna be bad, then just cut your losses and move on to the next project. Don't change the ending, or recast, or bury it. Just don't make the movie in the first place.
5. Not Every Book is Meant to Be a Movie.
It's true. For every great movie adaptation of a book that everyone said "couldn't be done" their are utter abhorrent mistakes. Books and movies are two different mediums. One is visual. One is created with words only. Not everything can or should be both. There are also books that are so iconic that you may want to avoid adaptation completely. I'm looking at you On The Road.
So having said all this here are 5 books that I think would make great movies if done right:
Special Topics In Calamity Physics by Marissa Pessl
Northline by Willy Vlautin
Alias by Brian Michael Bendis
Winesburg Ohio by Sherwood Anderson
Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane by Sean McKeever
Have a great weekend! Book Slave.
2010-01-28
JD Salinger. So It Goes.
There has been a lot of literary loss in the last few days. The deaths of Louis Auchincloss and Howard Zinn are sad, especially when lumped in with Robert Parker. However the loss that affected me personally was the death of JD Salinger yesterday at 91. I don't know why but I guess I thought that he would live forever in that New England cocoon he enclosed around himself long ago. Whether he was crazy, psychologically disturbed, or just done with the human race, I never held it against him that he disappeared back in 1965. His literary work was all I ever needed. In a world where it seems everyone will whore themselves out for a tangential moment of fame, I appreciated the Salinger enigma. I never wanted to know what he ate for breakfast in the morning or whether he was dating Angelina Jolie. He would always be a mix of Seymour Glass and Holden Caulfield to me. And that's fine.
Now I've written about how I stumbled upon Catcher in the Rye here but that actually was not the first time I encountered JD Salinger. The first time was in 1989 when I read Shoeless Joe Comes to Iowa by W.P. Kinsella. At this time in my life I was obssessed with baseball. Not because I'm any good at sports, really I'm not, but I love anything with a history and mythology. To me baseball was magical with heroes and villians, feats of strength and redemption. It was my mom who picked up a copy of Shoeless Joe because she knew I was looking forward to seeing the film Field of Dreams. That movie is based on Kinsella's book and I love it to this day.
However one of the major changes that was made in the literary adaptation is that the character of Terrence Mann, played by James Earl Jones in the film, was originally JD Salinger. Kinsella used Salinger as the perfect archetype of an author who had become lost in his own cynicism. The book version of Salinger, who is actually named JD Salinger, finds spiritual redemption in Kinsella's baseball field. Now as a 10 year old I didn't understand the full ramifications of that characterization. It's really quite daring of Kinsella. Upon reflection I think that Kinsella was exercising his own form of wish fulfillment. We've all wondered when those secret writings would be published. When would our patience be rewarded? It turns out the real Salinger was never worried or was interested in what we wanted.
As I think back today I realize that I wouldn't want it any other way. Starting at age 10 I began to understand that not everyone is meant to be understood. JD Salinger had his own demons, fears, and desires. I can love his work without trying to understand why he choose to become reclusive. The wish fulfillment of Shoeless Joe was one way to cope with a perceived loss. With his death today I am drawn back to the conclusion Holden Caulfield does at the end of Catcher In the Rye:
J.D. Salinger may not have needed us. But we needed him.
Now I've written about how I stumbled upon Catcher in the Rye here but that actually was not the first time I encountered JD Salinger. The first time was in 1989 when I read Shoeless Joe Comes to Iowa by W.P. Kinsella. At this time in my life I was obssessed with baseball. Not because I'm any good at sports, really I'm not, but I love anything with a history and mythology. To me baseball was magical with heroes and villians, feats of strength and redemption. It was my mom who picked up a copy of Shoeless Joe because she knew I was looking forward to seeing the film Field of Dreams. That movie is based on Kinsella's book and I love it to this day.
However one of the major changes that was made in the literary adaptation is that the character of Terrence Mann, played by James Earl Jones in the film, was originally JD Salinger. Kinsella used Salinger as the perfect archetype of an author who had become lost in his own cynicism. The book version of Salinger, who is actually named JD Salinger, finds spiritual redemption in Kinsella's baseball field. Now as a 10 year old I didn't understand the full ramifications of that characterization. It's really quite daring of Kinsella. Upon reflection I think that Kinsella was exercising his own form of wish fulfillment. We've all wondered when those secret writings would be published. When would our patience be rewarded? It turns out the real Salinger was never worried or was interested in what we wanted.
As I think back today I realize that I wouldn't want it any other way. Starting at age 10 I began to understand that not everyone is meant to be understood. JD Salinger had his own demons, fears, and desires. I can love his work without trying to understand why he choose to become reclusive. The wish fulfillment of Shoeless Joe was one way to cope with a perceived loss. With his death today I am drawn back to the conclusion Holden Caulfield does at the end of Catcher In the Rye:
"Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody."
J.D. Salinger may not have needed us. But we needed him.
2010-01-25
It's still Jane's World. We just live here.
Hello
In anticipation of Masterpiece Theatre's new adaptation of Emma, which screened Part 1 last night, my mom and I had a little Austen discussion yesterday. My mom and I have shared a love of "Jane" ever since I was teen. Luckily I was a teen during the Austen revival of the mid 90s. Her and I breathlessly saw all the various movie adaptations that were released at that time. I read the books for the first time, as she revisited them with each new adaptation.
Yesterday's discussion began with a debate about whether Clueless should be compared with more straightforward adaptations of Emma. I argue that it shares enough in common with say 1996's Emma (that's the one with Paltrow) that it should be considered. Her argument was that it set a dangerous precedent. Would we allow Bridget Jones's Diary to be compared with 1994's Pride and Prejudice? Not to mention all these hybrids which are adding zombies and sea monsters to our Jane's original texts? I did see her point, however I think Clueless is the best adaptation thus far of Emma for the screen. I guess I'm okay with making an exception in this case. My very literate mom held her ground, respectively.
Moving on... I then threw down a gauntlet: Rank Your Austen Novels. Although it's a bit silly and arbitrary, it's also kinda fun.
Surprisingly my mom topped her list with Persuasion. Now this was fairly shocking to me. I just assumed that P&P would be the tops for both of us. Isn't P&P universally loved and held on a pedestal by all us Jane-ites? Apparently not. Perhaps Persuasion is rising in people's estimations with the more information that we find out about Jane herself. I've always seen Jane as being an "Elizabeth Bennett"-esque character, but maybe she is more like Anne Eliot. With her use of writer's voice Austen is as much a character in her books as Emma Woodhouse. It is not difficult then to graft our own love for "our Jane" to certain characters that she has created. I feel that this emotional transference is starting to occur with the character of Anne Eliot, a woman who believes that she made a mistake in love years ago.
Persuasion was Austen's last finished book and it clearly reflects a more adult world view. Anne Eliot is Austen's most mature character. She is full of regret, world-weary, and lost. The return of Captain Wentworth is a chance at redemption. I think a part of us wants to believe that maybe Austen sought a similiar redemption as she was dying of what was most likely Addison's Disease. However I am also starting to believe that Austen, while she was in dire straights, was evolving as a writer. Persuasion was a step towards more adult subjects such as death, war, and lost chances. Will she settle for William Eliot? The stakes are more personal as Anne Eliot feels that she has blown her chance at happiness.
