Join to get exclusive perks & news!

Top 40 Movies You Didn't Know Were Based on Books (Part 2)

1-21

Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - April 8th 2025, 19:00 GMT+2

Cropped About 2 — About This Gallery:

For this list, we’re diving into those popular movies that, even though they’re still alive and kicking in the pop culture consciousness, we’re pretty sure you had no idea were based on novels, short stories, or other written works (except screenplays, duh). This is part 2 of the list, but hey, if you want the first part, don’t worry, we’ve got your back. | © Disney

Cropped The Wolf of Wallstreet — The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

*The Wolf of Wall Street* might seem like the ultimate story of excess and outrageous behavior, but surprise! It’s based on the real-life memoir of Jordan Belfort, *The Wolf of Wall Street* (2007), detailing his wild rise and fall on Wall Street. The book is just as frantic, filled with jaw-dropping antics, shady deals, and insane parties, with Belfort's unapologetic voice shining through. Martin Scorsese brought the story to the big screen with Leonardo DiCaprio playing the infamous stockbroker, giving one of his most memorable performances. The movie is a chaotic ride through greed, corruption, and self-destruction, with plenty of laughs (and cringe-worthy moments), thanks to DiCaprio and his crew, including Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie. If you’ve ever wanted to see just how ridiculous the 90s finance world could be, *The Wolf of Wall Street* has you covered. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped jumanji — Jumanji (1995)

*Jumanji –* the movie with Robin Williams and a magical board game that unleashes a world of jungle chaos – might be one of the most fun action-adventure films of the '90s, but did you know it was based on Chris Van Allsburg’s 1981 picture book *Jumanji*? The book is a bit more straightforward, with the focus on two kids, Judy and Peter, who discover the game and get caught in a world of dangers. The film, however, expands the concept into a larger-than-life adventure, with more characters (hello, Robin Williams!), and a jungle that somehow comes to life in suburban New Hampshire. While the book is a little more contained, the movie ups the ante, turning the board game into a madcap action rollercoaster. And let’s not forget the epic 90s vibes, from the costumes to the music! | © TriStar Pictures

Cropped The Birds — The Birds (1963)

Alfred Hitchcock’s *The Birds* has haunted our nightmares for decades, but the film is based on a short story by Daphne du Maurier, published in 1952. The story has the same premise – flocks of birds suddenly turning violent – but in du Maurier’s version, the birds are more mysterious and ominous, with much less of the chaos and action that the film builds on. Hitchcock, of course, took du Maurier's dark, psychological thriller and turned it into a full-on horror movie, amplifying the tension and making it less about explaining the birds’ motives and more about the terror they invoke. Tippi Hedren’s performance as the terrified Melanie Daniels is chilling, and the film’s suspense and eerie vibe made it a genre-defining classic. While the short story is more understated, the film's long-lasting impact on pop culture and horror is undeniable. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Scarface — Scarface (1983)

*Scarface* is that film you can’t forget, the one that made us all remember “Say hello to my little friend!” and has become synonymous with gangster culture. But did you know it’s based on the 1929 novel *Scarface* by Armitage Trail? While the book’s story of a rising gangster named Tony Camonte isn’t exactly the same as Al Pacino’s iconic portrayal, it follows a similar path of ambition, power, and betrayal. The film takes the basic premise and cranks up the drama, bloodshed, and one-liners, thanks to Brian De Palma’s direction and Pacino’s larger-than-life performance. The 1983 adaptation is glossier, louder, and more outlandish than the original book, but both versions tell the story of a man whose thirst for power leads to his inevitable downfall. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Breakfast at Tiffanys — Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

You might think of Audrey Hepburn in her iconic little black dress and pearls, but *Breakfast at Tiffany’s* was originally a novella by Truman Capote, published in 1958. Capote’s story is a much more cynical look at life, love, and loneliness in New York City. The novella's Holly Golightly is more complex, and her situation is a bit darker, with more of an edge than the charming, whimsical character Hepburn brought to life. While the film softens some of the novel’s harsher elements, it still captures the essence of Holly’s free-spirited attitude and her struggle with finding her place in the world. Hepburn’s performance made the character iconic, and the movie's charm, romance, and bittersweet moments have made it a classic. But, as with most Capote works, there’s a deeper melancholy behind the glamour. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped The Devil Wears Prada — The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

