Books You Should Read Before #Cinefest2016: Part One
Books and films have had a long and rewarding relationship. If you are a bookworm that wants to know more about the exciting films we have in store, check out this list of films based on books.
In the next couple of weeks, we will be adding to this list as we announce more of our lineup!
Fingersmith – Sarah Waters (2002)
A historical drama set in Victorian Era Britain, Waters tells the tale of Sue Trinder, an orphan growing up in a house of thieves, who is then forced to help a man seduce a wealthy heiress, Maud Lilly, by posing as her maid. Waters was nominated for a number of awards for this book and was praised for featuring lesbian protagonists in her work.
The Handmaiden, directed and produced by Park Chan-Wook, is a South Korean thriller based off of Fingersmith. Although the plots of both mediums are similar, The Handmaiden is set in 1930s Korea, making for a much different geographical experience. This film was nominated for the Palme d’Or, Cannes Film Festival’s most prestigious annual award.
 Runaway – Alice Munro (2004)
Runaway is a collection of eight short stories by award-winning Canadian author Alice Munro. The collection has a central theme of self-identity and the journey taken to discover it.
The Spanish film Julieta, written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar, draws heavily upon three of the short stories in the collection involving Juliet Henderson. The movie is told around stories that Julieta writes in her journal, flashing back to chronicle the story leading up to the separation of her estranged daughter.
 A Man Called Ove (En mam som heter Ove) – Fredrik Backman (2012)
Ove is a surly man who makes for a bitter neighbour. His hardened shell, a direct result of a heartbreaking past, begins to crack when a young couple moves in next door.
A Man Called Ove (En mam som heter Ove), directed by Hannes Holm, is directly based off of Backman’s novel. The movie took home four awards and was nominated for an additional four at this year’s Guldbagge Awards, Sweden’s official film awards ceremony.
 The Illuminated Life of Maud Lewis – Lance Woolaver (1996)
This collection of photos, reproductions, and anecdotes about one of Canada’s most beloved folk artists provides more insight into the life of Maud Lewis, who is the central character in Aisling Walsh’s Maudie.
The film is based on the later life of Lewis as she is hired as a housekeeper and strikes up a lifelong romance while finding a passion for folk art. The film stars Sally Hawkins as Maud Lewis and Ethan Hawke as Everett Lewis.
Be sure to check back in the next few weeks for more book suggestions prior to Cinéfest 2016!Â
Cinéfest Sudbury runs September 17-25 2016. For more information on the festival and to purchase tickets, please visit cinefest.com.