I prefer to believe that Jane Austen regretted nothing about her life. Perhaps she would have liked to make more money and write more books. But otherwise I'm not interested in the tragic view, we'll leave that to the Brontes. I think this is why my favorite is Pride and Prejudice because it reflects a convergence of comedy, commentary, and pure joy. As her first written book P&P, originally known as First Impressions, I still marvel at how different it is than any other books of the time. I've written about this at length here. But today I revel in the humor and knowing winks that Jane gives us through her 3rd person narrative voice. She is our guide in this 19th century country society world. And although she'll show us the silliness of this societies culture, she also shows us the nobility that exists. You get the feeling in P&P that Austen loves it, flaws and all.
Of course this entire discussion is highly subjective. With only 6 novels available in her literary oevre us Jane-ites have the ability to really dwell on all the nuances. The fact that so much discussion could be pulled from so little material is a testament to her skill. It's undeniable.
For anyone interested here's our respective lists:
(BTW In all fairness I have not read Sanditon or Mansfield Park and my mom has not read Northanger Abbey, so these have been omitted)
Mom
Persuasion
Pride and Prejudice
Sense and Sensibility
Emma
Mansfield Park
Me
Pride and Prejudice
Emma
Persuasion
Sense and Sensibility
Northanger Abbey
Have a great week! Book Slave.
In anticipation of Masterpiece Theatre's new adaptation of Emma, which screened Part 1 last night, my mom and I had a little Austen discussion yesterday. My mom and I have shared a love of "Jane" ever since I was teen. Luckily I was a teen during the Austen revival of the mid 90s. Her and I breathlessly saw all the various movie adaptations that were released at that time. I read the books for the first time, as she revisited them with each new adaptation.
Yesterday's discussion began with a debate about whether Clueless should be compared with more straightforward adaptations of Emma. I argue that it shares enough in common with say 1996's Emma (that's the one with Paltrow) that it should be considered. Her argument was that it set a dangerous precedent. Would we allow Bridget Jones's Diary to be compared with 1994's Pride and Prejudice? Not to mention all these hybrids which are adding zombies and sea monsters to our Jane's original texts? I did see her point, however I think Clueless is the best adaptation thus far of Emma for the screen. I guess I'm okay with making an exception in this case. My very literate mom held her ground, respectively.
Moving on... I then threw down a gauntlet: Rank Your Austen Novels. Although it's a bit silly and arbitrary, it's also kinda fun.
Surprisingly my mom topped her list with Persuasion. Now this was fairly shocking to me. I just assumed that P&P would be the tops for both of us. Isn't P&P universally loved and held on a pedestal by all us Jane-ites? Apparently not. Perhaps Persuasion is rising in people's estimations with the more information that we find out about Jane herself. I've always seen Jane as being an "Elizabeth Bennett"-esque character, but maybe she is more like Anne Eliot. With her use of writer's voice Austen is as much a character in her books as Emma Woodhouse. It is not difficult then to graft our own love for "our Jane" to certain characters that she has created. I feel that this emotional transference is starting to occur with the character of Anne Eliot, a woman who believes that she made a mistake in love years ago.
Persuasion was Austen's last finished book and it clearly reflects a more adult world view. Anne Eliot is Austen's most mature character. She is full of regret, world-weary, and lost. The return of Captain Wentworth is a chance at redemption. I think a part of us wants to believe that maybe Austen sought a similiar redemption as she was dying of what was most likely Addison's Disease. However I am also starting to believe that Austen, while she was in dire straights, was evolving as a writer. Persuasion was a step towards more adult subjects such as death, war, and lost chances. Will she settle for William Eliot? The stakes are more personal as Anne Eliot feels that she has blown her chance at happiness.
I prefer to believe that Jane Austen regretted nothing about her life. Perhaps she would have liked to make more money and write more books. But otherwise I'm not interested in the tragic view, we'll leave that to the Brontes. I think this is why my favorite is Pride and Prejudice because it reflects a convergence of comedy, commentary, and pure joy. As her first written book P&P, originally known as First Impressions, I still marvel at how different it is than any other books of the time. I've written about this at length here. But today I revel in the humor and knowing winks that Jane gives us through her 3rd person narrative voice. She is our guide in this 19th century country society world. And although she'll show us the silliness of this societies culture, she also shows us the nobility that exists. You get the feeling in P&P that Austen loves it, flaws and all.
Of course this entire discussion is highly subjective. With only 6 novels available in her literary oevre us Jane-ites have the ability to really dwell on all the nuances. The fact that so much discussion could be pulled from so little material is a testament to her skill. It's undeniable.
For anyone interested here's our respective lists:
(BTW In all fairness I have not read Sanditon or Mansfield Park and my mom has not read Northanger Abbey, so these have been omitted)
Mom
Persuasion
Pride and Prejudice
Sense and Sensibility
Emma
Mansfield Park
Me
Pride and Prejudice
Emma
Persuasion
Sense and Sensibility
Northanger Abbey
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2010-01-21
Cranford, The Return.
For the last two weekends I had the opportunity to return to a magical place called Cranford. For those who are uninformed here's where I've discussed my fondness, love, and fascination for this wonderful haven.
*How December Got Awesome
*Television can occasionally be good for you
In my opinion, with very few exceptions, Masterpiece Theater Classic has been an amazing gift for us lit fans over the last two years. This is high quality television that rather than highlight the worst of humanity, it rises above to present us with the best. This tradition is maintained with the sequel Return to Cranford (RTC).
This continuation from last year's was able to capture the humor, tragedy, and progress, of a small 1840s village. The village of Cranford is filled with spinsters who rely on each other as they face the changing times. Of course the oncoming industrial revolution is represented by the railroad, which is still trying to develop a route through Cranford. In RTC the route becomes a necessity as the local economy begins to suffer driving residents to "horrible" towns such as Leeds and Liverpool.
Progress is difficult and inevitable is the theme of part one of this series. And although the time period is the 19th century, I couldn't help but feel the relevancy to our current times. With the economy in the dumps, and no recovery on the horizon, it becomes essential that technological innovation becomes the new driving force. Even in the work that I do (librarianship) it is becoming a case of embracing new technologies, like ebooks, or get out of the way. Not everyone is willing to do this but even in the world of Cranford it is inevitable.
It is a masterstroke and wonderful surprise that the catalyst for change in this story is Miss Matty. Miss Matty, as portrayed by Dame Judi Dench, is the beating heart of Cranford. She remains at the center of events in RTC, but is much more proactive in her influence. As the passive of the two sisters in the original Cranford, in RTC she decides to become a driving force. And how could anyone say no to her? She is the kind of person who is amazingly selfless. Her empathy is untainted by cynicism which is refreshing in this day and age. It is heart-breaking when she has to deal with the often cruel fact that sometimes terrible things happen. I was blown away by how the character of Miss Matty internalizes and takes responsibility for the negative consequences. Further she is able to take that guilt and turn it into a positive action.
Her internal journey gives this story emotional heft that is absent in other characters. I was not as invested in the romantic relationships in this volume. Also the villians were sadly a bit one-dimensional. I'm not sure whether this reflects Gaskell's story-telling or the intentions of director Simon Curtis. It was sad to see Septimus portrayed as such a one-dimensional villian (and btw what was up with the gay overtones? Aren't we past fey gay villian stereotypes in our modern times?) considering the build up that we've had with his character since the first Cranford. Poor Mr. Pryce was given an inconsistent character of Edward Buxton in the second half. One minute he's a good guy, the next he's a manipulative jerk. That's just poor storytelling.
