Book Vs Movie Podcast

Book Vs. Movie: MiseryThe 1987 Stephen King Novel Vs. the 1990 Classic Movie The Margos and special guest Alex Steed of the You Are Good film podcast discuss one of the best Stephen King adaptations ever--1990’s Misery. In both the novel and the film, the characters of Paul Sheldon and Annie Wilkes are central to the story. However, there are notable differences in their portrayals. In the book, readers get a more in-depth look at the internal struggles of Sheldon, whereas the film focuses more on external conflicts. The basic story is Sheldon is en route to deliver his manuscript to finally leave the romance literary world behind and start on a new path as a “serious writer.” When his car overturns in the Colorado snowbanks, he is seemingly “rescued’ by former nurse Wilkes, his “biggest fan.” Trouble ensues when she finds out Paul killed off his creation (and her favorite character), Misery Chastain, and she forces him to burn his new work and create a whole new literary revival of the Misery series. Wilkes

Book Vs. Movie: I Know What You Did Last SummerThe 1973 Lois Duncan YA Novel Vs. the 1997 Movie "I Know What You Did Last Summer" revolves around a group of friends, Julie, Helen, Ray, and Barry, who accidentally hit a stranger with their car on a dark, lonely road. In a panic, they make a harrowing decision to hide the accident, believing they can escape the consequences. However, one year later, their lives unravel as they receive ominous messages from a mysterious figure who knows their deadly secret.Lois Duncan's novel, published in 1973, unfolds in the 1970s. The film, directed by Jim Gillespie, modernized the story to the late 1990s. This update significantly alters the atmosphere and dynamics, replacing the retro feel of the book with a more contemporary vibe.Between the book & movie, which did we like more? Have a listen and find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:YA Horror novels of the 1970sAuthor Lois DuncanThe differences between the 1973 (and the updated) version of the story and the movieTh

In honor of the recent passing of Piper Laurie, we are replaying our 2018 episode that revisits a classic Stephen King tale--Carrie, which we originally covered in 2014 (using the old, old way we recorded back in the early days.) This is not only King's first movie adaptation but also based on his first published novel. There are so many changes between book & movie that we wanted to give it a modern treatment (meaning better sound and lots of clips!)Just how different is the original novel versus the Brian DePalma masterpiece of horror? Whoo boy---there were some major changes made (and for very good reason, in many instances.)So which did the Margos like better? Book or Movie? Check out the link below to find out!In this ep the Margos discuss :The backstory behind Stephen King’s first novel (and why his wife Tabitha is a hero to King fans everywhere!)The major differences between the book and the 1976 movieHow "Carrie" became a famous “musical flop” in the 80s and is now considered a camp classicThe cas

Book Vs. Movie: House of UsherThe Edgar Allen Poe Short Story Vs. the 1960 Vincent Price Movie The Margos continue our month of scary movies with the 1839 short story, The Fall of House of Usher, by Edgar Allen Poe, and how it was adapted by Roger Corman in 1960 for the Vincent Price classic House of Usher. The story of the Roderick family, consisting of siblings Roderick and Madeline, is a gothic tale about their shared traumatic experiences that haunt them in their home. The narrator, who remains unnamed, witnesses supernatural occurrences and discovers that Madeline, supposedly dead and buried in the house, is alive. This revelation terrifies her brother, and Madeline uses it to seek revenge against him.The movie, which Corman directed, is a classic adaptation that stands out for its interpretation of the story and the exceptional acting of Vincent Price. The film was listed in the U.S. National Film Registry in 2005 for its artistic merit. This begs the question: which version do we prefer, the short stor

Book Vs. Movie: Wait Until DarkThe 1966 Richard Knott Play Vs. the 1967 Audrey Hepburn Film The Margos kick off "Scary Movie Month" by discussing Wait Until Dark, both the play by Frederick Knott and the 1967 Audrey Hepburn film. The movie features one of the best jump scares in cinema history. The original production starred Lee Remick and Robert Duvall as Susy and Roat, respectively. The story revolves around Susy, a blind woman who lives alone in her Greenwich Village apartment, and Roat, a creepy intruder who wants to find a doll filled with heroin that her husband accidentally brought home. Roat and his two cronies play games with Susy, but she ultimately prevails with a bit of courage and some help from her young neighbor, Gloria. Remick's performance earned her a Tony Award nomination, and the play was quickly adapted into a feature film by producer Mel Ferrar (who was also Hepburn's husband at the time). The movie is consistently ranked as one of the most influential thrillers of all time. So, which d

