While indulging in the never-ending debate about which is better, the movie or the book, have you ever fantasized about your favourite character come to life? Not just that, have you pictured yourself in the vicinity of your fictional crush while your eyes are reading the same page over and over again? Some adaptations might not do justice to a long book but the thought of visual imagery on the screen is tempting nevertheless. With all the book lovers’ sentiments kept in mind, we have compiled for you some of the best thought-provoking and revolutionary book to movie/TV series adaptations, but with a tinge of feminism and gender equality and devoid of any spoilers.
1. Queen of Katwe (2016)
Based on: The Queen of Katwe by Tim Crothers
Adapted from the book of the same name, the story revolves around a young black chess prodigy Phiona who strives to achieve more despite the hardships life throws at her. The fact that this movie has the magic of Disney and the adrenaline rush of ESPN will make you wanting for more. This movie will wreck you and leave you bawling your eyes out no matter how cold your heart is.
2. Orange is the new black (2013-2019)
Based on: Orange is the new black by Piper Kerman
This series is not just a ‘women’s prison series’ but a representation of the challenges faced by female prisoners, mostly females of colour and with racial differences through the story of Piper Kerman. It is a dramatized version of a real story and has opened the eyes of many because it depicts the tragedies associated with the US immigration policies, privatisation of penitentiaries and in general, a woman’s life after coming back from the prison cell. It is a worthy watch because it addresses the society’s hidden struggles.
3. Hidden Figures (2016)
Based on: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
This is a true story of three African-American women working for NASA and brainstorming ideas to excel in their field in a society that stereotyped women of colour. With a tinge of romance and slow dance, the film takes a realistic look at all racial tensions including segregated schools, bathrooms and even, libraries. If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring watch consisting of the themes of perseverance, teamwork, and integrity, this is just the right pick for you.
4. Little Women (2019)
Based on: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
This tale has been a constant inspiration for many movies over generations. With Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, Saoirse Ronan and Eliza Scanlen as the cast, this movie is a joyful depiction of the March family sisters with a strong grasp of female strength on the whole storyline. Alcott has inspired generations of women through the story of Amy, Meg, Jo, and Beth in their quest to find love and endure loss.
5. Becoming (2020)
Based on: Becoming by Michelle Obama
Based on the memoirs of the former first lady, this movie tells us the story of Michelle Obama while humorously depicting hard work, self-deprecating times, and courage, to say the least. The movie revolves around her struggles with personal, political, and racial challenges. If you’re looking for a way to realize your self worth while realizing everybody else’s worth at the same time, this story will move you to bits and make you happy as well.
6. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Based on: The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger
This story tells us about a cheerful young woman’s servitude at a fashion magazine with a hint of cruelty from a tyrannical boss. It delves deeper into the problems faced by women in the corporate sector including angry outbursts from bosses, being a no-nonsense coffee slave to a higher-up, long work hours with low wages and sexism in the office. Seeing Anne Hathaway (Andy) as the protagonist is a cherry on the top for this absolute masterpiece.
7. Shrill (2017- present)
Based on: Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman by Lindy West
Shrill revolves around the story of Annie who is an overweight young woman finding ways to change her life. In this journey of self love and realizing your worth in a world full of people who body-shame you, the character of Annie is a revolution. The protagonist tries to find her way as a journalist while ignoring the ideals of weight set by the society, her sick parents, and a line of bad significant others. Watch this if you think that you are not self sufficient and are in the process of loving your flaws.
8. The Handmaid’s Tale (2017- present)
Based on: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
This dystopian sci-fi series is a gem among all bad book adaptions not doing justice to the novels. The story revolves around Kate who is held captive while trying to flee US and is later forced to become a handmaid. A handmaid is a class of maidservants providing fertile women to the wives of high ranking officials just to have an offspring. Themes like government and religion controlling women’s bodies are depicted with a poetic magnificence in this tale. This haunting series delves deeper and makes you think of what would happen if women’s rights were reverted or taken away. The movie doesn’t
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