16 Famous Classic Book To Movie Adaptations
You know I love the classics! From Austen to Alcott,
I would happily spend hours curled up with a timeless novel. However, I understand that sometimes you simply don’t have time, and for younger readers, the complex words and language used can be hard to get to grips with.
Luckily for us, lots of these fabulous stories have been brought to life with wonderful movie adaptations!
With so many versions to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start! I have put together a list of 16 famous classic book to movie adaptations, based on popularity, faithfulness to plot and ultimate enjoyability.
So grab your popcorn and settle down to enjoy one of your favourite tales come to life on the screen.
Popular Book To Movie Adaptations of Classics Books
1. Sleepy Hollow/The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Many people love Tim Burton’s 1999 movie “Sleepy Hollow” which is undoubtedly a great film, however, it is not a true re-telling of the story.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow directed by Pierre Gang (also 1999) captures Washington Irving's classic horror story perfectly. From wild romantic love to terrifying headless horsemen, this adaptation truly has it all!
I’d say watch them both!
2. Sense and Sensibility (1995)
This wonderful adaptation of Jane Austen's first published novel was adapted for screen by Emma Thompson who received an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. Thompson also stars as Elinor Dashwood alongside actors Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman. A star-studded cast that does not disappoint.
Directed by Ang Lee, this adaption of Sense and Sensibility is widely regarded as the best as it remains true to the moral standards and social etiquette of the early 19th century whilst adding a touch of sophisticated Hollywood glamour.
2. Emma (2020)
Another film adaptation of a Jane Austen classic!
Emma, the comedy of manners about a young privileged girl born in the early 19th century has been adapted many times for both stage and screen.
Directed by Autumn de Wilde and starring Anya Taylor-Joy as the protagonist, this 2020 adaption of the film is fast-paced and humorous. Although it doesn’t adhere completely to the manners of Austen’s novel, the content and soul of the novel remain.
4. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
The list wouldn’t be complete without this all-time favourite.
This 1962 movie adaption of Harper Lee’s debut novel won three Oscars, including Best Screenplay. Gregory Peck also claimed Best Actor for his magnificent portrayal of Atticus Finch. The film made Time Out’s list of the 100 Best Movies of all time, sliding in at number 47.
A classic novel and classic film, if you haven’t read or watched it, it needs to be on your to-do list!
5. Little Women (1994 & 2019)
Alcott’s well-known classic has been remade numerous times! For tv, film, theatre and even into an opera!
The best-known version of the novel was released in 1994, adapted for screen by Robin Swicord and directed by Gillian Armstrong, starring Wynona Ryder. It was nominated for 3 Oscars and remains the most popular version of the story.
In 2019, a new adaptation was made of the classic novel, directed by Greta Gerwig. It stars a wonderfully talented cast including Emma Watson and Saoirse Ronan as two of the sisters. This version is a little more upbeat and playful. The bond between the four sisters is beautiful and captures the real essence of Alcott’s story.
I can’t decide on a favourite here... so I’m afraid you’ll have to watch both!
6. The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
What a Christmas treat!
This beautiful story is brought to life in the most magical way!
In the first of the three films, four siblings are dragged from their London home and into the countryside, they discover a fantasy world behind the cupboard door.
The Lion, the Witch and The Wardrobe is a wonderful children's classic that captures CS Lewis’ strange and beautiful story in the most glorious way.
7. The Great Gatsby (2013)
This adaption of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic was created with a$105 million net production budget! Leonardo DiCaprio stars as the wild millionaire. It’s set in the roaring twenties, this film is full of glitz, glamour and exciting romance.
The adaptation was very controversial amongst critics receiving mixed reviews for performances, soundtrack and visuals. It was met with much greater spirit by its audiences and today stands as director Baz Luhrmann's highest-grossing film.
8. The Lord of the Rings (2011)
Nothing can beat this legendary adaptation!
These three epic fantasy films, directed by Peter Jackson have wowed audiences from across the world. With groundbreaking acting, special effects and music, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential film series ever made.
A superb financial success, with $2.981 billion in worldwide receipts it is also one of the highest-grossing film series of all time. A stunning adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, this film series is certainly not one to be missed!
9. Gone With the Wind (1939)
A delightful adaptation of Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel.
This film was incredibly popular when first released and was one of the highest-earning films made up until that point. Most people have seen this classic historical romance - but I thought I’d better add it to the list, just to be sure!
10. Rebecca (1940)
You all know Rebecca is one of my all-time favourite books.
Starring Joan Fontaine as the second Mrs. de Winter, this 1940 film of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca was nominated for eleven academy awards and has won Best Picture and Best Cinematography!
Directed by no other than Alfred Hitchcock, the unsettling gothic tale is captured perfectly in this adaptation.
11. Orlando (1992)
Tilda Swinton meets Virginia Woolf? Yes, please!
This 1992 adaptation of Woolf’s wonderful period drama does not strictly follow the narrative. However, it is a wonderful film, packed with impressive acting and stunning scenery, whilst remaining true to the spirit of the book.
12. The Count of Monte Cristo (1998 & 2002)
Adventure, swords, revenge!
This action-packed adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ tale is a thrilling watch from start to finish. It’s a contemporary Hollywood take on the well-known story, full of lavish costumes, beautiful scenery and a gorgeous cast!
Equally enjoyable is the 1998 miniseries with Gérard Depardieu as Count of Monte Cristo.
13. Pride and Prejudice (2005)
It’s hard to capture the rich language and eloquence of an Austen novel, but this famous adaptation of Pride and Prejudice manages it perfectly!
Starring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennett and Matthew Macfadyen as Mr Darcy, this tale of romance and high society is a true Sunday night treat.
14. Far From the Madding Crowd (2015)
This modern adaptation of the well-loved story by Thomas Hardy features a star-studded cast and fabulous reviews.
The Victorian tale, made rich with beautiful countryside and romance, is brought to life by director Thomas Vinterberg. A real visual treat!
15. Alice in Wonderland (2010)
A timeless children’s classic!
Lewis Carroll's crazy and wonderful fantasy world has been adapted numerous times for both stage and screen. Carroll’s popular characters such as Alice, The Mad Hatter and The Queen of Hearts are loved amongst children and adults alike!
In 1951 Disney released Alice in Wonderland, an animated production of the story which is still popular with children today.
The film widely regarded as “the best” version of the Alice stories is the 2010 live-action Alice In Wonderland which invited darker elements into the tale. Directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway and Helena Bonham Carter, this modern version is certainly one to watch if you love Alice!
16. Jane Eyre (2011)
A world-famous gothic novel.
The romantic yet eerie tale of Rochester and Eyre is captured wonderfully in this atmospheric, dark adaptation of the novel.
You’re in for an exciting evening with Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender.
OK, I HOLD MY HANDS UP!
I couldn’t stop at 16... Here are a few more for you to try!
17. The Age of Innocence (1993)
18. The Importance of Being Earnest (2002)
19. Sherlock Holmes (2009)
20. Wuthering Heights (2011)
21. Anna Karenina (2012)
22. Les Misérables (2012)
23. Macbeth (2015)
Of course, there are so many more to add!
What is your favourite classic book to movie adaptation?