Movie fans—did you know your favorite flick might have been based on a novel, short story, poem, or play? It’s not a widely known fact, but most well-loved movies were actually based on books. But which is better, the movie or the book? Some fans like the story depicted between the pages. Others prefer what the director and cast did with the adaptation.
Still, both are distinct from each other. Both carry benefits and disadvantages. You have likely seen many of the movies on this list without realizing they were originally inspired by literature. Once you find out, you might even be inspired to read the book yourself! There’s only one way to know which is better—and that’s by comparing them yourself. Get ready and prepare to be surprised!
“Cats The Musical” Was From A Book Of Poems
This little earworm is still probably stuck in your head. None other than Memory. It is a show tune from the 1981 musical Cats. The song was composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Its lyrics were written by Trevor Nunn and are based on T.S. Eliot’s book of poems about cats.
The book that the musical was based on was published in 1939. The movie version, which featured singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, was later released in 2019. So here’s a film that had multiple inspirations.
“Die Hard” Was A 1979 Page Turner
Almost everyone has seen Die Hard. It is now considered a classic Christmas movie as much as an action flick. But do you know it was actually based on a book? That’s right—the Bruce Willis movie was based on the 1979 movie Nothing Lasts Forever. Authored by Roderick Thorp, the film adaptation of the novel decided to change the name of the character, played by Bruce Willis, from Joe Leland to John McClane.
However, prior to the release of the 1979 book, the 1966 Thorpe-authored novel The Detective had already been made into a movie. We promise that if you read the books, it’s impossible not to imagine Bruce Willis in the novel’s action scenes.
“Mean Girls” Was Based On A Self-Help Book
Lindsay Lohan continued her successful streak in Hollywood even as a teenager. Another famous Lohan flick was Mean Girls, which came from a self-help book Queen Bees and Wannabes. The non-fiction work described the aggressive patterns of behavior seen in teenage girls and how to deal with them appropriately.
Comedy writer and actress Tina Fey was responsible for the movie. She used the book as an inspiration and guide when crafting the plot. She then took several liberties in creating the characters and the story.
“Slumdog Millionaire” Was A Novel
Slumdog Millionaire is an award-winning film that was actually based on the fictional book Q & A written by Vikas Swarup, an Indian diplomat. The film was directed by Danny Boyle and told the story of Jamal, a poor boy from the slums of Mumbai who managed to win a large cash prize in the Indian version of the game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?
The movie turned out to be a box office hit that not only launched the acting careers of Dev Patel and Freida Pinto—it also gave audiences a glimpse of poverty in India and what could happen to someone when they become incredibly rich.
“Clueless” Was A Classic Novel
This Alicia Silverstone movie was inspired by a classic novel written by Jane Austen. The only difference is that the movie was set in Beverly Hills. Everyone loved Clueless when it was released during the ‘90s. As the love interest of Silverstone’s character, Cher, Paul Rudd was just icing on the cake.
Though the movie was shot in only forty days, there was actually tons of pre-production research done to make the scenes in the movie more believable and line with the culture of Beverly Hills high schoolers. The script made sure it got students’ slang right.
“The Princess Bride” Was A Children’s Book
This famous 1980s movie was best known for the “as you wish” line uttered by Cary Elwes. The film’s big twist was that the events were a bedtime story told by a grandpa to his grandson. Here’s a real-life twist—the movie really was based on a book.
William Goldman authored the book on which the movie was based. The book, published in 1973, was already a comedy/cult classic before it was adapted to film. He also wrote the 1974 novel Marathon Man which became a movie as well.
“Jumanji” Was A Picture Book
The two movie versions of Jumanji star completely different sets of actors. The most recent film saw comedian Kevin Hart and ex-wrestler The Rock entertain audiences. However, an earlier adaptation of the film was released in the ‘90s and starred Robin Williams. But both movies were based on a children's picture book written by Chris Van Allsburg.
The book was published in 1981 and told the story of a magical board game that saw wild animals and jungle elements appear when the game was played in real life. Consequently, Jumanji gave birth to a franchise that includes three sequels as well as an animated series.
“A Simple Favor” Was A Novel
The movie A Simple Favor is the story of a friendship filled with betrayal and lies. It also features a fascinating twist involving twins. The black comedy movie, starring Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, was inspired by a 2017 novel of the same name. Authored by writer Darcey Bell, the novel is perfect reading for those who liked Gone Girl.
One of the reasons the movie became memorable was because of the various outfits worn by Blake Lively in almost every scene. Many people noticed that the actors’ stylish wardrobes perfectly complemented the film’s dark humor.
“Silver Linings Playbook” Was From A Book
One of the most iconic movies included in this esteemed list is the movie Silver Linings Playbook, starring Jennifer Lawrence. The film is mainly about mental health and was inspired by the literary work of Matthew Quick. The novel, published in 2008, was Quick’s debut story.
The excellent story was delivered by a highly talented cast. Besides Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro and Bradley Cooper also added their star power to the production. In the movie, Cooper portrays a man with bipolar disorder looking for help.
“Jurassic Park” Was A Sci-Fi Novel
Jurassic Park was originally a novel written by Michael Crichton. It was later made into a hit movie by Steven Spielberg. Eventually, sequels followed until it became a series. A real theme park was created in its honor—the rides there have been described as wonderful, like the Jurassic Park in the movies.
The special effects in each Jurassic Park movie greatly improved over the years. Still, many believe that the original movie remains the best and is cited as being the most well-loved. However, fans of the book think the novel will always be better than the films.
“The Parent Trap” Had German Origins
The Lindsay Lohan movie The Parent Trap remains a favorite among young and old movie fans. Currently, the film is more than two decades old. However, many believe that it is a classic American story. It was based on a novel made in Germany. Plus, it was published way before Lindsay Lohan was born.
The original The Parent Trap was first printed in 1949. But the movie became a more famous and commercially successful product. It was also the debut of the then-child actress Lindsay Lohan. Her performance received rave reviews, and many thought Lohan actually had a real-life twin sister.
"Freaky Friday” Was A Children’s Book
There was no stopping Lindsay Lohan in her Hollywood rampage. Her career was clearly on the upswing from the ‘90s all the way to the early 2000s. However, not many know that the movie was actually based on a book for children published in 1972.
The book’s author is Mary Rodgers. The Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis movie was a Disney production, and it was actually the studio’s third time adapting the novel. Curtis also received positive reviews for her performance in the iconic movie.
“How To Be Single” Was A Novel
Though the rom-com movie How To Be Single was released way back in 2016, many people today still can’t help but continue to share hilarious scenes from the film. Author Liz Tuccillo did not seem to mind that the movie adaptation of her novel was far different from what she originally wrote.
The movie adaptation, which starred Rebel Wilson and Dakota Johnson, highlighted the value of having good friends to support you when life seems to put you down. The movie is hilarious and one of our favorites. Expect to laugh all the way through the film.
“The Help” Was A Kathryn Stockett Book
This period film was a “dramedy” starring Emma Stone and directed by Tate Taylor. It was based on a book of the same name, written by Kathryn Stockett. If you have seen the film but don’t remember it, we will refresh your movie memory.
One of the reasons The Help is famous is because of its poop pie—introduced in one of the funniest scenes in the movie. However, let us remember the film’s valuable contribution to how we all see ourselves. Essentially, the movie can teach you a lesson about the value of self-worth. We are all important and wise in our unique ways.
“Red Sparrow” Was Based On A Trilogy Of Books
The spy thriller film Red Sparrow is amazing—not just because of its star, Jennifer Lawrence—but also because it was based on a trilogy of books written by a former operative of the CIA. The book’s author, Jason Matthews, worked for more than three decades with the CIA as a diplomat in various parts of the world.
Essentially, the novels reveal information Matthews learned about the spy programs used in Russia. Has that inspired you to go and read all three books? We definitely recommend them if you’re interested in what real spy work was like back then.