Book Vs. Movie: Ghost WorldThe 1997 Daniel Clowes Graphic Novel vs. the Terry Zwigoff 2001 Film The Margos are feeling very moody and isolated, discussing the 2001 film Ghost World starring Thora Birch and Scarlett Johansson as best friends Enid and Rebecca, who are perfect early 00’s angsty and unimpressed with the world and was catnip for audiences and critics alike. Based on chapter five’s “Hubba Hubba” by Daniel Clowes, the original 1997 graphic novel series Eightball, the story of two lonely misfits who interact with other lost souls, made for an unusual adaptation that earned an Academy Award nomination for Clowes and directed by Terry Zwigoff (Crumb, Bad Santa.) We read the source material (which you can find as a compilation of short stories in Adaptations: From Short Story to Big Screen by Stephanie Harrison), watched the film (has it aged well?), and tried to decide which we liked better--the book or the movie?In this ep, the Margos discuss:Daniel Clowes’s workThe state of graphic novels and indepen

Book Vs. Movie: The LoraxThe Dr. Seuss 1971 Children’s Book Vs. the 2012 AdaptationThe Margos close out “Banned Books Month” with a visit with Dr. Seuss and The Lorax, a tale of environmental conservation and the dangers of rampant deforestation. Theodore Seuss Geisel was known for his colorful characters, accusations of racism, and having some of his books pulled for outdated notions or controversial take on capitalism. The Lorax (first published in 1971) was written after a recent trip to Africa where Geisel and his wife were concerned about the environment and wildlife in danger of extinction. The Lorax wants “The Onceler” to stop the destruction of the environment. Over the years, many logging companies tried to get the book banned for being “mean” to their industry. So much so that in 1995, two different forest/wood flooring industries raised funds to create their own version called Truax, which supported the logging industry. (Seriously)There was a 1972 faithful adaptation starring Eddie Albert, but in

Book Vs. Movie: The Bridge to TeribithiaThe 1977 Classic YA Novel Vs. the 2007 AdaptationBring out your tissues! The Margos continue Banned Books Month with the 1977 classic by Katherine Paterson--Bridge to Teribithia. The story of Jess Aarons, a fifth-grade kid who grows up lonely and poor but with an artistic temperament that helps him imagine other places and realities. His life changes when he becomes friends with a new kid, Leslie Burke, a fellow dreamer and misfit who encourages his art and helps him find magic in the woods. Together, they create a world called Teribithia in the forest to help them deal with feeling alienated from peers and, in Jess’s case--his sad, abusive home. A tragedy befalls them that causes a permanent change in Jess. (Trust us, this will break your heart!)The 2007 film was co-written and co-produced by David L. Paterson (son of the author who, in real life, lost a friend when he was a child.) The director is Gabor Csupo, and produced by Disney Studios. Between the book and movie

Book Vs. Movie: Fahrenheit 451The Ray Bradbury 1953 Classic Novel Vs. the 2018 HBO AdaptationThe Margos turn up the heat (get it?) with a look at the 1953 literary classic Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury--a banned book for decades. Inspired by the Cold War and the House of Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) investigating actors, artists, and writers claiming communism, Bradbury’s work has been controversial since its publication over its depiction of an America that embraces book burning and a total lack of individualism. The story centers around a “fireman,” Guy Montag, an American in the not-so-distant future whose job is to burn all deemed objectionable books. He seems to live an ordinary life, not questioning his line of work along with his wife Mildred, who is endlessly watching TV screens (“parlor walls”) that contain her “real family.” One day, he meets teenage neighbor Clarisse, who lives a life built on free thinking, which is odd to Guy. When Clarisse goes missing, and Guy’s wife believes he is

Book Vs. Movie: Are You There, God? It’s Me, MargaretJUDY BLUME Y’ALL!!!!! The Margos begin our annual “Banned Books Month” as always, loving the books and hating why we must feature them. Judy Blume is one of the most successful authors of all time, and her books, some of the most requested to be removed from libraries, make our hearts hurt and fill us with rage! Are You There, God? It’s Me Margaret is a story about an 11-year-old girl, Margaret Simon, who is dealing with issues many of us readers can relate to--feeling anxious, wanting to fit in, unsure of your place in the world, etc. It’s been a classic in YA literature since 1970, and Blume was very particular about its adaptation. The film is written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig for Lionsgate films. Join us in this discussion! In this ep, the Margos discuss:The life and work of her majesty--Judy Blume!Why this book is considered too controversial for kidsThe differences between the book and movieThe book Periods, Period. By Alisha Gaddis & Ste

