Pen, Lens, or Both? Book to Film Adaptations

Book adaptations are hotter than ever.  It’s anticipated that they will be even more so in 2022. Many authors have aspirations to take their books to the silver screen, streaming platforms, and other distribution outlets.

Yet, how does an author know if his or her book will translate well in another medium?  There’s certainly a long history of contention in the “what was better the book or the film” discussions. However, there are numerous reasons that these apple-to-apple comparisons shouldn’t be made. The successfully published book may be just that-a book-and that alone, by no means, diminishes its value. There are also books that aren’t meant to be, genre, business, or story-wise, a film. Their adaptations, if any, should potentially come in the form of other ancillary products.

However, should an author, with book adaptation aspirations, consider the film potential while writing their book? Absolutely. Consulting early and in advance with respected experts in publishing and screenwriting can save time, money and disappointment. 

When I read a manuscript, with the eyes of a film producer/director and publisher, I review it quite differently than a traditional publisher or one without film experience. I’m looking through the lens of a filmmaker, as well as with the pen of a publisher. 

There will be literary masterpieces that, realistically, won’t and shouldn't be sold as a film. The book will be beautifully written and provide an unmatched experience for its readers. It will, nonetheless, prosper on its own merits. However, as I’m reading a submission, I do have a sense almost immediately if a story has real film potential. 

Filmmaking is high risk and there certainly aren’t any guarantees. However, it’s beneficial to position your story or book upfront, just as it is with the marketing strategy, if you have any thoughts of an adaptation. Assuming a story or book has that potential, there are many factors to consider and implement in the pre-writing, actual writing, and the post-writing for a successful adaptation plan to occur.

I look at what point of view is the story written in-first person, third person, or multiple characters telling the story? Is the story linear or does it go back and forth between various time windows? Will the story require narration? is there a lot of internal processing by the characters that will make the visual medium of film more difficult? Are there scenes that can be carried, if necessary, without dialogue or narration? Are there independent events in the case of lengthier stories that can be made into a film without the others? Are there aspects of the book, if required, that can be cut out or streamlined to meet the length of a film? If there’s a series potential, does the book have the page turning interest to play out for numerous episodes? Does the author paint vivid imagery in such a way that it will more easily attract a film director or producer’s attention? Will the book lend itself well to a film production?  Does the story involve animation, complex computer generated imagery (CGI) or visual effects? Does the author demonstrate the ability to show rather than tell with his or her words? Does the location or setting of the book enhance the story with all of the emotional and visceral nuances it adds to the characters, plot, and appeal? Is the story one of mass audience interest, commercial viability, or about a societal or cultural subject that’s trending? If the book has a niche market potential is there an accompanying target audience? Is the book a true story? Is the book within the content categories that are sought by distributors? Does the story have the interest potential for high profile entertainment individuals to be attached to it? Does the author have the temperament and perspective that will lend well to the process? Does the author have a track record or established following? If the book has already been published, how did it do commercially? What could be the anticipated budget for the adaptation? Is it necessary for the book’s story to have the reader as a significant collaborator using their imagination in the journey?

These are only some of the initial considerations involved in my evaluation of a book or story’s adaptation potential upfront, before, or during the writing and publishing process. Of course, there are other avenues, without publishing a book, to go directly to the screenwriting process which will be included in future blog topics. Independent consultations and reviews with experienced and savvy screenwriting partners and team members are always incorporated for further insight with the books lending themselves to the adaptation market. There are also screenplays that go in reverse to be turned into books later which is another process. On another front, there are the behind the scenes and accompanying coffee table books with films that are yet another path and process.

Books and films, when successfully launched, can dramatically augment the viability and followings of each. Having both can be a rewarding and lucrative marketing strategy.  However, the various screenwriting, business, legal, financial, industry, and creative considerations are added layers of analysis and planning that warrant attention early on in the publishing process. 

To say that one is writing a book for later consideration as a film or streaming series is a tad naive and uninformed, particularly, if the author really doesn’t know all that is involved in that process nor obtained expert advice and assistance in advance. Industry education, the involvement of connected and legitimate experts, and being open to their guidance is key. Otherwise, it’s a dream without a plan. Unfortunately and otherwise, an author’s hard work and passion may all be for naught in the end. An author needs a road map, a directed plan…And when you see that story or book transform into another medium, you will truly know the value and wisdom behind the steps in reaching your destination! 

Having a finished book and seeing the adaptation up on that big screen is indeed one of the most rewarding chapters in an author’s and filmmaker’s creative endeavors. Here’s to great books and films and the writing that promotes both!