Book Vs Movie: Me Before You
Me Before You is a romantic novel beautifully written by Jojo Moyes in 2012 and was later adapted into a romantic drama by Thea Sharrock. A story’s smooth transition from the text to a film despite the inherent differences is what makes it a success. Listed below are five major plot differences which took place during the adaptation of the movie.
Louisa’s Assault in the Maze
We come across the biggest plot change in the movie when Louisa’s assault in the maze at the age of twenty, as explained in the book, is never discussed in the movie. Moyes has explained how difficult it was to adapt that particular plot from the book as it was not a scene that could be rushed. Assault on a twenty-year-old is a weightier thing and when enacted, one should be respectful to the issue. This plot was the key device that deepened the emotional relation between Will and Louisa, however, the omission of this scene in the movie defines Lou’s character without the shadow of the traumatic experience.
Mr. Traynor’s Love Affair
The book by Jojo Moyes highlights the silences and secrets within the family of the Traynor’s. When Louisa comes to know about Mr. Traynor’s extramarital affair, she is surprised as it is no news to Will. The movie, however, never discusses Mr. Traynor’s love affair as to not draw away any attention from Will and Louisa, the main characters of the story.
The Perspectives of Different Characters
The movie fails to project different points of view of the characters and is seen solely through the eyes of Louisa. The book, in contrast, presents broader dimensions through the chapters narrated from the perspective of Will’s parents and his sister. It gives the readers a better sense and understanding of Will’s disability and his decision to end his life voluntarily. The movie only discusses Will and Louisa’s relationship.
Lou’s Relationship with her Boyfriend
More has been spoken about Louisa and Patrick’s relationship in the book, which in the movie, is simplified. Going by the book, their relationship isn’t exactly an easy sail, but we see them sticking together despite the differences for seven years- until the final split. Their breakup forms a significant part of the plot in the book, as Louisa moves in with the Traynors. The alteration not only minimizes Louisa’s life before Will but also makes Patrick’s character much easier to digest than in the book where he reveals all the sensitive information about Will’s decision to the press, giving rise to a media storm.
Georgina Traynor’s Absence
Georgina Traynor, Will’s sister, makes an appearance in the novel as a woman who believes it is “unfair” to put her plans on hold on account of her brother. Though she isn’t your regular loving sister, she is still upset about Will’s decision. Though a minor character, in the movie she is completely absent. Moyes commented: “What we worked out over a period of months was that Georgina wasn’t really adding anything to the story.”
A lot of effort goes into producing a movie that can incorporate all the elements of the book. Me Before You happens to be one such rare movie that did justice to the book. Despite the minor omissions, the essence and plot of the story still manage to touch the hearts of thousands of people.
