The cinematic world has always been associated with literature. Popular novels are adapted regularly on screen, giving viewers a chance to experience the wonder of books. In 2017, more than 25 books have been taken to the big screen, with major Hollywood stars being a part of them.
The most recent book to come alive on screen is Stephen King's "It", which releases on Friday. It is guaranteed to give viewers the thrill of Stephen King's writing, with an added visual treat. "It" stars Bill Skarsgard as Pennywise, the creepy clown, along with Jaeden Lieberher, Sophia Lillis, Jack Dylan Grazer, and so on. Catch the trailer of "It" here.
Several other interesting novels have come out as Hollywood films in 2017. Some have already graced the theatre, and some are set to arrive soon. Here is a list of 10 such books which have turned into movie adaptations this year.
Fifty Shades Darker
The second instalment in the Fifty Shades series, Fifty Shades Darker, hit theatres on February 7. It is based on the novel, Fifty Shades Darker, by E. L. James. This novel series depicts a passionate love story between an industrialist and a simpleton, with the added spice of BDSM. The third film, Fifty Shades Freed, is expected to release in February 2018. The trilogy stars Dakota Johnson as Anastasia Steele and Jamie Dornan as Christian Grey.
The Zookeeper's Wife
Diane Ackerman's "The Zookeeper's Wife" is a non-fiction novel about the Second World War. The film adaptation premiered on March 8 and is a period drama showing how hundreds of Jews were rescued by Jan and Antonina Zabinski. The Zookeeper's Wife stars Johan Heldenbergh, Jessica Chastain, Daniel Bruhl, and Michael McElhatton.
My Cousin Rachel
Daphne du Maurier's mystery and romance novel, My Cousin Rachel, was adapted for the big screen by director Roger Michell, starring Rachel Weisz, Iain Glen, Sam Claflin, and Holliday Grainger. It is about a young Cornish man who suspects the wife of his cousin of the murder of her husband. The film released in June and earned praise from critics. Rachel Weisz's performance was especially appreciated.
Murder on the Orient Express
Agatha Christie's classic crime novel, Murder on the Orient Express, is now being adapted into a Hollywood film with a stunning star cast. The film is expected to hit theatres on November 10, but the anticipation has already begun. Starring Kenneth Branagh, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Josh Gad, Michelle Pfeiffer, Willem Dafoe, and other big names, the film is expected to be one of the biggest releases this year.
Before I Fall
Teen drama "Before I Fall" has been penned by Lauren Oliver. Its screen adaptation released in March and became very successful commercially, in spite of being an independent film. It stars Halston Sage, Zoey Deutch, Logan Miller, etc. The story is about Samantha, a high school girl, who gets stuck in a time loop that ends with their death. The film follows how Sam tries every possible way to break free of the fatal loop.
The Dark Tower
Stephen King's novel series, The Dark Tower, has eight instalments, belonging to a vast multiverse of the science fantasy genre. The film adaptation, originally intended as a movie and TV franchise, released in August. It serves as a continuation of the books' plot, taking place in modern-day New York as well as Mid-World, a parallel universe. It stars brilliant actors like Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey.
The Mountain Between Us
Belonging to the romance-disaster genre, The Mountain Between Us is the adaptation of Charles Martin's novel of the same name. It stars Idris Elba as a surgeon and Kate Winslet as a journalist. The story is about the survival of the couple, after being plane-wrecked and stranded in High Uintas Wilderness. Set to be released in October, the film has nuanced performances by the lead actors, depicting their struggle against injuries and natural forces.
The Circle
The Circle is the cinematic version of Dave Eggers's 2013 novel. It stars Tom Hanks, Emma Watson, John Boyega, and Bill Paxton. Paxton gave his last performance in this movie, which released after his death. The Circle was first shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in April. Belonging to the genre of technological thrillers, this movie has done incredibly well at the box-office, in spite of getting a negative response from the critics.
The Dinner
Herman Koch's thriller drama, The Dinner, has been adapted into a Hollywood movie starring Richard Gere, Laura Linney, Steve Coogan, and Rebecca Hall. The movie depicts two couples discussing their family issues over a dinner at a restaurant. The film released widely in May and is the third screen adaptation of this novel, following a Dutch and an Italian version.
Wonder
RJ Palacio's novel, Wonder, tells the touching story of Auggie, a boy born with facial disfigurement. The plot follows his efforts to adjust with the 'normal' kids in his school and proves that he is no different. The movie stars Owen Wilson, Julia Roberts, and Jacob Tremblay. It is set to release in November.
So now you have an idea of the stories to look forward to this year. Read them or watch them; take your pick.