RTC does maintain Gaskell's theme that a strong woman will sacrifice for the better good. Whether it's Miss Matty or Miss Galindo with Harry Gregson, these women are resilient. This series has motivated me to check out Gaskell this year. And I can't wait. In the end I highly recommend checking out Return to Cranford either online here, or on DVD soon. It is completely worth the return trip.
*How December Got Awesome
*Television can occasionally be good for you
In my opinion, with very few exceptions, Masterpiece Theater Classic has been an amazing gift for us lit fans over the last two years. This is high quality television that rather than highlight the worst of humanity, it rises above to present us with the best. This tradition is maintained with the sequel Return to Cranford (RTC).
This continuation from last year's was able to capture the humor, tragedy, and progress, of a small 1840s village. The village of Cranford is filled with spinsters who rely on each other as they face the changing times. Of course the oncoming industrial revolution is represented by the railroad, which is still trying to develop a route through Cranford. In RTC the route becomes a necessity as the local economy begins to suffer driving residents to "horrible" towns such as Leeds and Liverpool.
Progress is difficult and inevitable is the theme of part one of this series. And although the time period is the 19th century, I couldn't help but feel the relevancy to our current times. With the economy in the dumps, and no recovery on the horizon, it becomes essential that technological innovation becomes the new driving force. Even in the work that I do (librarianship) it is becoming a case of embracing new technologies, like ebooks, or get out of the way. Not everyone is willing to do this but even in the world of Cranford it is inevitable.
It is a masterstroke and wonderful surprise that the catalyst for change in this story is Miss Matty. Miss Matty, as portrayed by Dame Judi Dench, is the beating heart of Cranford. She remains at the center of events in RTC, but is much more proactive in her influence. As the passive of the two sisters in the original Cranford, in RTC she decides to become a driving force. And how could anyone say no to her? She is the kind of person who is amazingly selfless. Her empathy is untainted by cynicism which is refreshing in this day and age. It is heart-breaking when she has to deal with the often cruel fact that sometimes terrible things happen. I was blown away by how the character of Miss Matty internalizes and takes responsibility for the negative consequences. Further she is able to take that guilt and turn it into a positive action.
Her internal journey gives this story emotional heft that is absent in other characters. I was not as invested in the romantic relationships in this volume. Also the villians were sadly a bit one-dimensional. I'm not sure whether this reflects Gaskell's story-telling or the intentions of director Simon Curtis. It was sad to see Septimus portrayed as such a one-dimensional villian (and btw what was up with the gay overtones? Aren't we past fey gay villian stereotypes in our modern times?) considering the build up that we've had with his character since the first Cranford. Poor Mr. Pryce was given an inconsistent character of Edward Buxton in the second half. One minute he's a good guy, the next he's a manipulative jerk. That's just poor storytelling.
RTC does maintain Gaskell's theme that a strong woman will sacrifice for the better good. Whether it's Miss Matty or Miss Galindo with Harry Gregson, these women are resilient. This series has motivated me to check out Gaskell this year. And I can't wait. In the end I highly recommend checking out Return to Cranford either online here, or on DVD soon. It is completely worth the return trip.
2010-01-13
With Great Power...
Hello All,
As a comic geek I've been thrown for a loop this week. In comic movie news it turns out that Sam Raimi & Tobey Maguire are leaving the Spider-Man movie franchise.
Now I've been a major fan of all three films, even the third one, although I admit it had problems. In my opinion Spider-Man 2 is the best superhero film ever made. It's great performances and script paved the way for movies such as The Dark Knight and Iron Man. I think a lot of credit goes to Raimi for capturing the fun, pathos, and humanity that can be found in this web-slinging hero. It's disconcerting to hear that he has left over "creative differences." What is with Sony Pictures? Don't they realize that Raimi is an able captain for this ship? Apparently not because here comes a reboot with Peter Parker going back to high-school.
In the last two years I've dipped my toes into the Spider-Man Universe. I enjoy the fact that while he's got super powers, he's also a real life guy who is just cannot catch a break. For spider-man if the going gets tough, well then it just gets worse. The best writers, such as Joe Kelly, Brian Michael Bendis, or even Dan Slott, understand that rather than cry over his bad fortune, Peter Parker will throw out a self-deprecating quip. This puts him at odds with the current skinny man-boy greyish brooders that are currently in mode at the cineplex. Peter Parker may be a nerd, but he's not conflicted about it. He's conflicted about where the next dollar is gonna come from, and how he's gonna take care of Aunt May.
So if Sony wants to re-boot Peter Parker back to high school than what source material should they draw from? Many have speculated that Sony will go to Ultimate Spider-man by Brian Michael Bendis. This would be an excellent choice. I've read the first few volumes of this series and enjoyed them immensely. Bendis has a great ability to capture the wise-acre sarcasm and his series features Parker in high school. However I don't think Bendis is interested in writing a Spider-man movie. He's too busy writing every book in the Marvel Universe. Well not really, but pretty close.
Well if I had the chance to bend Sony's ear I think that I have the perfect option: Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane. I devoured this series about 2 years ago and I love it. SMLJ actually focuses on Parker and MJ in high school, with their romantic travails. In fact Parker as Spider-Man is pretty much in the extreme background. The action focuses mainly on MJ's developing friendship with Peter, her dating Harry Osborne, and how her crush on Spider-Man is tested. It's a fun, adorable, teen series that anyone can read. It's easily adaptable and is already made for the teen market. If that's what Sony wants to focus on, then this is a great choice.
Are you listening Sony? Really all I ask: Don't Screw It Up. Choose great material: Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane is a winner.
As a comic geek I've been thrown for a loop this week. In comic movie news it turns out that Sam Raimi & Tobey Maguire are leaving the Spider-Man movie franchise.
Now I've been a major fan of all three films, even the third one, although I admit it had problems. In my opinion Spider-Man 2 is the best superhero film ever made. It's great performances and script paved the way for movies such as The Dark Knight and Iron Man. I think a lot of credit goes to Raimi for capturing the fun, pathos, and humanity that can be found in this web-slinging hero. It's disconcerting to hear that he has left over "creative differences." What is with Sony Pictures? Don't they realize that Raimi is an able captain for this ship? Apparently not because here comes a reboot with Peter Parker going back to high-school. In the last two years I've dipped my toes into the Spider-Man Universe. I enjoy the fact that while he's got super powers, he's also a real life guy who is just cannot catch a break. For spider-man if the going gets tough, well then it just gets worse. The best writers, such as Joe Kelly, Brian Michael Bendis, or even Dan Slott, understand that rather than cry over his bad fortune, Peter Parker will throw out a self-deprecating quip. This puts him at odds with the current skinny man-boy greyish brooders that are currently in mode at the cineplex. Peter Parker may be a nerd, but he's not conflicted about it. He's conflicted about where the next dollar is gonna come from, and how he's gonna take care of Aunt May.
So if Sony wants to re-boot Peter Parker back to high school than what source material should they draw from? Many have speculated that Sony will go to Ultimate Spider-man by Brian Michael Bendis. This would be an excellent choice. I've read the first few volumes of this series and enjoyed them immensely. Bendis has a great ability to capture the wise-acre sarcasm and his series features Parker in high school. However I don't think Bendis is interested in writing a Spider-man movie. He's too busy writing every book in the Marvel Universe. Well not really, but pretty close.
