Themes In The Shining By Stephen King

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Every other movie today seems to be taken from a novel. This is not necessarily terrible, but there are a few guidelines when it comes to converting a novel into film. The utmost critical aspect is preserving the theme. Theme is the large and small ideas which aid in explaining the actions and events in a work of literature or film. This can be accomplished through the handling of characters and their relationships with others or their own morals and values. It is perfectly acceptable to alter the plot of a novel, but it cannot violate the theme or tone. Ultimately, the theme and tone are what the reader or viewer takes away from the work. Movies are not just watched for their entertainment, but also to relate to and learn from. Of course, not all film adaptations are done properly. Arguably, one of the “so-called” greatest Stephen King horror films is The Shining starring Jack Nicholson. Stanley Kubrick 's film, although full of iconic scenes and quotes, is not
The reader expects to feel the same way he or she did when reading the literature. It is challenging to limit revision due to the nature of film and literature being two very different ways to portray stories. It is similar to comparing an oil painting to a statue. There is also too much content in a novel to have it all put into a movie, sections of it have to be cut out (Boggs). As expected, a higher dedicated audience to a work of literature will be critical towards any given movie. The Shining is no exception. Not long ago, Stephen King criticized the movie saying, “The book is hot, and the movie is cold; the book ends in fire, and the movie in ice.” (Puchko). This quote is hinting at the end of each story. What would motivate Stephen King to say such a strong statement regarding the adaptation? There were countless adjustments made to his novel which ultimately add up to affect the underlying

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