Book Vs Movie Podcast

Book Vs. Movie: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie(Replay ep for Dame Maggie Smith 1934-2024)The Margos celebrate September with a series of “Back to School” episodes, starting with the 1961 classic  The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark. Brodie is a popular teacher at a girls' school in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1931.Each year she picks a group of students to be an elite part of the “Brodie set”--under her tutelage learning mostly about the arts & beauty (and not science!)Brodie is single and considers herself at her “prime,” with two gentlemen vying for her affection. Mr. Lloyd is a painter, a father of six, and a bit of a letch. Mr. Lowther is a kind person but a bit wishy-washy. The competition for her attention and affection marks their relationships and is a game the girls enjoy watching.Turns out Brodie is a Fascist, which is her ultimate undoing. The complicated story about education and mentorship is an indictment of giving one person too much power over a young mind. The 1969 movie was not a ma

Book Vs. Movie: Where the Wild Things AreThe 1963 Classic Children’s Book Vs. the 2009 AdaptationMaurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are has captured readers' hearts for decades, telling a timeless story of childhood, imagination, and emotional growth. When director Spike Jonze adapted it into a full-length film in 2009, audiences were treated to a visually stunning and emotionally complex retelling of the classic. Despite its beloved status, the book is often banned, prompting questions about the reasons behind these challenges.In this episode, the Margos explore the critical differences between the book and the film, examining how each medium handles its themes, characters, and tone.Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The work of Maurice SendakWhy is this work still controversial?The differences between the 1963 children’s book and the 2009 adaptation. The 1957 Movie Cast: Max Records (Max,) Catherine Keener (Connie,) Mark Ruffalo (Adrian,)

Book Vs. Movie: 1984The 1949 Classic Novel Vs. the 1984 AdaptationThe Margos continue their look at “Banned Books’ in September with the novel 1984, which is set in a dystopian world dominated by a totalitarian regime that enforces complete obedience and constant surveillance. The protagonist, Winston Smith, works at the Ministry of Truth, altering historical records to fit the Party's narrative. He questions the Party's authority despite outward compliance and secretly documents his dissent. The story culminates in Winston's imprisonment and torture, leading to his ultimate betrayal and psychological manipulation. The 1984 film adaptation, directed by Michael Radford, is considered one of the most faithful to Orwell's novel.Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The work of George Orwell. Why is this work still controversial?The differences between the 1949 novel and the 1984 adaptation. The 1957 Movie Cast: John Hurt (Winston Smith,) Richard Burto

Book Vs. Movie: Peyton PlaceThe 1956 Novel Vs. the 1957 MoviePeyton Place by Grace Metalious, published in 1956, became one of the most controversial books of its time due to its exploration of taboo topics like adultery, incest, and moral hypocrisy in a small New England town. The explicit content led to the book being banned in several cities and states across the U.S. Despite the controversy, the novel became a bestseller. It inspired a successful 1957 film and a long-running TV series from 1964 to 1969, cementing its place in American pop culture. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The short, fascinating life of the author. Why did the book and movie cause such a stir? The 1957 Movie Cast: Lana Turner (Constance MacKenzie,) Diane Varsi (Allison MacKenzie,) Hope Lang (Selena Cross,) Lee Philips (Michael Rossi,) Arthur Kennedy (Lucas Cross,) Lloyd Nolan (Dr. Matthew Swain,) Russ Tamblyn (Norman Page,) Terry Moore (Betty Anderson,) David Nelson

Book Vs. Movie: To Kill a MockingbirdThe 1960 Novel Vs. the 1962 MovieThe 1962 film adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird, directed by Robert Mulligan, is a powerful retelling of Harper Lee's classic novel. The story follows Atticus Finch, played by Gregory Peck in an Oscar-winning performance, as he defends Tom Robinson (Brock Peters), a Black man falsely accused of raping a white woman in 1930s Alabama.The film is seen through the eyes of Atticus's young daughter, Scout (Mary Badham), and her brother Jem (Phillip Alford), who grapple with the harsh realities of racism and injustice in their small town. Key characters include Dill Harris (John Megna), Scout and Jem's imaginative friend, and Boo Radley (Robert Duvall), the mysterious neighbor who ultimately reveals his true character. The movie focuses on the moral courage of Atticus and the loss of innocence experienced by the children, capturing the essence of the novel’s themes in a more streamlined narrative.Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a

