As is
indicated in the title this classic novel is based around the marvellous Jay
Gatsby or 'Gatsby' as referred to throughout the novel.
Gatsby is an eccentric
man who holds magnificent parties at his mansion inviting whoever to party
until they can’t go on. This book is written from the point of view of Nick
Carraway, the patient neighbour of Gatsby. The novel primarily surrounds the
love story between Gatsby and a certain mutual friend of his and Nick’s, Daisy.
The story is
set during the roaring 20's in America at Long Island’s West Egg. Fitzgerald’s
detailed descriptions give you a precise and vivid image of the setting and
emotions throughout the novel. With unexpected twists and an incredibly heart
wrenching love story I would definitely recommend this book.
My favourite
part of this book would have to be when Nick and Miss Baker (a love interest of
Nick’s as revealed throughout the book!) are invited to one of Gatsby’s
shindigs. The range of people that they meet at the party give a very wide
picture of the different types of people that populated the 1920's and all of
their stories.
The
character of Gatsby himself is so beautifully portrayed and I felt that I was
connected to his character throughout the novel despite his person being
incredibly mysterious until nearer the end of the novel where you learn about
the real ‘Jay’.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Great Gatsby. The plot was captivating and the
writing itself was compelling.
AND THEN...
In 2013 Baz Luhrmann directed
and co-wrote the film adaptation of the classic F. Scott Fitzgerald novel.
This adaptation, despite closely following the novel almost word
for word in places, followed the novel’s narrator, Nick Carraway, in his
therapy to overcome alcoholism among other issues.
During his treatment
Carraway recounts his encounters with Gatsby whilst writing the book. I feel this
is a captivating and interesting way of justifying Carraway’s eccentric and
exotic narration that occurs throughout the film.
Whilst the novel has a classic 1920’s American feel to it, the film has a typical Luhrmann feel, very Moulin Rouge. The bright colours,
loud montages and the soundtrack consisting of 21st Century club
remixes add to the exciting and compelling atmosphere that the plot and
characters present.
I wasn't surprised to witness another stunning performance from
the talented and yummy Leonardo DiCaprio. The way Leo portrayed Gatsby’s
charm, class and mystery was undoubtedly flawless.
But an element of Leo’s
performance that I was taken aback by was the presentation of Gatsby’s undying
love and passion for Daisy. This element of the plot was portrayed in a way the
novel failed express in words. His devotion and…obsession with Daisy is explicit
and powerful.
I was overwhelmingly impressed by the phenomenal interpretation of
the characters from the novel by the cast.
I felt as attached and connected to each and every one of the characters
whilst watching the film as I did whilst reading the novel.
The mystery and uncertainty behind Gatsby’s life and character
that is created in the novel is still maintained in the film. It was a concern
that because of the length of the film and the emphasis on the alternative
style in which the film was directed, that the plot might get lost amongst the
Hollywood glamour. It didn't.
Luhrmann’s adaptation of this classic piece of literature has shot
to the top of my favourite films list.
To describe him as ‘great’ would now be an understatement.
I'd love to hear your opinions on the novel and the film, if you haven't already read/watched The Great Gatsby I hope this encourages you to take the time to do so!
'til next time..
Hannah x
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