Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly meme created by Rukky @ Eternity Books and currently hosted by Aria at Book Nook Bits. Discussions pertain to topics related to reading or books. Share your opinions, and spread the love by visiting other “Let’s Talk Bookish” posts.

Prompts: What are your favorite book to film adaptations? What are your least favorite ones? Do you think that books translate better to movies or shows? Would you rather see a standalone or a book series adapted? What do you think is important for a successful book to film adaptation? (Aria)

I have a lot of favorite book to film adaptations. Of my favorites, I haven’t read many of the books to judge the quality of the translation from one to the other. The exception is Pride and Prejudice and The Return of the King. I couldn’t wait for the movie to come out and so I was able to see how faithful the movie was to the book. The adaptation being a favorite is based on whether I liked the movie or not. My top 5 are listed below.

1. Pride and Prejudice (BBC)
2. Lord of the Rings trilogy
3. Stardust
4. Brooklyn
5. Penelope

I am excited when books are adapted to movies or TV shows. It doesn’t really matter to me whether it is one or the other, or if a standalone novel or a series is being adapted. To be adapted into a TV show or multiple movies will depend on how much material there is. For instance, I can understand why Game of Thrones was a series. There are multiple books and lots going on.

To be successful, those making the adaptations have to be aware of the source material and the existing audience. Then, they have to consider how to balance that with what they’re trying to do–show or movie–and how to bring in a wider audience. My hope is always that a successful adaptaion will create more readers. I’d be curious to find out if that happens.

If a movie or show is good, I may choose to read the book, but there have been few that I’ve done that with. Usually, I will read the next book so I can find out what happens rather than wait for the next movie/seaons. It’s a lot easier to have read the book first, then watch the movie/show. In doing so, I get to enjoy the movie without continually comparing it to the book. Sometimes, I opt to not read the book as well because I want to continue to appreciate the movie without also trying to figure out why there are parts missing from it. Heh…

What about you? How do you feel about book to film/show adaptations? Do you read the book first then watch the movie? Maybe watch the movie then read the book? Or do one but not the other? I’m really curious and would love to know your thoughts!