Review of Fahrenheit 451 (1966) by Cale R — 26 Sep 2008

Francois Truffauts adaptation of the great novel "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury feels outdated and flawed in many ways. The dystopian story of a futuristic society where the firedepartment burn books as they are believed to be dangerous and thus illegal. The succesfull fireman Montag (Oskar Werner) eventually ends up questioning his profession and his life when getting acquainted with his neighbour Clarisse (Julie Christie). He suddenly finds himself absorbed by books and reading them. He becomes a criminal of society and finally he needs to escape the authorities to survive.

As said the movie adaptation is flawed in the script, the acting, settings, structure and the general editing. I love the novel, but I do not think Truffauts adaptation is reaching the same heights as the novel. There have been talks for a long time about a new movie version and I think with a strong focus on the original story and finding the right director that can create the world of "Fahrenheit 451" in a proper way, a big part of the battle is won. The casting of the leading characters will be important as well. I will await and see if this project will fly....