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When I saw the blockbuster Jurassic Park on the big screen, I turned away, not-so-impressed. Reason? I had read the book a few years earlier. The book had so much more to offer. There was so much more going on in the heads of the characters – debates on science, ethics, genetic engineering, biological tinkering, and chaos theory – all of which, made for a thrilling, educative, and fascinating read. The film, despite its landmark computer-generated special effects, great sound effects, and intense media coverage, did not come close. Perhaps, I was too influenced by the book. Perhaps, in my imagination, the book delved into so many more dimensions. Perhaps, my imagination coupled with the skill of Michael Crichton created an intensely personal and unique experience. Interesting, is it not – the power of print? The power of those pages of black and white?
But then again, I cannot say that books are more capable of capturing a person’s imagination. I recently saw the Lord of the Rings trilogy – and not even on the big screen. I was hooked. There were just so many themes running in parallel to make for this absolutely amazing experience. The power of belief, the willingness to stand for something that is right, the ability to face up to a challenge, the undying faith in friendship, the pitfalls of obsession, the grandeur of bravery, the fear of the unknown, the positives of earnest reflection, the ability to bounce back after a fall, the steadfast belief that one can find ways in total desolation, the grit and determination to achieve what one has set out to do, the ability to cope with disaster. And, that little space for magic. I admit, I have not read this epic tale from J.R.R Tolkien – but I sure want to. This time around though, I’ll try to judge if the experience of the book matches up to the film.
But then again, I cannot say that books are more capable of capturing a person’s imagination. I recently saw the Lord of the Rings trilogy – and not even on the big screen. I was hooked. There were just so many themes running in parallel to make for this absolutely amazing experience. The power of belief, the willingness to stand for something that is right, the ability to face up to a challenge, the undying faith in friendship, the pitfalls of obsession, the grandeur of bravery, the fear of the unknown, the positives of earnest reflection, the ability to bounce back after a fall, the steadfast belief that one can find ways in total desolation, the grit and determination to achieve what one has set out to do, the ability to cope with disaster. And, that little space for magic. I admit, I have not read this epic tale from J.R.R Tolkien – but I sure want to. This time around though, I’ll try to judge if the experience of the book matches up to the film.
Urmilla Chandran
The author is co-founder and Director, Content Development at Steta
The author is co-founder and Director, Content Development at Steta