Well if I had the chance to bend Sony's ear I think that I have the perfect option: Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane. I devoured this series about 2 years ago and I love it. SMLJ actually focuses on Parker and MJ in high school, with their romantic travails. In fact Parker as Spider-Man is pretty much in the extreme background. The action focuses mainly on MJ's developing friendship with Peter, her dating Harry Osborne, and how her crush on Spider-Man is tested. It's a fun, adorable, teen series that anyone can read. It's easily adaptable and is already made for the teen market. If that's what Sony wants to focus on, then this is a great choice.
Are you listening Sony? Really all I ask: Don't Screw It Up. Choose great material: Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane is a winner.
2009-12-28
Yes It was Fantastic.
Hello,
My end of the year thoughts continue!
Best Movie Literary Adaptation 2009: Fantastic Mr. Fox
Just to qualify this choice up front: At the time of my writing this I have yet to see The Road or The Lovely Bones so don't give me grief. I fully intend to and who knows you might read about it in the future. Also I want to make clear that I don't see everything that comes out. I don't have time for movies that don't interest me. So moving along...
The Fantastic Mr. Fox is the perfect match of sensibilities. Based on the book written by Roald Dahl, the script was adapted by Wes Anderson and Noah Baumbach. In their adaptation the writers expand upon the original book but never enough that it moves away from the original audience or message. Dahl and Anderson share the same viewpoint on human nature-there isn't much difference between humans and animals.
In this adaptation the main character Mr. Fox has regular wants and desires. I was so struck when he says to his wife "I don't want to live in a hole anymore." He struggles with an existential angst which leads him to go back to stealing chickens and cider from his farmer neighbors. It is the thrill of the theft that Mr. Fox becomes addicted to. At the same time we are introduced to the deplorable Boggis, Bunce, and Bean. These three men, especially Bean, are as animalistic as those they are hunting. The parallels are easily drawn.
I have never been a purist when it comes to book to film adaptation. Any adaptation should feel free to expand/make changes from the source material in order to match the different medium. I have been a fan of director Wes Anderson since I saw Rushmore in theaters. He has a definite style and humor that is smart and full of wit. You know that you've watched a "Wes Anderson" film. And I have a feeling that he will never make films any other way.
In Fox Anderson/Baumbach use a look and feel that works on all levels. The stop motion animation allows me to believe in a world where animals walk around in suits, sell real estate, and do watercolors. It was a wonderful choice. These characters can do whacky things, but also show very real emotions. The filmmakers have humor and themes that both adults and children can relate to.
It was highly enjoyable. Check it out in theaters if you can.
Have a great week! Book Slave.
My end of the year thoughts continue!
Best Movie Literary Adaptation 2009: Fantastic Mr. Fox
Just to qualify this choice up front: At the time of my writing this I have yet to see The Road or The Lovely Bones so don't give me grief. I fully intend to and who knows you might read about it in the future. Also I want to make clear that I don't see everything that comes out. I don't have time for movies that don't interest me. So moving along...
The Fantastic Mr. Fox is the perfect match of sensibilities. Based on the book written by Roald Dahl, the script was adapted by Wes Anderson and Noah Baumbach. In their adaptation the writers expand upon the original book but never enough that it moves away from the original audience or message. Dahl and Anderson share the same viewpoint on human nature-there isn't much difference between humans and animals.
In this adaptation the main character Mr. Fox has regular wants and desires. I was so struck when he says to his wife "I don't want to live in a hole anymore." He struggles with an existential angst which leads him to go back to stealing chickens and cider from his farmer neighbors. It is the thrill of the theft that Mr. Fox becomes addicted to. At the same time we are introduced to the deplorable Boggis, Bunce, and Bean. These three men, especially Bean, are as animalistic as those they are hunting. The parallels are easily drawn.
I have never been a purist when it comes to book to film adaptation. Any adaptation should feel free to expand/make changes from the source material in order to match the different medium. I have been a fan of director Wes Anderson since I saw Rushmore in theaters. He has a definite style and humor that is smart and full of wit. You know that you've watched a "Wes Anderson" film. And I have a feeling that he will never make films any other way.
In Fox Anderson/Baumbach use a look and feel that works on all levels. The stop motion animation allows me to believe in a world where animals walk around in suits, sell real estate, and do watercolors. It was a wonderful choice. These characters can do whacky things, but also show very real emotions. The filmmakers have humor and themes that both adults and children can relate to.
It was highly enjoyable. Check it out in theaters if you can.
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2009-11-23
5 Days off people. Yes, It's true.
Hey Cyber-world,
Call it fate or destiny, perhaps the universe is trying to test me, but somehow this week I ended up with 5 days off in a row. Considering at this time last year, and actually the last 10 years, this has been the beginning of the busiest time of year for me, I am completely thrown by this utter change. What to do with myself? Well I thought about my recent blogging dry spell and have decided this week to try a format change. This week I'm going to post some small bite-size versions of the Book Pusher. Oh don't worry if I choose to be long-winded well then that's how it'll be. Don't be afraid. This will stave off the possibility of my own insanity this week. Also means you could get more of me. So away we go.
Annual Book-Movie Adaptations I Look Forward To In the Latter Half of 2009, or Book Pusher goes to the Movies
The latter half of the year is a sublime time of year. I am able to combine my two obsessions, books and movies, as studios try to make up for the crap they show in summer. Now just to be clear: I am not an adaptation purist. Movies and books are two different mediums. They don't have to be exactly the same. In fact they shouldn't be, because some techniques don't work in both mediums. Also movies need to be a reasonable length. If you want my attention for more than two hours the story better be damn compelling or put it on TV. Dashiell Hammett said it best when he argued that Hollywood cannot ruin a book as long as the book is in print and sits on your shelf. If I think an adaptation looks bad then I just don't go see it.
Important to note: If I have not mentioned a film here, like say New Moon or Precious, well it's because I'm not interested in seeing those films. Hey this is a blog, it's self-centered by definition.
So moving on, here's a list of adaptations that I'm looking forward to for the rest of the year. Shockingly there isn't that many out this fall. I think this is more a reflection of the writer's strike, because these movies take a long time to develop and make. Also I see a distinct move towards more comedies which are sure bets in these economic times (for proof I point you to a movie called Sullivan's Travels. See it.) Anyway what is this a movie blog?
So moving on, here's a list of adaptations that I'm looking forward to for the rest of the year.
The Road (11/25)-Seriously I am rabid for this film. It looks like the perfect combination of cast, director, and story.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (11/25)-Again I cannot wait. Wes Anderson & Roald Dahl sounds like a perfect combination. And it's animated! Yay.
Up In the Air (12/11 limited)-Everything I've seen and heard about this looks great. Could be Clooney's best performance of the year. Jason Reitman is an incredible writer/director.
The Lovely Bones (12/11)-Not 100% sure on this one, but the trailer does have a eerie feeling. I hope this marks a return for Jackson to his earlier style. If you've seen Frighteners or Heavenly Creatures then you know that Jackson is a good choice for this material.
Sherlock Holmes (12/25)-Discussing this with mystery fans I've found that opinions on this film are mixed. Even though this film is an original tale and looks very modern I'm still interested. Guy Ritchie has a definite style and his casting reflects that. This could be fun if you can let go. Purists may hate it.