*The Devil Wears Prada* is the quintessential movie for anyone who’s ever had a nightmare boss or dreamed of a glamorous career in fashion. But before Anne Hathaway was running errands for Meryl Streep’s icy Miranda Priestly, the story was a novel by Lauren Weisberger, published in 2003. The book, *The Devil Wears Prada*, is a semi-autobiographical tale of Weisberger’s time working as an assistant to Vogue's editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. While the movie lightens up some of the book's more brutal moments, it still captures the intense pressure and chaos of working at a top fashion magazine. Meryl Streep’s portrayal of Miranda is iconic, and let’s not forget Emily Blunt’s hilarious role as the snarky assistant, Emily. Both the book and the film serve up a healthy dose of ambition, glam, and a reminder that it’s okay to quit a toxic job (even if it means giving up a Prada handbag). | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped The Exorcist — The Exorcist (1973)

*The Exorcist* is the film that made us all terrified of the possibility that a little girl might be possessed by an ancient demon, but it’s based on William Peter Blatty’s 1971 novel, *The Exorcist*. The book, inspired by a real-life exorcism, dives deeply into themes of faith, evil, and the psychological toll of possession. The film adaptation, however, takes those heavy themes and cranks up the horror to eleven, making Linda Blair’s portrayal of Regan MacNeil one of the most disturbing performances in cinema history. The shock factor is real: spinning heads, projectile vomiting, and the kind of creepy ambiance that still makes people check under the bed. While the novel is more psychological, the film’s visual horror and chilling atmosphere cemented *The Exorcist* as a genre-defining classic. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Howls Moving Castle — Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Before Hayao Miyazaki brought *Howl’s Moving Castle* to life with stunning animation, the story was a whimsical fantasy novel by Diana Wynne Jones, published in 1986. The book has a more complex, darker tone than the film, focusing on Sophie, a young woman cursed to appear as an old woman, and her adventures with the mysterious wizard Howl. Miyazaki’s film adaptation is more of a visual feast, with stunning landscapes, fantastical creatures, and the magical moving castle itself. While both versions feature the lovable, eccentric Howl (voiced by Christian Bale in the English version of the movie), the film leans into anti-war themes and has a slightly more dreamy, surreal feel. It’s a beautiful blend of Jones' quirky charm and Miyazaki’s iconic animation style. | © Studio Ghibli

Cropped PITCH PERFECT — Pitch Perfect (2012)

*Pitch Perfect* made us all want to join an a cappella group and belt out some seriously high notes. But did you know it was inspired by Mickey Rapkin’s 2008 non-fiction book, *Pitch Perfect: The Quest for Collegiate A Cappella Glory*? The book explores the world of collegiate a cappella competitions, and while the movie adds a heavy dose of comedy and musical performances, it still retains that competitive spirit. The film, starring Anna Kendrick as the lovable Beca, takes the book’s tone and turns it into a feel-good, high-energy musical comedy. With an unforgettable cast, including Rebel Wilson as the hilariously bold Fat Amy, the movie turned a subculture of music geeks into mainstream gold. And let’s face it, the *Cups* song will never get out of your head. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped The Graduate — The Graduate (1967)

*The Graduate* is that iconic film that forever changed how we view post-college existential crises, awkward romances, and, of course, the affair between Dustin Hoffman’s Benjamin Braddock and Mrs. Robinson. But before Hoffman was starring in this classic, the story was a 1963 novel by Charles Webb. The book is a little more subdued in its depiction of Benjamin’s plight, but it still carries the same sense of youthful disillusionment. The film, with its famous soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel and direction by Mike Nichols, takes that unease and gives it a much sharper, more humorous edge. The chemistry between Hoffman and Anne Bancroft, who plays Mrs. Robinson, is electric, and the movie’s ending – oh, that ending – has remained one of the most memorable in film history. If you haven’t already, it’s time to ask yourself, “What’s it all about?” | © Embassy Pictures

Cropped Bambi — Bambi (1942)

