‘Water for Elephants’ is a unique tale of love, loss, and the pursuit of passion. Set against the backdrop of a travelling circus during the Great Depression, it is a narrative that explores human resilience in the face of hardship. The novel, published in 2006, quickly garnered acclaim for its vivid storytelling and compelling characters.
The movie, which was released in 2011, attempted to bring Gruen’s vivid world to screen, with some notable differences. While some purists argue that the movie deviated from the original, others praise it for its cinematic rendition of the narrative. Let’s delve into the details.
Who’s who: Main Characters in the Book and Movie
In the world of ‘Water for Elephants’, the story revolves around the lives of three main characters – Jacob Jankowski, Marlena Rosenbluth, and August Rosenbluth. In the book, Jacob is introduced as a 23-year-old veterinary student, while Marlena is a stunning performer in the Benzini Brothers’ circus. August is Marlena’s husband and the circus’s head animal trainer.
In the movie, these characters are brought to life by renowned actors. Robert Pattinson plays Jacob Jankowski, Reese Witherspoon portrays Marlena, and August is played by Christoph Waltz. The casting was a major topic of discussion among fans and critics alike, with some believing the actors perfectly embodied their roles, while others felt there were discrepancies between the book characters and their on-screen counterparts.
Book Summary: ‘Water for Elephants’ by Sara Gruen
Gruen’s novel is a fascinating tale told from the perspective of Jacob, both as a young man and a 93-year-old nursing home resident. The story oscillates between the past and present, painting a vivid picture of Jacob’s life with the circus and his struggles in the present day.
The narrative kicks off with a tragedy, where Jacob, on the verge of finishing his veterinary degree, loses his parents in an accident. In the aftermath, he finds himself on a circus train, where he is hired as a vet. As he becomes part of the circus life, he falls in love with Marlena, the star performer. However, their blossoming romance is threatened by Marlena’s manipulative and abusive husband, August.
Movie Summary: Francis Lawrence’s ‘Water for Elephants’
Director Francis Lawrence took on the challenge of converting this multi-layered narrative into a visual spectacle. The film follows a similar storyline but simplifies the narrative for cinematic convenience. The movie also omits the present-day narrative, focusing solely on Jacob’s young life in the circus.
In the movie, the blossoming romance between Jacob and Marlena is given center stage, with their love story unfolding against the backdrop of circus life. The film captures the essence of the book, but with a Hollywood spin, including a more dramatic ending.
Comparing Worlds: When and Where ‘Water for Elephants’ Takes Place
The book and movie both take place during the Great Depression, but their depictions of the era differ. Gruen’s novel provides a gritty, realistic portrayal of the hardships faced by society, with the circus serving as a beacon of hope and escape from the harsh reality. The movie, on the other hand, leans more towards the glamour and spectacle of the circus, downplaying the harshness of the era.
In terms of locations, both the book and movie depict various towns across the United States, as the Benzini Brothers’ circus travels from place to place. However, the film locations were primarily in California and Tennessee, where the production team recreated the 1930s circus setting.
The Soundtrack: James Newton Howard’s Contribution to the Movie
The music in a film can often be as critical as the script, direction, or performances. In the case of ‘Water for Elephants,’ James Newton Howard’s soundtrack played a vital role in bringing the story to life. Howard is a master at using music to enhance the emotional depth and narrative tension of a film. His soundtrack for ‘Water for Elephants’ is no different, providing a rich, evocative score that perfectly complements the film’s vibrant visuals and dramatic storyline.
From the haunting main theme to the playful circus melodies, each track is meticulously crafted to reflect the movie’s mood. Still, it’s important to note that the score diverges significantly from the book’s descriptive passages. While Sara Gruen’s prose is often explicitly detailed, Howard’s compositions are more impressionistic, using music to suggest emotions and character traits rather than explicitly outlining them.
There’s no doubt that Howard’s soundtrack adds a unique dimension to the film adaptation, one that couldn’t be captured in the book. While it doesn’t offer a book summary in the traditional sense, the soundtrack provides another layer of narrative that enriches the overall experience of ‘Water for Elephants.
