“Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” is a novel written by Jonathan Safran Foer and published in 2005.
It has gained significant attention and praise for its unique storytelling and emotional depth. The novel was later adapted into a movie directed by Stephen Daldry and released in 2011.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive book summary, movie analysis, and fascinating insights into this beloved story.
Throughout this article, we will delve into the key themes of the book, compare and contrast the movie adaptation, and explore the characters and their roles in the story.
Furthermore, we will discuss the story’s timeline, film locations, and set design.
We will also examine the emotional impact of the story through quotes and the soundtrack by Alexandre Desplat.
Additionally, we will discuss Jonathan Safran Foer’s bio and works, provide a parent guide, and embrace the fandom with cosplay tips and dressing like the characters.
Book Summary and Key Themes
“Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” tells the story of Oskar Schell, a nine-year-old boy living in New York City who loses his father, Thomas Schell, in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.
Oskar finds a key in an envelope labeled “Black” in his father’s closet and becomes determined to find the lock it opens, believing it will lead to a message from his father.
The novel is an exploration of grief, healing, and the search for meaning in the face of tragedy. It is written in a non-linear format, with multiple narrators and a mix of letters, photographs, and other visual elements.
The key themes of the book include loss, trauma, family, and the power of human connection.
As Oskar goes on his quest to find the lock, he meets various people who share their own stories of loss and healing.
Ultimately, the novel serves as an ode to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of finding hope in the darkest of times.
Movie Adaptation: Analysis and Comparison to the Book
Directed by Stephen Daldry, the movie adaptation of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” was released in 2011.
The film stars Tom Hanks as Thomas Schell, Sandra Bullock as Oskar’s mother, Linda Schell, and Thomas Horn as Oskar. The movie closely follows the plot of the book but simplifies some elements for a more linear narrative.
While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it was praised for its powerful performances, particularly from young Thomas Horn.
One of the movie’s most significant departures from the book is the omission of the character Mr. A.R. Black, who accompanies Oskar on his journey in the novel.
Additionally, the movie simplifies the timeline, focusing primarily on Oskar’s story rather than the interwoven narratives of his grandparents.
Despite these differences, the movie retains the book’s emotional core and captures the spirit of Foer’s novel, exploring the themes of loss, healing, and connection in the face of tragedy.
Exploring the Characters: Who’s Who
The story of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” revolves around several key characters, each with their own unique role in the narrative.
The main protagonist, Oskar Schell, is a precocious and sensitive nine-year-old boy grappling with the loss of his father. Thomas Schell, Oskar’s father, is a loving, creative man who shared a special bond with his son before his untimely death in the 9/11 attacks.
Linda Schell, Oskar’s mother, is a woman struggling with her own grief and trying to support her son through his emotional journey. The mysterious character known as “The Renter” or Oskar’s paternal grandfather is a silent figure, burdened by the trauma of his past and seeking solace in his family. Abby Black is a woman Oskar meets during his quest, and she helps him navigate his emotional turmoil.
These characters, along with the various people Oskar encounters throughout his journey, create a rich tapestry of human emotion and connection, highlighting the power of empathy and understanding in the face of tragedy.
The Story’s Timeline: When and Where It Takes Place
The primary events of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” take place in New York City in the months following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. However, the story also delves into the past, exploring the lives of Oskar’s grandparents and their experiences during World War II.
The novel uses a non-linear narrative structure, weaving together the present-day events of Oskar’s quest with the past experiences of his grandparents, as well as letters and other visual elements. This complex timeline serves to emphasize the intergenerational impact of trauma and the ways in which the past and present are inextricably linked.
Diving into the Film: Locations and Set Design
The film adaptation of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” expertly captures the unique atmosphere of New York City and the emotions of the characters.
Filming took place primarily in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, with several iconic locations featured throughout the movie.
Some notable locations include Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the now-demolished 5 Pointz graffiti space in Queens. The set design, particularly in Oskar’s apartment, reflects the chaotic, creative energy of the characters and their emotional journey.
The Emotional Impact: Quotes and Soundtrack by Alexandre Desplat
The emotional impact of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” is heightened by its poignant quotes and the evocative soundtrack composed by Alexandre Desplat.
Throughout the novel, Foer’s writing captures the raw, visceral emotions of the characters, such as when Oskar says, “I missed him so much that I could feel it in my skin.”
Desplat’s score for the film adaptation further enhances the emotional depth of the story, featuring haunting melodies and powerful orchestral arrangements that mirror the characters’ internal struggles.
Behind the Scenes: Jonathan Safran Foer’s Bio and Works
Jonathan Safran Foer is an acclaimed American author known for his innovative storytelling and unique narrative structures.
