First Assignment - Memoirs of a Geisha

OK, I wanted to wait for the other people to join, but I think that they probably got lost in the instructions from Blogger, so I will try sending to them again.

We have all read Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. By now, the film is on DVD, so it's easily accessible, whether we rent or buy, to view and re-view to get our thoughts in place.

This assignment is not aiming for a "compare and contrast the differences from the book to the film" discussion, rather I'm hoping that using the book as a lens through which we might "read" the film, what are the most intriguing ways in which the story was altered/compacted/expanded, etc., because of the limitations of a theatrical film release, rather than another option, like a miniseries on TV/cable, art-house film or complete departure except for names film version.

What are your reactions, insights, etc., to both? Does the film make the book carry less weight? Are you still experiencing the same emotions when you "read" either work? Do they serve as companion pieces or contrasting, stand-alone works?

In addition, if you have the opportunity to view the DVD, please feel free to add your comments about the "extras" and what kind of an impact they have on your overall view of the film as interpretation of the novel. Do they enhance or detract from the "magic" of movie-making, or do they give you a better view into the heads of the production company (actors, director, choreographer, composer/orchestra, etc.)?

With Memorial Day weekend coming up, we may actually have some big chunks of time to read, view, write and review/re-view/re-read our works before we head back to work. That being said, I'm still allowing us a month to finish because we're all busy people.

First postings on this "assignment" should appear during the week of June 25th.