If you’re in search of a good book to read or interested in exploring the origins of your favorite childhood movies, you’re in the right place.
Delve into the fascinating world of seven animated films that draw inspiration from novels and other written works.
Uncover the literary connections behind these cinematic masterpieces as we explore how timeless stories have been adapted into animated films.
Lewis Carroll’s 1865 children’s novel Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland remains a timeless classic, celebrated as one of the most renowned works of Victorian literature and continuously in print since its publication.
Translated into 174 languages, its popularity has captivated readers worldwide.
Disney’s 1951 musical fantasy comedy film adaptation, titled Alice in Wonderland, brings this enchanting tale to life on the big screen.
Following a young girl’s journey down a rabbit hole into the whimsical world of Wonderland.
The film offers an interpretation of Carroll’s imaginative narrative; there are notable differences between the two. So grab a copy of the novel and explore the differences yourself. Want to know more about this whimsy fantasy favorite? Read more in my related article- The Best Animated Fantasy Movies to Watch.
2. The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Victor Hugo’s 1831 French gothic novel, originally titled Notre Dame de Paris, known in English as The Hunchback of Notre Dame, is set in 1482 Paris during Louis XI’s reign.
The narrative revolves around a Romani dancer named Esmeralda and the gentle yet lonely bell-ringer Quasimodo, who is physically disfigured with a hunched back.
Disney’s 1996 adaptation, directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise, reimagines this classic tale. Quasimodo, encouraged by his gargoyle companions, ventures out of his solitary tower in pursuit of genuine friendship. The film’s narrative centers on Quasimodo’s journey to save his friends, delivering an inspiring message of resilience and loyalty.
3. Aladdin
Originating from the Middle Eastern folktales found in the collection One Thousand and One Nights, Aladdin gained further prominence when French scholar Antoine Galland included it in his translated version, ‘Les Mille et Une Nuits.’
This timeless story has undergone numerous retellings and variations over the years.
In 1992, directors John Musker and Ron Clements brought ‘Aladdin’ to life as a musical fantasy comedy film.
The animated movie follows the adventures a clever young man who discovers a magical lamp containing a genie who grants him three wishes.
With its vibrant animation, catchy musical numbers, and memorable characters like the wise-cracking Genie, Aladdin continues to captivate audiences with its enchanting tale of love, bravery, and adventure.
4. The Prophet
The Prophet, a collection of 26 prose poetry fables penned by Lebanese American poet Kahlil Gibran in 1923, stands as arguably his best work.
It has been translated into over 100 languages, and holds the distinction of being one of the most translated books worldwide.
In 2014, actress Salma Hayek produced an animated drama film adaptation, directed by Roger Allers. Set in Lebanon during the Ottoman Empire, the story centers on Almitra, a spirited girl who encounters an imprisoned poet named Mustafa.
Through animated scenes, Gibran’s poems explore themes of freedom, love, parenthood, work, and marriage.
I highly recommend exploring both the written work and the film. Both mediums offer a thought-provoking story on the human experience.
5. The Little Prince
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s novel The Little Prince (known as “Le Petit Prince” in French), published in 1943, has been read and loved by people of all ages.
In 2015, director Mark Osborne brought this tale to life in an animated fantasy adventure drama film. Using stop-motion animation with dreamlike visuals, the film beautifully captures the essence of the story.
It follows the journey of a young prince as he visits various planets, including Earth, exploring themes of love, loneliness, and friendship. Both the novel and film offer enchanting narratives.
Put this on your read and watch list if you would like a mesmerizing experience. Learn more about this amazing fantasy movies in my related article- Best Animated Fantasy Movies to Watch.
6. The Iron Giant
The Iron Man, a 1968 science fiction novel by British author Ted Hughes, captivated readers with its poignant tale. Published in the United States as The Iron Giant, this beloved story was adapted into a 1999 science fiction film of the same name.
Produced by Warner Brothers and directed by Brad Bird, the film delves into the Cold War era, where an unidentified object crashes off the coast of Maine. The narrative centers on nine-year-old Hogarth Hughes, who discovers a colossal 50-foot-tall robot at the crash site. Hogarth forms a bond with the robot, and a journey unfolds as the robot, with Hogarth’s help, endeavors to protect the town by intercepting a missile.
The story line explores valuable lessons about self-discovery and the power to choose your own narrative with the powerful quote “You are who you choose to be.” With its heartwarming themes and memorable characters, both the novel and the film adaptation of “The Iron Giant” are sure to evoke a range of emotions and leave a lasting impact on you.
7. Robot Dreams
Robot dreams is a tragicomedy set in 1980s manhattan, New York, following the bond between a dog and a robot. Checkout my review for Robot Dreams!
The film was directed by Pablo Berger. Pablo was inspired to make the film after reading the graphic novel of the same name written by Sara Varon.
Dog, living a lonely life in 1980s Manhattan, notices an ad for a robot and quickly and eagerly calls in an order. After building the robot, the two connect immediately.
Fun and memorable moments ensue, involving walks in the bustling city of New York, listening to a drumming octopus in the train station, and roller skating in Central Park during the golden era of disco. They dance together to the 1978 hit song ‘September’ by Maurice White, which plays in different variations throughout the movie.
Tragedy strikes as Robot lays down after a swim in the ocean. Dog realizes that Robot is in trouble and has run out of oil, causing Robot to be immobile. Despite his efforts, Dog is unable to move Robot to safety and encounters hurdle after hurdle trying to rescue him as the beach is closed for winter. The two spend the winter and spring separated, living their lives despite the events that occurred.
The plot illustrates the power of friendship and resilience through hard times.
What do You Think?
Have another novel to movie example? Let me know in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to checkout my related articles
- Top 5 Funniest Disney Movies!
- Best Feel-Good Comedies on Netflix
- Best Fantasy Novel Movie Adaptations
- The Best Animated Fantasy Movies to Watch
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As a movie lover, especially classic 2D animation, I launched this blog as a guide to keep fellow enthusiasts updated on the latest news and information about films and shows. Through Movie Prairie, I strive to share my insights and recommendations, inviting you to explore and appreciate the magic of movies just as much as I do. Join me on this as we delve into the captivating world of film together.
