I read this book in 1996.

The mystery concealed behind the bandages is that of a patient who has been burned beyond recognition and his connection with the Army nurse who is taking care of him.

The Italian villa where they are staying lies in ruins as a result of bombings from the Second World War, and it still harbors hidden bombs within it.

The bond between the nurse and the patient is simple and sweet. However, the war that is ongoing and the other characters who enter her life are far from simple.

The chaos and destruction of the war add an extra layer of complexity to their relationship.

The nurse has to deal with not only the physical and emotional needs of the patient but also the uncertainties and dangers of the war-torn environment.

The other characters bring in their own motives and agendas, further complicating the situation.

Despite all the challenges, the nurse and the patient's connection remains strong, and they find solace and hope in each other's company.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of war, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and survival.

The film version of The English patient, to my great relief and delight, truly reinforces the emotional intensity of this captivating story. It also enhances the visual aspect of numerous original scenes from the book version.

The central character, Almasy, endures horrific burns when his plane is downed by the Germans during the Second World War. Alongside his physical agony, Almasy experiences vivid flashbacks to the intense love he once shared with Katherine. His yearning and frustration are compounded by the fact that she is married and thus unattainable in another sense.

Incapacitated and lonely, the English patient finds solace only in his reading of the Histories of Herodotus. However, these readings trigger recollections of dark secrets in Almasy's own past, bringing back memories of a life he desires no one to know about. Ultimately, they draw from him revelations of the extent of love he has had to sacrifice.

Minghella's screenplay further develops the emotional thread of Almasy's journey, which Michael Ondaatje so brilliantly depicted in the original novel. It delves deeper into the complex emotions and inner turmoil of the characters, adding another layer of depth and richness to the story. The film's visual representation of the story brings the characters and their experiences to life in a way that the book could not fully capture. Overall, the film version of The English patient is a remarkable adaptation that does justice to the original novel and offers a unique and engaging viewing experience.

To paraphrase Monty Python,

"This is not a book to be read. This is a book to be laid down and avoided."

I truly detest this book. I loathed the original, held the movie in contempt, and was generally disgusted by the screenplay. Honestly, this is one of those works that gained popularity for reasons that eluded me completely. Suddenly, everyone on the planet was raving about it (I have similar sentiments regarding "Bridges of Madison County"). Then, when the frenzy finally subsided to a dull murmur, the movie was released. It was just as tedious as the book, yet seemingly even longer. The movie managed to turn a potential victory into a defeat. Despite having a remarkable cast, it was so mind-numbingly boring that one would be willing to slit one's own wrists with the ticket stub just to escape the theater. Even worse, women forced their husbands to watch this film, which set back the cause of women's rights by at least twenty years.

I have never been more relieved than when someone finally had the courage to say, "The Emperor has No Clothes. This book is long, dull, and generally awful. The movie was even longer, and under no circumstances should it have required a second VHS tape."

I do not recommend reading this at all. If you are in the mood for a movie somewhat similar, but with an actual plot, rent "A Very Long Engagement" starring Audrey Tatou (of Amelie fame).

Wonderful Sidecar to the Beautiful Movie

Movies have always been a source of entertainment and inspiration for people. They have the power to transport us to different worlds, make us feel a range of emotions, and leave a lasting impact on our minds. And what better way to enhance the movie-watching experience than with a wonderful sidecar?

A sidecar can add an extra layer of enjoyment to the movie. It could be a delicious snack like popcorn, nachos, or candy that we can munch on while getting lost in the story. Or it could be a refreshing beverage such as soda, juice, or even a glass of wine to quench our thirst and relax. The right sidecar can make us feel more comfortable and indulgent, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the movie.

In addition to food and drinks, a sidecar can also include other elements that enhance the movie experience. For example, we could have a cozy blanket to keep us warm, a pair of comfortable headphones to block out distractions and enjoy the sound effects, or a soft pillow to rest our heads on. These little extras can make a big difference in how we feel while watching a movie and can turn an ordinary viewing into a truly special one.

So, the next time you sit down to watch a beautiful movie, don't forget to prepare a wonderful sidecar. It will not only make the experience more enjoyable but also add a touch of luxury and indulgence. Whether it's a simple snack and drink or a more elaborate setup, the right sidecar can be the perfect complement to a great movie.

There are some differences between the text and the film.

In the text, the details are presented through words, allowing the reader to use their imagination to picture the scenes and characters. The description can be very vivid and detailed, but it may lack the visual impact and dynamic nature of the film.

