Over the weekend, a patron asked for David Mitchell’s “Cloud Atlas.” We have two copies; one was already in circulation. With the movie release happening soon, I’m sure those who haven’t read it (me included) will step up the demand.
In the Magazine section of this Sunday’s NYT’s, David Mitchell wrote a piece called “Putting Words in Halle Berry’s Mouth.” He discussed how it feels when an author hears his words spoken by actors for the first time. Initially, he says there is that “primal kick.” But then the actors find things in the characters that he created, that he never spotted. Wow!
Mitchell did not write the screenplay. He is, however, very comfortable with the three directors/screenwriters who adapted his monumental novel. He knew that some changes would have to be made to plot and characters in order to bring his six worlds to the screen.
Unlike some other authors whose works have been made into movies, Mitchell seems pleased with the results. John Irving, who has had at least four of his novels made into movies, had a different experience. So much so that when “Cider House Rules” was filmed, he knew he had to write the screenplay.
Hopefully, those who read the novel and will see the motion picture will agree with Mitchell. Will they concur with the author who says that when he thinks about his character Timothy Cavendish now, all he sees is the face of the actor Jim Broadbent. That is fine with Mitchell. Will the movie going public agree?