Book Vs. Movie: Smoke SignalsThe Sherman Alexie Short Story Vs. the 1998 Movie In this episode, the Margos delve into the acclaimed indie film Smoke Signals, released in 1998. This film was based on a series of short stories by Sherman Alexie in 1993, titled The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven. The story follows two young men, Victor Joseph and Tom Builds-the-Fire, who grew up on a Spokane Indian Reservation. It explores the interconnectedness of their families, the perception of Native Americans in mainstream media, and the truth behind Tom's father's death. Smoke Signals was well-received by critics and audiences alike and was showcased at various film festivals such as the Sundance Film Festival, the Gotham Awards, and the Independent Spirit Awards. In 2018, it was even added to the National Film Registry. Chris Eyre directed the movie, which was based on Alexie's screenplay. We'll also be discussing our personal preferences between the two. Come and join this discussion. Calm History:If you want

Book Vs. Movie: Three Days of the CondorThe James Grady Book Vs. the Robert Redford-Starring Movie The Margos talk about the paranoia-soaked 70s with a discussion about the novel & film Three Days of the Condor starring a dreamy Robert Redford and a luminous Faye Dunaway. The story is about a man who loves to read and works for the CIA and gets sucked into a life-threatening chase between himself and outside forces of the government.Published in 1974 (the same year Richard Nixon resigned from office), author James Grady used his experience working in politics in his native Montana to weave a tale around everyman Malcolm Ronald, who reads mystery and spy novels and analyzes the plots for the U.S. government. When his entire office is killed in one fell swoop--he goes on the run with his code name, “Condor,” to find a faithful ally to spare his life. The 1975 movie directed by Sydney Pollack stars a fantastic cast and takes a few liberties with the screenplay (by Lorenzo Semple, Jr. and David Rafiel.) What

Book Vs. Movie: Special Guest, Author Kristen Lopez"But Have You Read the Book?"Our special guest, Kristen Lopez, is the film editor for The Wrap and the author of But Have You Read the Book? In this episode, we talk about her favorite book-to-movie adaptations, how she came across this fun project, the latest on the SAG AFTRA strike, the world of Turner Classic Movies, the hotness of Ben Mankiewicz, and the Warner Brothers private collections. Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network.Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast GroupFollow us on Twitter @bookversusmovieInstagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/Email us at bookversusmoviepodcast@gmail.com Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohuebrooklynfitchick@gmail.comYou can buy your

Book Vs. Movie “The Exorcist” RIP William Friedkin (1935-2023)Replay of the DEC 2018 episode. The Margos revisit the 1971 novel The Exorcist written by the very interesting William Peter Blatty. Based on a true-ish story about a boy possessed by a demon in the 1950s, Blatty changed some key details to create this fiction classic. Director William Friedkin in 1973 just came off an incredible spate of box office successes, including 1971’s The French Connection earning him an Academy Award for Best Director. The Exorcist became the biggest financial success of his career but turned out to be something of a curse as well. The hosts read the book, watched the movie, and decided which they liked better in this episode. Plus, they talk about trivia about the book and movie. In this episode, they discuss The backstory of the “real” exorcism from the 1950s Author William Peter Blatty’s writing process, The story behind the major casting choices, How some of the more famous scenes were created, The supposed “Exorcist”

Book Vs. Movie:The Red ShoesThe Hans Christian Anderson Fairy Tale vs. the 1948 Classic FilmThe Margos (and a special guest star!) put on their dancing shoes with the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale “The Red Shoes” along with the 1948 adaptation that is considered a ballet/film classic with some of the most beautiful sequences along with a meditation on “art versus life.” Published in 1845, The Red Shoes appears in “New Fairy Tales” and tells the story of Karen, a vain and selfish girl who has a particular pair of red shoes that causes her to dance with frenzy. Apparently, the author used his own sister’s name for the horrible lead and his father being a proud shoe cobbler who demanded to be treated with respect from even his wealthiest clients. The movie is a technicolor masterpiece filled with renowned dancers and is the coloration between Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger (following the successful 1947 film Black Narcissus.) It’s considered one of the best British films ever and won the Academy Awar

