I am currently engrossed in reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. At first, I wasn’t sure about starting it, as I heard the film was extremely violent. But films and books are so different. I’ve rarely found a film work well from a book I’ve liked. I am pleasantly surprised by the novel. The story is compelling, the prose clear and to the point. As for the violence, it is there, but it’s not gratuitous. It’s no wonder it’s so successful. Lots of lessons in novel writing right here.
Hi Diana
I cannot but agree with you: it is very rare for a film to match the book it is based on, especially when the book in question is a very good one (and if you have just read it!). In fact, in my experience, there is only one exception to this rule. That exception is The Name of the Rose…
P.S. I’m really glad I found your blog. I like the way you write!
Thanks, Rob. Very sweet of you. I’m now anxious to re-visit Rio Bravo. My 15 yr. old grandson is passionate about film. He’s just completed his 8th short film. I’ll let him know about this old classic, too.
Apart from being one of the greatest Westerns ever, Rio Bravo is a magnificent hymn to friendship and loyalty. In my humble opinion, every boy should watch that movie…