( ) (film)

An adaptation in film refers to the transfer of a work or story, in whole or in part, from one medium to another. The source material is typically a book, play, short story, television show, video game, comic book, opera, or historical event.

Adaptations are often categorized by their level of faithfulness to the source material. A "faithful adaptation" adheres closely to the original plot, characters, and themes, while a "loose adaptation" takes significant liberties, reinterpreting or reimagining the source material. Some adaptations may be considered "inspired by" rather than a direct transfer.

The reasons for adapting a work are varied. Filmmakers may be attracted to the popularity and established audience of a successful book or play, or they may be drawn to the inherent dramatic potential of the story. Adaptations can also allow filmmakers to explore themes and ideas that are relevant to contemporary audiences, even if the source material is from a different time period.

Challenges in adaptation include condensing a lengthy novel into a manageable runtime, translating nuanced prose into visual storytelling, and satisfying both fans of the original work and a new cinematic audience. Creative choices regarding casting, set design, and music contribute significantly to the overall success or failure of an adaptation. The perceived quality of an adaptation is often subjective and depends on individual interpretation and expectations.