Book Vs. Movie: The SwimmerThe 1964 John Cheever story vs. the 1968 Burt Lancaster FilmBurt Lancaster always claimed that his 1968 film The Swimmer was his best work, and we are here to show you exactly why! The John Cheever short story that appeared in the July 18, 1964 issue of The New Yorker is a surrealistic tale of an alcoholic man (Neddy Merrill) who journeys to his home through suburban New York via swimming pools. Along the way, he realizes that the life he thinks he is leading (high status with a beautiful family) is actually in shambles, and he is, in fact, alone and broke. The 1968 film is a masterclass of acting and direction, which is ironic considering the shoot was chaotic, with the firing of several actors and the director, Frank Perry, during the shoot. With a 24-year-old Marvin Hamlisch soundtrack, cameos from Joan Rivers and Janet Landgard, and Lancaster in a blue swimsuit showing off his 52-year-old body--the film was not well-received at the time by the press or at the box office. Since t

Book Vs. Movie: Ode to Billy JoeThe 1967 Song Vs. the 1976 Movie It was a hot and steamy summer day when we recorded this episode, so we decided to go as far south as we could get here in the USA with the tale of Billie Joe Macallister (named Billy Joe for the movie adaptation) and why he may have jumped to his death off the Tallahacthie Bridge. Mississippi native Bobbie Gentry wrote the song in 1967 for her first album, and it became a huge sensation. The song is written from the viewpoint of the narrator, a young girl who knew Billie Joe but did not say if she is privy to why he died the way he did. How did she know him, and what did they throw from the bridge? These are still asked of the singer, but she kept it opaque. (She is also a recluse who never gives interviews, though she is considered a legend in country music.The film was produced and directed by Max Baer, Jr. and written by Herman Racuher (of Summer of ‘42 fame ), who spoke privately with Gentry about the path he wanted to take fleshing out the

Book Vs. Movie: The KillersThe 1927 Ernest Hemingway Short Story Vs. the 1946 Classic FilmThe Margos are discussing Ernest Hemingway for the first time on the podcast after nine years of producing, which is shocking! His 1927 short story, The Killers, was first published in 1927 for Scribner’s Magazine and is a return of his character Nick Adams who appears in several short stories. Set in Summit, Illinois, Adams has to deal with a couple of hitmen looking to take out a boxer named “Ole Anderson.” A Swedish heavyweight fighter being warned about impending doom decides to let fate take over. Like many of his peers, Hemingway detested the Hollywood versions of his work that were sanitized due to the Hays Code. In the 1946 adaptation, director Robert Siodmak and screenwriter Anthony Veiller give us more background on “The Swede” and his life after his boxing career ended. So what are the main differences between the short story and the film? Which version did the Margos like better? Have a listen!In this ep, the

Book Vs. Movie: Valley GirlsThe Frank & Moon Zappa Song Vs. the 1983 Classic FilmWe know that Frank Zappa did not authorize using the song Valley Girl (co-written with his 14-year-old daughter Moon Unit in 1982.) But we had to cover this movie because if there was ever a song that influenced the culture of the early 80s --this was it.Moon Zappa is the oldest child of the late Frank Zappa, and after spending most of her childhood waiting for her dad to make time for her, she reached out to him with his favorite love language--snarky lyrics. Using expressions from her peers in the San Fernando Valley--the Zappas created a song that lampoons the white bread, snotty culture of “Vals.” The fact it became a hit song (and Frank’s only Top 40 single) shocked everyone involved. The producers of the 1983 film tried to get Frank to sign the rights but only with the overall approval of the script and music. The film, directed by Martha Coolidge and starring Nicolas Cage and Deborah Foreman, became a classic teen film

Book Vs. Movie: Rumble FishThe 1975 Novel Vs. the 1983 MovieRusty James is a 14-year-old kid in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who lives a troubled life in 1975’s Rumble Fish, written by former teen sensation S.E. Hinton who published her first work (the YA classic The Outsiders while a freshman in college in 1967. James spends his days getting into fights, hanging out with best friend Steve, trying to find time for his girlfriend Patty, and, most of all, idolizing his older brother, The Motorcycle Boy. The events leading up to his time in the reformatory make up for the main action, and the audience sympathizes with a kid who can’t seem to catch a break. The 1983 film was co-written and directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Simultaneously, he created The Outsiders adaptation, which would become a cult classic. With some of the same cast members (including Matt Dillon and Diane Lane) and the addition of Mickey Rourke, Nicolas Cage, and Dennis Hopper--Coppola aims for a French New Wave look and feel. Filmed on video and in blac