Book Vs Movie Podcast

Book Vs. Movie: Arsenic and Old LaceThe 1941 Play vs. The 1944 Movie "Arsenic and Old Lace" is a classic American play by Joseph Kesselring. It's a dark comedy about the Brewster family, particularly two elderly sisters, Abby and Martha Brewster, who have a penchant for charity and kindness. However, their generosity takes a macabre turn when it's revealed that they've been poisoning lonely old men with arsenic-laced elderberry wine as an act of "charity."The play is filled with absurd situations, mistaken identities, and dark humor as other members of the Brewster family become entangled in the sisters' activities.Mortimer Brewster, a theater critic, and the sisters' nephew, discovers their secret and tries to cover it up while dealing with his crises."Arsenic and Old Lace" has been adapted into various forms over the years, including a popular film adaptation directed by Frank Capra in 1944, starring Cary Grant as Mortimer Brewster. It remains a beloved classic of American theater known for its witty dialog

Book Vs. Movie: MementoThe Short Story vs. The Movie The Margos continue our theme “Mysteries in May” with Memento, the 2000 film directed by Christopher Nolan based on the short story Memento Mori by his brother Jonathan Nolan, which was printed in Esquire magazine in March 2001. Years after the original film's events, Leonard Shelby, still haunted by his fragmented memories, is approached by Natalie, a woman claiming to hold vital information about his past. Reluctantly, Leonard agrees to meet her, hoping to uncover the truth about his wife's murder. As Leonard delves deeper, he realizes his memories may have been manipulated. Doubting those around him, including Natalie and Teddy, Leonard confronts his past and faces a choice: to cling to his obsession for revenge or embrace the uncertainty of the future.Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The career of the Nolan brothers The biggest differences between the book and the movie.The cast of the 2000  fil

Book Vs. Movie: Death on the Nile The1937 Novel Vs. the 1978 MovieFor “Mysteries in May,” the Margos start with the queen of the genre, Agatha Christie, and her 1937 novel Death on the Nile, which was adapted into a film in 1978. It features her famous detective, Hercule Poirot, and is set aboard a luxurious Nile steamer. The plot revolves around the Belgian detective embroiled in a murder mystery while on a luxurious cruise down the Nile River. The story begins with a group of wealthy passengers embarking on a steamer called the Karnak for a leisurely cruise in Egypt. Among them are Linnet Ridgeway, a wealthy heiress who recently married Simon Doyle, her former friend Jacqueline de Bellefort, and several other intriguing characters.As tensions simmer among the passengers, a murder occurs on board. Linnet Ridgeway is found shot dead in her cabin. Suspicion falls on Simon Doyle, as it is revealed that he was previously engaged to Jacqueline before breaking it off to marry Linnet. However, Simon claims innocenc

Book Vs. Movie: The NaturalThe 1952 Novel Vs. the 1984 Movie"The Natural" by Bernard Malamud and its 1984 movie adaptation directed by Barry Levinson offers different experiences despite sharing the same storyline. The book delves deeper into the psychological aspects of the protagonist and explores themes of fate, ambition, and the corrupting influence of success. The film focuses more on the romantic and mythic elements of the narrative and simplifies certain plotlines and characters. However, it's visually stunning with a powerful score that enhances the story's emotional impact. Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:Author Bernard Malamud and the character of Roy Hobbs. The biggest differences between the book and the movie.The genre of “baseball movies.” The cast of the 1984  film includes Robert Redford (Roy Hobbs,) Robert Duvall (Max Mercy,) Glenn Close (Iris Gaines,) Kim Basinger (Memo Paris,) Wilford Brimley (Pop Fisher,) Barbara Hershey (Harriet

Book Vs. Movie: The Philadelphia StoryThe 1939 Play Vs. the 1940 Movie"The Philadelphia Story" is a romantic comedy play by Philip Barry that became a successful film. Directed by George Cukor,  it follows Tracy Lord (played to perfection by Katherine Hepburn,) a wealthy socialite about to marry for the second time. Her ex-husband, Dexter (Cary Grant,) tries to win her back while a magazine sends a reporter (Jimmy Stewart) and photographer (Ruth Hussey) to cover her wedding. As Tracy navigates her complicated relationships, she questions her feelings and choices. This one is a classic for a reason! Which did we (the Margos) prefer of all of the adaptations?In this ep, the Margos discuss:Playwright Philip BarryKatherine Hepburn being labeled “box office poison.”The differences between the play and the movie. The cast of the 1940  film includes Cary Grant (C.K. Dexter Haven,) Katherine Hepburn (Tracy Lord,) James Stewart (Mike Connor,) Ruth Hussey (LIz,) John Howard (George,) Roland Young (Uncle Willie,) John H

