The movie News of the World is based on the 2016 novel of the same name by Paulette Jiles.
The Literary Foundation of News of the World
The critically acclaimed 2020 American Western film, News of the World, starring Tom Hanks, finds its origins in the compelling 2016 novel written by the renowned author, Paulette Jiles. This literary work provides the intricate narrative and character development that forms the backbone of the cinematic adaptation.
About the Book: News of the World
Paulette Jiles's novel, also titled News of the World, was first published in 2016. It tells the poignant story of Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, an aging veteran of three wars who now travels through post-Civil War Texas, earning a living by reading newspapers to paying audiences. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is tasked with returning a young orphan girl, Johanna Leonberger, to her relatives. Johanna, raised by the Kiowa people after being abducted years prior, is reluctant to rejoin white society, leading to a challenging and transformative journey for both characters.
- Key Recognition: The novel was a finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction, highlighting its literary merit and impactful storytelling.
The Film Adaptation
The film adaptation, released in 2020, was co-written and directed by Paul Greengrass. It faithfully brings Jiles's narrative to the screen, capturing the harsh realities and quiet beauty of the American frontier. Tom Hanks delivers a powerful performance as Captain Kidd, while Helena Zengel makes her international film debut portraying Johanna. The movie explores themes of:
- Connection and Belonging: The evolving bond between Kidd and Johanna.
- Redemption: Kidd's personal journey and his efforts to bring Johanna home.
- The Search for Home: Both literal and metaphorical, as characters navigate a fractured post-war landscape.
The table below provides a concise overview of the novel and its film adaptation:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Novel Title | News of the World |
| Author | Paulette Jiles |
| Novel Publication | 2016 |
| Film Title | News of the World |
| Film Director | Paul Greengrass (co-written by Paul Greengrass and Luke Davies) |
| Key Film Stars | Tom Hanks, Helena Zengel |
| Film Release | 2020 |
| Based On | The 2016 novel News of the World by Paulette Jiles |
For more details on the film's production and reception, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
