“The Turn of the Screw” is a classic horror novella written by Henry James and first published in 1898. The story follows a young governess who becomes convinced that the children she is responsible for are being haunted by malevolent spirits. Over the years, the novella has captivated readers with its atmospheric setting and psychological suspense. In 2020, “The Turning,” a film adaptation of “The Turn of the Screw,” was released, bringing the story to the big screen. In this article, we will explore the differences between the book summary of “The Turn of the Screw” and its film adaptation, “The Turning” (2020), analyzing key elements such as setting, characters, and memorable quotes.
Book Summary: “The Turn of the Screw”
Set in the Victorian era, “The Turn of the Screw” takes place in a remote country house called Bly. The story revolves around a young governess who is hired to care for two orphaned children, Miles and Flora. As the governess settles into her role, she begins to experience strange occurrences and becomes convinced that the children are being possessed by the spirits of the house’s former governess, Miss Jessel, and her lover, Peter Quint. The governess becomes determined to protect the children from these malevolent forces, but her sanity starts to unravel as she questions whether the hauntings are real or merely figments of her imagination.
Movie Summary: “The Turning” (2020)
“The Turning” is a modern adaptation of “The Turn of the Screw” directed by Floria Sigismondi. The film transports the story to the 1990s and introduces some changes to the original plot. In this adaptation, Kate Mandell, a young woman haunted by a traumatic past, takes on the role of the governess. She is hired by a wealthy man to care for his niece and nephew, Miles and Flora, who live in a sprawling mansion in the countryside. As Kate settles into her new job, she begins to experience eerie events and encounters with apparitions. She becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the hauntings and protect the children from the malevolent forces that lurk within the house.
When and Where: Setting and Film Locations
“The Turn of the Screw” is primarily set in Bly, a remote country house in the English countryside. The isolated location adds to the sense of unease and isolation experienced by the characters. In “The Turning” (2020), the setting is shifted to a sprawling mansion in the American countryside. The change in location gives the film a fresh perspective while still maintaining the eerie atmosphere of the original story. The film was shot on location in a grand estate in upstate New York, providing a visually stunning backdrop that enhances the haunting ambiance.
Characters: Who’s Who in the Book and Film
In “The Turn of the Screw,” the central character is the young governess, whose name is never revealed. She is a complex and unreliable narrator, torn between her duty to protect the children and the growing fear that she herself is losing her grip on reality. The children she cares for, Miles and Flora, are portrayed as innocent and enigmatic. Other notable characters include Mrs. Grose, the housekeeper, who becomes the governess’s confidante, and the ghosts of Miss Jessel and Peter Quint, who may or may not be figments of the governess’s imagination.
In “The Turning” (2020), the main character is Kate Mandell, a troubled young woman with a traumatic past. Kate takes on the role of the governess and becomes determined to protect Miles and Flora from the malevolent forces that haunt them. The children are portrayed as mysterious and sometimes sinister, adding to the overall sense of unease. The film also introduces new characters, such as the wealthy uncle who hires Kate and a groundskeeper named Quint, who becomes a significant presence in the story.
Memorable Quotes from the Book and Film
“The Turn of the Screw” and “The Turning” (2020) both contain memorable quotes that capture the essence of the story and its themes. In the book, one notable quote is, “The story won’t tell.” This line reflects the mysterious nature of the narrative and the uncertainty surrounding the governess’s experiences. In the film, Kate Mandell delivers a chilling line when she says, “Sometimes, dead doesn’t mean gone.” This quote encapsulates the lingering presence of the supernatural and the idea that the past can continue to haunt the present.
Exploring the Soundtrack by Nathan Barr
The soundtrack plays a crucial role in creating the atmosphere and enhancing the emotions conveyed in both the book and film adaptations. In “The Turn of the Screw,” the absence of a traditional soundtrack allows the reader to focus on the eerie silence that pervades the story.
However, in “The Turning” (2020), the soundtrack by Nathan Barr adds another layer of tension and suspense. The haunting melodies and dissonant tones heighten the sense of unease and contribute to the overall eerie atmosphere of the film.
Curiosities and Trivia about “The Turning”
“The Turning” (2020) is not only a film adaptation of “The Turn of the Screw” but also a work that stands on its own. There are several curiosities and trivia associated with the film that may intrigue fans of the story. For example, the film was initially titled “The Haunting of Bly Manor” but was later changed to “The Turning.” Additionally, the film features a subtle nod to another classic horror story, “The Shining,” with a scene that pays homage to the iconic “Here’s Johnny!” moment. Exploring these curiosities adds depth to the viewing experience and showcases the attention to detail by the filmmakers.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Kate Mandell and Miles Fairchild
For fans who want to immerse themselves in the world of “The Turning” (2020), there are numerous opportunities for cosplay and dressing up as the characters. Kate Mandell’s wardrobe features a mix of vintage and grunge-inspired elements, reflecting the 1990s setting of the film. To achieve her look, opt for oversized flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and combat boots. Miles Fairchild, the enigmatic young boy, sports a more formal attire, with tailored suits and polished shoes. Adding a touch of mystery to your cosplay can be achieved by practicing a distant and haunting gaze, mirroring Miles’ character.
Henry James: A Biography and Introduction to his 5 Best Works
Henry James, the author of “The Turn of the Screw,” was a prominent American writer known for his psychological insights and keen observations of human behavior. Born in 1843, James had a prolific career and produced numerous works of fiction, travel writing, and criticism. Some of his best-known works include “The Portrait of a Lady,” “The Wings of the Dove,” “The Ambassadors,” “The Bostonians,” and “The Golden Bowl.” Each of these works explores themes of love, morality, and the complexities of human relationships.
