Books are a powerful source of inspiration for movie makers. This seems especially true in late 2014. If you are the kind of reader who loves saying, “I loved the movie, but it wasn’t as good as the book”, here’s what you’ll want to read before you head to the movie theatre:
September
The Drop (September 12)
Dennis Lehane’s story “Animal Rescue” has become The Drop. Two down on their luck people find something to believe in in an abused puppy. It sounds like a story of faith and love — and it is — albeit one with the Chechen mafia in it too.
The Maze Runner (September 19)
In this Hunger Games read alike, sixteen-year-old Thomas wakes up inside a maze with no idea how he got there or how he’ll get out.
This is Where I Leave You (September 19)
Talk about good casting! When I read this book, I vividly imagined Jason Bateman as Judd, the loveable son whose life is in ruins. This is Where I Leave You is a comedy about an absurdly dysfunctional family mourning the loss of their patriarch.
October
Gone Girl (October 3)
Amy Dunne is missing. It’s presumed she’s been kidnapped. Is her husband, Nick, responsible?
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (October 10)
“I went to sleep with gum in my mouth and now there’s gum in my hair and when I got out of bed this morning I tripped on the skateboard and by mistake I dropped my sweater in the sink while the water was running and I could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.” Alexander has been commiserating with children since it was first published in 1972. The film version promises modern upgrades (like texting) and enlarges its focus to include Alexander’s entire family including his parents (played by Steve Carrell and Jennifer Garner).
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks (October 17)
I’m only faintly embarrassed to be anticipating this undoubtedly schmaltzy tale of first love rekindled.
Before I Go To Sleep (October 31)
It’s possible that I’m in the minority in not liking this thriller at all. Heidi devoured it. Either way, I’m looking forward to the film because the acting from Nicole Kidman and Mr. Darcy (umm… sorry… Colin Firth) is bound to be something worth watching.
Which fall film are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments below.
–Patricia
