Hollywood is going by the books this season: Popular novels are taking over the big screen this fall and winter. While you’re cuddling up in this cozy weather, pair up with a hot cocoa and one of these books so you’re ready to see them on the big screen!
1. “Les Misérables,” out December 25
Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, Sacha Baron Cohen, Amanda Seyfried and Russell Crowe are just a few of the big-name actors in this adaptation of Victor Hugo’s 19th century novel. Now I know it was probably on your high school summer reading list, and you most likely tried to avoid it at all costs, but the previews for this movie look amazing. Not only are these stars incredible actors, but they can sing too. And I mean, really sing. This musical boasts the many actors’ vocal skills during a live performance of their songs. That’s right: the actors are actually singing live during filming and not inside a production studio. So, Hugh Jackman singing? That right there is excuse enough to see it.
Check out the preview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVUk-BRZVAM
2. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” released October 12
This adaptation of Stephen Chbosky’s 1999 novel is sure to satisfy. The book is full of romance and drama, perfect for wasting away a Sunday afternoon. The film features Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller, who shine in this story about the awkward teenaged years in high school. Not only is this a truly relatable and heartfelt plot, critics gave the film an 8.5/10 stars. Not too bad for a summer reading novel.
See for yourself: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aog8680PVmU
3. “The Hobbit: Part One,” out December 14
Considering how many Lord of the Rings fans I’ve met, this movie is sure to be a hit. Martin Freeman plays Bilbo Baggins, the curious main character hobbit in this prequel to the famous film. Other familiar faces in this adaptation are Elijah Wood, Evangeline Lilly, Cate Blanchett, and the ever-hunky Orlando Bloom. If the sound of Orlando Bloom’s name doesn’t get you running to theaters, then I’m not sure what will. Get reading so you can catch up on the trilogy!
Lord of the Rings fans, be prepared for goose bumps: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOGsB9dORB
4. “Anna Karenina,” out November 16
Although this title isn’t as familiar as the rest of the novels, it still promises to please. This film is an adaptation of Tolstoy’s tale of adultery set in the 19th century. Yes, it does seem like another reading you would avoid on your high school reading list, but the movie makes up for it. Keira Knightly and Jude Law star in this regal and dramatic film, brought to you by the same director of “Pride and Prejudice.” Although reading a book by Tolstoy may take up more than a lazy Sunday, the classic tale is definitely worth the trip to the movie theaters.
Check it out here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPGLRO3fZnQ