Lolita (1962)
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Watched: 11/24/19
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
[Clue: Adapted from the book by this Russian author]
Needless to say, not quite as good as the book;
Adapting the brilliant novel and translating the subtleties that made for such a profound read proved difficult for Kubrick.
Beginning with the film’s opening scene (the novel’s ending) and the age of the eponymous “nymphet” (changed from 12 to 14), the differences were numerous;
One difference that paid off is the development of Claire Quilty’s character, played here by an adept and resourceful Peter Sellers.
Kubrick felt forced to dilute the intensity of Humbert’s despicability and appalling deeds and thoughts in order to satisfy the censors;
On the other hand, this all made for a much brighter, funnier, and action-focused viewing experience-
Viewers that have never read the book or those that choose not to compare will have a much easier time appreciating Kubrick’s interpretation of a classic story.