Comparison to a Literary Work: The Maze Runner
Introduction
When watching a book-based film, it is common to notice their similarities and differences. During the adoption, certain things are altered to ensure a fast flow of the story for easier understanding. In a comparative literary analysis of the book The Maze Runner written by James Dashner and its movie adaption by Wes Ball, some similarities and differences are evident. First, the personalities of the characters from the book are described differently throughout the movie. Additionally, certain events within the plot of the movie are narrated differently while the theme remains the same. The book and film are different in terms of characterization and plot but they retain the same theme. With respect to The Maze Runner, even though the film and the book are slightly different the movie is a great adaption of the book since the events are more connected.
The films alter the characterization of the book to present a visually appealing story but both share the theme of bravery. According to Qomaria, Suyadi and Kurniati (154) in the film, Alby being the camp leader is charming and friendly towards Thomas as he takes the responsibility of acquitting him with the surrounding. He is in control of the team and the situation and holds a strong presence that helps in calming his followers. However, in the book, he is presented as a hostile and aggressive character as he goes through the transformation process. Throughout the book, he does not have a strong character as he is frightened by the outer realm as he has witnessed the catastrophe that waits once they have cracked Maze. The fear of getting back to the real world deters him from supporting Thomas and Newt in searching for an exit. On the other hand, Gally remains the same throughout both versions as he is presented as arrogant and boastful. However, while the book did not make it clear about the ending, the film uncovers Gally as the spy. Also, Thomas is more passionate, assertive and curios in the film than in the book where he tends to complain and cry in most cases (Qomaria, Suyadi and Kurniati 155). He realizes that he does not fit within the Glade and ambitiously and courageously venture into finding his way out.
Moreover, for the plot, certain events are presented differently in the film than in the book. The spirit of the team is more inclusive and practical in the movie. The team works collaboratively and they quickly accept Thomas as one of them (Ball 14:02). The desperate need to solve the Maze is visually relatable in the film which pushes the plot forward and hence there is no boredom. However, in the book, the team is always aggressive and bitter and the plot mainly focuses on the hierarchal power. Also, the solution of cracking the Glade is different in the film since it presents an easy version to crack the complex code. The book relies on word patterns but in the film, a key is found in Griever after Thomas kills it.
Conclusion
In summing up, the film is a better version of the story than the book. The events in the films are more connected. The book, however, offers more in-depth details with regard to complex ideas such as coding, unlike the film which is limited by time. Both adapt slightly different characterization and plot but tell the same story of bravery as the characters must confront the challenge and solve the Maze. The characters unite to derive a solution that requires jeopardizing their lives.
Work Cited
Qomaria, Dewi, Suyadi Suyadi, and Kurniati. "An Analysis Of Moral Value In “The Maze Runner” A Film By Wes Ball 2014." JELT: Journal of English Language Teaching 2.1 (2018): 153-161.
Ball, Wes. The Maze Runner. IMDb, 2014. Retrieved from: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1790864/