“He’s Just Not That Into You” Was A Self-Help Book
This romantic comedy movie is excessively straightforward and to the point, as its title suggests. Its approach to relationships is refreshingly practical. Though a lot of audiences prefer to watch sugar-coated, feel-good films, this adaptation of another Tuccillo book may be a bit difficult for die-hard romantics to process.
Based on a self-help book of the same name and written by Liz Tuccillo and Greg Behrendt, the movie starred many big-name actors. It is also the second book written by Tuccillo that has been made into a film.
“Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates” Literally Started As An Ad
The way this movie, starring Anna Kendrick and Zac Efron, came about actually deserves its own film. It all started when two brothers released an ad that ultimately went viral. It became so successful they decided to turn it into a book.
Ultimately, it became a movie, and the rest is history. Real-life brothers Mike and Dave were responsible for the entire thing. They decided to base both the book and the movie on their romantic adventures. Despite the movie’s funny scenes, no comedy writers were involved in making it.
“The First Wives Club” Was A Novel
The First Wives Club was originally a book written in 1992 by Olivia Goldsmith. When Hollywood saw its box office potential, it was turned into a movie. The studio hired big-named actresses to star in it. The result? One of the most entertaining movies of the 1990s.
Not only that—but it also inspired the Arianna Grande song, Thank You, Next. Essentially, though the film is about divorced women, it is actually about the value of having female friends around to help you when things go south.
“Psycho” Was A Book By Bloch
Almost everyone is familiar with the iconic shower scene in Psycho. But not many know that this Alfred Hitchcock movie was originally a thriller novel written by Robert Bloch. The film turned out to be a classic of American cinema, but it wouldn’t have made it without literary inspiration.
If you expect the movie to deliver scares—you’d be absolutely right. We highly recommend you appreciate this chuckle-inducing image. The film itself will scare you out of your mittens—if you happen to be wearing any. This one isn’t for the faint of heart!
“101 Dalmatians” Was A 1956 Novel
Before the live-action 101 Dalmatians movie ever came into existence, there was the 1961 animated film One Hundred and One Dalmatians. However, before both movies were ever conceived, there existed a children’s book published in 1956 titled The Hundred And One Dalmatians, written by Dodie Smith.
The movies made a lot of people want to have a Dalmatian as a pet—but maybe not 101 of them. It also turned Cruella into the symbol of evil incarnate because who in their right mind would want to plot against those adorable dotted dogs?
The DUFF Was A Keplinger Book
DUFF—Designated Ugly Fat Friend. We hope you don’t have someone in your circle of friends as a DUFF because it is such an offensive term. That being said, the movie itself was entertaining to audiences everywhere. We certainly loved it.
The DUFF was originally a book written by Kody Keplinger before it was turned into a successful movie. The book provided tremendous insight into the world of teenagers and all their insecurities. The movie is worth watching numerous times as you’ll likely spot something new on each viewing.
“The Jungle Book” Is A Kipling Classic
The Jungle Book is a popular animated Disney-produced movie that children worldwide have watched and loved for a very long time. However, only a few know, and only a few people have probably read, it was based on a book by Rudyard Kipling published in 1894.
The book consisted of a collection of stories about animals and a boy—or man-cub—named Mowgli. However, the songs heard in the film were created exclusively for the big screen. Later on, several live-action versions were produced.
“Million Dollar Baby” Was A Short Story
Million Dollar Baby starred award-winning actress Hilary Swank in the title role. Her performance, which earned her an Oscar, is more than enough reason to watch the movie. Plus, it also stars Hollywood heavyweights, Clint Eastwood, and Morgan Freeman. But before this movie was ever made, it was originally a short story written by F.X. Toole.
The story was included in the book Rope Burns: Stories from the Corner. Here’s some trivia not many know—legendary boxer Muhammad Ali actually used the term “Million Dollar Baby” as a way to insult his opponent, Sonny Liston, before their fight.
“Fast Times at Ridgemont High” Was A Cameron Crowe Book
Though Fast Times at Ridgemont High was mostly known as a raunchy comedy, it is actually based on a book written by Cameron Crowe. It’s also a sort-of true story. Crowe based the book on his own experiences while studying at Ridgemont High.