Book Vs. Movie: Now, VoyagerThe 1941 Novel Vs. the 1942 MovieOlive Higgins Prouty's 1941 novel Now, Voyager was later adapted into a 1942 film starring Bette Davis. This powerful story follows Charlotte Vale, a repressed woman controlled by her domineering mother. After a breakdown, Charlotte undergoes a transformative journey, finding independence and love with a married man, Jerry Durrance. Bette Davis delivers a memorable performance in the film, capturing Charlotte’s transformation. The iconic scene where Jerry lights two cigarettes and hands one to Charlotte symbolizes their deep connection. Now, Voyager remains a classic of Hollywood’s Golden Age, praised for portraying mental health and female empowerment. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The original story of the 1941 novel. The author’s interesting life storyThe 1941 Movie Cast: Bette Davis (Charlotte,) Paul Henried (Jeremiah/Jerry,) Claude Rains (Dr. Vale,) Gladys Cooper (Mrs. Henry

Book Vs. Movie: Charlotte’s WebThe 1952 Novel Vs the 1973 Movie"Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White is a classic children's novel that tells the heartwarming story of Wilbur, a pig, and his unlikely friendship with Charlotte, a wise and caring spider. Through Charlotte's clever web-spinning, she helps save Wilbur from being slaughtered, highlighting themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life.The 1973 animated movie adaptation stays faithful to the book's narrative and themes, capturing the gentle and reflective tone that made the story beloved by generations. The film, with its simple yet charming animation and memorable songs, preserves the emotional depth of the original story, making it a treasured adaptation for fans of the book. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out.In this ep, the Margos discuss:The original story of the 1952 novel. The Sherman BrothersThe 1973 Movie Cast: Henry Gibson (Wilbur,) Debbie Reynolds (Charlotte,) Paul Lynde (Templeton,) Agnes Moorehead (the

Book Vs. Movie: The Bling RingThe Vanity Fair Article Vs.The 2013 Sofia Coppola Movie"The Bling Ring" is a 2013 film written and directed by Sofia Coppola and is based on the true story of a group of teenagers known as the Bling Ring, who used the internet to track celebrities' whereabouts to rob their homes. The screenplay is based on Nancy Jo Sales' 2010 Vanity Fair article "The Suspects Wore Louboutins."The film follows a group of fame-obsessed teenagers in Los Angeles who track celebrities' locations through social media and then break into their homes to steal luxury items.Our special guest for this episode is Kristen Meinzer of the Daily Fail, How to Be Fine, and By the Book podcasts! Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The 2010 Vanity Fair articleThe various documentaries about the robberiesThe 2013 Movie Cast: Israel Broussard (Marc Hall,) Katie Chang (Rebecca Ahn,) Emma Watson (Nicki Moore,) Taissa Farmiga (Sam Moore,) Claire Julien (Chl

Book Vs. Movie: Born YesterdayThe 1946 Play Vs.The 1950 Movie"Born Yesterday" (based on the 1946 play by Garson Kanin) is a sharp critique of corruption and a celebration of personal growth. It explores the transformative power of education and delves into themes of ethics and integrity. Even after over seven decades, its themes of empowerment, integrity, and social critique remain relevant, making it a timeless classic. George Cukor directed the 1950 film, which featured an electrifying performance by Judy Holliday, who won an Academy Award for Best Actress. In 1993, the film was adapted with Melanie Griffith in the lead role. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The 1946 play and its successful run on BroadwayThe career of Judy Holliday The 1950 Movie Cast: Judy Holliday (Billie Dawn,) Broderick Crawford (Harry Brock,) William Holden (Paul Verrall,) Howard St. John (Jim Devery,) Frank Otto (Eddie,) Larry Oliver (Congressman Hedges,) Barbara Brow

Book Vs. Movie: 3:10 to YumaThe 1953 Elmore Leonard Short Story Vs.The 2007 Movie"3:10 to Yuma" (2007) is a Western film directed by James Mangold, based on a short story by Elmore Leonard. It is a remake of the 1957 film of the same name. Here are some key details: The story is set in the late 19th century. It follows Dan Evans (Christian Bale), a struggling rancher and Civil War veteran who volunteers to escort the captured outlaw Ben Wade (Russell Crowe) to the town of Contention, where Wade is to board the 3:10 train to Yuma for his trial. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, including Wade's gang, led by his loyal second-in-command, Charlie Prince (Ben Foster), who is determined to rescue him. Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:Author Elmore LeonardThe 1957 film adaptation    The 2007 Movie Cast: Russell Crowe (Ben Wade,) Christian Bale (Dan Evans,) Logan Lerman (William Evans,) Dallas Roberts (Grayson Butterfield,) Ben Foster (Charlie Pri