Book Vs. Movie: PaddingtonThe 1958 Children’s Book Vs. the 2014 MovieThe Margos are feeling very British in this episode! English author Michael Bond created Paddington Bear, who first appeared in Bond's 1958 book A Bear Called Paddington and has since become a beloved character in numerous books, television series, and films. Paddington is a polite and curious bear from Peru who wears a duffle coat and a floppy hat. He often carries a suitcase with a label that reads, "Please look after this bear. Thank you." He was named after the London train station where the Brown family found him. The  2014 "Paddington" movie focuses on Paddington's journey to find a home and the bonds he forms with the Brown family. Which did we (the Margos) prefer of all of the adaptations?In this ep, the Margos discuss:Author Michael Bond and his character of Paddington How the 2014 film adapted the much-beloved work. The cast of the 2014 film includes Ben Winshaw (voice of Paddington,) Hugh Bonneville (Henry Brown,) Sally Hawkins (M

Book Vs. Movie: Mean GirlsThe 2002 Book vs. the 2004 Movie (20th Anniversary Replay Celebration!)"Mean Girls" is a teen comedy film released in 2004 that follows Cady Heron, a high school student who navigates the social hierarchy and mean girls. The film stars Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and Lacey Chabert. "Queen Bees and Wannabes" is a book by Rosalind Wiseman that explores the dynamics of teenage girls' social cliques. In this episode, we replay our 2018 discussion about the original book and the now (classic) film. (Tina Fey’s script is as delicious as ever!)Which did we (the Margos) prefer of all of the adaptations?Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast GroupFollow us on Twitter @bookversusmovieInstagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/Email us at bookversusmoviepodcast@gmail.com Margo D.

Book Vs. Movie: RentThe 1896 Opera Vs. the 2005 Movie (Based on the 1996 Play)"Rent" is a modern adaptation of Giacomo Puccini's opera "La Bohème." It tells the story of a group of struggling artists living in New York City's East Village during the late 1980s and early 1990s, dealing with poverty, love, and the AIDS epidemic. The late Jonathan Larson wrote the book, music & lyrics for the show and tragically died a few months before its Broadway debut on January 26, 1996. The plot revolves around a diverse group of characters:Mark Cohen is an aspiring filmmaker and the narrator of the story. He is grappling with his identity and relationship with his ex-girlfriend, Maureen.Roger Davis: A former rock musician who is HIV positive. He is struggling to come to terms with his diagnosis and find inspiration for his music.Mimi Marquez: An exotic dancer who is also HIV positive. She falls in love with Roger, but their shared illness complicates their relationship.Tom Collins: A philosophy professor who is also H

Book Vs. Movie: MatildaThe 1988 YA Novel Vs. the 2022 Musical Film"Matilda the Musical" (based on the 1988 Roald Dahl novel) tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a bright young girl with telekinetic powers. Neglected by her parents and bullied by the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, Matilda finds solace in books and bonds with her kind teacher, Miss Honey. With the support of her friends, Matilda stands up to injustice, ultimately using her powers to bring about change and find a loving home with Miss Honey. It's a tale of empowerment, resilience, and the importance of kindness. Which did we (the Margos) prefer of all of the adaptations?In this ep, the Margos discuss:The original novel, the 1996 film, and the stage musical The differences between the different adaptationsThe cast of the 2022 film includes Alisha Weir (Matilda,) Emma Thompson (Miss Agatha Trunchbull,) Lanasha Lynch (Miss Honey,) Stephen Graham (Mr. Wormwood,) Andrea Riseboro (Mrs. Wormwood,) Sindhu Vee (Mrs. Phelps,) Carl Spencer (Mag

Book Vs. Movie: The Opposite SexThe 1936 Play V. the 1939 Film Vs. the 1956 Musical"The Opposite Sex" is a musical comedy film released in 1956. It is a remake of the 1939 film "The Women, " directed by David Miller, based on the play of the same name by Clare Boothe Luce. The story revolves around several women's romantic and social lives, with a particular focus on Kay Hilliard (played by June Allyson). Kay discovers her husband's infidelity and must deal with the consequences within her social circle. The film explores themes of love, friendship, and betrayal, all set against the backdrop of high society. Which did we (the Margos) prefer of all of the adaptations?In this ep, the Margos discuss:The original play and 1939 film The differences between the 1939 film and the musical adaptationThe cast of the 1956 film includes June Allyson (Kay Hilliard,) Joan Collins (Crystal Allen,) Dolores Gray (Sylvia Fowler,) Ann Sheridan (Amanda Penrose,) Ann Miller (Gloria Dell,) Leslie Neilsen (Steven Hilliard,) Jeff Ri