*Bambi* is that classic Disney film that made us all cry over the loss of a mother, but did you know it’s based on a book? Felix Salten’s 1923 novel *Bambi, A Life in the Woods* is a much more somber, detailed tale that delves deep into the life of a young deer as he grows up in the forest. The novel touches on the harsh realities of nature, the cycle of life, and the complex relationships between animals and humans. While the Disney version is more family-friendly and lighthearted, the book has a bit of a darker edge, focusing on survival and the realities of animal life. Still, both the film and the book capture the beauty and fragility of life in the wilderness. And if you ever thought Bambi's “flower” moment was adorable, just wait until you read the book’s more poignant moments. | © Walt Disney Productions

Cropped 101 Dalmatians — 101 Dalmatians (1961)

*101 Dalmatians* is the Disney classic that turned puppies into stars, but before the animated film, Dodie Smith’s 1956 novel *The Hundred and One Dalmatians* had already introduced us to the lovable Pongo, Perdita, and their spotty offspring. The book, while still heartwarming and full of adventure, carries a bit more of a British sensibility, with a quirky, charming tone. The movie adaptation focuses more on the antics of Cruella de Vil, voiced by the legendary Betty Lou Gerson, who remains one of the most iconic villains in Disney history. While the book provides a more narrative-driven approach to the dogs' rescue, Disney’s version delivers the delightful animation and memorable music we all know and love. The film turns up the villainous drama, making it a true family favorite. | © Walt Disney Pictures

Cropped Minority Report — Minority Report (2002)

*Minority Report* might have had you on the edge of your seat with its futuristic world of “pre-crime” police, but did you know it’s based on a short story by Philip K. Dick, first published in 1956? The story explores the ethical dilemmas of predicting crime before it happens and the price of free will. The movie, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise as the troubled officer, takes Dick's philosophical musings and turns them into an action-packed thriller with some mind-bending twists. While the short story is more focused on the philosophical side of precognition and justice, Spielberg’s film gives us high-tech visuals, a suspenseful plot, and an iconic chase scene. Dick’s original short story dives into much darker, more complex themes, but the film is a rollicking ride through a chilling vision of the future. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Total Recall — Total Recall (1990)

*Total Recall* is that wild, mind-bending sci-fi film where Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character discovers his memories might not be his own – classic '90s action material, right? But before it became a pulse-pounding film, the concept was based on Philip K. Dick’s 1966 short story *We Can Remember It for You Wholesale*. The original story is a little more cerebral, focusing on the identity crisis of a man who thinks he’s been to Mars, only to discover things aren’t what they seem. While the movie amps up the action and features plenty of explosive scenes, the essence of Dick's story – about memory manipulation and the questioning of reality – remains intact. Schwarzenegger’s performance is as over-the-top as you’d expect, and the film’s special effects and wild plot twists keep it a cult classic in the sci-fi genre. | © TriStar Pictures

Cropped Annihilation — Annihilation (2018)

*Annihilation* is one of those mind-bending, visually stunning films that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll. The movie, directed by Alex Garland, is based on Jeff VanderMeer’s 2014 novel *Annihilation*, the first in the *Southern Reach Trilogy*. The book is full of ambiguity, mystery, and strange, otherworldly occurrences in an area known as Area X, where the laws of nature seem to break down. The film takes these unsettling themes and amplifies them, focusing on a team of scientists (led by Natalie Portman) who venture into the area and begin to lose their grip on reality. While the book dives deep into the psychological aspects of the characters’ experiences and their unraveling minds, the film brings a surreal, trippy experience to the screen. The book and the movie both leave you questioning what’s real, but one thing’s for sure – the eerie, alien landscape of Area X is unforgettable. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped House of Gucc — House of Gucci (2021)

*House of Gucci* is that fabulously scandalous tale of fashion, betrayal, and the kind of family drama that could only happen in the world of high society. But before Lady Gaga and Adam Driver graced the screen as Patrizia Reggiani and Maurizio Gucci, the story was based on Sara Gay Forden’s 2000 non-fiction book *The House of Gucci: A Sensational Story of Murder, Madness, Glamour, and Greed*. The book dives deep into the Gucci family’s real-life saga of luxury, power, and the tragedy that led to Maurizio Gucci’s murder. Ridley Scott’s film adaptation takes some liberties, of course, but it brings the over-the-top drama to life, with Lady Gaga's stunning portrayal of Patrizia stealing the show. With its high fashion and explosive family feuds, this film and book together are the perfect blend of glamour and chaos. | © MGM

