When discussing directors I always hear the male-dominated version of Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Christopher Nolan and the like. But, we must talk about the amazing women who take the industry by storm and create movies that we all love. Now the true test for us book lovers is whether or not it’s better than the book! Here are seven adaptations with female directors for the perfect lazy day.
1. The Zookeeper’s Wife directed by Niki Caro
Image Via Rolling Stone
The Zookeeper’s Wife, originally published in 2007, was adapted by Niki Caro for a 2017 film. I did not have the pleasure of reading the book for this one, but the movie made me cry ugly tears. It also earned 61% on Rotten Tomatoes.
2. American Psycho directed by Mary Harron
Image Via Rolling Stone
American Psycho was written by Bret Easton Ellis in 1991 and adapted into a film with director Mary Harron in 2000. Christian Bale creeped us all out in this one, but an actor is only as good as who directs him (I’ve totally heard this multiple times)! This film earned 68% on Rotten Tomatoes.
3. Before I Fall directed by Ry Russo-Young
Image Via Roger Ebert
Before I Fall the book was originally published in 2010 and was later adapted for a 2017 film. My fifteen-year-old self loved this book and every other YA novel I could get my hands on. Although the 2017 film disappointed my long-lasting expectations, the ending still shook me to my core. I am surprised yet happy to say this film earned a 64% on Rotten Tomatoes.
4. Wonder Woman directed by Patty Jenkins
Image Via Vulture
Wonder Woman comics have become a dime a dozen since her character first appeared in 1941. This powerful female character finally became the star of a film this year with Patty Jenkins on as director. Definitely a female driven narrative that I can get behind! This film earned a whopping 92% on Rotten Tomatoes to top it all off. Congrats to Patty Jenkins!
5. Winter’s Bone directed by Debra Granik
Image Via Youtube
Winter’s Bone was originally published in 2007 and became a film directed by Debra Granik in 2010. I haven’t actually seen this adaptation myself and am not sure how it slipped under my radar, but will be added to the ever-growing list of movies for a rainy day. Especially, since it earned a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes!
6. We Need to Talk About Kevin directed by Lynne Ramsay
Image Via FanArt
We Need to Talk About Kevin was written in 2003 and adapted for film in 2011. I don’t think I saw this, but I definitely need to based on that photo alone! And the decided factor is the 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
7. Whale Rider directed by Niki Caro
Image Via New York Times
Niki Caro comes up as female director for the second time on this list with her debut adaptation Whale Rider. The book first appeared in 1987 and wasn’t adapted until 2003. Caro killed it in this debut, earning a 90% on Rotten Tomatoes.
I know I used Rotten Tomatoes ratings for every adaptation listed, but I don’t always agree with them! What did you like better, the book or the movie? Leave it in the comments!
Feature Via Warner Bros.