Don’t Watch <em>The Shards</em>. Read It.
Ryan Murphy’s adaptation has transformed a great book into a bad show.
The life of novelist Bret Easton Ellis is often seen as the epitome of mainstream literary stardom. His debut novel, Less Than Zero, published at the age of just 20, catapulted him to fame. Adapted into a movie, it starred A-list actors like Robert Downey Jr. and James Spader. By his thirtieth birthday, Ellis had already published numerous bestsellers, including American Psycho and The Rules of Attraction, filled with materialistic ennui, casual sex, and violent deaths.
He became a central figure in the literary "Brat Pack," rubbing shoulders with celebrities from music and film, all while accumulating wealth. In fact, his success was unprecedented, even by the standards of the Brat Pack era. Despite the widespread acclaim, not everyone was a fan. Bret himself reflected on his early work in his 2005 novel Lunar Park, admitting that it was a product of mimicry, influenced by a classmate.
Now, many years later, Ellis has penned another novel, The Shards, which initially seemed out of character for the author. The story follows a teenage version of Ellis who becomes entangled in a murder mystery at his prestigious high school. Initially, it may seem like a typical Ellis novel with its dark themes and drug-fueled narrative.
However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that The Shards is a much deeper and more introspective work. Narrated by an older Ellis looking back on his youth, the novel delves into his closeted homosexuality, teenage friendships, and the regret and shame he harbors about his past. Ellis's meticulous attention to detail and his exploration of complex emotions make for a compelling read, despite some criticisms of its length and occasional repetition.
The Shards' adaptation for FX by renowned showrunner Ryan Murphy adds another layer of intrigue. Known for his visually stunning and socially relevant series, Murphy's approach meshes well with Ellis's narrative style. The early episodes of the adaptation stay true to the novel's plot, introducing readers to the glamorous yet troubled world of Bret, his relationships, and the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface.
With a star-studded cast and a gripping storyline, The Shards promises to be a thought-provoking addition to Ellis's body of work.
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