by Sue Lemon
Known as one of the great American novels, this book was not an instant success. In fact, it bombed when it was published in 1925. Yet today, it is regarded as a top-rated piece of literature. This novel was later turned into a Baz Luhrmann film, and critics have made sure to point out some main differences!
If you were a fan of this novel and later watched the movie, you will be familiar with the differences. For more insights on how adaptations differ from their source material, check out FictionMe‘s list of “Top 10 Enemies to Lovers Books and Novels”. You can also read a Great Gatsby essay to learn how others feel the movie measures up. Here, we take a closer look at these main differences in The Great Gatsby movie compared to the original piece of literature. While the storyline is similar, there are some distinct differences. These can appeal to or repel fans of the original story.
Major Differences to Note
When you first pick up this novel, you will enter the world of Nick Carraway. He begins telling a story from a future time. However, when the movie starts, Nick is receiving assistance from an institution and is being treated for alcoholism as well as depression. The story then continues to be told from this institutional setting.
As a literature fan, you will pay close attention to every character mentioned. In this novel, you will come across Jordan Baker quite often, but he does not play such a large role on screen. While reading The Great Gatsby, Baker is accused of being a cheater when playing golf and he currently is engaged. None of this is mentioned in initial movie adaptations.
Another major difference that can quickly be noticed is in the party scene. It was written to occur during the 1920s, though the movie ignores this timeline and presents a modern setting with the addition of pop music in the soundtrack.
You will also pick up on how the funeral is depicted and may be disappointed with these scenes. Despite their love affair, Daisy, Tom Buchanan’s wife, does not attend Gatsby’s funeral, but when reading the novel, Owl Eyes and Gatsby’s father are present. Movie watchers will note that there is not a single soul present to mourn his death, adding to a feeling of loneliness experienced by viewers. This was not experienced by readers.
Great Gatsby Films
After receiving attention and awards for being an amazing novel, movies started being made. The first film was released in 1926, one year after the release of the novel. There was also a film in 1949, starring Alan Ladd. This version was not as accurate to the novel’s plot and focuses on various criminal activities of Gatsby.
In 1974, yet another film was created, this one starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. Expensive scenery and costumes depicting wealth were used in filming, but there are many differences that can be quickly observed, such as the weather when Gatsby and Daisy reunite. Based on the novel, it was a rainy day, yet the film presents a sunny and beautiful afternoon. Despite some major differences, this 1974 version has been the closest adaptation of the novel.
Gatsby didn’t die there. He appeared on screen again in 2013 with a modern version directed by Baz Luhrmann, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Elizabeth Debicki, and Carey Mulligan. This version is a joy to watch if you are seeking more jazz and a better understanding of that era in American history.
Why Watch the Movies?
If you have read this novel and are aware of major differences in films, some may wonder why you would even bother watching these. There are some great advantages to seeing people act a story out on screen instead of flipping pages. You will find amazing character representations in the various films, and actors will bring your favourite character to life.
There are also some amazing visuals that are used by filmmakers, such as extravagant parties. By being able to see party settings, you can better understand how people lived during this era and how wealthy characters acted.
While watching The Great Gatsby is a nice way to spend an hour or so, it can be disappointing to literature fans. There are many deviations and inaccuracies from the novel, while some important details are omitted.
You will also be getting a director’s impression of this novel instead of what Fitzgerald actually intended. Every novel is read and understood in a different way, and a director brings their vision to a screen. This can complicate things since not every theme or message will be portrayed. The problem with watching a film instead of reading written pages is that you may miss an entire theme the author has intended. In this case, it is the false hope of an American dream and failure to recapture the past.
Final Verdict
Whether you choose to enjoy this world of F. Scott Fitzgerald on paper or screen, you will be entertained by a similar storyline. While these movies do have some major differences, they are done to captivate the audience and create a bond between viewers and characters. This classic American novel was written to portray life during a thrilling Jazz Age, introducing readers to rebellious youth, economic prosperity, and jazz music.
It is recommended to read any classic novel prior to enjoying stories on screen. This way, you will have an understanding of what the author intended and will be familiar with characters. While a movie is a faster way to get a main grasp of a theme or story, it does not always include important literary references or quotes. Being a college student you may struggle with writing your essay on the Great Gatsby topics. You may even need professional help from academic writing services like CustomWritings. A team of experienced essay writers will handle any paper for you from scratch.
