Five Books That Would Make Great Movies
These stories would translate well to the big screen.
Here are five books that would make great movies, as recommended by Atlantic staffers:
1. The Transit of Venus by Shirley Hazzard - This novel follows a young woman torn between two men, setting the stage for a classic movie plot of unrequited love and personal growth. The vivid dialogue and vivid imagery would translate well to the screen.
2. The Secret History by Donna Tartt - While no movie adaptation has been made yet, the intricate plot, complex characters, and morally ambiguous actions of the novel make it a prime candidate for cinematic translation. The vivid descriptions and provocative themes would lend themselves well to the big screen.
3. Skippy Dies by Paul Murray - An Irish tragicomedy that combines humor and heartbreak, this novel centers on a Dublin boarding school filled with eccentric characters and dramatic plot twists. The author's unique voice and ability to balance dark themes with dark humor make it a prime candidate for adaptation.
4. The American Painter Emma Dial by Samantha Peale - This novel follows a studio assistant to a famous artist, exploring themes of ambition, career, and personal fulfillment. The vivid descriptions of art and studio life, along with the protagonist's internal struggles, would make for a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film.
5. Moderation by Elaine Castillo - Set in the world of virtual reality and content moderation, this novel offers a unique perspective on the blurring lines between reality and the digital world. The incisive narration and vivid sensory descriptions would make for a visually striking and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
