The printed page versus the big screen: A comparative analysis of the film adaptation of two selected western contemporary novels

Abstract

This research study analyzed and compared the film adaptations of the American novel, My Sister’s Keeper and English novel, Atonement. The similarities and differences and the extent of alteration made on the adaptations were identified based on the resemblances and disparities of the plot, character, point of view, theme, and setting of the novels and their respective film adaptations. Through comparative analysis, it was found out that alterations were made on the adaptations of both novels. The film adaptation of My Sister’s Keeper altered the plot and characters of the novel and Atonement altered the setting. Between the two adaptations, My Sister’s Keeper had more alterations. With this study, it is hoped that movie goers will also be more open to consider reading the book from where the film is adapted to further appreciate the beauty of the story and book lovers will be more appreciative and less critical whenever their favorite novel is adapted to the big screen knowing the intricacies that come along in turning a two hundred-paged book into a one and a half hour movie.