Many films have difficulties making the transition onto the big screen: some films eliminate central plot points; some destroy the spirit that embodies the film; and some are just plain terrible. Unlike other adaptations, The Lovely Bones, based on the novel by Alice Sebold, is a quality film that honors its source and reverberates in a viewer's mind after the film's conclusion.
The film, directed by Peter Jackson (yes, that Peter Jackson), explores the murder of a youth, Susie Salmon, and depicts the devasation left in the wake of her murder. Susie watches from heaven as her family tries to cope with her absence, and as her father tries to discover the truth behind her murder. She also watches her murderer, George Harvey, as he continues his day-to-day life and continues to live within close proximity of her family.
Prior to seeing The Lovely Bones, I was mildly skeptical about how the film would turn out; however, I was pleaseantly surprised by what I witnessed. The film captures the emotion conveyed in the novel, depicting the relationships that mend, break, and become stronger in the wake of a tragedy, making the film a rewarding and heartfelt experience for a viewer. It also creates a magnificent version of Susie's heaven, an eternal sanctity for her to deal with her death.
One of the strongest points of the film is the acting. Saoirse Ronan, a relatively unknown actress, is a revelation as Susie Salmon, offering a powerful and poignant performance that many actress twice her age cannot manage. Stanley Tucci, who portrays George Harvey, gives a haunting performance as Susie's murderer, and Mark Wahlberg and Rachel Weisz compliment the film's saddening storyline very well with emotionally resonating performances as Susie's parents.
Overall, the film succeeds in staying true to the novel's content, and it is an amazing addition to modern cinema.
By William Owen
