11 Surprising Movies Based on Books
This isn't your typical movie list, these are lesser knowns book adaptations
Across decades, filmmakers have adapted timeless novels, plays, and stories into captivating movies that bring complex characters and intricate plots to life. These adaptations not only introduce literary classics to wider audiences but also offer fresh perspectives.
Here are 11 movies based on books that you may not know about and may come to you as a surprise if you are not an avid reader but crazy film fanatic!
Stardust (2007)
In a quaint English village, a young man named Tristan ventures beyond the boundary wall into a magical kingdom to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. To his surprise, the star is not a lump of rock but a radiant woman named Yvaine. Together, they must evade witches and princes vying for power, discovering love and courage along the way. The film is based on Stardust by Neil Gaiman.
The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
Based on Folklore and a story by Rosalie K. Fry, in The Secret of Roan Inish, a young Fiona learns of her family’s mystical connection to the sea and the legendary selkies after moving to a remote Irish village—seals that transform into humans. As she uncovers her heritage, Fiona embarks on a journey to reunite her family and unlock the secrets of the enchanted island of Roan Inish.
Never Let Me Go (2010)
In a seemingly idyllic English boarding school, three friends Kathy, Tommy, and Ruth grow up discovering the unsettling truth about their purpose in life. As their bonds deepen, they grapple with love, mortality, and the meaning of humanity in a world that treats them as something other than human. Never Let Me Go is based on the novel with the same titular name Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro.
Lootera (2013)
Set in the 1950s, Lootera (Robber) tells the story of Varun, a con artist posing as an archaeologist, who falls in love with Pakhi, the daughter of a landlord. Their fleeting romance is shadowed by secrets and tragedy, inspired by the poignant short story The Last Leaf by O. Henry.
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)
High schooler Greg, who prefers to keep his social distance, finds his life turned upside down when his mother encourages him to befriend Rachel, a classmate diagnosed with leukemia. Their unlikely friendship leads to self-discovery, humour, and heartfelt moments amidst the challenges of youth and illness. The film takes inspiration on Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews
A Monster Calls (2016)
Thirteen-year-old Conor who is based on the novel by Patrick Ness's A Monster Calls, struggles to cope with his mother’s terminal illness in the 2016 film adaptation. When a mysterious tree monster visits him at night, Conor is drawn into fantastical stories that help him confront his fears, grief, and the painful realities of growing up.
Guide (1965)
Based on The Guide by R.K. Narayan, Raju, a charming and street-smart tour guide, becomes involved with Rosie, a dancer trapped in a controlling marriage. As he helps her pursue her dreams, Raju’s life takes unexpected turns leading him on a journey of love, betrayal, and spiritual awakening in this classic tale of redemption.
The Painted Veil (2006)
Set in 1920s colonial China, a young English woman, Kitty, marries a dedicated bacteriologist, Walter. After discovering her infidelity, Walter takes her to a cholera-ridden village as part of his work. Amidst hardship and cultural clash, their strained marriage transforms through mutual understanding and forgiveness. Based on The Painted Veil by W. Somerset Maugham.
The Fall (2006)
In a 1920s Los Angeles hospital, a bedridden stuntman tells a fantastical story to a young immigrant girl. As the tale unfolds, reality and imagination blur, revealing deeper truths about pain, friendship, and the power of storytelling. Inspired by various stories and myths, with influences from books and fairy tales.
Parineeta (2005)
Set in 1960s Kolkata, Parineeta follows the story of Lalita, an orphan living with her uncle’s family, and Shekhar, a wealthy neighbor. Their childhood friendship blossoms into love, but social class differences and misunderstandings threaten to keep them apart in this poignant tale of love, honor, and societal constraints. The movie is adapted from Parineeta by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay.
An Education (2009)
In 1960s London, bright and ambitious teenager Jenny is swept off her feet by an older, charismatic man who introduces her to a glamorous lifestyle. But as her world expands, she must choose between youthful romance and the promise of an academic future. Based on the memoir An Education by Lynn Barber.