Many movies have been made that are based on books. There aren’t many good book-to-film adaptations.
That’s not a criticism of Hollywood; it can be difficult to condense the plot and character development of a novel into a few hours of fun. Because of this, the best book-to-film adaptations frequently resemble a companion piece rather than an accurate telling of a bestseller. Some adapt stories in new ways or include brand-new scenes to appeal to a contemporary audience, like the 2019 Little Women movie. Others profit from Hollywood’s glitz and glamour. For instance, the soundtrack to the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before movie on Netflix enhances the romance in the movie.
Below are some of the best movies based on books available for streaming, as well as the novels they were based on.
- Pride and prejudice
The book: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Numerous adaptations have been made of Jane Austen’s timeless tale of love and unfavorable first impressions. However, compared to other film adaptations, this one, starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, adopts a more realistic tone. As a result, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, once rivals turned lovers, come to life on screen.
Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video
- Little Women (2009)
The book: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Little Women has been adapted for the big screen seven times for a reason. The semi-autobiographical book about the sister’s Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy by Louisa May Alcott has endured the test of time and is still relevant in 2021 as it was in 1868 when it was first published. The most recent remake—possibly the best adaptation of Alcott’s story—stars Laura Dern, Meryl Streep, and Saoirse Ronan.
Available to buy on Amazon Prime Video
- Crazy Rich Asian
The book: Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
Where even do we start with this one? The style! It’s romantic! The tension! The romantic comedy stars Constance Wu and Henry Golding and centers on a Chinese American woman who visits Singapore to meet her boyfriend’s family. Sounds easy enough, doesn’t it? Wrong. One of the wealthiest and most prominent families in the nation, his mother is not particularly supportive of her son’s new relationship.
Available to stream on HBO Max
- Gone Girl (2014)
The book: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Even if we wrote a dissertation on Gone Girl, it wouldn’t be long enough to explore the nuanced topics touched upon in the film. What you need to know is as follows: The thriller by David Fincher centers on a husband who is named as a suspect in his wife’s disappearance. The movie discusses marriage, parenting, misogyny, and manipulation. This is among the best book-to-film adaptations, in my opinion.
Available to rent on Amazon Prime Video
- The Devil Wears Prada
The book: The Devil Wears Prada: A Novel by Lauren Weisberger
In the fictitious fashion magazine Runway, Meryl Streep portrays the coldest, scariest, and most intimidating boss. The character played by Anne Hathaway is unfashionable, clueless, and thinks she is a serious journalist. Although their personalities clash, they manage to cooperate. The performances elevate the film, and you might be surprisingly moved by the conclusion.