Book Vs. Movie: The Most Dangerous GameThe 1924 Short Story Vs.The 1932 Movie"The Most Dangerous Game" is a short story by Richard Connell, published in 1924. It follows Sanger Rainsford, a big-game hunter who ends up on an isolated Caribbean island. There, he meets General Zaroff, a hunter who has grown bored with traditional games and now hunts humans. Zaroff gives Rainsford a choice: be hunted or join in the hunt. Rainsford refuses and becomes Zaroff's next target. Rainsford uses his wits and survival skills to evade Zaroff and his assistant, Ivan, over several days. The story climaxes with Rainsford confronting and defeating Zaroff, suggesting he feeds him to his own hounds."The Most Dangerous Game" is a 1932 pre-code film adaptation of Richard Connell's short story, directed by Irving Pichel and Ernest B. Schoedsack. The movie stars Joel McCrea as Bob Rainsford (the protagonist) and Leslie Banks as Count Zaroff (the antagonist). Fay Wray and Robert Armstrong also appear in significant roles. The film is

Book Vs. Movie: Suddenly, Last SummerThe 1958 Play Vs.The 1959 MovieSuddenly Last Summer is a 1959 film based on the play by Tennessee Williams, adapted for the screen by Gore Vidal and Williams himself. Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, the film stars Elizabeth Taylor, Katharine Hepburn, and Montgomery Clift. The plot revolves around a wealthy widow, Mrs. Violet Venable (played by Hepburn), who seeks to lobotomize her niece, Catherine Holly (played by Taylor), to prevent her from revealing the truth about her son's death. Montgomery Clift plays Dr. John Cukrowicz, a neurosurgeon who is drawn into the family's dark and twisted secrets.The film is notable for its intense performances and its exploration of themes such as mental illness, family secrets, and repressed sexuality. It received several Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Hepburn and Taylor.Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The backstory of the playThe life of Tennessee Willi

Book Vs. Movie: SecondsThe 1964 Book Vs. The 1966 MovieThe Margos are set to permanently change our lives with "Seconds," a 1966 American science fiction drama directed by John Frankenheimer. The film is based on David Ely's 1963 novel of the same name and stars Rock Hudson in a bravura performance. The plot centers around Arthur Hamilton, a middle-aged banker allowed to start a new life through a mysterious organization that offers a radical and experimental procedure to create a "second" identity.After undergoing surgery and assuming a new identity as Tony Wilson (played by Hudson), Hamilton begins his new life, only to find that his past and the haunting consequences of his decision continue to follow him."Seconds" is known for its unsettling atmosphere, themes of identity and existential dread, and James Wong Howe's innovative and disturbing cinematography. Despite its initial mixed reception, the film has gained a cult following and is considered a significant work in the science fiction and psychologica

Book Vs. Movie: BratsThe 2021 Memoir Vs. The 2024 Hulu Documentary"Brat: An '80s Story" is a memoir by Andrew McCarthy, published in 2021. In this book, McCarthy, an actor best known for his roles in iconic '80s films like "St. Elmo's Fire" and "Pretty in Pink," reflects on his experiences as part of the so-called "Brat Pack," a group of young actors who rose to fame during that decade. McCarthy shares his journey through Hollywood, his struggles with fame, and his personal growth over the years."Brats" (directed by McCarthy) provides an insider's look at the phenomenon of the Brat Pack. It features interviews with the actors themselves, behind-the-scenes stories, and commentary on how their films shaped a generation. The documentary captures the essence of the 1980s film scene and offers a retrospective of the careers and lives of these iconic actors.Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The origin of 80s teen moviesThe New York magazine article dubbed “T

Book Vs. Movie: Tales of the CityThe 1978 Book Vs. The 1993 Limited SeriesThe Margos are celebrating Pride Month with one of the most beloved books and adaptations of the last 50 years. Armistead Maupin's captivating series, Tales of the City, is set in vibrant San Francisco. Initially a newspaper serial in the Pacific Sun and the San Francisco Chronicle, this collection of novels was adapted into a beloved 1993 miniseries focusing on events from the first book. Celebrated for its authentic representation of LGBTQ+ lives and community, the series broke ground in television for its inclusive storytelling. Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The background of the stories and settingThe effect the 1993 series had on the gay rights movement. The differences between the first novel and the film. The 1993 film's cast includes Olympia Dukakis (Anna Madrigal,) Laura Linney (Mary Ann Singleton,) Barbara Garrick (DeDe Halcyon Day,) Billy Campbell (Dr. Jon Fielding