Again not too many films this year, but the one's that are coming out are massive. I've already been impressed by the film adaptations of Where the Wild Things Are, and the highly literate Bright Star.
So keep an eye out for more shorter posts this week. Or any signs of Shining-esque insanity. Enjoy! Book Slave.
Call it fate or destiny, perhaps the universe is trying to test me, but somehow this week I ended up with 5 days off in a row. Considering at this time last year, and actually the last 10 years, this has been the beginning of the busiest time of year for me, I am completely thrown by this utter change. What to do with myself? Well I thought about my recent blogging dry spell and have decided this week to try a format change. This week I'm going to post some small bite-size versions of the Book Pusher. Oh don't worry if I choose to be long-winded well then that's how it'll be. Don't be afraid. This will stave off the possibility of my own insanity this week. Also means you could get more of me. So away we go.
Annual Book-Movie Adaptations I Look Forward To In the Latter Half of 2009, or Book Pusher goes to the Movies
The latter half of the year is a sublime time of year. I am able to combine my two obsessions, books and movies, as studios try to make up for the crap they show in summer. Now just to be clear: I am not an adaptation purist. Movies and books are two different mediums. They don't have to be exactly the same. In fact they shouldn't be, because some techniques don't work in both mediums. Also movies need to be a reasonable length. If you want my attention for more than two hours the story better be damn compelling or put it on TV. Dashiell Hammett said it best when he argued that Hollywood cannot ruin a book as long as the book is in print and sits on your shelf. If I think an adaptation looks bad then I just don't go see it.
Important to note: If I have not mentioned a film here, like say New Moon or Precious, well it's because I'm not interested in seeing those films. Hey this is a blog, it's self-centered by definition.
So moving on, here's a list of adaptations that I'm looking forward to for the rest of the year. Shockingly there isn't that many out this fall. I think this is more a reflection of the writer's strike, because these movies take a long time to develop and make. Also I see a distinct move towards more comedies which are sure bets in these economic times (for proof I point you to a movie called Sullivan's Travels. See it.) Anyway what is this a movie blog?
So moving on, here's a list of adaptations that I'm looking forward to for the rest of the year.
The Road (11/25)-Seriously I am rabid for this film. It looks like the perfect combination of cast, director, and story.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (11/25)-Again I cannot wait. Wes Anderson & Roald Dahl sounds like a perfect combination. And it's animated! Yay.
Up In the Air (12/11 limited)-Everything I've seen and heard about this looks great. Could be Clooney's best performance of the year. Jason Reitman is an incredible writer/director.
The Lovely Bones (12/11)-Not 100% sure on this one, but the trailer does have a eerie feeling. I hope this marks a return for Jackson to his earlier style. If you've seen Frighteners or Heavenly Creatures then you know that Jackson is a good choice for this material.
Sherlock Holmes (12/25)-Discussing this with mystery fans I've found that opinions on this film are mixed. Even though this film is an original tale and looks very modern I'm still interested. Guy Ritchie has a definite style and his casting reflects that. This could be fun if you can let go. Purists may hate it.
Again not too many films this year, but the one's that are coming out are massive. I've already been impressed by the film adaptations of Where the Wild Things Are, and the highly literate Bright Star.
So keep an eye out for more shorter posts this week. Or any signs of Shining-esque insanity. Enjoy! Book Slave.
2009-04-28
A Lit Sandwich between Me, Charles Dickens, and Little Dorrit.
Hello All,
So I’m pushing back the normal reviews post a few days because I feel that there’s a subject that is timelier. And well it’s my blog and I’ll write what I want to.
On Sunday night after 5 weeks the latest PBS Masterpiece classic series Little Dorrit came to an end. I’ve got so much to say about my love for this series. I think that it has the important elements that make for great discussion. Adaptation maestro Andrew Davies has the remarkable ability to take the works of the 19th century and make them accessible to the modern audience. If you haven’t heard of the man here’s a quick list of his must-see adaptations: Pride and Prejudice (1994), Sense and Sensibility (2008), Tipping the Velvet, and Bridget Jones’s Diary.
He rarely slips up. This writer is not afraid of a challenge. In Little Dorrit he takes on an 800-page book from 1857 and makes it wonderfully relevant. At its core Little Dorrit is about economics; how they shape individuals and society. In Dickens’s world if you were poor and indebted it meant imprisonment in the Marshalsea prison. Marshalsea prison doesn’t have bars and your family can stay with you. However unless you had friends/family to bail you out you weren’t leaving.
I was struck by the portrayal of Mr. Dorrit. He is considered “The Father of the Marshalsea” because he is their longest running resident. Dickens, and in turn Davies, explore his heartbreaking psychological imprisonment. Mr. Dorrit’s pride is his deepest flaw. All he can think of is maintaining his position. This becomes more important to him than ever leaving. The same mentality follows him after he is able to leave the Marshalsea and return to society. Mr. Dorrit is insufferable as a gentleman. He falls into all the foolish trappings of 19th century society and is foolish with his money to boot.
Which brings me to Mr. Merdle and Mr. Casby, as well as the Circumlocution office. It is crazy how relevant this story is to our current situation. Mr. Merdle is clearly "the Bernie Madoff" of his age, screwing all the rich folk out of their money while inviting them to dinner. Again if someone is telling you a story that’s too good to be true, it probably is. At the same time Mr. Casby is squeezing the poor out of every nickel so they stay poor. With Pancks as his muscle he works to keep those in Bleeding Heart under his thumb. Clearly Dickens felt that the current economic system in the 19th century only served to hurt the laborer/tradesman. This form of capitalism only served to create another feudal system with Casby as the lord at the top. Dickens caps off his indictment with his portrayal of the bureaucratic horror that is the Circumlocution Office, which actually reminded me of financial aid.
It is very telling that in the end it is a combination of two things that save our main characters. The first is an emphasis on entrepeneurship over old money. Clennam & Doyce are saved because they invent and market a new engine to foreign markets. Clearly this is meant to show that in the new Industrial Age it is invention and new ideas that will triumph. Also it can’t be missed that Dickens has an affinity for those with street smarts. Fanny Dorrit is a mean bitch but she knows when to bail. She will save the Sparklers and she’s already got a job dancing if needs be. You have to admire her moxie.
Now notice that I haven’t even mentioned the main central characters Amy Dorrit and Arthur Clennam. That just goes to show how rich this series is. Yes I found Amy and Arthur wonderful, as well as poor John Chivery. Their strong character and steadfast goodness makes them slightly less dynamic. In this case it is up to the actors and screenwriter Davies to make them appealing. Actors Claire Foy and Matthew Macfadyen do excellent jobs as Amy and Arthur respectively. I found myself cheering their happiness at the climax of the story. Their willingness towards self-sacrifice is an iconic trademark of Dickens’s heroes. And Claire Foy sure looks good in the color purple.
So here we are. How much more do I need to say to convince you? This is well worth your time. PBS has posted the entire series on their website for free through May 3rd and the DVD comes out today. Check it out here.
Well have a good night. Book Slave.
So I’m pushing back the normal reviews post a few days because I feel that there’s a subject that is timelier. And well it’s my blog and I’ll write what I want to.
