“Whatever Makes You Happy” is a compelling novel written by the accomplished British author, William Sutcliffe. Published in 2008, the book delves deep into the complex relationships between mothers and their adult sons, effectively exploring themes of love, self-identity, and familial bonds. The book’s success led to its adaptation into a Netflix film titled “Otherhood” in 2019. Directed by Cindy Chupack, the film brings the book’s characters and narratives to life with a touch of humor and sentimentality.
Book Synopsis: “Whatever Makes You Happy”
In “Whatever Makes You Happy,” the story revolves around three suburban mothers – Carol, Gillian, and Helen – who are frustrated with their grown-up sons’ detached attitudes. The sons, Matt, Daniel, and Paul, live in New York and appear to have distanced themselves from their mothers. Driven by a desire to reconnect, the three mothers decide to pay their sons an unexpected visit, leading to a series of comedic and dramatic events.
Throughout the book, the mothers navigate through the challenges of their sons’ busy lives, their own insecurities, and the complexities of motherhood. The narrative provides a deep insight into the characters’ emotions and the dynamics of their relationships, making it a relatable and insightful read.
Movie Summary: “Otherhood”
The film adaptation, “Otherhood,” directed by Cindy Chupack and released in 2019, maintains the core plot of the book. The film cast includes talented actresses Angela Bassett (Carol), Patricia Arquette (Gillian), and Felicity Huffman (Helen). The film showcases the women’s journey, their struggles, and their attempts to understand their sons’ lives.
While the movie maintains the essence of the book, it introduces slight changes, notably adding a dose of comedy to the mix, making it a light-hearted and emotional watch. The film brilliantly captures the essence of the book, making it a captivating experience for viewers.
Comparison Between the Book and the Movie
Despite the movie retaining the main storyline, there are subtle differences between the two mediums. The book offers a deeper insight into the characters’ thoughts and feelings, allowing readers to form a profound connection with them. The movie, on the other hand, leverages visual storytelling to bring the narrative to life.
Significant alterations in the movie include the introduction of new characters and changes to the characters’ cultural background, adding a new dynamic to the story. These changes, while deviating from the book’s original depiction, enhance the movie’s appeal and relatability.
When and Where Does the Story Take Place?
Both the book and the movie are set in the bustling city of New York. The narrative spans over a few weeks during which the mothers visit their sons unexpectedly. The city’s vibrant and fast-paced life forms the backdrop of the story, adding to its charm and relatability.
Film Locations of “Otherhood”
While the story is set in New York, the filming locations for “Otherhood” extended beyond it. Many scenes were shot in real locations, including various parts of New York City and the Hudson Valley. These locations contributed to the authenticity of the film, enhancing its visual appeal.
Who’s Who in “Whatever Makes You Happy” and Its Movie Adaptation
The cast of “Whatever Makes You Happy” and its movie adaptation, “Otherhood,” is an ensemble of memorable and engaging characters. Here’s a brief overview of the key characters:
- Carol Walker: In the movie, Angela Bassett portrays Carol, an assertive and caring mother seeking to reconnect with her son, Matt. Her journey showcases her resilience and her commitment to her family.
- Gillian Lieberman: Gillian, played by Patricia Arquette in the film, is a compassionate and determined mother. Her meek son, Daniel, presents her with numerous challenges, but Gillian remains undeterred, reflecting her strength of character.
- Helen Halston: Felicity Huffman’s character, Helen, is a free-spirited and loving mother. Her relationship with her son, Paul, is riddled with misunderstandings, and her journey towards reconciliation is both humorous and touching.
- Matt, Daniel, and Paul: The sons, Matt, Daniel, and Paul, have distinct personalities and their own set of challenges. Their interactions with their mothers form the crux of the story, leading to numerous moments of comedy, drama, and sentimentality.
Memorable Quotes from “Otherhood”
“Otherhood” is filled with memorable quotes that resonate with viewers. Some of the most notable lines from the movie include:
- “A mother is only as happy as her unhappiest child.”
- “We are not good enough for our sons.”
- “We are not nagging. We are just noticing.”
- “You never stop being a mother.”
- “There is no love like the love between a mother and a son.”
These quotes echo the movie’s core themes of motherhood, love, and self-discovery.
