Author of ‘She Rides Shotgun’ Prefers Book Over Movie
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Author Jordan Harper recently shared his preference for the original book version of ‘She Rides Shotgun’ over the upcoming film adaptation in an exclusive interview. The 2018 Edgar Award-winning novel depicts the gripping story of an 11-year-old girl and her father on the run from a dangerous white supremacist gang. Starring Taron Egerton, the film adaptation, directed by Nick Rowland, is set to premiere on Aug. 1.
Harper, 49, revealed that he initially dabbled in writing screenplay drafts for the adaptation but ultimately decided to step back from the creative process once Rowland took the helm as the director. He expressed his satisfaction with this decision, stating, “I want to say that Nick is the author of the film — not me.” Harper emphasised the importance of allowing the director to imprint their vision on the project.
The acclaimed author emphasised the significance of tone in storytelling, often overshadowed by discussions on plot and characters. Harper commended the film’s soundtrack, noting its ability to evoke powerful emotions that resonate with viewers. He explained how music, though absent in his written work, plays a crucial role in setting the mood and enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
One highlight for Harper was witnessing Rowland’s meticulous approach to translating the novel onto the big screen, particularly in capturing the essence of key, less action-intensive scenes. The author singled out a poignant moment set in the Trucker Church, which he felt added depth and authenticity to the film’s narrative, underscoring the director’s commitment to staying true to the source material.
As the highly-anticipated film adaptation prepares to hit theatres on Aug. 1, Harper encourages audiences to delve into the original novel, now available for purchase. He commended the cast and crew for their dedication to bringing his story to life on screen, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of the adaptation process.
In a world where book-to-film adaptations can sometimes falter in capturing the essence of the written word, ‘She Rides Shotgun’ offers a promising blend of suspense, emotion, and authenticity, sure to captivate audiences across different mediums. Harper’s insightful reflections on the adaptation journey provide a glimpse into the complex interplay between literature and cinema, showcasing the collaborative efforts that shape storytelling in diverse forms.