I have never read anything by Cormac McCarthy previous to this and I have to say, the guy can write. Very intense action, descriptive imagery, but imagery that doesn't dwell. He keeps everything going at a fast, well thought out pace. I only wish I had not watched the movie before getting to the book because it spoiled some of the suspense for me. Still, good stuff. I can see why the Cohen brothers decided to make it into a film. And, to their credit, stayed true to the characters and story, unlike so many books that Hollywood decides to make into blockbusters.
And, what's the deal with that anyway? Here's a successful book. Let's take it, get rid of everything that made it good, Hollywoodize it up and film it. Then, act surprised when the movie doesn't do well. (I'm looking at you makers of Whiteout. What were you thinking?)
Adrianne, if you want to read more Cormac McCarthy, you should definitely pick up The Road. I think it's his best book, and I have a feeling you'd like it. It's hard to read in places, but also very hard to put down.
ReplyDeleteAnd actually, while it didn't do very well at the box office, the film version of The Road was remarkably true to the book as well.
Hey Tim - I'll put it on my reading list.
ReplyDeleteThanks!