Content analysis of John Green's novel The Fault in Our Stars vis-à-vis film version

Abstract

This study analyzed and compared the novel The Fault In Our Stars by John Green in (2012) and its film version in (2014). The similarities and differences of both versions were identified based on their plot, characters, setting, theme, point of view, and symbolism. The Symbolism Approach was used to discuss the depth and meaning of the story while the Deconstruction Theory was used as bases to explain the minimal alterations made in the film version. The film version altered a few parts in the story like omitting some of its minor characters, retained the novel’s setting and remained true to the original source. There were changes in the plot, but they did not affect the theme. In the theme, no alterations were made, it was still all about the friends who did not let cancer stop them from living their lives; they went out and made the best of their situation. Throughout the treatments, the friends supported each other and cared for them in their time of need. Water was found to be the dominant symbol in both genres where it was used to represent Hazel’s huge amount of suffering in the novel. Finally, the film version still remained faithful to its novel edition by altering only several scenes to add more drama suitable for the film creative adaptation.