7 book to blockbuster adaptations coming to Bangkok cinemas soon
Book to movie adaptations are kind of a big thing in 2014. But should you should you read now or wait?
10 years ago
1. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (Jul 24)
Why the book is hot: Green’s latest bestseller sees a terminally ill cancer patient, Hazel Grace Lancaster, fall in love with a one-legged cancer survivor, Augustus Waters. This Love in the Time of Cancer might sound hopelessly romantic, but it takes the coldest of hearts to resist the starcrossed lovers’ wittiness and humor.
What to expect from the movie: While Ansel Elgort didn’t quite blow us away playing Gus, the brilliant portrayal of Hazel might just land Shailene Woodley (The Descendant) an Oscar nomination.
Verdict: Since the adaptation is very faithful, it’s a guaranteed feel-good cry fest either way. It’s a tie!
2. The Giver by Lois Lowry (Aug 15, unconfirmed)
Why the book is hot: A forerunner of the young adult dystopian genre, Lowry’s The Giver depicts a futuristic utopian community, but what seems perfect is anything but. The book stands out for its worldbuilding and scrutiny of real life’s pleasure and pain.
What to expect from the movie: Among the cast are cutie Brenton Thwaites (SLiDE) and pop star Taylor Swift, plus veterans Alexander Skarsgård, Meryl Streep, Katie Holmes, and Jeff Bridges. What a gathering!
Verdict: Go for the star-packed movie instead of the rather dull and slow book.
3. If I Stay by Gayle Forman (Aug 22, unconfirmed)
Why the book is hot: If I Stay takes you on a one-day flashback journey of hospitalized Mia Hall, who has an out-of-body experience to help her decide whether to fight for her life or let go. Talk about a life-or-death decision.
What to expect from the movie: Chloë Grace Moretz (Carrie and Let Me In) puts in a heartwrenching performance and showcases some cello skills. The movie will deliver the feels.
Verdict: We think this is the kind of story best told in films, since it involves many flashbacks rather than a linear plot.
4. The Maze Runner by James Dashner (Sep 18)
Why the book is hot: The Maze Runner joins the long line of popular young adult dystopian trilogies with awesome worldbuilding. Waking up in an isolated community in the center of a gigantic maze, Thomas’s only choice is to escape the maze. The need to know why, how and what next is as much torture to him as to us.
What to expect from the movie: Actionpacked adventures? Suspense and mystery? Hunger Games-like CG and heart-pounding thrills? Yes, please!
Verdict: Run to the nearest Asia Books or Kinokuniya and grab a copy now! You can thank us later.
5. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (Oct 2)
Why the book is hot: This gripping thriller follows Nick Dunne who goes in search of his wife Amy after she disappears on their fifth wedding anniversary. Gone Girl delves into the characters’ dark and twisted minds, exploring their messed-up marriage and messy psychological states.
What to expect from the movie: With Flynn herself writing the screenplay and David Fincher (Se7en and Fight Club) directing, we trust that Gone Girl is in the best of hands.
Verdict: We heard that the film has a different ending, so we recommend reading the book first.
6. Mockingjay by Susanne Collins—The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 (Nov 20)
Why the book is hot: Drawing the curtains on the worldwide phenomenon, The Hunger Games trilogy, Mockingjay presents the final showdown between the Districts and the Capitol. Katniss Everdeen holds the key to changing Panem forever. The revolution is now or never.
What to expect from the movie: Since the previous two films were so good, we’re quivering with anticipation to see how the epic revolution and the love triangle unfold. But be warned, there’s a cliffhanger ahead, because Mockingjay is split into two films.
Verdict: We regret to say we’re not as impressed with Mockingjay as books one and two. Just wait for the movie!
7. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien—The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (Dec 18)
Why the book is hot: A prequel for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Hobbit tells the adventures of hero/hobbit Bilbo Baggins with a dangerous all-powerful ring, joined by the wizard Gandalf, Gollum and the dwarves in the dazzling setting of Middle-earth.
What to expect from the movie: After the first two films, we’re really looking forward to not only amazing acting, but also the epic Battle of the Five Armies! Full-scale action scenes between Good and Evil? Bring it on.
Verdict: The Hobbit is a good book, but it’s not for everyone. Tolkien’s long-winded descriptions make the movie a better option.
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