On Sunday night after 5 weeks the latest PBS Masterpiece classic series Little Dorrit came to an end. I’ve got so much to say about my love for this series. I think that it has the important elements that make for great discussion. Adaptation maestro Andrew Davies has the remarkable ability to take the works of the 19th century and make them accessible to the modern audience. If you haven’t heard of the man here’s a quick list of his must-see adaptations: Pride and Prejudice (1994), Sense and Sensibility (2008), Tipping the Velvet, and Bridget Jones’s Diary.
He rarely slips up. This writer is not afraid of a challenge. In Little Dorrit he takes on an 800-page book from 1857 and makes it wonderfully relevant. At its core Little Dorrit is about economics; how they shape individuals and society. In Dickens’s world if you were poor and indebted it meant imprisonment in the Marshalsea prison. Marshalsea prison doesn’t have bars and your family can stay with you. However unless you had friends/family to bail you out you weren’t leaving.
I was struck by the portrayal of Mr. Dorrit. He is considered “The Father of the Marshalsea” because he is their longest running resident. Dickens, and in turn Davies, explore his heartbreaking psychological imprisonment. Mr. Dorrit’s pride is his deepest flaw. All he can think of is maintaining his position. This becomes more important to him than ever leaving. The same mentality follows him after he is able to leave the Marshalsea and return to society. Mr. Dorrit is insufferable as a gentleman. He falls into all the foolish trappings of 19th century society and is foolish with his money to boot.
Which brings me to Mr. Merdle and Mr. Casby, as well as the Circumlocution office. It is crazy how relevant this story is to our current situation. Mr. Merdle is clearly "the Bernie Madoff" of his age, screwing all the rich folk out of their money while inviting them to dinner. Again if someone is telling you a story that’s too good to be true, it probably is. At the same time Mr. Casby is squeezing the poor out of every nickel so they stay poor. With Pancks as his muscle he works to keep those in Bleeding Heart under his thumb. Clearly Dickens felt that the current economic system in the 19th century only served to hurt the laborer/tradesman. This form of capitalism only served to create another feudal system with Casby as the lord at the top. Dickens caps off his indictment with his portrayal of the bureaucratic horror that is the Circumlocution Office, which actually reminded me of financial aid.
It is very telling that in the end it is a combination of two things that save our main characters. The first is an emphasis on entrepeneurship over old money. Clennam & Doyce are saved because they invent and market a new engine to foreign markets. Clearly this is meant to show that in the new Industrial Age it is invention and new ideas that will triumph. Also it can’t be missed that Dickens has an affinity for those with street smarts. Fanny Dorrit is a mean bitch but she knows when to bail. She will save the Sparklers and she’s already got a job dancing if needs be. You have to admire her moxie.
Now notice that I haven’t even mentioned the main central characters Amy Dorrit and Arthur Clennam. That just goes to show how rich this series is. Yes I found Amy and Arthur wonderful, as well as poor John Chivery. Their strong character and steadfast goodness makes them slightly less dynamic. In this case it is up to the actors and screenwriter Davies to make them appealing. Actors Claire Foy and Matthew Macfadyen do excellent jobs as Amy and Arthur respectively. I found myself cheering their happiness at the climax of the story. Their willingness towards self-sacrifice is an iconic trademark of Dickens’s heroes. And Claire Foy sure looks good in the color purple.
So here we are. How much more do I need to say to convince you? This is well worth your time. PBS has posted the entire series on their website for free through May 3rd and the DVD comes out today. Check it out here.
Well have a good night. Book Slave.
2009-01-13
Karmic Nature of the Universe.
Hello
I hope you are all enjoying life. I can say that I have had a lot of good luck lately. Of course I await a turn of fortune soon. I'll just keep an eye out for anything falling from the sky.
Being a cinephile I did catch the Golden Globes last weekend. I thought it was a fun show, less stiff than the Oscars. I thought I'd point out the literary adaptations that enjoyed awards:
Slumdog Millionaire (based on the novel Q & A)
Revolutionary Road
The Reader
True Blood (based on a series by Charlaine Harris)
John Adams
An adaptation to the screen can be a great way to bring a lesser known book to light. I had not even heard of some of these books before they reached the movie screen.
Well Onward!
Review
Generation X
In this book Coupland is given credit for creating the image of Generation X. His characterizations of main characters Dag, Andy, and Claire are straight on and compelling. Their disillusionment with society, culture, the past and the future, is a cloud that hangs over their thoughts and motivations. Rather than really a plot, Coupland sets this up as a series of vignettes that illustrates the malaise these characters exist in.
These three characters should be seen as a microcosm even at the sentence level. Coupland even takes pains to include word entries in the margins to illustrate the new vocabulary of this group. They are stuck in a world of glib hipness and empty mercenary success. I found this book a compelling read, but probably only because I can empathize with the plight of the main characters. Other readers would probably see these characters as ridiculously glum slackers. As my mom would say "these kids should quit whining and get a job." However I found that Coupland does a great job of capturing a group of characters who are lost. Their optimism, which is portrayed in their stories to each other, is just unfocused.
Coupland's literary minimalism captures the narrator's slowly putting together what he imagines is a "worthy life." I found myself cheering for these character's to find an acceptable version of success for themselves. There is a heart at the center of the book that made it an enjoyable read.
Other Reviews
San Francisco Chronicle| Seattle Times | The Times
The Reading List
Books
Brontes at Haworth
The Irregulars
Comics
Batman
Magazine
Four Four Two
Check Out Count: Recently Inflated.
Comic Pull List: Action Comics #873, Captain Britain And Mi 13 #9, Deadpool #6, Fables #80, Final Crisis #6, Green Arrow Black Canary #16, Trinity #33
Have a great week! Book Slave.
I hope you are all enjoying life. I can say that I have had a lot of good luck lately. Of course I await a turn of fortune soon. I'll just keep an eye out for anything falling from the sky.
Being a cinephile I did catch the Golden Globes last weekend. I thought it was a fun show, less stiff than the Oscars. I thought I'd point out the literary adaptations that enjoyed awards:
Slumdog Millionaire (based on the novel Q & A)
Revolutionary Road
The Reader
True Blood (based on a series by Charlaine Harris)
John Adams
An adaptation to the screen can be a great way to bring a lesser known book to light. I had not even heard of some of these books before they reached the movie screen.
Well Onward!
Review
Generation X
In this book Coupland is given credit for creating the image of Generation X. His characterizations of main characters Dag, Andy, and Claire are straight on and compelling. Their disillusionment with society, culture, the past and the future, is a cloud that hangs over their thoughts and motivations. Rather than really a plot, Coupland sets this up as a series of vignettes that illustrates the malaise these characters exist in.
These three characters should be seen as a microcosm even at the sentence level. Coupland even takes pains to include word entries in the margins to illustrate the new vocabulary of this group. They are stuck in a world of glib hipness and empty mercenary success. I found this book a compelling read, but probably only because I can empathize with the plight of the main characters. Other readers would probably see these characters as ridiculously glum slackers. As my mom would say "these kids should quit whining and get a job." However I found that Coupland does a great job of capturing a group of characters who are lost. Their optimism, which is portrayed in their stories to each other, is just unfocused.
Coupland's literary minimalism captures the narrator's slowly putting together what he imagines is a "worthy life." I found myself cheering for these character's to find an acceptable version of success for themselves. There is a heart at the center of the book that made it an enjoyable read.
Other Reviews
San Francisco Chronicle| Seattle Times | The Times
The Reading List
Books
Brontes at Haworth
The Irregulars
Comics
Batman
Magazine
Four Four Two
Check Out Count: Recently Inflated.
