Top 5 movies based on novels
29 April 2021
Novels and movies – the ultimate escapes during the lockdown. But...what happens when you combine them? Behold exciting novel adaptations on the big screen!
We’ve whittled down the many films in this category to the top five family films inspired by novels. For each of these novel-inspired classics, we are showing a similar movie that you are sure to enjoy!
Why not have the ultimate family day out, and join us at the best contact-free cinema experience at the Drive-In North London.
Novels and movies – the ultimate escapes during the lockdown. But...what happens when you combine them? Behold exciting novel adaptations on the big screen!
We’ve whittled down the many films in this category to the top five family films inspired by novels. For each of these novel-inspired classics, we are showing a similar movie that you are sure to enjoy!
Why not have the ultimate family day out, and join us at the best contact-free cinema experience at the Drive-In North London:
Jurassic Park
An adventure 65 million years in the making, directed by master storyteller Steven Spielberg, this highly anticipated dino flick was actually based on the bestseller by Michael Crichton. This prehistoric rollercoaster ride left them in awe at what they saw. The gargantuan blockbuster broke box office records, stunning audiences worldwide. Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum, along with an iconic T –Rex, along with a group of deadly velociraptors, the thrill-a-minute action truly bought dinosaurs back to life.
It has spawned five sequels, including the upcoming 2022 release, Jurassic World: Dominion. It truly holds the crown as the king of dinosaur movies. If you fancy something similar at The Drive-In, then why not check out Godzilla vs. Kong. This brand new monster battle movie features two screen giants of truly epic proportions. Just make sure you have a extra-large popcorn ready to enjoy with the spectacle. And make sure you keep an eye on your glass of water at all times…just in case.
Matilda
For those who prefer books to monsters, this one may be for you. In 1996, this timeless children’s classic by Roald Dahl became a charming movie directed by Danny DeVito. Moving the story to the States, but losing none of its charms, DeVito nailed casting in the movie perfectly. The highlight being the intimidating, terrifying and cruel school headmistress, Miss Trunchball who was memorably played by Pam Ferris. This inspiring story follows the young life of a girl who loves to read, and discovers she has telekinetic powers. Delighted both adults and children alike, Matilda remains a firm favourite to this day.
It’s not the only Dahl novel to get a mesmerising movie adaptation though. The Witches is such a popular story that it’s been made into a movie twice, proving that a little magic goes a long way! The latest version starring Anne Hathaway, is showing at The Drive In right now, is guaranteed to leave you spellbound. Rest assured, no witches will be present during screenings, (so no children in attendance will be turned into mice!)
Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Speaking of mice, how about the film that became legendary for uniting Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny on screen? Not many people know that this crazy animation meets live-action movie, was based on a novel called Who Censored Roger Rabbit by Gary K Wolf. Bob Hoskins played the hardboiled private detective Eddie Valiant in one of his most iconic roles, acting against the famous bow-tied toon Roger Rabbit. Kathleen Turner lent her husky voice to Roger’s love and ultimate femme fatale, Jessica Rabbit. Many a cinema-goer will remember her for uttering the immortal line, “I’m not bad, I’m just drawn that way”. This Disney classic left audiences amazed with its seamless blend of live-action and animation and is still jaw-dropping, even to this day.
That’s NOT all folks, however, as Tom and Jerry: The Movie follows in the footsteps of this masterpiece. Placing the infamous animated cat and mouse duo in the real world, get ready to witness them create lots of delightful mischief in an upmarket New York hotel. These cartoon legends and their slapstick humour will be making regular appearances in the schedule at The Drive-In. Their capers are sure to delight children, parents, and grandparents alike.
The Lord of the Rings
From the magic of animation to the wizardry of…sorcery! The epic J.R.R. Tolkien series of fantasy novels, which has inspired countless other tales of good versus evil, finally got its own Oscar-Winning live-action trilogy adaptation between 2001 and 2003. The trilogy was shot back to back by director Peter Jackson. Starring Elijiah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, and Orlando Bloom, the films spawned a rejuvenation of the fantasy genre. It also introduced the now legendary motion capture artist, Andy Serkis, to the masses. Serkis became famous for his amazing portrayal of Gollum, and his obsessive desire for the series’ most precious artefact, the one ring to rule them all.
One of course does not, however, simply walk into a drive-in, so it makes sense to get in your car and join us for another epic fantasy. For those of you who can’t get enough of wizardry and magic, The Drive-In is also showing the classic film, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Based on the children’s classic novel, this is considered by many to be the best entry in the Harry Potter series. All muggles are welcome at The Drive-In to experience the world of Hogwarts in its big-screen glory. Please be aware that entry is via car rather than on a broomstick! The sorting hat has already decided that all viewers will have a magical time, whether they are Team Slytherin or Team Gryffindor respectively.
Mary Poppins
If watching Harry battle Voldemort proves too much excitement for you, then give yourself a dose of this classic spoonful-of-sugar film! Enjoying this 60’s throwback with a bucket of sweet popcorn will certainly bring a smile to anyone’s face. Based on a series of novels by P.L Travers, this family favourite has entertained audiences for generations. Featuring Julie Andrews in arguably her most iconic role, the adaptation is nothing short of “spit spot”. Not even Dick Van Dyke’s questionable cockney accent can diminish its heart-warming charm. The fun begins when the “practically perfect in every way” nanny, Mary Poppins, arrives to help look after the Banks’ children. Magic and fun soon enter the family’s lives, leading to an unforgettable time for all.
This supercalifragilisticexpialidocious hit was full of memorable songs including hilarious musical number, “I Love to Laugh”, the feel-good “Let’s Go Fly a Kite”, as well as the heart-rending song, “Feed the Birds”. Walt Disney went on record to say the latter was his favourite song. If you love your musicals to be colourful, feel-good and magical, then you can also check out The Greatest Showman. If you would like more family favourite musical wonderment that is guaranteed to be the greatest show, then why not rewrite the stars and join us for a spectacular evening showing of this modern classic at The Drive-In.
Looking for a London Drive-In cinema near you? Want to watch movies based on novels on the big screens in London? Come and check out The Drive-In London for the ultimate contact-free movie experience. Book your tickets today!