Notable Quotes from ‘Water for Elephants’
One of the most striking aspects of both the book and the movie ‘Water for Elephants’ is the dialogue. Gruen’s original text is peppered with memorable quotes that offer insights into the characters’ minds and hearts. These quotes not only serve as a crucial part of the book summary but also set the tone for the entire narrative.
In Lawrence’s film adaptation, many of these quotes have been retained, while others have been adapted or omitted to fit the medium’s visual nature. One notable quote retained in both versions is Marlena’s line, “The world is run by those willing to sit in the saddle and ride.” This quote encapsulates Marlena’s strong-willed character and her determination to control her own destiny despite the obstacles she faces.
However, not all quotes made it into the movie. For instance, Jacob’s reflections on aging – “Age is a terrible thief. Just when you’re getting the hang of life, it knocks your legs out from under you and stoops your back.” – is absent from the film. This omission, while understandable in the context of the film’s runtime, does remove some of the novel’s more introspective moments, offering a slightly different interpretation of Jacob’s character.
Cosplay Tips: Dressing Like Marlena and Jacob
For fans looking to bring a piece of ‘Water for Elephants’ into their own lives, cosplay can be a fun and immersive way to do so. Emulating the characters’ looks from the film can be quite an adventure, given the movie’s sumptuous 1930s era costumes.
When it comes to dressing like Marlena, it’s all about the glamour of the travelling circus. Think sequinned costumes, feathered headpieces, and vibrant colors. To replicate her look, start with a sequined dress, preferably in a rich jewel tone. Add a pair of strappy heels, a feathered headband, and plenty of costume jewelry for the perfect Marlena ensemble.
As for Jacob, his costume is a bit more subdued but no less distinctive. His look is that of a young veterinary student turned circus worker, so think work boots, khaki pants, and suspenders. Add a worn-out shirt and a newsboy cap, and you’ve got Jacob’s look down pat. Whether you’re dressing up for a party, a convention, or just for fun, these cosplay tips can help you embody the spirit of ‘Water for Elephants’ in a unique and exciting way.
Sara Gruen: Bio and Best Works
Sara Gruen is an acclaimed author known for her evocative and emotionally resonant novels. Born in Canada in 1969, Gruen moved to the United States for a technical writing job before deciding to pursue her passion for fiction. Her breakout novel, ‘Water for Elephants,’ catapulted her to international fame, earning her a spot on bestseller lists worldwide.
Gruen’s other notable works include ‘Ape House,’ a novel about a family of bonobos and the humans who love them, and ‘At the Water’s Edge,’ a World War II-era drama about a privileged woman’s journey of self-discovery. Both novels showcase Gruen’s talent for creating rich, character-driven stories that tackle complex themes with sensitivity and grace.
Another standout work is ‘Riding Lessons,’ which tells the story of a woman who returns to the equestrian world after a traumatic accident. Lastly, ‘Flying Changes’ continues the narrative of ‘Riding Lessons,’ further exploring the protagonist’s struggles and triumphs. Each of these novels, much like ‘Water for Elephants,’ underscores Gruen’s skill as a storyteller and her ability to craft narratives that resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.
Francis Lawrence: Bio and Other Media
Francis Lawrence is a prolific director known for his work in both film and television. Born in Austria in 1971, Lawrence began his career directing music videos before transitioning to feature films. His visually striking style and knack for storytelling quickly made him a sought-after director in Hollywood.
Beyond ‘Water for Elephants,’ Lawrence has directed several other notable films. These include ‘I Am Legend,’ a post-apocalyptic thriller starring Will Smith, and ‘Red Sparrow,’ a spy thriller featuring Jennifer Lawrence. He’s also known for directing three of the four films in the ‘Hunger Games’ series, demonstrating his ability to handle large-scale, blockbuster productions.
In addition to his film work, Lawrence has directed episodes for several acclaimed television series. These include ‘Touch,’ a drama about a father discovering his son’s extraordinary ability to perceive patterns within numbers, and ‘Kings,’ a modern-day retelling of the biblical story of King David. Much like his film work, Lawrence’s television projects showcase his diverse talents and his ability to bring compelling narratives to life.