Comic Pull List: Action Comics #873, Captain Britain And Mi 13 #9, Deadpool #6, Fables #80, Final Crisis #6, Green Arrow Black Canary #16, Trinity #33
Have a great week! Book Slave.
2008-11-15
Some Masterful Dickens
Hey folks out there,
Y'all doing good? I hope so. Today was a great capper to a fun week. The weather was awesome, people were protesting inequality en masse, and there was beer to be drunk. Good times ahead it seems.
Announcement
This week the series Masterpiece Theater announced their new group of programs for early next year. I loved their Jane Austen series from last year, which was followed by the amazing Cranford. If you haven't seen the new 3 hour Sense and Sensibility they put out here's a preview.
I highly reccomend it. It was spiffy.
Anyway they are going to be following it up with a Dicken's series. Here's a rundown:
Little Dorrit- 8 hour mini-series. Stars Matthew Macfadyen, Tom Courtenay and Alun Armstrong. Adapted by Andrew Davies.
The Old Curiosity Shop- 90 minute single. Stars Sir Derek Jacobi, Gina McKee and Toby Jones.
Oliver Twist- 3 hour mini-series. Stars Timothy Spall, Tom Hardy and Sophie Okonedo.
David Copperfield- 3 hour mini-series. Stars Daniel Radcliffe, Maggie Smith and Ian McKellen.
After the brilliant adaptation of Bleak House a few years back color me excited. The Brits are incredibly adept at creating quality top shelf lit adaptations. One part of it is that they are willing to take as long as they need to tell a story right. ITV and BBC don't blink at the idea of spending 3 hours minimum, whereas in the US we freak out over expanded sitcoms. The other element that the Brits have is writer Andrew Davies. The man is the best writer working today. Yeah I said it!
Here's a list of his triumphs: Pride and Prejudice (1994), Bridget Jones's Diary, Tipping the Velvet, Wives and Daughters, etc. For these anglophilic reasons I have complete confidence and can't wait for this coming January 2009.
This got me to thinking what other authors would I like to see adaptations of their works. Here's a list.
1. Wallace Stegner
2. Willa Cather
3. S.E. Hinton
4. Kurt Vonnegut
5. Sherwood Anderson
It would be great to see these authors get "The Complete" treatment. It would be awesome if the American public could pull it together intellectually and demand an upgrade in our standards. No instead we'll be excited for Dancing with the Stars.
Oh well.
Have a great weekend! Book Slave.
Y'all doing good? I hope so. Today was a great capper to a fun week. The weather was awesome, people were protesting inequality en masse, and there was beer to be drunk. Good times ahead it seems.
Announcement
This week the series Masterpiece Theater announced their new group of programs for early next year. I loved their Jane Austen series from last year, which was followed by the amazing Cranford. If you haven't seen the new 3 hour Sense and Sensibility they put out here's a preview.
I highly reccomend it. It was spiffy.
Anyway they are going to be following it up with a Dicken's series. Here's a rundown:
Little Dorrit- 8 hour mini-series. Stars Matthew Macfadyen, Tom Courtenay and Alun Armstrong. Adapted by Andrew Davies.
The Old Curiosity Shop- 90 minute single. Stars Sir Derek Jacobi, Gina McKee and Toby Jones.
Oliver Twist- 3 hour mini-series. Stars Timothy Spall, Tom Hardy and Sophie Okonedo.
David Copperfield- 3 hour mini-series. Stars Daniel Radcliffe, Maggie Smith and Ian McKellen.
After the brilliant adaptation of Bleak House a few years back color me excited. The Brits are incredibly adept at creating quality top shelf lit adaptations. One part of it is that they are willing to take as long as they need to tell a story right. ITV and BBC don't blink at the idea of spending 3 hours minimum, whereas in the US we freak out over expanded sitcoms. The other element that the Brits have is writer Andrew Davies. The man is the best writer working today. Yeah I said it!
Here's a list of his triumphs: Pride and Prejudice (1994), Bridget Jones's Diary, Tipping the Velvet, Wives and Daughters, etc. For these anglophilic reasons I have complete confidence and can't wait for this coming January 2009.
This got me to thinking what other authors would I like to see adaptations of their works. Here's a list.
1. Wallace Stegner
2. Willa Cather
3. S.E. Hinton
4. Kurt Vonnegut
5. Sherwood Anderson
It would be great to see these authors get "The Complete" treatment. It would be awesome if the American public could pull it together intellectually and demand an upgrade in our standards. No instead we'll be excited for Dancing with the Stars.
Oh well.
Have a great weekend! Book Slave.
2008-09-21
Television can occasionally be good for you.
Hello Blogosphere,
Tonight you get a short entry because it's late and I'se got some work to do tonight. For television watchers and award show junkies (like myself) tonight was the Emmy Awards. The show actually wasn't bad although I think 5 hosts was a bit much. I am an enormous fan of Tina Fey, 30 Rock, and Mad Men, so it all works out for me.
Well this isn't a TV blog, but there were some literary adaptations that won awards tonight. Now I enjoy lit adaptations. I talked about it here. The best of course can usually found on PBS which airs major Brit adaptations through Masterpiece Theater. This year Masterpiece has not disappointed and Emmy did through some recognition there way. The magnificent series Cranford, which is based on a series written by Elizabeth Gaskell, won an award tonight for supporting actress Dame Eileen Atkins. I found this series to be amazing and delightful and I will be checking out the books. I highly recommend it and here's a trailer to whet your appetites.
The other big winner tonight was an HBO series John Adams, which is based on the book by David McCullough. Again this was a great mini-series and really delivers. I think television is the perfect medium for shedding light on historical events and figures. At 7 hours the audience is allowed to see the complete picture of a man and his times. Bravo to writer Kirk Ellis, who won an Emmy for screenplay, for making history relevant and human. Here's a trailer for John Adams.
(BTW Total Tangent: After watching Adams I am convinced that Laura Linney is the perfect actress for a remake of Little House on the Prairie. Seriously think about it.)
Anyway both of these programs are available on DVD or they'll get rerun soon I'm sure. Check them out. It's much better than reality television.
Have an excellent week! Goodnight and Good Luck. Bookslave.
Tonight you get a short entry because it's late and I'se got some work to do tonight. For television watchers and award show junkies (like myself) tonight was the Emmy Awards. The show actually wasn't bad although I think 5 hosts was a bit much. I am an enormous fan of Tina Fey, 30 Rock, and Mad Men, so it all works out for me.
Well this isn't a TV blog, but there were some literary adaptations that won awards tonight. Now I enjoy lit adaptations. I talked about it here. The best of course can usually found on PBS which airs major Brit adaptations through Masterpiece Theater. This year Masterpiece has not disappointed and Emmy did through some recognition there way. The magnificent series Cranford, which is based on a series written by Elizabeth Gaskell, won an award tonight for supporting actress Dame Eileen Atkins. I found this series to be amazing and delightful and I will be checking out the books. I highly recommend it and here's a trailer to whet your appetites.
The other big winner tonight was an HBO series John Adams, which is based on the book by David McCullough. Again this was a great mini-series and really delivers. I think television is the perfect medium for shedding light on historical events and figures. At 7 hours the audience is allowed to see the complete picture of a man and his times. Bravo to writer Kirk Ellis, who won an Emmy for screenplay, for making history relevant and human. Here's a trailer for John Adams.
