Most faithful adaptation?
I was wondering which of the many adaptations of the Hemingway novel is the most accurate.
shareThe Gary Cooper/Helen Hayes 1932 version of A Farewell to Arms is very true to the novel. Also, the screenplay of Gary Cooper's 1942 For Whom the Bell Tolls is an excellent adaptation, but for most of the film Cooper is poorly suited to the character and too old. Ingrid Bergman is beautiful in FWHBT, but she plays the role much too eagerly, and lacks the emotional trauma of the novel's Maria. Akim Tamiroff (Pablo) and Katina Paxinou (Pilar, Best Actress in a Supporting Role winner) are absolutely terrific, as are much of the supporting cast. Also, the final bridge and battle scenes are a perfect adaptation of the book.
The Rock Hudson version of A Farewell to Arms is probably the least faithful of all the Hemingway films, though the acting and cinematography are good.
I agree. The 1932 version with Gary Cooper was a good adaptation and was far superior to the schloss represented in this version. Even at 2 1/2 hours, it never reaally did justice to the book.
I thought the performance of Jennifer Jones was attrociously over-acted and Rock Hudson utterly unconvincing in his role as Frederick. For me, it was very disappointing, and really, I only stuck it out to see whether it would improve, however it never showed any real promise.
Just a humble opinion...
et tu, Bruté?
Locked my wire coat-hanger in the car - good thing that I always carry spare keys in my pocket :)