Hollywood is constantly looking for new ways to entertain people, and books are the perfect ways to get an already-loved story onto the big screen. So far, they’ve turned HUNDREDS of books into movies, but not all adaptations are the same as the source. That’s why I’m offering you a list of my favorite Movies Based on Books!
These books are as true to the source material as they can be. And, if they’re not, they at least make up for it in other ways.
We’ll begin with the classics.
Emma (1996)
Emma by Jane Austen is the story of an outspoken matchmaker who, eventually, meets her match. The 1996 adaptation follow’s Emma’s story remarkably well, and it has a star-studded cast to boot! 10/10
The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)
The Count of Monte Cristo is a rich tale about heartbreak, betrayal, and one man’s glorious search for revenge. This 2002 adaptation stays true to the source material, and I believe that Jim Caviezel is the Perfect casting choice for our titular hero. 10/10
Les Misérables (10th Anniversary)
How do you trim down the epic story of war-torn France and turn it into a musical masterpiece? I don’t know, but I absolutely adore the 10th anniversary concert based on Victor Hugo’s book. Hearing the original singers and actors together on stage in the gorgeous Royal Albert Hall gives me chills every time I watch it. 10/10
Jurassic Park (1993)
Arguably one of my Top 5 movies, Jurassic Park has everything you could ever want- thrills, mystery, exotic locations, and Dinosaurs! The book is more richly detailed and has more information about the characters and science behind the park. However, the movie adaptation is perfectly balanced to keep us coming back for more! 10/10
The Amityville Horror (1979)
A movie based on a book based on a true story, the Amityville Horror is one of many adaptations to this incredible, haunting story. However, I believe the 79 version perfectly captures the unsettling, slow torture of “is this really happening, or am I going insane” that the original people felt. 10/10
Jane Eyre (1996)
Jane Eyre is one of my favorite classic novels, and no matter how many adaptations they make, the 1996 version will always be my favorite. It not only captures the characters, but manages to follow the story almost to perfection. 10/10
Anne of Green Gables (1985)
Anne is a feisty, outspoken orphan who mistakenly gets adopted by the Cuthberts and turns their world upside-down in the best ways. The 1985 miniseries is one of the best adaptations because it follows the storyline and brings the characters to life in dynamic ways. 10/10
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003)
A true cinematic masterpiece, the LOTR trilogy is one of my all-time favorite adaptations to date. Yes, they omitted key pieces of the book for time (Tom Bombadil, anyone?). However, the movies stay true to the overall adventure without cheapening it- especially if you watch the extended versions! 10/10
The Princess Bride (1987)
Do you believe in true love? What about Rodents of Unusual Size? You’ll find both in The Princess Bride- a tale of true love, high adventure, and the unlikely friends you make along the way. The 1987 adaptation is nearly perfect- with a star-studded cast that Hollywood can’t replace, no matter how hard they try. 10/10
Those are some of my favorite classic books-turned-movies, and I’m happy to do a part 2 in the future for the more modern ones.
What is your favorite book-to-movie adaptation? Is it on this list? If not, share it in the comments! I’m always looking for more.
Well, some of my favorites are one here
1. Princess Bride- the movie you can’t get tired of
2. Lord of the Rings Trilogy
3. Les Mis 10th Concert (I actually own 3 Les Mis movies)
Sounds like you have good taste!
Helps when part of my ones you love are popular favorites
Very true! Though, I did try to throw in some obscure ones. I may have to do a part 2 so I can share more.