Imagine my surprise when I realized that the cinematic journey I went on this year was solely through movie theaters. I usually watch streaming movies as well but it seems that I’ve only streamed TV shows. Through 18 stories inspired by books, comics, and even plays some transported me to richly imagined worlds, others had me humming their tunes, and well, one left me wondering why it ever got made – looking at you, Madame Web. So, without further ado, here are my top 5 book-based movies of the year, a quick look at the rest, and some reflections on this year’s adaptations.

Top 5 Book-Based Movies of the Year

5. Wicked

• Based on: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire (via the Broadway musical).
• Why it made the list: I walked into this movie knowing one song from the musical and walked out in awe of the story, the music, and the emotions. The movie’s production is top-notch and gave me an unforgettable theater experience.
• Favorite moment: Cynthia Erivo’s electrifying rendition of “Defying Gravity” in the final set piece. If goosebumps were currency, I’d be rich.
• Compared to the book: I haven’t read Maguire’s novels yet, but this movie inspired me to dive into them.

4. Dune: Part Two

• Based on: Dune by Frank Herbert.
• Why it made the list: Epic is an understatement. Part Two delivered on the action-packed drama that Part One promised, with breathtaking visuals, intense performances, and a world so engrossing it felt like I was living on Arrakis.
• Favorite moment: Paul’s confrontation with the Emperor. The tension, drama, and the satisfying Harkonnen fight that follows are the stuff of sci-fi legend.
• Compared to the book: I read Dune before Part One hit theaters, and these films are a sci-fi lover’s dream.

3. Emilia Pérez

• Based on: Écoute by Boris Razon.
• Why it made the list: This ambitious and raw musical felt like a revelation. Tackling complex themes through song isn’t easy, but the grounded performances and emotional storytelling made this unforgettable.
• Favorite moment: Zoe Saldaña’s heartfelt benefit performance, blending song and dance with emotional depth.
• Compared to the book: I haven’t read the novel, but from what I’ve heard, the movie has a very different tone.

2. Conclave

• Based on: Conclave by Robert Harris.
• Why it made the list: Who knew a papal thriller could be this gripping? The movie skillfully dives into organized religion, power struggles, and the world’s moral complexities, all within the Vatican.
• Favorite moment: Fiennes delivers a speech that had me thinking long after the credits rolled.
• Compared to the book: Haven’t read it yet, but this movie has me reaching for it.

1. The Count of Monte Cristo (2024)

• Based on: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas.
• Why it made the list: Clocking in at almost three hours, this adaptation was a triumph. The pacing, acting, and opulent production design made every moment feel grand and immersive.
• Favorite moment: The incredible 19th-century sets that brought Dumas’ world to life, transporting me straight into the heart of the story’s intrigue and betrayal.
• Compared to the book: It was required reading in school, but… let’s just say I might need a re-read.

Quick Takes: The Rest of the Movies

• Nosferatu (2024): Gothic, haunting, and visually stunning. Every frame could be a painting.

• Le Panache: A tender and funny take on the struggles of adolescence, adapted from Being Cyrano.

• Deadpool & Wolverine: Action-packed, hilarious, and a wild ride as always.

• Asphalt City: Raw and visceral – emergency response chaos that feels like a punch to the gut.

• Argylle: Over-the-top action meets goofy comedy in this adrenaline-filled spy caper.

• Venom: The Last Dance: Fun but forgettable, with heartfelt moments.

• Madame Web: The less said, the better.

Highlights and Standout Moments

• Most Surprising Movie: Conclave – Who knew I’d be so captivated by a film about papal politics?
• Biggest Disappointment: Madame Web. Somehow managed to make a comic book movie unwatchable.
• Standout Performances:
  • Zoe Saldaña in Emilia Pérez.
  • Ralph Fiennes in Conclave, especially his electrifying speech to the Cardinals.
  • Anamaria Vartolomei in The Count of Monte Cristo. Her restrained, commanding performance left a lasting impression.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

I’m already excited about next year’s adaptations, from How to Train Your Dragon to The Running Man. I’m also adding books like Levon’s Trade, Wicked, and The Running Man to my reading list because these movies sparked my curiosity.

Final Thoughts

This year proved that book-based movies can be hit-or-miss, but when they hit, they leave an indelible mark. Whether it’s through groundbreaking visuals, stellar performances, or thought-provoking stories, these adaptations remind me why I love books and why I love seeing them come alive on screen.

What were your favorite book-based movies this year? Did any adaptations outshine the source material? Let me know in the comments!