Born in 1977, Foer grew up in Washington, D.C., and studied at Princeton University. His first novel, “Everything Is Illuminated,” was published in 2002 and earned him significant praise and recognition.
In addition to “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” Foer has written several other novels, including “Here I Am” and “Tree of Codes.”
He is also an accomplished non-fiction writer, with works such as “Eating Animals” and “We Are the Weather” exploring themes of environmentalism and animal rights.
Parent Guide: Understanding and Discussing the Story
“Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” is a complex and emotionally charged story that may require guidance and discussion for younger readers.
Parents can help facilitate conversations by discussing the themes of loss, healing, and the importance of empathy and understanding.
It is important to consider the emotional impact of the story, particularly in relation to the 9/11 attacks, and ensure that children are provided with a safe space to express their feelings and ask questions.
Embracing the Fandom: Cosplay Tips and Dressing Like the Characters
For fans of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” embracing the fandom can be a fun and creative way to pay tribute to the story and its characters.
Cosplay, or dressing up as characters from the book and movie, is a popular activity within fan communities.
To dress like Oskar, consider wearing a white button-down shirt, a red tie, and a black suit jacket.
Additionally, accessories such as a tambourine, a gas mask, and a backpack filled with clues can help complete the look.
Ending Explained: Uncovering the Story’s Deeper Meaning
The ending of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” serves as a culmination of Oskar’s emotional journey and a testament to the power of human connection.
While Oskar never finds the specific lock for the key, he ultimately discovers that the journey itself was the true message from his father, encouraging him to connect with others and find solace in their shared experiences of loss.
The story’s deeper meaning lies in the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of empathy, understanding, and connection in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
Potential Future Adaptations: Remake, Sequel, and Spin-Offs
While there are currently no plans for a remake, sequel, or spin-off of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” the story’s enduring popularity and emotional resonance leave open the possibility for future adaptations.
Whether in the form of a television series, stage play, or even a graphic novel, the story’s themes of loss, healing, and connection could continue to captivate audiences in new and exciting ways.
Stephen Daldry’s Other Works and Media
Stephen Daldry, the director of the “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” film adaptation, is an accomplished filmmaker known for his emotionally charged and visually stunning works. Some of his other notable films include “Billy Elliot,” “The Hours,” and “The Reader.”
In addition to his work in film, Daldry has also directed several successful stage productions, including the acclaimed West End and Broadway productions of “An Inspector Calls” and “The Audience.”
Discovering Similar Media to Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
For those seeking similar stories to “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” there are several books and movies that explore themes of loss, healing, and human connection.
Some recommendations include “The Lovely Bones” by Alice Sebold, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon, and the film “Life of Pi” directed by Ang Lee.
Exploring Jonathan Safran Foer’s Other Works
In addition to “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” Jonathan Safran Foer has written several other critically acclaimed novels, such as “Everything Is Illuminated” and “Here I Am.”
These works, along with his non-fiction titles like “Eating Animals” and “We Are the Weather,” showcase Foer’s unique narrative style and his ability to tackle complex, emotionally charged themes.
Book Club Discussion: Engaging Questions and Conversation Starters
“Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant story that lends itself well to book club discussions.
Some engaging questions and conversation starters might include:
- How does the non-linear narrative structure of the novel contribute to the story’s themes and emotional impact?
- In what ways do the various characters in the story cope with grief and loss, and what can we learn from their experiences?
- How does the story’s exploration of intergenerational trauma and the impact of historical events such as 9/11 and World War II affect your understanding of the characters and their respective journeys?
Video Games Inspired by Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
While there are no direct video game adaptations of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” fans of the story may find solace in interactive narrative games that explore themes of loss, healing, and the power of human connection.
Titles such as “What Remains of Edith Finch,” “Gone Home,” and “Firewatch” offer immersive storytelling experiences that resonate with the emotional depth of Foer’s novel.
Travel Guide: Visiting Filming Locations and Places from the Story
For fans of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close,” visiting the filming locations and places from the story can be a meaningful way to connect with the characters and their emotional journey.
New York City, the primary setting of the novel and film, offers numerous iconic locations to explore, such as Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
Additional sites of interest might include the American Museum of Natural History, where Thomas and Oskar shared many memorable moments, and the various neighborhoods of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx that Oskar visits throughout his quest.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
“Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” is a powerful and emotionally resonant story that continues to captivate readers and viewers alike.
Through its exploration of loss, healing, and the power of human connection, the novel and film adaptation offer a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
Whether through book club discussions, cosplay, or visiting the story’s iconic locations, fans of “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” can continue to engage with and celebrate the enduring impact of Jonathan Safran Foer’s beloved story.