Book Vs. Movie: Don’t Look Now The Daphne DuMaurier Short Story Vs. the Nicolas Roeg FilmRIP Donald Sutherland! (1935-2024)Due to the passing of actor extraordinaire Donald Sutherland, we are replaying our "Don't Look Now" episode. This week, let's talk about Daphe DuMaurier's short story "Don't Look Now," published in 1971 and adapted into a film by director Nicolas Roeg. The story follows a couple, John and Laura, as they cope with the loss of their daughter while on vacation in Venice. They meet twin sisters with psychic abilities who warn them about their son's safety. The film closely follows the story but is controversial for a suggestive scene between the main characters. Despite this, the movie is considered a horror classic known for its editing and acting. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The life of Daphne DuMaurierThe plot of the story in the original version versus the filmThe controversy around the movie and why it is considered a classic horror taleThe cast: Julie Christie (Laura Baxter,) Donald

Book Vs. Movie: Hit ManThe 2001 Texas Monthly Article Vs. The 2024 Richard Linklater Film"Hit Man" is a 2024 romantic action comedy directed by Richard Linklater and co-written by Glen Powell, who also stars in the film. The story is loosely based on a true-life article by Skip Hollandsworth. The film follows Gary Johnson, a philosophy professor in New Orleans who moonlights as a police contractor, posing as a hitman to catch people looking to hire killers. You can read the Texas Magazine article (originally published in October 2001) at this link! Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The background of the storyThe publishing history of Texas Monthly and the enormous crimes covered in it. The differences between the real-life story and the film. (Link to Harper’s Bazaar article)The 2024 film's cast includes Glen Powell (Gary Johnson,) Adria Arjona (Madison,) Austin Amello (Jasper,) Retta (Claudette,) Sanjay Rao (Phil,) Molly Bernard (Alicia,) and Evan Hol

Book Vs. Movie: The Paper ChaseThe 1971 Book vs. The 1973 FilmIn the episode, the Margos discuss the 1971 novel "The Paper Chase" by John Jay Osbourn Jr. and compare it to the 1973 film directed by James Bridges. The story follows James Hart (played by Timothy Bottoms), a first-year law student at Harvard who faces challenges when he clashes with the formidable contracts professor Charles W. Kingsfield Jr. (played by John Houseman). Despite the difficulties, James perseveres and even starts dating the professor's daughter, Susan (played by Lindsay Wagner). Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:Harvard Law School as a cultural institution The Paper Chase’s popularity in the 1970sThe differences between the novel and film. The 1973 film's cast includes Timothy Bottoms (James T. Hart,) Lindsay Wagner (Susan Fields,) John Houseman (Charles W. Kingsfield, Jr,) Graham Beckel (Ford,) James Naughton (Kevin Brooks,) Edward Herrmann (Anderson,) Craig Richard Nelson

Book Vs. Movie: The Bridges of Madison CountyThe 1992 Book vs. The 1995 FilmThe Margos explore chick-lit and romance in this episode! "The Bridges of Madison County" is a romantic drama that revolves around a short but passionate love affair between Francesca Johnson, a lonely Italian-American housewife, and Robert Kincaid, a wandering National Geographic photographer. The book was written by Robert James Waller, and the film was directed by Clint Eastwood. Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The history of the book in the 1990s Clint Eastwood’s directorial style.The annoying “kids.” The 1995 film's cast includes Clint Eastwood (Robert Kincaid,) Meryl Streep (Francesca Johnson,) Annie Corley (Carolyn Jonhson,) Victor Slezak (Michael Johnson,) Jim Haynie (Richard Johnson,) Phyllis Lyons (Betty) and Debra Monk as Madge.Clips used:“Pendant scene”The Bridges of Madison County (1995 trailer)“CREAMATED??”“Poisonous Flowers”Music by Lennie NiehausBook Vs. Movie

Book Vs. Movie: The Hound of the Baskervilles The 1902 Book vs. The 2012 BBC One ProductionThe Margos are concluding “Mysteries in May” with one of the greatest mystery writers of all time, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and his most famous creation, Sherlock Holmes. The Hound of the Baskervilles is the third of the four crime novels serialized in The Strand Magazine from August 1901 to April 1902. It follows Holmes and Watson as they investigate the legend of a fearsome, diabolical hound of supernatural origin. This was the first appearance of Holmes since his apparent death in "The Final Problem," and the success of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" led to the character's eventual revival. The 2012 version is from the BBC One program Sherlock and moves the story to the present day. When it was first broadcast, it received over 10 million viewers.  Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The character of Sherlock Holmes The biggest differences between the1902 story