Audiences are used to seeing books adapted into films, but sometimes the opposite happens — movies are transformed into novels. This process, known as novelization, is less common, but there are plenty of fascinating examples in literature. Some authors simply rewrite the screenplay, while others add depth and detail to the story. If you loved these films, try the books — you might discover something new.
Dead Poets Society — Nancy Kleinbaum
Film: 1989
This cult classic about the power of art, rebellion against the system, and self-discovery stars Robin Williams as the inspiring teacher John Keating. Kleinbaum’s novel follows the film’s plot but dives deeper into the inner worlds of Neil, Todd, Knox, and others, giving more insight into their fears, dreams, and pain. If the film brought you to tears, the book will amplify those emotions even more.
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace — Terry Brooks
Film: 1999
The Star Wars universe extends far beyond the movies — comics, games, books — fans devour any stories they can get. Terry Brooks’ novelization of The Phantom Menace doesn’t just retell the film’s events but adds backstory, such as Darth Sidious manipulating the Galactic Senate long before the events of Episode I.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood — Quentin Tarantino
Film: 2019
It’s rare for screenwriters to become authors, but Tarantino did just that. He turned his own film into a novel that expands on the lives of Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth, adding alternate scenes, inner monologues, and new perspectives on the ending. A must-read for fans of 1960s Hollywood.
Pan’s Labyrinth — Guillermo del Toro and Cornelia Funke
Film: 2006
Guillermo del Toro, a master of dark fairy tales, created one of his most powerful works with Pan’s Labyrinth. The film is hauntingly beautiful and tragic, but the book adds even more — world-building, mythology, and the characters' emotions. Co-authored by Cornelia Funke, known for Inkheart, this duo crafted a magical yet terrifying novel set in 1944 Spain.
Pirates of the Caribbean — Rob Kidd and Robert L. Cammunas
Film: 2003
Pirates of the Caribbean became one of Disney’s most popular franchises, so it’s no surprise that books exploring Jack Sparrow’s past emerged. The Pirates of the Caribbean: Jack Sparrow series tells how Jack became a pirate, his love for adventure, and his first encounters with Barbossa.
Gemini Man — Mark Greig
Film: 2019
This sci-fi action film starring Will Smith as both the hero and his young clone didn’t fare well at the box office, but the novel shines. The book focuses on character development, exploring internal struggles rather than just action, making it a rare case where the book surpasses the film.
The Shape of Water — Guillermo del Toro and Daniel Kraus
Film: 2017
After the film’s success, del Toro co-wrote a novel with Daniel Kraus that adds more detail about the characters, including other employees at the aerospace center, the antagonist’s motives, and the mysterious creature’s background. If the film felt too whimsical, the book offers a grittier, more realistic take.
Cruella — Elizabeth Rudnick
Film: 2021
Disney loves reimagining villains as victims of circumstance. After Cruella’s success, Elizabeth Rudnick wrote a novel delving into Estella’s childhood, her transformation, and her motives. If the film felt too light, the book presents a darker, deeper character study.
Film or Book?
Novelizations are rare, but when done well, they offer a new perspective on beloved films. Some merely follow the plot, while others add essential details and emotions.