(BTW Total Tangent: After watching Adams I am convinced that Laura Linney is the perfect actress for a remake of Little House on the Prairie. Seriously think about it.)
Anyway both of these programs are available on DVD or they'll get rerun soon I'm sure. Check them out. It's much better than reality television.
Have an excellent week! Goodnight and Good Luck. Bookslave.
2008-08-26
Rocky Mountain High
Hello,
It's convention time! Y'know what I love? CSPAN real time convention coverage and conventioneers dancing. Incredibly awesome. Anyway let's talk books. Onward!
Reviews
Brideshead Revisited
Is it possible to have everything and feel as if you have nothing? Charles Ryder meets Lord Sebastian Flyte at Oxford in 1922. Through his friendship with Sebastian, Ryder is thrust into the center of a life of immense privilege. Ultimately Ryder ends up questioning everything that he believes about truth and faith. I enjoyed this book immensely which I did not expect. I had not seen the famous tv series, or read any Waugh novels before. As I understand this book is very different from his more satirical works. There is comedy in here, Waugh does an excellent job of skewering the wealthy. I was shocked but not surprised by how the Marchmain's react toSebastian's behavior. Lady Marchmain is a well drawn character of someone who believes in molding and controlling her children's every move. Heaven forbid they be allowed to make their own mistakes and choose their own paths. I was also surprised by Waugh's serious discussions of Catholicism in the latter third of the book. Ryder's atheism and philosophy is very well paralleled by the Marchmain's stark Catholic belief. Each side is at a stalemate leaving the ending devastatingly inevitable.
Special Focus: Literary Adaptation
After I finished Brideshead Revisited I went and saw the new movie adaptation. I thought it was really good. In my opinion Emma Thompson can do no wrong and her portrayal of Lady Marchmain was excellent. This got me to thinking about literary adaptation on the big screen and small.
I think there is always a part of us that wants to see our favorite moments/characters/stories brought to life in front of us.
Some of us want to see exact duplications of what we've created in our heads. Or maybe a new spin on a classic tale. I also think there are books that I never want to see adapted such as Catcher in the Rye, On the Road, and The Crying of Lot 49. Stay Away Hollywood! Stay Away!
Having worked in the book business I am continuously reminded that movie adaptations can be helpful. It doesn't matter how many awards a book wins or it's critical esteem. If a movie is coming out then the masses will read the book. I guess if you make it, they will come. Even if the movie is a stinker, look at Memoirs of Geisha. I tell you we could not keep it on the shelf during Christmas 2005. And that movie was a disappointment.
I know it's obvious, but Books are words, movies are "moving pictures." They can't be exact or it wouldn't be a movie. There is a common perception that the movie is never as good as book.
Maybe that's correct but here's 5 movies and 5 television adaptations that I think are pretty darn good that I've seen and read (BTW these are in no particular order):
Movies
1. Bridget Jones's Diary
2. Lord of the Rings Trilogy
3. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
4. English Patient
5. Fried Green Tomatoes
Television
1. Lonesome Dove
2. Anne of Green Gables
3. Band of Brothers
4. Pride and Prejudice (1994)
5. Fingersmith
Now I could go on. I think that there have been a lot of great adaptations. I think it all depends on what your expectations are. One of my favorite stories comes from Dashiell Hammett. He and a friend were sitting and talking. His friend asked Hammett whether he was afraid that Hollywood would take away his story and change it into something different. Hammett said that as long as the book is on the shelve that no one can take it away. Amen, Dash, you speak the truth.
What's In my Bag
Magazine
Four Four Two
Books
Blowing My Cover
In the Woods
Comic
Time Master
Comic Pull List: Catwoman #82, Daredevil #110, New Avengers #44, Runaways 3 #1, Superman #679, Trinity #13, Wolverine #68
Check Out Count: Getting Under Control.
Enjoy the convention and a three day weekend baby! Have a good one! Book Slave.
It's convention time! Y'know what I love? CSPAN real time convention coverage and conventioneers dancing. Incredibly awesome. Anyway let's talk books. Onward!
Reviews
Brideshead Revisited
Is it possible to have everything and feel as if you have nothing? Charles Ryder meets Lord Sebastian Flyte at Oxford in 1922. Through his friendship with Sebastian, Ryder is thrust into the center of a life of immense privilege. Ultimately Ryder ends up questioning everything that he believes about truth and faith. I enjoyed this book immensely which I did not expect. I had not seen the famous tv series, or read any Waugh novels before. As I understand this book is very different from his more satirical works. There is comedy in here, Waugh does an excellent job of skewering the wealthy. I was shocked but not surprised by how the Marchmain's react toSebastian's behavior. Lady Marchmain is a well drawn character of someone who believes in molding and controlling her children's every move. Heaven forbid they be allowed to make their own mistakes and choose their own paths. I was also surprised by Waugh's serious discussions of Catholicism in the latter third of the book. Ryder's atheism and philosophy is very well paralleled by the Marchmain's stark Catholic belief. Each side is at a stalemate leaving the ending devastatingly inevitable.
Special Focus: Literary Adaptation
After I finished Brideshead Revisited I went and saw the new movie adaptation. I thought it was really good. In my opinion Emma Thompson can do no wrong and her portrayal of Lady Marchmain was excellent. This got me to thinking about literary adaptation on the big screen and small.
I think there is always a part of us that wants to see our favorite moments/characters/stories brought to life in front of us.
Some of us want to see exact duplications of what we've created in our heads. Or maybe a new spin on a classic tale. I also think there are books that I never want to see adapted such as Catcher in the Rye, On the Road, and The Crying of Lot 49. Stay Away Hollywood! Stay Away!
Having worked in the book business I am continuously reminded that movie adaptations can be helpful. It doesn't matter how many awards a book wins or it's critical esteem. If a movie is coming out then the masses will read the book. I guess if you make it, they will come. Even if the movie is a stinker, look at Memoirs of Geisha. I tell you we could not keep it on the shelf during Christmas 2005. And that movie was a disappointment.
I know it's obvious, but Books are words, movies are "moving pictures." They can't be exact or it wouldn't be a movie. There is a common perception that the movie is never as good as book.
Maybe that's correct but here's 5 movies and 5 television adaptations that I think are pretty darn good that I've seen and read (BTW these are in no particular order):
Movies
1. Bridget Jones's Diary
2. Lord of the Rings Trilogy
3. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
4. English Patient
5. Fried Green Tomatoes
Television
1. Lonesome Dove
2. Anne of Green Gables
3. Band of Brothers
4. Pride and Prejudice (1994)
5. Fingersmith
Now I could go on. I think that there have been a lot of great adaptations. I think it all depends on what your expectations are. One of my favorite stories comes from Dashiell Hammett. He and a friend were sitting and talking. His friend asked Hammett whether he was afraid that Hollywood would take away his story and change it into something different. Hammett said that as long as the book is on the shelve that no one can take it away. Amen, Dash, you speak the truth.
What's In my Bag
Magazine
Four Four Two
Books
Blowing My Cover
In the Woods
Comic
Time Master
Comic Pull List: Catwoman #82, Daredevil #110, New Avengers #44, Runaways 3 #1, Superman #679, Trinity #13, Wolverine #68
Check Out Count: Getting Under Control.
Enjoy the convention and a three day weekend baby! Have a good one! Book Slave.
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