No, the 2022 thriller film The Desperate Hour, starring Naomi Watts, is not based on a book.
While there is a well-known thriller novel titled The Desperate Hours by Joseph Hayes, published in 1954, it is important to distinguish it from the 2022 film. Joseph Hayes' novel was notably adapted into a 1955 play, also written by Joseph Hayes, and subsequently into a 1955 film, The Desperate Hours. This earlier film version was directly based on the novel and its play adaptation.
The 2022 film The Desperate Hour is a distinct production and is not an adaptation of Joseph Hayes' novel or its subsequent play and 1955 film adaptations. It stands as an original screenplay.
Understanding the Similarities and Differences
The similar titles between the 2022 film and the earlier works can often lead to confusion. Here’s a clear comparison to help differentiate them:
| Feature | The Desperate Hour (2022 Film) | The Desperate Hours (Joseph Hayes Novel/1955 Film) |
|---|---|---|
| Year of Release | 2022 | Novel: 1954; Play: 1955; Film: 1955 |
| Primary Star | Naomi Watts | Humphrey Bogart, Fredric March (1955 film) |
| Based on a Book? | No | Yes, based on Joseph Hayes' 1954 novel |
| Nature of Work | Modern thriller, original story | Classic thriller, book adaptation |
Key Takeaways
- The Desperate Hour (2022) is an independent cinematic work that does not draw its plot from a pre-existing novel.
- The novel The Desperate Hours by Joseph Hayes, along with its associated play and the 1955 film adaptation, are entirely separate entities despite the very similar titles.
- When researching or discussing these films, specifying the year of release is crucial to avoid mixing up these distinct productions.
