The actual BEA might be over, but Armchair BEA still is not (although today is the last day). Today’s topic is Book to Movie Adaptations. I’m going to just try to focus on the diversity aspect of them and keep this section short and sweet because well… let’s just say when I get started on book movies, I have a hard time stopping and it usually ends up in a rant. A very long rant. One I do not have the energy for right now. Anyways…
Book to Movie Adaptations
I think diversity in itself is already a huge issue in YA books. Let’s face it – YA does lack diversity, whether we like it or not. Most characters are straight, white, and middle class and whatever the average American is. It’s hard to find a lot of diversity in books, especially diversity in terms of main characters and not following stereotypes.
I guess because there isn’t quite enough diversity in the books, Hollywood tries to “fix” the problem by changing the races and ethnicities of characters. Sometimes this works out fine and I don’t really mind. Other times it makes me grit my teeth. I think that there’s a delicate balance between staying true to the book and adding more characters of different races and ethnic backgrounds to the story by replacing them with others. On one hand I appreciate the attempt to add more diversity. But on the other, I would rather the characters keep their race/ethnicity even if it means some diversity is sacrificed. It really depends on the character that goes through the change.
And then there’s white-washing. I’m not even going to get into that.
All in all, while I like having my favorite books brought to life, whether on the big screen or the small one, I think book to movie adaptations revolve around the cast just as much as the original stories (hopefully) revolved around the characters. But the problem with movies is that they place an emphasis on looks. Certain characters are described certain ways and have certain looks. The movie people (director, producer, casting director, etc) are challenged to find people that not only can act the part, but look it too. And as a fan, I find it really disappointing if I feel like a movie (or TV show) was casted poorly.
Giveaway
I’m going to give away these bookmarks to three lucky people. Each person will get one bookmark each (so two bookmarks total). The book is not included.
Rules
- You must be 13 years or older or have parent/guardian permission to enter.
- You must live (or have a shipping address) in the United States.
- Winners much respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen
I agree, it is annoying when the people cast don’t feel right for the role. We visualize someone completely different when we read.
It was nice getting to know better you through ABEA this year. I look forward to your future posts. Thank you for the giveaway and the chance to win.
I agree; it is always SUCH a disappointment when my favorite books are cast poorly for the screen. It’s why I generally don’t even watch movie or TV adaptations of books. Otherwise I’ll spend the entire time thinking about how the plot and characters differ from the book.