Soundtrack by Marcelo Zarvos: Biography and Other Works
The captivating soundtrack of “Otherhood” was composed by Marcelo Zarvos. Born in 1969, Zarvos is a Brazilian pianist and composer known for his work in both classical and film music. His unique blend of classical, jazz, and world music elements has earned him recognition in the industry.
Zarvos’s music for “Otherhood” perfectly complements the movie’s narrative, adding depth to the emotional scenes. His other notable works include the soundtracks for “The Good Shepherd,” “The Words,” and “The Affair.” His distinct musical style and ability to evoke emotions make him a sought-after composer in Hollywood.
Curiosities about “Whatever Makes You Happy” and “Otherhood”
Both the book “Whatever Makes You Happy” and its movie adaptation “Otherhood” have some fascinating aspects that add to their appeal:
- The book was William Sutcliffe’s first attempt at writing a comedy, marking a shift from his previous novels.
- In the movie, the character of Gillian is portrayed as Jewish, while in the book, she doesn’t have a specified religious background.
- The film “Otherhood” was initially set for release on Netflix in April 2019 but was delayed due to the involvement of Felicity Huffman in the college admissions scandal.
- Despite its light-hearted narrative, “Otherhood” tackles significant social issues like ageism, sexism, and the societal expectations of motherhood.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Carol Walker and Gillian Lieberman
If you’re a fan of “Otherhood” and wish to cosplay or dress up like Carol Walker or Gillian Lieberman, here are some tips:
- For Carol’s look, opt for a stylish and bold outfit. A colorful blazer, a chic top, and a pair of high-waisted pants would do the trick. Add a pair of stylish sunglasses and a statement necklace to complete the look.
- To emulate Gillian’s style, go for a more casual and comfortable outfit. A flowy top, a pair of jeans, and a cozy cardigan would be perfect. Don’t forget to add a pair of simple earrings and a crossbody bag.
Biography of William Sutcliffe, the Author of “Whatever Makes You Happy”
Born in 1971, William Sutcliffe is a British author known for his insightful and engaging novels. He has written several books spanning various genres, including young adult, comedy, and satire. His ability to create relatable characters and thought-provoking narratives has garnered him a significant readership.
“Whatever Makes You Happy” is one of Sutcliffe’s noteworthy works. His nuanced portrayal of mother-son relationships and his humorous writing style make the book a delightful read.
William Sutcliffe’s 5 Best Works
William Sutcliffe has penned several captivating novels. Here are five of his best works:
- “Are You Experienced?”: This humorous novel follows a young man’s adventures in India, highlighting the challenges and revelations of travel.
- “The Love Hexagon”: A witty exploration of love and relationships, this book is a delightful blend of comedy and drama.
- “Bad Influence”: This young adult novel delves into the complexities of friendship and peer pressure, offering a thought-provoking read.
- “Concentr8”: Set in a dystopian London, this book explores themes of power, rebellion, and social control.
- “The Wall”: This powerful novel tackles the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a poignant and balanced perspective.
These novels showcase Sutcliffe’s diverse writing skills and his ability to create engaging and insightful narratives.
5 Other Media Adaptations by Cindy Chupack
Cindy Chupack, the director of “Otherhood,” has a notable career in television and film. Here are five other media adaptations by Chupack:
- “Sex and the City”: As a writer and executive producer for this hit series, Chupack contributed significantly to its success.
- “Modern Family”: Chupack served as a co-executive producer and writer for this popular sitcom, earning her critical acclaim.
- “Everybody Loves Raymond”: As a writer and producer, Chupack added her comedic touch to this beloved show.
- “Better Things”: Chupack directed two episodes of this comedy-drama series, showcasing her directorial skills.
- “Divorce”: Chupack’s work as a writer and executive producer for this series further solidified her position in the industry.
10 Similar Movies to “Otherhood”
If you enjoyed “Otherhood,” here are 10 similar movies that explore themes of family, relationships, and self-discovery:
- “The Break-Up”: A comedic yet poignant exploration of a couple’s breakup.
- “The Kids Are All Right”: A modern family drama that tackles issues of identity and relationships.
- “The Guilt Trip”: A heartwarming road trip movie featuring a mother-son duo.