Book Vs. Movie: Mean GirlsThe 2002 Book vs. the 2004 Movie vs. the 2018 Musical vs. the 2024 Movie"Mean Girls" is a teen comedy film released in 2004 that follows Cady Heron, a high school student who navigates the social hierarchy and mean girls. The film stars Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and Lacey Chabert. "Queen Bees and Wannabes" is a book by Rosalind Wiseman that explores the dynamics of teenage girls' social cliques. The "Mean Girls" musical adaptation premiered on Broadway in 2018 and follows the same storyline as the film but with some changes. The 2024 film stars Renee Rapp. Angourie Rice, and Auli’l Cravalho. Tina Fey wrote the screenplays for all versions. Which did we (the Margos) prefer of all of the adaptations?In this ep, the Margos discuss:The origin stories of the various “Mean Girls.” The differences between the 2004 film and the musicalThe cast of the 2024 film includes Augourie Rice (Cady Heron,) Renee Rapp (Regina George,) Auli’i Cravalho (Janis,) Jaquel Spivey (Damian

Book Vs. Movie: TommyThe 1969 Rock Opera Vs. The 1975 Movie“Musicals in March”"The Who's Tommy" is a rock opera written by Pete Townshend and performed by the English rock band The Who. It was first released as a double album in 1969 and later adapted into various stage productions, including a highly successful Broadway musical. The story revolves around a young boy named Tommy Walker who becomes deaf, dumb, and blind after witnessing a traumatic event. Despite his sensory impairments, Tommy discovers an extraordinary talent for playing pinball and becomes a messianic figure for his followers. The rock opera has been adapted into various forms over the years, including a 1975 film directed by Ken Russell and a Broadway musical that premiered in 1992. Which did we (the Margos) prefer, the original album or the 1975 movie adaptation?In this ep, the Margos discuss:The Who and their place in rock historyRobert Stigwood & Ken RussellThe.The cast of the 1975 film includes Roger Daltrey (Tommy,) Ann-Margret (No

Book Vs. Movie: The Color PurpleThe 1982 novel Vs. the 2023 movie musical"The Color Purple" is a novel by Alice Walker that tells the story of Celie, a young African American girl in the early 20th century. Celie writes letters to God, sharing her struggles with abuse from her father and later from her husband, referred to as "Mr."The novel tackles racism, sexism, and the societal challenges of the time. Characters undergo personal growth, and the story emphasizes empowerment, self-discovery, and breaking free from societal constraints. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award, and Steven Spielberg directed the 1985 film adaptation.It was adapted into a musical with a book by Marsha Norman and music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray. The musical premiered on Broadway in 2005 and has since been staged in various productions worldwide. One notable aspect of "The Color Purple" musical is its powerful and soulful score, incorporating jazz, gospel, and blues elem

Book Vs. Movie: The Autobiography of Miss Jane PittmanThe 1971 play Vs. the 1974 movieFor Black History Month, the Margos visit "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman." Ernest J. Gaines wrote this novel, which was first published in 1971. The book is a fictional autobiography that spans over 100 years of American history, narrated by Miss Jane Pittman, an African American woman born into slavery and lived through the Civil Rights Movement. The narrative provides a powerful and poignant perspective on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in the United States. Miss Jane Pittman's life story serves as a lens through which readers can explore the complex issues of race, identity, and social justice. "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman" was adapted into a television movie in 1974 and was directed by John Korty—Cicely Tyson in the titular role of Miss Jane Pittman. Cicely Tyson's performance in the role received widespread acclaim, and the movie itself was well-received for its powerful storytelling

Book Vs. Movie: FencesThe 1987 play Vs. the 2016 movieFor Black History Month, the Margos revisit playwright August Wilson (we covered Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom last year.) Fences premiered on Broadway in 1987 and is a part of Wilson's acclaimed Pittsburgh Cycle, also known as the Century Cycle, a series of ten plays that chronicle the African American experience in the United States throughout each decade of the 20th century. This is a play about Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball player who now works as a garbage collector. Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, the story explores themes of race, family, generational trauma, and unfulfilled dreams. Troy's desire to build a fence around his yard symbolizes his need to protect his family and his sense of confinement.In this ep, the Margos discuss:The work of August Wilson.The plot of the storyThe differences between the play and the adaptation.The cast of the 2016 film: Denzel Washington ((Troy Maxson,) Viola Davis (Rose Lee Maxson,) Stephen McKinley Henderson (Jim

