So the film is a watered-down version of the books?

Question

I guess we know what film I'm talking about *drink*

I heard this on the news, and then found it in Wiki:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Golden_Compass_(film)

"Several key themes of the novels, the rejection of organized religion and the abuse of power in a fictionalized Catholic Church, were diluted in the adaptation. Director Weitz said "in the books the Magisterium is a version of the Catholic Church gone wildly astray from its roots" but that the organization portrayed in his film would not directly match that of Pullman's books. Instead, the Magisterium will represent all dogmatic organizations."

So if I have this right, the film adaptation is "milder" than the books. I'm thinking that it would be a good idea to read the books first, then see the film and compare them. Would you agree?

These are all great answers, thank you :-)

Answer 1

I hate it when my drinks are watered down.

*drink*

Answer 2

The book really isn't that bad. The ideas of rejecting religion in the book aren't really present, it hints towards Lyra thinking she needs to stop it at the end of the book, but the main thing that people don't understand about the "His Dark Materials" trilogy, is it isn't a blatant revolt against religion and god. The religion in the book has been hiding things from people for centuries, and has some very flawed ideas about sin. The church does promote some extreme experiment on children, but it is all science fiction. It is a great book and the idea of killing religion is hidden very well. Which is why all three book have won literary awards. Just watch the movie and read the book. They're both great and are science fiction only. This whole thing kind of reminds me of when harry potter first came out, and I expect the same reaction with this.

Answer 3

It's a shame. I liked the symbolism in the Golden Compass.

But then, films are always watered-down versions of the books.

Answer 4

I wish the movie had not been watered down. The best forms of art don't have to make compromises to keep their messages intact.

I want to read the books, then see the movie.

Answer 5

I'm ashamed to admit that I did not look for deeper meaning in the books. But then again, I don't read fantasy or fiction for meaning or knowledge.

Answer 6

There isn't much in the book to be outraged about even if you're complete wingnut so I can't imagine anyone finding anything in the movie.

Answer 7

The books are great, it would definatly be a good idea to read them.

Answer 8

Of course. You and me both know that Hollywood dosen't like too much religious based controversy.

Answer 9

The books is always better. .....sadly I won't have time to read it.