Play Book Tag discussion

I read this straight after watching the film, which made it hard to form a clear opinion about the book itself. The film, about a man trying to rebuild his life after a period in a psychiatric institution, was sweet and uplifting – I found it captivating while watching it, but unbelievable as soon as I was released from the spell. The book, on the other hand, was – as I’d hoped – much more realistic (ironically, because it goes further in showing how detached from reality the central character has become). The movie has gorgeous-but-quirky Hollywood actors, and a tidy timeline with a neat resolution, but the book describes real people finding hope despite having significant problems that won’t just evaporate overnight, making it far less romantic, but ultimately more persuasive.

This was a movie that I enjoyed, but even as I watched it, I thought that the actors were almost too gorgeous and charismatic to be real. It seems that you had the same reaction. And that the book is grittier in a good way.

Holly R W wrote: "This was a movie that I enjoyed, but even as I watched it, I thought that the actors were almost too gorgeous and charismatic to be real. It seems that you had the same reaction. And that the book ..."

Exactly! I loved the experience of watching the movie, but I found myself thinking that not many people would be able to be as calm and mature and controlled as he was towards the end, let alone someone dealing with everything he'd just been through.

I never liked Bradly Cooper really, always plays like a douchey character, but I LOVED this movie and I absolutely love him in this role. Always wanted to read the book, but I hate reading a book after the movie because if I know what is going to happen I am not as engaged.

Sounds like I can skip this one.