Book Adaptations on Netflix that are better than the books
We have all heard the phrase “the books are better.” However, with fantasy series often falling into bad worldbuilding and poorly written characters, Netflix has taken up the task of converting these poorly conceived books into thrilling and famous shows that everyone is bingeing! We have compiled a list of book adaptations on Netflix that is way better than the books.
The Witcher
The Witcher, though rated poorly with the books, has made a mark as a Netflix series, being on the top list for a long time and now being made into a third season as well as a prequel. The show has become one of the most-watched shows on Netflix, and its second season, which was released earlier this year, has gained a lot of viewership. But what did the series do right that made it a success, whereas the books were considered mediocre, at best? Well, for one, the worldbuilding in the series with its effects and scene capture is better than what has been described in the books. Another thing that the series lover who also read the book commented on was the character building. Somehow, the series has been able to develop the character depth and stories better than the books- making the series feel whole and balanced. Yennefer’s character, especially, has done extremely well in the series.
The Witcher follows the life of Geralt of Rivia- a Witcher who works as a pay-per-kill monster hunter. The second storyline follows Yennefer of Vengerberg, the strongest sorcerer in their world, and how she came to be. The final storyline is that of Princess Ciri, who is on a mission to find Geralt. The second season follows these storylines, and with several side quests and battles on the side that have been shot exquisitely, the series overshadows the book’s not-very-well-written worldbuilding and battle sequences.
Bridgerton
The book adaptation on Netflix became one of the highest-grossing shows with fans all over the world. However, you will be surprised to find that the series had way more depth than its book, the duke and me. The book explored most of the characters as two dimensional- being either Daphnes’ friends or dukes’ friends. However, the series explored these characters as individuals, giving them their own stories and hence making the plot more interesting.
One of the aspects that have made the Netflix series shine is the inclusivity it offers. The show features people of color in major powerful roles, unlike the books- making the show feel and be more inclusive and hence, more popular amongst people from non-white countries as well. The show also had a more intricate storyline along with better worldbuilding. And of course, we cannot forget the amazing ballroom dancing scenes that made the chemistry between our favorite characters better.
Bridgerton, the show, was also released in the middle of lockdown. Based in the Victorian era, it provided the perfect escapism with its dreamy dukes and beautiful dresses. This can also be seen as one of the reasons for the show’s success. We will know for sure, however, once the second season is released.
You
The thriller show that is based on a book adaptation by the same name follows the story of Joe, a normal man who works in a book shop. As the story progresses, we see how Joe, the prince charming, takes a dark and twisted turn, turning into a stalker and murderer. The thriller show is nothing short of ‘on the edge of your seat’ thriller. Then we wonder, what went wrong with the books? Well, apart from the major changes that the series did- like changing the amount of influence love had on Joe or even Love’s entire personality and joe getting arrested in one of the books- the show was more fast-paced than the book series.
Apart from the general changes, Joes’ character in the series is way more charming than it is in the books- making the show more approachable and interesting. The characters are also more developed in the series rather than just being sided characters like in the books. These changes, along with the fact that the series made Love into a murderer, like Joe, which the books had not done, the series had way more suspense and cliff-hangers that left the audience wanting more. You can watch YOU for free on a TV aerial. To get one installed by professionals, click here. The show is due a fourth season soon, with the third season being as much of a success as the last two seasons.
