Thanks for this, Dave. I've been reading about Wilson's response to the film. I think it's good for the public to see the tensions between story representations, media, etc. I'd have strong feelings too if I actually translated the original text and then was asked about a Hollywood version. Name one great work of literature where the movie was actually better. Not different, but better. I can't think of any myself.
I mostly agree - there are some genres where the screen brings to life some things that the brain can do, but tech can do better - (even low tech). I think about detective stories - like James Ellroy's LA Confidential - or, even the Maltese Falcon (a classic!) - or even, when done right (in BOLD!) - something classic like Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility - this was quite a good film version -- it evoked the emotion of the book.
And while not "great works", the Stephen King stories (not books - think Stand By Me, or Shawshank/Life of Chuck) also stand out as equally great films that tell the story in ways that make the writing shine more. So, I suppose the acting and adaptation work are super key.
Hi Tom! Have you read or seen this review? interesting. not sure if its true!
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/jul/27/odyssey-translator-emily-wilson-attacks-nolan-blockbuster
Thanks for this, Dave. I've been reading about Wilson's response to the film. I think it's good for the public to see the tensions between story representations, media, etc. I'd have strong feelings too if I actually translated the original text and then was asked about a Hollywood version. Name one great work of literature where the movie was actually better. Not different, but better. I can't think of any myself.
I mostly agree - there are some genres where the screen brings to life some things that the brain can do, but tech can do better - (even low tech). I think about detective stories - like James Ellroy's LA Confidential - or, even the Maltese Falcon (a classic!) - or even, when done right (in BOLD!) - something classic like Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility - this was quite a good film version -- it evoked the emotion of the book.
And while not "great works", the Stephen King stories (not books - think Stand By Me, or Shawshank/Life of Chuck) also stand out as equally great films that tell the story in ways that make the writing shine more. So, I suppose the acting and adaptation work are super key.