Just because it's old…
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Oliver_Alla — 18 years ago(August 26, 2007 09:44 AM)
Although I like William Wyler, this movie is absolutely weak. If you have read the book you'll agree. I guess it's impossible to portray in a movie the whole (and BRILLIANT) story, but anyway, the picture is weak. It lacks all the romanticism and frantic passion, the roughness, all that fight of feelings, the fury, the anger and tragedy of every character. The film doesn't explore the psychology of any character, and don't portray the atmosphere of the story, the decadence, etc.
The book by Emily Bront is simply magnificent. The best novel I've ever read. I have no words to describe it. But the film sorry, you can like it but if this is an adaptation of the book, is totally disappointing. So if you have not read the book, do it, because you'll love it.
It's not the first time that I dislike an adaptation from a novel. It happened the same with all versions of Le dame aux camlias by Alejandro Dumas But I guess it's hard to portray a complete novel to a movie. "Wuthering heights" tells the story of three generations. The movie only shows one part, and without all the spirit from the book. It's a pitty because I like very much Laurence Olivier, and I think he would have been a PERFECT Heathcliff, if the picture have been maked as the novel deserves.
Check out "Abismos de pasin" by Luis Buuel. It's another version of the book, nearest to the spirit of the novel. No wonder why, Wuthering Heights was surrealists bedside book. -
pattersc — 18 years ago(August 27, 2007 06:15 AM)
I will concede your point that the book is brilliant.
However, to claim that the movie is weak because it does not hold up to the book is a rather lame claim and does not reflect well upon your movie judgement.
Have you ever seen a movie that would do justice to a brilliant book? I don't think its even possible. So let the movie stand on its own two feet. -
nyeeles — 18 years ago(August 31, 2007 05:36 PM)
i think, if you compare the book to the film, i agree a bit with the op because it has 'distinguished' actors in it you sort of go in thinking it will be great, but the more times i see it, the less i like it.
however, i also agree with the post above and think that you shouldnt compare them, whats the point just acting out the book? -
jockey-1 — 13 years ago(February 22, 2013 10:27 PM)
I agree, the book is an outstanding, exquisite work of fiction. My love for it defies words.
As such, the movie of course cannot measure up, but 2 (or even 3) things make me say it is a worthwhile attempt:- Heathcliff's speech to Cathy:
"Tell the dirty stable boy to let go of you. He soiled your pretty dress. But who soiled your heart? Not Heathcliff. Who turns you into a vain, cheap, worldly fool? Linton does. You'll never love him, but you'll let yourself be loved because it pleases your stupid, greedy vanity."
Startlingly beautiful and honest. - Isabella in the doorway before Heathcliff rushes to Cathy's bedside.
- Heathcliff to Cathy at her deathbed, "Cathy, Cathy, you loved me " where do you get such tenderness and depth in today's handsome Hollywood leads?
- Heathcliff's speech to Cathy: