‘The Idea of You’ film adaptation sparks a mix of feelings, especially for the writer behind the original story, Robinne Lee, who was not entirely pleased with the movie’s final scenes.
In a conversation with Jezebel, Lee shared her thoughts on her first novel’s transition to the big screen and her preference for the ending she penned.
Discover more by reading on…
Lee addressed the distinctions between her book’s conclusion and that of its film counterpart, revealing why she believes the book’s ending was seen as controversial by some audiences.
“Writing this book, my consciousness was tuned to the perspective of a French woman. As an enthusiast and now a resident of Paris, I observe that the French have a different narrative approach, which I quite admire. Their uncanny ability to craft stories and produce films that aren’t obliged to end on a high note captivated me,” she expressed.
“The essence of French storytelling is its adherence to life’s lessons, which can be harsh or melancholic, yet also enlightening. In France, a film is a catalyst for discussion over cigarettes and red wine with friends for hours on end. I aimed for my book to resonate with this French sensibility, to provoke conversation, not just serve an uncomplex happy ending typical of American expectations,” Lee elaborated.
“The portrayal of a polished, unreal life in romance bothers me. Even with a happy resolution, the tale has just begun. The reality of long-term relationships encompasses effort, not perpetual bliss,” she remarked.
“We’re inundated with fairy tales of princes and knights as young girls, setting us up for a distorted vision of love and partnership. It plays with our expectations when searching for real-life companions. While escapism has its place for those weighed down by life’s plight, I also yearn to offer something substantive to those who seek more than just a fleeting diversion,” Lee concluded.
Additionally, Lee expressed regret regarding her past acknowledgment of the pop star who inspired the character Hayes.
FAQs About ‘The Idea of You’ and Its Adaptation
- Who wrote ‘The Idea of You’?
- Robinne Lee is the author behind ‘The Idea of You’.
- What was Robinne Lee’s issue with the movie’s ending?
- Lee was not fond of the film’s ending as it contrasted with the darker, more contemplative tone she preferred and implemented in her book, inspired by the sensibilities of French cinema.
- Why did Robinne Lee want a “French ending” for her book?
- She appreciated the French approach to storytelling that doesn’t necessarily culminate in a “happy ending” but rather prompts deeper discussion and reflection about the narrative’s complexity and realism.
- Did Robinne Lee comment on the inspiration behind any characters?
- Yes, she mentioned regretting revealing which pop star inspired the character Hayes, though she did not specify further in the quoted discussion.
- Where can the full Jezebel interview with Robinne Lee be found?
- The full interview can be accessed via a link provided in the article that leads to Jezebel’s website.
Conclusion
In sum, the transition of ‘The Idea of You’ from page to screen evoked a candid response from author Robinne Lee, who perceives her book’s ending as a pivotal element that didn’t fully translate into the movie. Lee champions a storytelling form that reflects real-life complexities over conventional happy endings that abound in American cinema. Her reflections underscore a desire for narratives that challenge, engage, and resonate on a level that sparks deeper conversation, akin to the French storytelling model she admires. Understanding these nuances can significantly shape the audience’s experience and open a dialogue on the authenticity and impact of cinematic adaptations.