With Leo Tolstoy’s classic novel Anna Karenina hitting the big screen today, we thought we’d take a look at some our favourite classic literature to film adaptations to get you in the mood.
Pride and Prejudice
Any list like this has to start with Pride and Prejudice, the quintessential Austen novel and one of the most frequently adapted pieces of literature. The Oscar nominated 2005 adaptation stars Keira Knightley in the role of the feisty Elizabeth Bennett and Matthew Macfayden as the wealthy but aloof Mr. Darcy in the well-loved tale.
Knightley gives a scintillating performance in the lead role which led to her nomination for an Oscar and, with a stellar cast of supporting actors including Donald Sutherland, Rosamund Pike and Carey Mulligan helping her along the way, you know you’re in for a real treat.
The Road
Cormac McCarthy’s post-apocalyptic novel follows an unnamed father and son on a journey through the aftermath of a major cataclysm and the downfall of society. It’s brought to life in high-definition by Viggo Mortensen, Guy Pearce, Robert Duvall and Charlize Theron in the BAFTA nominated 2009 film.
Exploring the depths of humanity’s will to survive against the odds, this gripping and moving film is a fantastic example of a bold literary vision being brought to the screen and a must-have for any Blu-ray fan.
The Shawshank Redemption
Loved as a film in its own right, this classic piece of cinema is based on Stephen King’s novella ‘Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption’. Following the story of a banker, Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins), serving two consecutive life sentences for the murder of his wife and her lover – the Shawshank Redemption is an uplifting story of human endeavour and triumph over adversity.
Also starring Morgan Freeman in an Oscar nominated performance, this Blu-ray is essential viewing and fully deserving of a place in anyone’s collection.
What do you think? Are there any other films you think should have been on this list or any books you’d love to see adapted? Let us know in the comments below.
