There is always a debate that comes up when it comes to movie adaptations of a book: should I read or watch the story first?

Many prefer to read a book before seeing the movie with some parents going as far as to restrict a movie until the child has read the book. I teach high school English so it may feel blasphemous for what I’m about to say. I prefer to watch the movie first before I read a book.

Now, before you all light your torches and sharpen your pitchforks, let me explain a few things.

First, this doesn’t mean I think the movie is better. In fact, this approach emphasizes the idea that the book is usually superior to the movie adaptation.

Often, people go into a movie based on their favorite books with excitement. Quickly, they leave criticizing the movie for not living up to their expectation of the book. This is a fair thought process.

My thought is to take that disappointment and reverse it. If you watch the movie first, then you will loose the bias and be able to appreciate the film at face value rather than against your preconceived notions.

Watching the movie in this way sets you up nicely for the book. Then, when you go and read the book, you can truly appreciate it for all its worth.

Along these same lines, reading the book feels like getting a more behind-the-scenes experience. Movies will always leave bits out so this inherently leaves viewers disappointed. Reversing the order allows you see the movie, wish for more, and get more in the book.

This can be a problem when a book has a particularly interesting plot twist. Because the movie usually doesn’t do it justice, it can leave that plot twist flat as you read it, missing out on the original intent. I think this isn’t a common dilemma but would happen enough that it is worth noting.

Lastly, I think this approach allows you to better understand the book. You get the basic plot with the movie, leaving you a chance to better understand the intricacies upon reading it. Furthermore, it develops a better appreciation for what the author wants to accomplish.

Again, there are issues here. Many love to read a book with their own imaginations. Having the plot lined out like this makes it harder to imagine the book on your own terms. Still, I feel like that eases the mental load of the book and allows for a better consumption of the novel.

I want to reiterate that I am not advocating for skipping the novel. I think you need to experience both and have an open mind about both. I do know there will be disappointment with either direction, but I think that lessens significantly when the movie is first.

One more thought: viewing it this way allows you to better appreciate the differences between cinema and the written word. Take The Great Gatsby.

In the novel, the titular Jay Gatsby is introduced in the most nonchalant way possible. In fact, narrator Nick Carraway notes that he expected more from Gatsby despite his adoration of him. In the film, the introduction is turned on its head and has Leonardo DiCaprio’s Gatsby introduce himself with fireworks, swelling music, and a meme-worthy pose with his champagne glass.

I bring this up because it reflects the difference between cinema and literature. Both had different purposes and both did so well. That said, I found myself critical of the Gatsby introduction in the movie more because of my choice to read the book first.

Again, this is all personal preference. I do want to emphasize that it is OK to view a movie first. In fact, I think it lines you up for the better experience overall. Then again, I could just be crazy.

What about you? Do you prefer to watch a movie first or read the book first? Why is that your go-to method? Let us know in the comments below or head over to Discord channel to join the conversation.

Featured Image: Amazon MGM Studios (via Movie Web)

Boss Rush Podcast – A Podcast about Video Games

The Boss Rush Podcast – A Podcast about Video Games – is the flagship show of the Boss Rush Network and Boss Rush Media. Each week, hosts⁠ Corey Dirrig and LeRon Dawkins⁠ are joined by friends, fellow creators, indie developers, and industry veterans to discuss the latest in the world of video games, including news, rumors, new releases, and what they’ve been playing. They also answer listener questions, debate important industry topics and Boss Rush Banter discussion points, and feature a rotating weekly segment. New episodes post every Monday.

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