The movie has since turned into a cult classic as it was controversial for its time. It also starred young Hollywood heavyweights of the day. Most recently, fans of the movie were treated to a rare fundraising event in which Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt were part of the film’s table read.
“Pitch Perfect” Was A Book Before It Was A Musical
This comedic musical masterpiece is a trilogy. Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson established themselves as stars on the back of this movie. However, it was based on a book of the same name written by Mickey Rapkin.
The book tells the real-life story of a journalist who infiltrated American college campuses to explore its acapella scene. Essentially, this only means that the real-life version of the legendary Bellas exists out there, somewhere!
“Forrest Gump” Was A 1986 Novel
Long before Tom Hanks ever likened life to a box of chocolates in the film Forrest Gump, the novel that it was based on had been around as far back as 1986. Written by Winston Groom, the novel was not at all popular.
However, someone in Hollywood, and subsequently Tom Hanks, eventually made it so. Before the movie, the book sold merely 30,000 copies. However, after the film’s release, it sold millions of copies more. Which version is better? Who can say?
“The Art Of Racing In The Rain?” It Was A Book
The Art of Racing in the Rain is a 2019 movie that was based on a 2008 book written by Garth Stein. This Amanda Seyfried movie received mixed reviews and offered an insightful and unique view of relationships.
The book was written from the point of view of a dog, voiced by legendary actor Kevin Costner. The film featured the unique relationship between a woman with cancer and a race car driver. Expect to shed a few tears when watching this Patrick Dempsey-produced flick. Make sure to have a box of tissue ready.
“Whiskey Tango Foxtrot” Was A Book Based On A True Story
Writer and comedian Tina Fey has written a slew of memorable and hit movies in her career. Surely, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot was one of them. This Margot Robbie movie was originally a book titled The Taliban Shuffle. It’s probably obvious why they went with the title change.
Though the film could be described as a “war dramedy,” there are tons of funny scenes. Based on the true-to-life story of Chicago Tribune war correspondent Kim Baker, the movie and the book follow the story of reporters who volunteer to be part of a dangerous gig.
American Sniper Was A Glorified Autobiography
This Bradley Cooper movie was based on the autobiography of Chris Kyle, an American army soldier assigned in the Middle East. He is a Navy SEAL credited with 160 confirmed kills—the highest number ever in the history of the US military.
Evidently, Kyle was and is a bloodthirsty killer who, fortunately, ended up on a battlefield. The movie features Cooper’s character trying to deal with the war’s toll on his psyche. Here’s some trivia: a doll is used in the film in place of a live baby. Thank goodness.
“It’s A Wonderful Life” Was A Wonderful Short Story
Considered one of the classics, if not the best of the Christmas movies, It’s a Wonderful Life was released in 1946 and was considered a flop due to its disappointing ticket sales. The movie was based on a short story written by Philip Van Doren Stern titled The Greatest Gift.
In turn, Van Doren based his story on the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Despite the movie’s dismal performance at the time of its release, it is ranked high on the American Film Institute’s list of most inspirational movies—number one, in fact!
“Blade Runner” Was A Sci-Fi Novel
Every detail about Blade Runner and its production is jaw-dropping. The 1982 movie starred legendary actor Harrison Ford. It was also directed by Ridley Scott. Real hardcore fans of the movie will know that it was based on the classic sci-fi novel titled “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” written by Philip K. Dick.
Additionally, a sequel was made that starred Ryan Gosling called Blade Runner 2049. If you are not a fan of dark movies about the future, we highly recommend you still watch this because Gosling’s presence is sure to light up the screen.
Jaws Was A Captivating Book
Steven Spielberg directed this classic movie in 1975. It was not only a box office hit; it became so popular that people thought Jaws would get them in their bathtubs. It also prompted many to unnecessarily fear sharks—an unfortunate consequence of the movie that Spielberg has expressed regret about since.
