Writers Express Discontent Over Film Adaptations of Their Works

In a retrospective on literary adaptations, Annabel Nugent highlights 17 instances where authors expressed dissatisfaction with how their works were translated to the big screen. Notable grievances include Truman Capote's discontent with the ending of "Breakfast at Tiffany's," where the film's conclusion diverges significantly from his original narrative. Capote's character Paul vanishes in the book, a twist that was altered in the film, prompting the author to voice his displeasure quietly. Stephen King also voiced his concerns regarding Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of "The Shining," particularly criticizing Jack Nicholson's portrayal of Jack Torrance. King felt the film did not align with his vision, reflecting a broader trend of authors feeling their narratives were misrepresented. Similarly, Anthony Burgess expressed regret over "A Clockwork Orange," believing his novel's themes were overshadowed by its cinematic interpretation. Lois Duncan's frustration with "I Know What You Did Last Summer" stemmed from the film's transformation of her tense thriller into a slasher flick, which she felt strayed far from her original story. Richard Matheson echoed this sentiment regarding adaptations of his work, lamenting Hollywood's tendency to disregard the essence of his narratives. These examples underscore a recurring theme in the literary world: the struggle between authors and filmmakers in capturing the true spirit of the original text.