From science fiction drama 3 Body Problem to neo-noir thriller Ripley, 2014 saw some of the beloved books being turned into Netflix shows. Here's a look at five such shows.
1. 3 Body Problem
2024 saw the release of the Netflix series 3 Body Problem, an adaptation of the gritty science fiction epic of the same name (The Three-Body Problem) by Liu Cixin. The series excels in making a hardcore work of science fiction easily accessible to a wider audience. 3 Body Problem is created by Game of Thrones fame David Benioff and D. B. Weiss and boasts an excellent cast with big names like Benedict Wong and Liam Cunningham.
2. One Day
David Nicholls’ bestselling novel gets another onscreen adaption with the 2024 Netflix limited series. This is perhaps one of the rare instances where the adaptation surpasses its predecessors. Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall are stunning as Emma and Dexter. Their electrifying chemistry is more than enough to make this series worth your time. One Day is indeed an absolute treat for viewers, thanks also to its brilliant storytelling, cinematography, and music.
3. Ripley
Based on Patricia Highsmith's 'Ripliad' book series, this neo-noir series is a brilliantly crafted psychological thriller with a phenomenal Andrew Scott in the lead. The basic plot remains unchanged. Mr. Ripley is hired by a wealthy man to bring back his vagabond son from Italy, but the youngster has other (devious) plans. The monochromatic cinematography adds to the charm and intensity of the proceedings, making it almost impossible for viewers to pull themselves away from things unfolding on the screen. While some fans argue that Anthony Minghellas’s 1999 adaptation of Highsmith’s novel remains superior, there is no debate over the fact that Ripley remains an amazing watch.
4. The Grimm Variations
A dark and gory twist to the tales of the legendary Grimm Brothers’ tales is what you get with the Netflix series The Grimm Variations. Each episode presents a dark and haunting adaptation of a beloved fairy tale. The production value is perhaps what makes The Grimm Variations stand out the most. The series, which is a product of the collaborative efforts of CLAMP and Wit Studio, has stunning visuals and music on par with popular anime like Attack on Titan and Vinland Saga. This series should definitely have a spot on the watchlist of both anime and fairy tale lovers.
5. Amidst a Snowstorm of Love
Another entry into the romance genre is the adaptation of Chinese author Mo Bao Fei Bao’s book Amidst a Snowstorm of Love starring Zhao Jinmai and Leo Wu. This Chinese drama's ability to seamlessly blend sweet, sugary romance with all the intensity of a sports drama makes it a class apart from its counterparts. It also refrains from resorting to too many genre clichés, making it a very engaging watch.