As a result, the director became a staunch ocean conservationist. However, the movie was based on a book written by Peter Benchley—an ocean activist himself. He similarly co-wrote the film adaptation of his novel along with Carl Gottlieb.
“The Birds” Was A Short Story
Before it was ever an Alfred Hitchcock horror movie, The Birds was a short story written by Daphne Du Maurier from the book The Apple Tree. However, when the Hitchcock movie became popular, The Apple Tree was changed to “The Birds and Other Stories.”
Doing so was not just a wise marketing move—it also reveals the power of Hitchcock’s work. It assured the book of limitless sales by one of its stories being made into a movie. If there’s any film you should watch on this list that you haven’t already, this is the one to watch tonight.
“Something Borrowed” Was Based On A Book
The movie Something Borrowed is based on a book written by Emily Griffin. However, its story can be described as inspired by many real-life situations. For one, the film tells the story of two best friends fighting over one guy.
Such a problem could be solved if the two friends prioritized their relationship over a guy—but that would deprive us of some dramatic entertainment. Consequently, the movie would similarly be denied its staggering box office returns.
“Legally Blonde” Was Based On Real Life
Reese Witherspoon was outstanding in the movie Legally Blonde. It helped that the movie was equally excellent, but the movie would not have been possible without the book—the basis of the film. Authored by Amanda Brown, the novel recounted some of Brown’s experiences while studying law.
Though Reese Witherspoon was not the original choice for the movie, she managed to make the character as memorable and well-loved as she is today. Reportedly, Alicia Silverstone was slated for the role but refused it. Apparently, she didn’t want to be typecast playing another quirky blonde character.
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Was A Truman Capote Original
Since the movie’s release, and after Audrey Hepburn made Holly Golightly an iconic character the world over, many wanted to be seen similarly eating a croissant outside Tiffany’s. The film is considered a classic, and it’s in part thanks to the novella written by Truman Capote.
The movie is not just beloved because of its memorable and quotable moments—it is also filled with critical life lessons. Plus, it is impossible to watch the movie without falling in love with its music and soundtrack—Moon River.
“Mrs. Doubtfire” Was An Anne Fine Book
Robin Williams made Mrs. Doubtfire more than just a hilarious movie—it’s also the ultimate feel-good movie. However, the film was originally a book written by English children’s book author Anne Fine. The book’s title is Alias Madame Doubtfire.
The movie tells the story of a father who would do anything to be with his kids. Additionally, the “old lady” makeup Williams wore was extremely realistic, and his performance brought it to life. It’s a fantastic family classic for the whole family to enjoy.
“Austenland” Was A Book About Jane Austen
This one wasn’t a book adaptation of a Jane Austen novel—that would have been far too meta. Though the movie Austenland was released in 2013, it was based on a 2007 book of the same name. It tells the story of a woman obsessed with everything Jane Austen.
The book’s author is Shannon Hale. The best takeaway from the movie is that reading is an enjoyable activity—that books are passageways to endless possibilities. Also, reading a Jane Austen novel can double the fun of the experience.
“The Shawshank Redemption” Was A Stephen King Short Story
The escape of prisoner Andy Dufresne is one of the best stories ever told for three reasons. First, it is entertaining—the resulting masterpiece was listed as one of the greatest of our time. Second, Morgan Freeman lights the screen on fire with his performance as “Red.”
The movie was based on the short story titled Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, written by Stephen King. At this point, his surname doesn’t seem to be a coincidence—at least if you’re talking about popular literature.
“The Wolf Of Wall Street” Was Not Fiction
Though Jordan Belfort was an ex-convict, he didn’t let his past dictate his future. He decided to write a memoir—which was then used as the basis for the movie The Wolf of Wall Street. Belfort is now a motivational speaker whose net worth is an astounding $115 million.
Leonardo Dicaprio played Belfort in the movie. Matthew McConaughey’s scene in which his character was teaching Dicaprio the drum mantra was equally memorable—however, this was more or less an improvised scene. Let us not forget that the legendary Martin Scorsese directed the movie.