Cropped Fantastic Mr Fox — Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

*Fantastic Mr. Fox* brings to life Roald Dahl’s 1970 children’s book in the most whimsical, stop-motion way possible. The book itself tells the tale of a clever, yet mischievous, fox who must outwit a group of farmers to save his family. Wes Anderson’s adaptation adds a quirky, distinct visual style and a sprinkle of adult humor, making it as much fun for parents as it is for kids. The characters in the film (voiced by George Clooney, Meryl Streep, and Bill Murray) bring a level of charm that perfectly complements Dahl’s witty, offbeat writing. While Dahl’s original story is more straightforward, Anderson’s interpretation adds depth, making it a delightful and heartfelt exploration of family and identity. It’s a quirky little gem where whimsy and serious themes collide, all with a dash of fox-like cunning. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Cape Fear — Cape Fear (1991)

*Cape Fear* is the kind of psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, with Robert De Niro’s chilling portrayal of Max Cady. But here’s a fun fact: it’s based on the 1957 novel *The Executioners* by John D. MacDonald. The book’s plot mirrors the film’s – Cady, a convicted rapist, seeks revenge on the family that put him away – but the film amps up the suspense and the moral dilemmas. Martin Scorsese’s 1991 remake is much more intense and filled with dark, psychological tension, giving De Niro one of his most menacing roles. While the novel focuses more on the psychological effects of Cady’s revenge on the family, the film takes the story to a new level with its visual suspense, courtesy of Scorsese’s direction. It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to double-check the locks on your doors. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped The Thing — The Thing (1982)

John Carpenter’s *The Thing* is one of the most iconic horror films ever, and if you didn’t know, it’s based on John W. Campbell’s 1938 novella *Who Goes There?*. The story is set in Antarctica, where a research team is confronted by a shape-shifting alien that can perfectly mimic any living creature it encounters. While the novella is a bit more focused on isolation and paranoia, Carpenter’s adaptation cranks up the tension, gore, and outright terror. The movie stars Kurt Russell as the tough-as-nails lead, MacReady, and uses groundbreaking practical effects that still hold up today. While the book lays the groundwork for the creature’s terrifying abilities, Carpenter’s version takes it further, adding psychological horror to the mix. A true classic of sci-fi horror that keeps you wondering who – if anyone – can be trusted. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Million Dollar Baby — Million Dollar Baby (2004)

*Million Dollar Baby* is the heart-wrenching sports drama that made us cry, cheer, and ultimately reflect on life, death, and the meaning of family. But before Clint Eastwood’s movie, it was based on a short story by F.X. Toole (a pen name for boxer and writer Jerry Boyd) titled *Rope Burns: Stories from the Corner* (2000). The short story collection includes the same tale of Maggie Fitzgerald, a determined woman who wants to box, and her gritty relationship with trainer Frankie Dunn, portrayed by Eastwood himself. While the movie focuses heavily on Maggie’s journey and the emotional dynamics with Frankie, the book provides deeper insights into the world of boxing and the tough decisions faced by those in the ring. Hilary Swank’s Oscar-winning performance as Maggie brings an added emotional punch to the adaptation, making it a deeply human story about perseverance and self-worth. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

1-21

Many of your favorite movies may have been inspired by a book, but did you know just how many blockbuster hits originated from literature? From thrilling mysteries to heartwarming romances, the magic of storytelling often begins on the pages of a book before it hits the big screen. In this article, we’ll uncover the top 40 movies you didn't know were based on books, revealing hidden literary gems behind your beloved films. Whether you’re a book lover or a movie enthusiast, get ready to explore the fascinating connections between literature and cinema.

Facebook X Reddit WhatsApp Copy URL

Many of your favorite movies may have been inspired by a book, but did you know just how many blockbuster hits originated from literature? From thrilling mysteries to heartwarming romances, the magic of storytelling often begins on the pages of a book before it hits the big screen. In this article, we’ll uncover the top 40 movies you didn't know were based on books, revealing hidden literary gems behind your beloved films. Whether you’re a book lover or a movie enthusiast, get ready to explore the fascinating connections between literature and cinema.