What do you think? Is there good movie potential in this book? Five of us went to see Hedgehog, as the movie has been titled.
I'm definitely not speaking for the group--please weigh in with your own opinion. I give it a thumbs up, but do wonder how it would resonate for anyone who hasn't read the book.
Of the characters, I especially loved Paloma who--instead of writing her thoughts as she did in the book--spoke them as she videotaped her family members and others in the building. Smart decision by the director. I loved the way she spoke in hushed tones, and was always pushing her glasses up on her head,tangling them in her hair.
Kakuro was spot-on, and Renee appropriately cranky and then later transformed by a haircut, new dress and the attention of someone who actually sees her.
The translation of Renee's position, from "concierge" to "janitor" seemed a little harsh, but maybe it makes the point better for American audiences. Concierge has a charming sound to it; janitor--well, not so much.
If you liked or loved this book, I think seeing the movie will further enhance your pleasure. As we talked about it afterward at Toulouse Petite (a fun and lively restaurant--where Janet's lovely daughter stopped to chat with us, and then sent over dessert, on the house), I wondered what other books have successfully been turned into movies. So often, the movie is a disappointment--the book is almost always better. My vote at the moment goes to Revolutionary Road which was in theaters over the 2008 holidays. Yes, the story doesn't have a happy ending, but it had a lot of emotional depth. And I thought the movie faithfully and beautifully translated the book. Other favorites?
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