The Best Movies Based On Books

American Psycho (2000)

American Psycho, a beloved dark comedy horror, first emerged as a gripping novel in 1991. Its author, Bret Easton Ellis, is well-known for his controversial contributions to the literary “Brat Pack.” Ellis ingeniously crafted Patrick Bateman, the captivating serial-killer character brought to life by the talented Christian Bale. Originally, Bateman was conceived as a disillusioned yet relatively harmless investment banker. This intriguing twist adds depth to the story and challenges our perceptions of what lies beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary individuals.

After a memorable night spent with friends who had successful careers in the finance industry, the author was inspired to infuse their story with an intense and thought-provoking twist.SWhen it came to casting the role of Bateman, a number of talented actors were considered, including big names like Ewan McGregor and Leonardo DiCaprio. However, it was Christian Bale, who was relatively unknown at the time, that ultimately secured the role. 

This decision turned out to be a stroke of genius as Bale’s portrayal of Bateman received critical acclaim and solidified his status as a versatile actor. His portrayal of the character was so impeccable that even his fellow cast members were convinced he was a true American, both on and off set. He seamlessly embodied the role, leaving everyone in awe of his ability to bring authenticity to his performance.

Wuthering Heights (2011)

The mere mention of the name ‘Heathcliff’ evokes a captivating image of a mysterious and dark character, thanks to Emily Brontë’s masterful storytelling. Her exquisite prose has the power to immerse readers in a world filled with brooding intensity and complex emotions.In this riveting adaptation, the role of her captivating romantic hero is brilliantly portrayed by James Howson. Director Andrea Arnold‘s keen eye for talent led her to discover him, ensuring that the character’s raw and authentic qualities are fully brought to life on the screen. 

The casting process for the role of Catherine Earnshaw was highly competitive, with talented actresses like Natalie Portman, Lindsay Lohan, and Gemma Arterton all being considered. However, it was the exceptional performance of Kaya Scodelario, known for her role in Skins, that ultimately secured her the coveted part. Her undeniable talent and captivating screen presence made her the perfect choice to bring Catherine Earnshaw to life on the big screen.

Little Women (2019)

Greta Gerwig’s impressive directorial debut with Lady Bird in 2017 was followed by a remarkable and refreshing adaptation of a well-known literary classic. Her ability to breathe new life into beloved stories is truly admirable. Immerse yourself in a captivating narrative that draws inspiration from the personal journey of acclaimed author May Alcott and her bond with her three sisters. This enchanting tale delves into the lives of the March daughters as they navigate their artistic aspirations and experience the joys and complexities of love. Prepare to be swept away by a story that is both relatable and deeply moving.

With a remarkable balance between faithfulness to its source material and fresh interpretive elements, this adaptation has captivated both avid book enthusiasts and introduced a new generation to the enchanting March sisters. 

Its ability to stay true to the heart of the story while infusing it with innovation has delighted and charmed audiences of all backgrounds. Gerwig’s adaptation of the 19th-century America setting is not only committed to historical accuracy but also manages to capture a contemporary relevance, earning it an Oscar for its stunning Victorian costume designs. It strikes a perfect balance between preserving the authenticity and making it relatable to present-day audiences. 

One of the reasons why this show has gained such popularity is its vibrant cast of Gen Z actors, who bring an incredible energy to the screen. Additionally, it skillfully captures the intricacies of adolescence and young adulthood, adding depth and relatability to the narrative.

The Colour Purple (1985)

The Color Purple beautifully captures the essence of Alice Walker’s timeless novel from 1892. This compelling story follows the journey of Cecile, a young Black woman who faces unimaginable abuse from her father and husband. However, amidst the darkness, she discovers remarkable resilience by forming deep bonds with her female friends. It’s a powerful narrative that showcases both the hardships endured and the transformative power of friendship in overcoming adversity.

During the film’s release, director Steven Spielberg faced criticism for his slightly softened interpretation of the impactful novel. However, it is important to recognize that artistic choices often involve striking a balance between staying faithful to the source material and appealing to a wider audience. After 35 years, it is widely acknowledged that his film was a noble effort to translate the raw impact of the book into an enjoyable and accessible mainstream production, all while conveying an inspiring message.

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)

Prepare to be captivated by the powerful adaptation of Ken Kesey’s book. Jack Nicholson takes on the role of Randall McMurphy, a cunning criminal who manipulates his way into a mental institution. Once inside, he unleashes chaos that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Get ready for a thrilling journey into the depths of madness and mischief. 

Nurse Ratched, the chief antagonist to McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, is undoubtedly one of cinema’s most revered villains. Her portrayal as a cold and heartless tyrant left a lasting impression on audiences. In fact, her character was so iconic that it even sparked a spin-off Netflix series featuring the talented Sarah Paulson. Such is the power and influence of this unforgettable villainess.

Despite the immense commercial and critical triumph of the film, Kesey stood firm in his resistance to it. He harbored a strong dislike for director Miloš Forman’s treatment of his work and adamantly refused to watch the film in its entirety. His unwavering stance demonstrates his integrity as an artist, unwilling to compromise his artistic vision. 

He went so far as to take legal action against the producers, claiming that they had wrongfully altered the perspective of the story. Indeed, he stands as one of the rare individuals who dare to challenge the widely acclaimed masterpiece, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. 

This extraordinary film holds the distinguished distinction of being among a limited selection of three movies that have achieved the remarkable feat of winning all five prestigious Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Screenplay.

Written By Mark Murphy Director