While it’s common for movies to be adapted from books,
there’s also a significant number of books that are based on previously released films!
These novelizations offer fans a chance to delve deeper into the storylines, characters, and worlds they love from the big screen.
While not all of them may achieve the same level of greatness as their cinematic counterparts, some have certainly stood out as exceptional works in their own right. Here are a few examples:
- “Star Wars: A New Hope” by George Lucas – The novelization of the original “Star Wars” film, written by its creator, George Lucas, offers readers additional insights into the characters and universe of the iconic sci-fi franchise.
- “Jurassic Park” by Michael Crichton – Michael Crichton’s novel, which inspired the blockbuster film directed by Steven Spielberg, explores the ethical and scientific implications of genetic engineering in a thrilling narrative set in a dinosaur theme park.
- “Die Hard: Based on the screenplay by Jeb Stuart and Steven E. de Souza” by Roderick Thorp – Roderick Thorp’s novel “Nothing Lasts Forever” served as the basis for the action-packed film “Die Hard,” starring Bruce Willis. The book offers a slightly different take on the story but still delivers plenty of suspense and excitement.
- “Blade Runner” by Philip K. Dick – Philip K. Dick’s novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” was adapted into the cult classic film “Blade Runner” directed by Ridley Scott. The book explores themes of identity, consciousness, and empathy in a dystopian future where androids are indistinguishable from humans.
- “Forrest Gump” by Winston Groom – Winston Groom’s novel “Forrest Gump” inspired the beloved film starring Tom Hanks as the titular character. The book offers a series of humorous and heartwarming vignettes that follow Forrest Gump’s adventures through various historical events.
- “Home Alone“ by Kim Smith – Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister wished his family would disappear. He never thought his wish would come true! The classic movie you know and love is now an illustrated storybook for the whole family—complete with bumbling burglars, brilliant booby traps, and a little boy named Kevin who’s forced to fend for himself
- “Back to the Future” by Kim Smith – This story illustrated by Kim Smith captures all the classic moments of the film through fun and kid-friendly illustrations. Follow teenage Marty McFly as he travels from 1985 to 1955, meets his parents (as teenagers), and teaches his father how to stand up to bullies.
- “V for Vendetta” by Alan Moore and David Lloyd – he graphic novel that inspired the hit Warner Bros. motion picture from the Wachowskis, the directors of THE MATRIX films and SPEED RACER.
- ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” by Kim Smith – the cinematic blockbuster is transformed into an illustrated storybook, with colorful, adorable drawings by Kim Smith. Here is a story you can’t help but love: After E.T. is stranded on Earth, he takes refuge with Elliott, a boy in need of a friend. Together they find a way to help E.T. get back home.
These are just a few examples of books that were based on previously released films. While not all novelizations may achieve the same level of acclaim as their cinematic counterparts, they offer fans an opportunity to further immerse themselves in the stories and worlds they love.