Curiosities: Interesting Facts About ‘Water for Elephants’
Sara Gruen’s ‘Water for Elephants’ is a historical novel set in the 1930s. It tells the tale of a young man, Jacob Jankowski, who, after a tragic incident, finds himself working in a circus. The book is filled with fascinating characters, from the charismatic but deeply flawed ringmaster August to the beautiful and poised Marlena, and of course, Rosie the elephant.
The film adaptation, released in 2011, starred Robert Pattinson as Jacob, Reese Witherspoon as Marlena, and Christoph Waltz as August. A significant curiosity is that the movie was filmed in multiple locations, including Tennessee, California, and Georgia, to capture the traveling aspect of the circus. James Newton Howard, known for his work in films like ‘The Dark Knight’ and ‘The Hunger Games,’ composed the evocative soundtrack, adding another layer of depth to the movie.
Quotes from the book, such as “When you’re five, you know your age down to the month. Even in your twenties, you know how old you are. I’m twenty-three, you say, or maybe twenty-seven. But then in your thirties something strange starts to happen. It’s a mere hiccup at first, an instant of hesitation,” further add to the narrative’s richness and depth.
Similar Movies to ‘Water for Elephants’
If you enjoyed ‘Water for Elephants,’ there are many similar films you might enjoy. The ‘Notebook,’ directed by Nick Cassavetes, shares the same nostalgic tone and romantic drama. ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘Moulin Rouge,’ both directed by Baz Luhrmann, also capture the same period charm and poignant love stories.
Francis Lawrence, the director of ‘Water for Elephants,’ has an impressive filmography. Some of his other works include ‘I Am Legend,’ ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,’ and ‘Red Sparrow.’ Each of these films showcases his ability to create visually stunning scenes and manage complex narratives.
Similar Novels to ‘Water for Elephants’
Sara Gruen has written other novels that ‘Water for Elephants’ fans might enjoy, including ‘Ape House,’ ‘Flying Changes,’ and ‘Riding Lessons.’ Each of these books showcases her unique storytelling style and knack for creating engaging characters.
If you’re looking for other authors with a similar writing style, you might enjoy ‘The Nightingale’ by Kristin Hannah, ‘The Book Thief’ by Markus Zusak, or ‘The Help’ by Kathryn Stockett. Each of these novels offers rich historical settings, compelling characters, and emotional narratives.
Parent Guide: Is ‘Water for Elephants’ Suitable for All Ages?
‘Water for Elephants’ is a complex narrative with mature themes, including violence, sexual content, and animal cruelty. Although the novel does not contain explicit language, its mature themes may not be suitable for younger readers.
The movie adaptation, rated PG-13, also contains some intense scenes that might not be suitable for younger viewers. As a parent, it’s essential to consider these factors before deciding if ‘Water for Elephants’ is appropriate for your child.
Book Club Questions: Discussing ‘Water for Elephants’
If you’re considering ‘Water for Elephants’ for your book club, here are some questions that might help spark a lively discussion. For example, how does the setting (the circus during the Great Depression) impact the story? How do the characters change throughout the novel? What themes stood out to you, and why?
Buying Guide: Gift Ideas for ‘Water for Elephants’ Fans
If you have a ‘Water for Elephants’ fan in your life, consider gifting them a special edition of the book or a poster from the movie. Fans might also appreciate items that reflect the 1930s circus theme, such as vintage circus posters or a model of a circus tent. For those who love the fashion of the era, consider gifts like a flapper dress or a fedora hat similar to what Jacob and Marlena wore in the film.
Conclusion
Comparing the worlds of Sara Gruen’s ‘Water for Elephants’ and Francis Lawrence’s 2011 film adaptation is a fascinating exploration of storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of the book, the movie, or both, there’s so much to delve into, from the book summary and movie summary to the intriguing curiosities surrounding both versions. With similar movies and novels to explore, discussions to spark at your book club, and even gift ideas for fans, ‘Water for Elephants’ offers a rich world to explore.