- “It’s Complicated”: A romantic comedy about love and relationships in middle age.
- “Mother’s Day”: An ensemble comedy-drama that celebrates motherhood.
- “The Intern”: A heartwarming film about unexpected friendships and personal growth.
- “The Holiday”: A romantic comedy about two women swapping homes for the holidays.
- “Bridget Jones’s Baby”: A hilarious and touching exploration of unexpected motherhood.
- “Julie & Julia”: A movie about passion, cooking, and the impact one person can have on another’s life.
- “The Parent Trap”: A classic family comedy about separated twins trying to reunite their parents.
Book Club Questions for “Whatever Makes You Happy”
Here are some discussion questions for your book club or personal reflection on “Whatever Makes You Happy”:
- How does the narrative explore the complexities of mother-son relationships?
- What do the characters of Carol, Gillian, and Helen represent?
- How does the book depict societal expectations of motherhood?
- How does the narrative address the themes of self-identity and self-discovery?
- How do the characters’ relationships evolve throughout the book?
- What does the book suggest about the concept of happiness?
- How does the narrative explore the theme of love?
- What insights does the book offer into the dynamics of modern family relationships?
- How does the book address the issue of communication in relationships?
- What personal lessons did you take away from “Whatever Makes You Happy”?
10 Similar Novels to “Whatever Makes You Happy”
If you enjoyed “Whatever Makes You Happy,” here are 10 similar novels that explore themes of family, relationships, and self-discovery:
- “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty: A gripping novel about the secrets and lies among a group of mothers.
- “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan: A compelling exploration of mother-daughter relationships.
- “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett: A powerful narrative about race, class, and friendship.
- “Normal People” by Sally Rooney: A profound exploration of love, relationships, and identity.
- “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman: A heartwarming story about an unlikely friendship and self-discovery.
- “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman: A touching story about the transformative power of relationships.
- “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng: A complex narrative about motherhood, identity, and the weight of secrets.
- “Bridget Jones’s Diary” by Helen Fielding: A hilarious and relatable exploration of love, friendship, and self-acceptance.
- “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion: A charming story about love, self-discovery, and the unpredictability of life.
- “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes: An emotional narrative about love and the choices we make.
Parent Guide for “Otherhood”
“Otherhood” is a charming film that explores mature themes of motherhood, relationships, and self-discovery. Here’s a parent guide to help you decide if it’s suitable for your children:
- Age Recommendation: The movie is rated R for language, adult themes, and some sexual references. It’s not suitable for younger viewers.
- Language: The film contains strong language and adult humor. It’s essential to discuss the importance of appropriate and respectful language with your children.
- Adult Themes: “Otherhood” explores mature themes like relationships, self-identity, and ageism. Be prepared to discuss these topics with your children and provide necessary context.
- Emotional Impact: The film can evoke strong emotions due to its heartfelt narrative. Be ready to provide emotional support and engage in conversations about the film’s themes.
As a parent, it’s crucial to consider your child’s age, maturity, and sensitivities before watching “Otherhood.”
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas
“Whatever Makes You Happy” and “Otherhood” make excellent gifts for anyone who enjoys engaging narratives and character-driven stories. Here’s a buying guide and some gift ideas:
- Book/Movie Bundle: A bundle of the book “Whatever Makes You Happy” and the DVD/Blu-ray of “Otherhood” makes a great gift for book and movie lovers.
- Novelty T-Shirts: T-shirts featuring quotes or characters from “Otherhood” could be a hit with fans of the movie.
- Poster: A poster featuring the movie’s artwork could be a great addition to a home theater or a fan’s bedroom.
- Bookmarks: Bookmarks featuring quotes from “Whatever Makes You Happy” would be a thoughtful gift for avid readers.
- Soundtrack: The soundtrack of “Otherhood” composed by Marcelo Zarvos would be a great gift for music lovers.
Conclusion
“Whatever Makes You Happy” and its movie adaptation “Otherhood” offer a charming exploration of mother-son relationships, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. Whether you choose to delve into the book or watch the movie, the heartfelt narrative and relatable characters will leave a lasting impression. So, grab a copy of the book, gather your friends for a book club discussion, or plan a movie night and immerse yourself in this captivating story.
