Book and Film Comparison Paper

Film Composition and Literature/Paugh
DATE DUE: _______________________

The Project: Read a book that has been adapted to film. Be certain to read the book you "signed up" to read! Finish the book before __________ and then view the film. (Take notes!)

The Question: Primary question: How does the book "translate" to film? Is the film a successful adaptation? Why or why not? To effectively answer the question follow the next steps:

The Assignment: Write a 2-3 page paper (double spaced, typed, 12 point size font) in which you respond to the following questions and directions, supporting your statements with evidence and examples.

Part I - THE BOOK

1. List the title, author, publisher, date of 1st publication and number of pages in your chosen book. Be certain to underline the title.

2. Setting of the book. Write the place and time in which your book's story occurred. (for example: San Francisco, 1920's)

3. Precis (summary) - In a carefully written paragraph summarize the plot of your book. This should be no longer than a page and if done carefully it may be much shorter.

4. Classic/Noteworthy - Write an evaluation or explanation of why this piece of literature is considered classic or noteworthy. Why has it endured or been read and recommended to others? What does the book have to "say" that lasts? In this section of your report, you might consider such literary elements as: characterization, conflict, description, plot, theme, style, setting, tone or point of view. You need NOT discuss all of these but you could focus on one that stands out in your mind as noteworthy.

Part II - THE FILM

1. List the title, director, producer, primary actors/characters and year of the film. Be certain to underline the title. (Provide basic film facts)

2. Setting of the film - time and place

3. Comparison/contrast - In carefully written paragraphs summarize the similarities and differences between the book and the film. Compare and contrast the basic elements of the plot, characters, etc. Be specific, but select the primary differences and similarities.

4. Adaptation of the book to screen - In a paragraph or two discuss what techniques and devices are used to "translate" the book to the screen? (scenery, setting, music, camera techniques, editing, lighting, type of shots, mise en scene, cinematography, art design, costuming, etc.)

Part III - Effectiveness/Success of the Adaptation?

Discuss the following topics in a well written paragraph(s):

a. Is the film a successful adaptation of the book? Why or why not?***
b. Which is preferable - -the book or the film? Why?
c. If you could direct the film what would you do to enhance the adaptation of the book to film? (for example: different cast, setting, add or delete characters or sections of the book, different method of narrating the story.)
d. If you wouldn't change anything about the film, then discuss what was done particularly well. Focus on the specific and provide examples.

Remember: You have "room" for your opinion here BUT support your ideas with specific evidence from the book and film. Avoid generalities.

" The Bottom Line": Summarize the book and then compare and contrast it to the film, discussing what was successful and why by providing evidence and specific examples from the book and the film.

***Consider the following facts as you make your comparison (keep them in mind and perhaps address some of these issues if they are relevant to your book/film adaptation):
a. POV is crucial: many stories are told in the 1st person; films are usually told in the 3rd person. Therefore it is sometimes difficult to "get into" the protagonist's mind very well.
b. Film usually relies on one protagonist and a handful of characters
c. Film usually utilizes the 3 act structure
d. Scripts: 1 page = 1 minute of screen time. Films are usually 120 pp. long. Books are generally longer.
e. Some books are more "cinematic" than others: visual/narrative structure/ "edited" to move through time and space like a movie
f. Sometimes a faithful adaptation doesn't make for a good film. Some works need to be "opened up" for the screen.
g. Science fiction is difficult to adapt due to abstract/philosophical content that can't be conveyed through dialogue (unless the director or someone else makes a speech) or visuals.

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