watched the 2007 PBS television version. This is where I missed our stellar book group members - I wanted discussion, insight, aha moments. I wanted my confusion to evaporate and understanding
to take its place.
First, I enjoyed the casting in the 1985 version; plus, it seemed to
stay authentic with the book. Were the added story lines in this
2007 updated version, an improvement or a hindrance?
This updated version opens with a short-haired Lucy Honeychurch
in Florence, in 1922. There are flashbacks (Lucy with long hair) and a return to present day Lucy (with short hair) in the end.
Without spoiling the movie, if you are inclined to see it (DVD ROOM),
it brought to mind our October book discussion on Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear. I wish I could say more but I would love to discuss it with you.
Second, the field of violets in the book was replaced in the 1987 movie with tall barley grasses, and here
we have a field of poppies. The word "muddle" makes an appearance, and is defined as "a mistake." In
this version Lucy is a much more passionate piano player.
Third, there is an additional story line here concerning the Italian driver, Phaeton, now renamed as Paolo.
I'm beginning to think there should have been 2 viewings of this movie, continuing our discussion.
Remember, our March 3rd discussion book is The Eye of the Needle, and the movie will be shown one
week later on March 10th, with a short discussion following.