Book Vs. Movie: Ethan FromeThe 1911 book Vs. the 1993 movieThe Margos have decided to cover a proper novel-to-movie adaptation after a few weeks of pushing the boundaries of what constitutes a "book" on their show. Edith Wharton's 1911 novel Ethan Frome tells the story of a sickly man who lives in Starkfield, Massachusetts, with his wife and her cousin. The novel explores how they ended up in this situation. It tells the story of Ethan, trapped in a loveless marriage until the arrival of Zeena's cousin, Mattie, who brings hope and passion to his life. The novel highlights how societal norms and personal choices can lead to tragic outcomes and serves as a commentary on the constraints of rural life and the consequences of unfulfilled desires.In this ep, the Margos discuss:The career of Edith Wharton.The plot of the storyThe differences between the book and the adaptation.The cast of the 1993 film: Liam Neeson (Ethan Frome,) Patricia Arquette (Mattie Silver,) Joan Allen (Zeena,) Tate Donovan (Reverand Smith,) S

Book Vs. Movie: Gone GirlThe 2012 book Vs. the 2014 movie(From the Book Vs. Movie Vaults!)The Margos take an oldie but a goodie out of the vaults this week!!Gone Girl is a thriller by Gillian Flynn. The story follows the disappearance of Amy Dunne, a woman who goes missing on her fifth wedding anniversary. As the investigation unfolds, the story becomes more and more complex, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. The novel was so successful that it was later adapted into a movie directed by the renowned filmmaker David Fincher. While the movie stays true to the book in many ways, there are some notable differences between the two. Which did the Margos like better? In this ep, the Margos discuss:The career of Gillian FlynnThe twists and turns of the plot. The differences between the book and the adaptation. The cast of the 2014 film: Ben Affleck (Nick Dunne,) Rosamund Pike (Amy Dunne,) Neil Patrick Harris (Desi,) Tyler Perry (Tanner Bolt,) Carrie Coon (Margo,) Kim Dickens Det. Rhonda,) Patrick Fugit

Book Vs. Movie: JawsThe 1974 book Vs. the 1975 movie(From the Book Vs. Movie Vaults!)The Margos take an oldie but a goodie out of the vaults this week!!"Jaws" is a classic thriller that originated from Peter Benchley's novel and was later transformed into a blockbuster film directed by Steven Spielberg. The novel was published in 1974, and unfortunately, it is not very good. You will soon find out the reasons why! However, Spielberg's adaptation, which was released in 1975, focuses more on the suspense and thrill of the shark attacks, emphasizing the horror elements.In this ep, the Margos discuss:The career of Peter BenchleyThe plot of this awful book.The differences between the book and the adaptation.The cast of the 1975 film: Roy Scheider (Brody,) Robert Shaw (Quint,) Richard Dreyfus (Hooper,) Lorraine Gary (Ellen,) Murray Hamilton (Vaughn) and Lee Fierro as Mrs. Kintner)Clips used:Original Jaws 1975 teaser clipAudio from the original book.Original Jaws trailerYou’re gonna need a bigger boatThe USS Indiana

Book Vs. Movie: Priscilla The 1985 Memoir Elvis & Me Vs. the 2023 Sofia Coppola Adaptation The Margos covered Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir Elvis and Me, pairing it with the 1988 TV movie starring Susan Walters and Dale Midkiff. We loved the fact that she was able to share her truth despite the long-standing canonization of her ex-husband, who died in August 1977. Elvis's pill-popping and extracurricular activities with other women were brought up, as well as how they met when she was just 14 years old and he was 24. This was her chance to give her side. Since the “Me Too” era, many stories of beloved men with off boundaries in their relations with much younger women are now looked upon as “grooming,” Sofia Coppola gives an adaptation solely focused on Prisicilla’s point of view. In this ep, the Margos discuss:The backstory of Elvis and Priscilla.The various actors who have played these partsThe are of the memoir and how women are attacked for talking about “genius” men.The cast of the 1951 film: Cailee

Book Vs. Movie: An American in ParisThe 1928 “Symphonic Poem” Vs. the 1951 Classic Movie The Margos are starting the New Year with a symphonic poem by George Gershwin that evokes France during the Annees Folles (the 1920s era). The piece was also inspired by Maurice Ravel's "unusual chords." After visiting Paris in 1926, Gershwin sought out teachers, but they all told him that there was no one better than Gershwin himself. He told a reporter that this work was an American's first time in Paris. It premiered at Carnegie Hall on December 13, 1948.The movie "An American in Paris," which opened on October 4, 1951, stars Gene Kelly, Leslie Caron, Oscar Levant, Georges Guetary, and Nina Foch. It includes lyrics by Ira Gershwin and was directed by Vincente Minnelli. The film is one of the most honored musicals in film history.In this ep, the Margos discuss:The importance of the work of George & Ira Gershwin in music history.The challenges of filming dance sequences in filmThe jazz era of the 1920s.The cast of th