Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Book to Movie: EAT PRAY LOVE

When EAT PRAY LOVE came out quite a few years back, the cover intrigued me and I decided to give it a shot. Something about this book really struck a chord with many women.  Now, it is a book club staple. I have not yet read Gilbert's follow-up, COMMITTED, but I enjoy her first memoir. There is a vicarious pleasure in reading about a woman who was completely unencumbered and able to take a year of her life off to travel and work on herself.

I was a little disappointed to hear that Julia Roberts had been cast in the movie version of this book. I had envisioned someone more like Diane Lane. Indeed, after seeing the movie, the tone and style was very reminiscent of UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN.  I did enjoy the movie. I thought it was a very competent adaptation of the book. My fellow movie-goers thought the film was a little long. None of them had read the book. Because I knew what was coming, I didn't feel that the plot was slow in unraveling. So, if you enjoyed the book, you will probably enjoy the movie.

Another recent adaptation that I was impressed with? The Swedish film version of THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO. That book offers many challenges in terms of adapting it for film but I thought the filmmakers did an excellent job.

Look for more "Book to Movie" posts in the future!

4 comments:

于庭吳 said...
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Saretta said...

I liked the book, but I'm afraid the movie will make it come off as trite. And, I'm sorry, but I hated Under the Tuscan Sun, so that's not much of a recommendation for me. Maybe I'll just skip this film...

Amy M. said...

Saretta--I know what you mean. To be honest, I think the movie would be pretty boring for you since you are actually LIVING in Italy. Gilbert only spent four months in each place so it was really only a taste of each location. Your blog actually gives me a lot more insight into living in Italy!!!

-Amy

Literary Feline said...

I had wanted to read the book at one time, but my interest in it died after awhile. I imagine I'll find the interest again one of these days. I'm glad you enjoyed the movie, Amy!

I was really impressed wit the film The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo too.