A few weeks ago, I went out with my girlfriends to Thai food followed by a showing of Wild starring Reese Witherspoon. The movie is based on the book of the same name, by Cheryl Strayed. Her journey of self discovery hiking the Pacific Crest Trail which stretches from Northern Mexico to Canada. Despite its catchy plot, I enjoyed, but didn't love this book.
Now I rarely think a movie is better than the book, however, this might be one of the few exceptions. The story of Cheryl's journey navigating the lengthy trail is told through snippets of her present day adventures pieced together with flashbacks of her tumultuous past. In no particular order, the narrative flashes back to her childhood, her effervescent mother (by a show-stealing Laura Dern), the discovery of her mother's terminal cancer, and the string of events in which Cheryl unravels, destroying her marriage and reaching out for anything she can hold onto. The movie portrayed an emotional element that I just didn't find (or feel) when reading the book. Overall - two thumbs up!
3 comments
This is so great to hear! I saw the author on Oprah and was really HOPING the movie was going to do her story justice. Can't wait to see it. Thanks for the review!
I think the movie represented the book well.definately enjoyed it.
I was the same -- liked but didn't love the book. I kind of felt like she was a selfish a-hole in the book and didn't have enough redeeming qualities. But I think I'd like the movie if I saw it, especially for all the beautiful scenery.
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