About "Bridge to Terabithia"
"Bridge to Terabithia" by Katherine Paterson is a remarkable award-winning coming-of-age story inspired by true events. Published in 1977, it deals with the emotional insecurities of growing up as a child, social acceptance, contrast of distinctly different cultures within the same community, and dealing with personal tragedy such as death. It was written after an eight year old friend of the author's son was killed by lightning.
The style is simple, straightforward and unpretentious. As a work of "juvenile fiction", the literary style is not complex. And therein lies it's power; the messages are not masked by complexity and are able to shine through unfettered. it is easy to tell that Ms. Paterson had a definite purpose in mind for the story. And that it was written with love.
Visual Adaptations
Despite its short life, Bridge to Terabithia has already been made into two full length films, which is fitting testament to the quality and power of this children's story.
1985The first adaptation in 1985 was by the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). While faithful to the original story line, the end result was dry and unemotional. Creativity was lacking and it fell short of its full potential, having the flavor of a "made-for-TV" movie rather than a major motion picture. The power of the original story is the only saving grace.
Katherine Paterson's son David (who later co-wrote the 2007 Disney version) disapproved of this film and stated neither he nor his mother were involved in any way. He further stated "no one on our side was either involved with it or happy with the final product." The climatic scene of the movie is available in the link provided. |
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2007David L. Paterson co-wrote this version with the author's approval. This has the unmistakable signs of a Disney production; special effects, magical creatures--none of which were included in the original book version. However, it still remains true to the original plot, and with the addition of the Visual Disney magic, the film is an enticing, emotional classic. Comparing the same scene from both versions show how Paterson & Disney brought the film to life.
One of the main characters dying made the film initially unmarketable; several film companies wanted Leslie to "almost" die. Having one of the most endearing characters in the film die is VERY unDisney-ish. Yet the story would lose most of its power without it. It is to Mr. Patterson's credit that he insisted it not be changed. And it is to Disney's credit that they agreed. |
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Work Cited:
Paterson, Katherine. Bridge to Terabithia. New York: Thomas Y. Crowell Company, 1977. Print.
"Bridge to Terabithia." Wikipedia. 10 Nov 2011. Web. 26 Nov 2011.
"Bridge to Terabithia (1985 film)." Wikipedia. 30 Aug. 2011. Web. 26 Nov 2011.
"Bridge to Terabithia (2007 film)." Wikipedia. 24 Nov 2011. Web. 26 Nov. 2011.