From Page To Screen: The Art & Challenge Of Adapting Literature For Film
Balancing Literary Fidelity with Cinematic Creativity
ACCLAIMED Nigerian author and former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Wale Okediran, has argued that successful book-to-film adaptations should be viewed as creative reinterpretations rather than literal reproductions of literary works, noting that the differing demands of literature and cinema inevitably require artistic adjustments.
Reflecting on the film adaptation of his novel Tenants of the House, directed by renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, Okediran explained that while some readers objected to changes made in the film—including the altered ending and the addition of a brief bedroom scene—many audiences appreciated the production’s strong performances, technical excellence and compelling storytelling.
According to him, the adaptation’s two-year global run on Netflix and its return to a major United States streaming platform underscore its broad appeal despite the criticisms from some readers.
Why Adaptations Often Spark Debate
Okediran observed that adapting popular novels for the screen has historically generated mixed reactions because readers often expect films to mirror every detail of the original text.
He noted that novels and films operate under different artistic conventions. While novels allow writers to explore characters’ inner thoughts and complex narratives over hundreds of pages, films must compress stories into limited screen time while relying primarily on visual storytelling.
Consequently, filmmakers frequently modify plotlines, character arcs and narrative structures to suit the cinematic medium, decisions that sometimes disappoint devoted readers and even the original authors.
He cited adaptation experts who argue that novelists enjoy greater narrative freedom than filmmakers because written works can directly communicate emotions, reflections and background details that films must convey visually or through dialogue.
Creative Freedom Versus Fidelity
Although many authors expect adaptations to remain faithful to the central themes of their books, Okediran acknowledged that directors often exercise creative licence in interpreting literary works.
He stressed that while complete fidelity may be impossible, preserving the core message of a story remains essential to producing meaningful adaptations.
To illustrate this balance, he referenced internationally acclaimed adaptations such as Children of Men, based on P. D. James’ novel, and Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Empire of the Sun, both of which departed significantly from their source material but nevertheless received the endorsement of their authors.
These examples, he argued, demonstrate that thoughtful reinterpretation can coexist with respect for the original literary vision.
Lessons from Tenants of the House
Okediran expressed satisfaction with Afolayan’s adaptation of Tenants of the House, stating that despite several creative departures, the film remained faithful to the novel’s central themes of conflict resolution, cultural diversity and good governance.
He recalled discussions with the director over the decision to end the story differently by allowing the protagonist to die—a storytelling technique known as “hero sacrifice,” often employed to reinforce themes of redemption and self-sacrifice.
As executive producer of the film, Okediran said he deliberately avoided interfering with Afolayan’s creative process, choosing instead to observe production while offering suggestions only when necessary.
He also defended the inclusion of a brief bedroom scene criticised by some viewers, arguing that such creative decisions should not overshadow the film’s broader artistic achievement.
Scholar Highlights Interdisciplinary Value
Okediran cited research by Dr. Eden Benefit Jooda of Redeemer’s University, who described Tenants of the House as a successful convergence of literature and cinema.
According to Jooda, the adaptation demonstrates how creative reinterpretation, visual symbolism and cinematic techniques can effectively communicate the novel’s critique of corruption, abuse of power and moral decline while enriching public appreciation of both literary and cinematic arts.
The author concluded that film adaptations should ultimately be judged not by their literal fidelity but by their ability to preserve the intellectual and emotional essence of the original work while embracing the unique possibilities of the cinematic medium.