Floria Sigismondi: Other Media by the Director of “The Turning”
Floria Sigismondi, the director of “The Turning” (2020), is a talented filmmaker known for her distinct visual style and unique storytelling techniques. In addition to directing films, Sigismondi has also made a name for herself in the world of music videos. Some of her notable music video works include Marilyn Manson’s “The Beautiful People,” David Bowie’s “Little Wonder,” and The White Stripes’ “Blue Orchid.” Her expertise in creating visually stunning and thought-provoking content is evident in “The Turning,” where she brings her own artistic vision to the adaptation of “The Turn of the Screw.”
10 Similar Movies to “The Turning”
If you enjoyed “The Turning” (2020) and are looking for similar movies that explore haunted houses, psychological suspense, and supernatural elements, here are ten recommendations to add to your watch list:
- “The Others” (2001) – A suspenseful ghost story set in a secluded mansion.
- “The Orphanage” (2007) – A haunting tale of a woman returning to her childhood home.
- “Crimson Peak” (2015) – A Gothic romance with a dark twist.
- “The Innocents” (1961) – A classic adaptation of Henry James’ “The Turn of the Screw.”
- “The Conjuring” (2013) – A chilling portrayal of real-life paranormal investigators.
- “The Woman in Black” (2012) – A supernatural horror film set in a haunted mansion.
- “A Tale of Two Sisters” (2003) – A South Korean psychological horror film with a twist.
- “The Babadook” (2014) – A psychological horror film exploring the depths of grief and loss.
- “The Witch” (2015) – A period horror film set in 17th century New England.
- “Hereditary” (2018) – A deeply unsettling film that explores the darkness within a family.
Other Works by Henry James
In addition to “The Turn of the Screw,” Henry James wrote numerous other works that showcase his mastery of the psychological novel and his keen eye for human relationships. Some of his notable works include:
- “The Portrait of a Lady” (1881) – A novel that explores the complexities of love, freedom, and identity.
- “The Wings of the Dove” (1902) – A story of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.
- “The Ambassadors” (1903) – A novel that delves into the clash between American and European cultures.
- “The Bostonians” (1886) – A satirical novel that examines the roles of women in society.
- “The Golden Bowl” (1904) – A novel that explores the complexities of marriage and adultery.
Each of these works showcases James’ unique writing style and his ability to delve into the depths of human emotions and desires.
Book Club Discussion Questions for “The Turn of the Screw”
If you’re planning to discuss “The Turn of the Screw” in a book club setting, here are some thought-provoking questions to spark engaging conversations:
- Do you believe the ghosts in the story are real or figments of the governess’s imagination?
- How does the governess’s unreliable narration affect your understanding of the story?
- What role does the setting of Bly play in creating a sense of unease and isolation?
- How does James use ambiguity and suspense to build tension throughout the story?
- What themes and motifs stand out to you in “The Turn of the Screw”?
10 Similar Novels with Similar Plot Elements to “The Turn of the Screw”
If you enjoyed the psychological suspense and haunting atmosphere of “The Turn of the Screw,” here are ten similar novels that explore similar themes and plot elements:
- “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier – A haunting tale of love, jealousy, and secrets.
- “The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson – A chilling story set in a haunted mansion.
- “The Little Stranger” by Sarah Waters – A gothic novel featuring a decaying English estate.
- “Beloved” by Toni Morrison – A powerful exploration of trauma and the supernatural.
- “We Have Always Lived in the Castle” by Shirley Jackson – A story of isolation and mystery.
- “The Woman in White” by Wilkie Collins – A classic tale of deception and identity.
- “The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield – A gothic mystery surrounding a reclusive writer.
- “The Silent Companions” by Laura Purcell – A chilling tale of cursed dolls and family secrets.
- “The Night Strangers” by Chris Bohjalian – A psychological thriller with supernatural elements.
- “The House Next Door” by Anne Rivers Siddons – A suspenseful story set in a seemingly perfect neighborhood.
Parent Guide: Is “The Turning” Appropriate for Children?
“The Turning” (2020) is a horror film that contains intense scenes and themes that may not be suitable for young children. The film is rated PG-13 for violence, terror, and brief strong language. It is recommended for older teenagers and adults who can handle suspenseful and potentially frightening content. Parents should exercise caution and consider the maturity level of their children before deciding whether to allow them to watch the film.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Fans of “The Turn of the Screw” and “The Turning”
If you’re a fan of “The Turn of the Screw” and “The Turning” (2020), here are some buying guide and gift ideas to enhance your reading and viewing experience:
- “The Turn of the Screw” by Henry James – A beautifully bound edition of the classic novella.
- “The Turning” (2020) DVD or Blu-ray – Own a physical copy of the film to watch at your convenience.
- “The Turn of the Screw” audiobook – Experience the story through a captivating audio performance.
- “The Turning” movie poster – Decorate your space with a visually striking poster from the film.
- “The Turn of the Screw” study guide – Dive deeper into the themes and analysis of the novella.
- “The Turning” soundtrack on vinyl – Immerse yourself in the haunting melodies of the film.
- “The Turn of the Screw” tote bag – Show off your love for the novella with a stylish and functional bag.
- “The Turning” t-shirt – Wear your fandom proudly with a t-shirt featuring artwork from the film.
- “The Turn of the Screw” enamel pin – Accessorize with a unique pin that pays homage to the novella.
- “The Turning” collector’s edition – Indulge in a special edition of the film with bonus features and behind-the-scenes content.
