2016 Book-to-Film Adaptations
There are several book-to-film adaptations hitting the big screens in the second half of 2016. Sophie Teague rounds them up.
The BFG
The 1982 classic children’s novel The BFG (Roald Dahl, Puffin) is slated for cinematic release in July, with Hollywood heavyweight Steven Spielberg at the helm. Ruby Barnhill makes her film debut as young Sophie, a 10-year-old girl who sparks an odd friendship with a Big Friendly Giant (BFG). By the looks of it, this adaptation will not disappoint!
Our Kind of Traitor
Ewan McGregor stars as Peregrine ‘Perry’ Makepeace in the film adaptation of Our Kind of Traitor (John le Carré, Viking). The British spy film follows Perry and his wife Gail as they become involved with a high-profile money launderer while on holiday in Russia. It’s out in cinemas in July and has been met with mixed reviews overseas.
The Queen of Katwe
The Queen of Katwe (Tim Crothers, Scribe) tells the inspiring true story of Phiona Mutesi, a female chess prodigy born into the Ugandan slum of Katwe. It opens in cinemas in September and stars Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo.
The Girl on the Train
It was never going to be long before the psychological thriller The Girl on the Train (Paula Hawkins, Black Swan) made it onto the big screen. Emily Blunt leads this suspenseful tale of a woman who witnesses a mystery disappearance from the window of a train. It’s due in cinemas in October.
A Monster Calls
Award-winning filmmaker J A Bayona directs this tale of truth and courage based on the acclaimed novel A Monster Calls (Patrick Ness, Walker Books). It tells the story of an ancient monster (Liam Neeson) who offers his assistance to a struggling 12-year-old-boy named Conor (Lewis McDougall). A Monster Calls opens in cinemas in October.
Berlin Syndrome
Local author Melanie Joosten’s Berlin Syndrome (Scribe) follows the story of Clare (Teresa Palmer) and Andi (Max Riemelt). Instantly attracted, Andi invites Clare to stay with him—but as days pass Clare realises that Andi’s intentions may not match her own. Directed by Cate Shortland, Berlin Syndrome shifts between character perspectives and examines the power dynamics in relationships. It’s out in October.
Thank You for Your Service
Thank You for Your Service (David Finkel, Scribe) details the lives of the men returning from a 15-month tour on the frontlines of Baghdad. Starring Miles Teller and Amy Schumer, the story explores how war has seeped its way into America and how ex-soldiers and their families learn to cope and heal. Thank You for Your Service will be in Australian cinemas in late 2016.
Category: Features
