More Literary Adaptations And Why I Love Them

It may no longer be the season – or trend – for vlog-style retellings of classic novels anymore (though some of my favourites still hold up), but it doesn’t mean webseries adaptations have stopped. Instead, they’ve turned into mini-TV shows in their own rights, and I cannot say I’m displeased by this.

This year, two adaptations have come to a close, the story coming to their natural ends, and I’m still in awe at the levels of production they have both put forth. Never let it be said that webseries are not professional forms of media in their own rights.

I have read neither of the classics they are based on – though I have started on one for my own retelling – but that changed none of my enjoyment for these shows. The teams behind them clearly both enjoyed and understood the assignment, but approached their projects in different ways.

Modernised retellings in this day and age can be a hit or miss, what with certain norms of the time period the stories were written in no longer applicable or accepted in these times. One can adapt them to suit, or change up your approach entirely – and these were the two options the production companies for these retellings took.

First we have Rational Creatures, a modern take on Jane Austen’s Persuasion. The core of the story remains the same with characters’ reasonings for their actions altered to better represent the mindsets of this century versus the story’s original marriage premises. The show is split into two short seasons, with representation on multiple fronts, and a wonderful cast of characters that are allowed to be a little messy and vulnerable and real. And the romance of it all? The pining? All translates well into the story and medium chosen.

I am already planning a rewatch.

The other reimagining is of Sleepy Hollow, where story expectations and characters are subverted from one of a gothic horror to a more supernatural dramedy. It was clear from the writing and production that the people behind the show had a great deal of love for the source material in order to deconstruct it and then build it up into something so fresh and fun.

This is not Shipwrecked Comedy‘s only reimagining, the production company having created multiple fun subversions of genres and tropes and character archetypes. If Headless: A Sleepy Hollow Story is not your cup of tea, they have so many other projects that might be something that interests you.

I know I’ve enjoyed just about everything they have put out so far, from their longer shows to their short musical numbers. If nothing else, do check out their channel!

I’ve been very vocal about my enjoyment for different types of retellings and reimaginings, and these have been something fun to watch. I’d love to know what you think on retellings – both literary and serial – and what some of your favourites have been!

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