On the other hand, the film brings the story to life through images, sounds, and movements. It can create a more immersive experience for the audience, making them feel as if they are part of the story. However, the film may have to make some compromises in order to fit the story into a limited time frame, which could result in the omission of some details or the alteration of the plot.

In conclusion, both the text and the film have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on personal preferences and the specific needs of the audience.

I didn't think reading a screenplay would be SO GOOD.

It was an unexpected delight that truly caught me off guard. I had never seen the movie nor read Ondaatje's novel before, but after experiencing this screenplay, I now HAVE TO.

The words on the page seemed to come alive, painting vivid pictures in my mind and drawing me into a world I had never known.

The characters were so well-developed that I felt as if I knew them personally, and their stories tugged at my heartstrings.

I found myself completely immersed in the story, unable to put the screenplay down until I had reached the end.

Now, I am eager to explore the movie and the novel to see how they compare to this amazing screenplay. I have a feeling that they will only add to my understanding and enjoyment of this wonderful story.

Excellent story. It was truly a captivating tale that held my attention from start to finish. The plot was well-crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters were vividly described, each with their own unique personalities and motives. I could easily picture them in my mind as I read. The author's writing style was engaging and流畅, making it a pleasure to read. The story also had a powerful message that left a lasting impression on me. It made me think about life, love, and the importance of following our dreams. Overall, it was an excellent story that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a good read.

As I have mentioned in my review of the book, this is truly one of the rare instances

where a very good book has been transformed into an even better movie. To avoid repeating myself, I will now jump straight to the crucial passage, as it appeared in the movie

(admittedly, it is much more impactful within the context, but still astonishing in my opinion):

"We die. We die rich with lovers and tribes, with tastes that we have savored,

bodies that we have entered and explored like rivers, fears that we have concealed,

just like this miserable cave. I desire all of this to be inscribed on my body. We are the true

countries, not the artificial boundaries drawn on maps or the names of powerful individuals.

I know that you will come and carry me out into the palace of winds. That is all I have

ever wanted, to walk in such a place with you, with friends, on an earth that has no

maps. Now the lamp has extinguished, and I am writing in the darkness."

This passage beautifully encapsulates the essence of the story, evoking powerful emotions and a sense of longing for a world beyond the limitations of our ordinary existence.

It makes us reflect on the true meaning of life and what it means to leave a lasting mark.

The movie manages to bring this passage to life in a way that the book could only hint at,

creating a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

Overall, this is a prime example of how a great book can be enhanced and elevated by a talented filmmaker.

It shows that sometimes, the translation from page to screen can result in a work of art that is even more profound and moving than the original.

I highly recommend both the book and the movie to anyone who appreciates a thought-provoking and beautifully told story.

God, my heart aches for this film.

It is truly a masterpiece that has touched my soul in the deepest way. The story unfolds with such beauty and grace, yet it also has the power to break your heart. The characters are so well-developed and their emotions are palpable. You can't help but become invested in their lives and root for them to find happiness.

The cinematography is simply breathtaking. Every frame is a work of art, with colors and lighting that enhance the mood and atmosphere of the film. The music is also a standout, adding another layer of depth and emotion to the story.

This film has left an indelible mark on me, and I know that it will stay with me for a long time to come. It is a reminder of the power of cinema to move us, to make us feel, and to make us think. I will always cherish this film and the emotions it has evoked in me.

The language employed in this book was truly beautiful, with its words flowing like a gentle river, captivating my heart and mind. The story itself was so engaging that it held my interest firmly throughout. However, when I listened to it as an audio book, there were times when it became a little challenging to follow some of the flashbacks. The transitions between the present and the past were not always as clear as they might have been on the printed page.

Despite this minor drawback, I have developed a newfound anticipation for seeing the movie adaptation. Now that I have read the book and have a good understanding of the characters and the plot, I am eager to witness how the filmmakers bring this story to life on the big screen. I wonder if they will capture the essence of the beautiful language and the engaging narrative in the same way that the book did. I look forward to experiencing this story in a whole new medium and seeing how it unfolds before my eyes.

FANTASTIC!

This is an extraordinary story that encompasses love, courage, war, hope, and suffering. It is not often that I award a book 5 stars, but this one truly moved me in every possible way. The movie starring Ralph Fiennes was equally captivating, making my knees weak and my heart soar. The story is filled with unforgettable characters from different countries, each with their own unique experiences and perspectives. However, the true star of the book is the "English patient". His story is one of mystery, passion, and tragedy, and it will stay with you long after you have finished reading. Overall, this is a must-read book for anyone who loves a good story that will touch their heart and soul.