A childhood almost seems incomplete without bedtime stories, fairytales, and fictional friends. Once adolescence and adulthood roll around, the jump between whimsical tales and reality comes to a close…or does it? Directors and movie producers worldwide acknowledge the yearning to revive beloved childhood stories, adding twists and perspectives that now mix a layer of maturity to stories once reserved only for children.
Cinematic interpretations including Snow White, Red Riding Hood, The Hunger Games, Alice in Wonderland, and Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn transcend audiences to not only include their pioneer fans, the kids, but to bring swarms of adult fans as well.
The Hunger Games, a novel written by Suzanne Collins about a post-apocalyptic world that hosts annual televised teenage gladiator duels, was originally intended for an adolescent audience. Its March 23, 2012 cinematic release date, however, notes an even die-hard appeal from adults.
“I’m 18 years old and I would definitely see The Hunger Games! Even though the main characters are young, there must be some great fighting scenes in the movie; plus, I’m sure my date would like seeing it,” senior Alexander Cuervo said.
While there is a heavy appeal to a new audience, these child-turned-adult films appeal to readers who invested themselves in their past storylines as well. New movies including Alice in Wonderland and Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn have smash- literary hits that resonate with readers worldwide.
“The books are obviously better, but I would definitely watch the new movies to compare and contrast; I’m sure there are some twists in the films,” freshman Steve Violeta said.
Some film adaptations, including 2010’s Alice in Wonderland and upcoming Snow White and the Huntsman, display visually intriguing worlds where characters develop layers of depth and complex emotion (often unnoticed my innocent children) that older audiences can relate to.
“I admittedly enjoy the peaceful and different scenery and story-lines of these fantasy movies. I like the chemistry and fire between, for example, Edward and Bella (of Twilight), and the journeys the characters make,” junior Widmaer Fleuransaint said.
Others, however, prefer the intrinsically good nature and morals presented in these stories.
“Of course I’d watch them! They’re great for my little ones,” Assistant Principal Clint Bales said.
Whether to watch an old favorite come to life onto the big screen or to discover hidden meanings behind the texts, moviegoers seem to support the transition of children’s stories into visually and emotionally-pulling films.
“I appreciate any form of art,” drama teacher Elizabeth Silverio said. “When something made for a specific and young audience is transformed to appeal and capture even more people, it is wonderful.”