The millennium is the rise of adaptations. Film adaptation is a type of derivative work in which a written work is transferred in whole or in part to a film. As an original story takes a long time to develop, it usually takes only 3 months to adapt a novel into a screenplay. Adaptations offer an easy way for producers to tap into the existing fan base. This invites non-readers due to their knowledge of that fan base. In a way, they are buying the fan base instead of the stories.

In Hollywood, nearly two-thirds of film productions are adapted from novels and comics. From the earliest days, adaptations have been a cinematographic practice drawing from various sources such as plays, autobiography, and even other films. Studios like Warner Bros. Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures and Sony Pictures are among those producing IP films.

Here are some examples of film adaptations of novels and comics:

From novels (book-to-film adaptations)

· fight club – A dramatic comedy film based on the novel of the same title written by Chuck Palahniuk.

· Silver Linings Playbook – A romantic comedy-drama film that was adapted from the novel by Matthew Quick.

· the company you keep – A film by TCYK LLC based on the novel of the same name; Produced, directed and starring Robert Redford.

From Comics (comics-to-film adaptations)

· the Avengers – The Marvel team with iconic superheroes.

· Superman – The last “man of steel” to save the day.

· The Raven – The vengeful story of a character resurrected by a raven.

Long-running series as of 2015

· the fast and the furious – in his seventh film

· 007 – has 24 movies

Each adaptation is produced to the highest quality and features multiple movie copyrights. Apart from the multiple copyrights; including director’s copyright, writer’s copyright, composer’s copyright, distribution rights, product placement, and performers’ rights; a film adaptation now includes the rights of the owners of the existing work. This means that copyrights, patents, and trademarks are also included.

lack of originality

The core of any movie is and should be a good, meaningful story. Popularity should not be the main focus; and with the way things are going, the movie adaptation trend has become a huge hit. However, bringing original content to the big screen may mean that filmmakers are running out of creative imagination and original ideas.

However, fans should not infringe on copyrighted films, whether original or adapted.