10 TV Adaptations That Were Better Than The Source Material
A look at 10 television series that have exceeded the quality of their source material, showcasing how TV adaptations have elevated storytelling and character development.
Introduction
Television adaptations have a history of being compared to their source material, often with the assumption that the original work is superior. However, there are instances where TV adaptations have far surpassed the quality of the material they are based on. Whether it's due to better character development, insightful social commentary, or the exploration of deeper themes, these television adaptations have proven to be exceptional in their own right.
Jack Quaid as Hughie Campbell covered in blood in The Boys
The medium of television provides a platform for visual storytelling that adds depth and complexity to the narrative, often exceeding the limitations of books and literature. This article explores 10 TV adaptations that have risen above their source material, showcasing the transformative power of television in redefining storytelling and captivating audiences.
Celeste hugging her twins outside in Big Little Lies
The Boys (2019 – Present)
The Boys, a satirical superhero series, has far surpassed its comic book source material in terms of quality. With excellent character development and a willingness to engage with heavy and relevant themes, The Boys has continued to top itself with every subsequent series. The TV show is better than the comics due to its razor-sharp social commentary and the added complexity afforded to characters, making it one of the best television series currently on the air.
Karl Urban as Billy Butcher talking down to Jack Quaid as Hughie Campbell in The Boys
Anthony Starr’s expert portrayal as Homelander stands as the definitive version of that character, further solidifying the TV adaptation's superiority over the original comics. The insightful social commentary and complex characters have elevated The Boys to a level of excellence that surpasses its source material, setting a new standard for superhero storytelling on television.
Anthony Starr as Homelander posing for selfies with fans in The Boys
The Leftovers (2014 – 2017)
Based on a novel by Tom Perotta, The Leftovers delves deep into the philosophical questions brought up by a rapture-like event resulting in 2% of the world’s population disappearing. The television series explores the consequences of this "Sudden Departure" in a way that surpasses the depth of the original novel, propped by incredible performances and philosophical themes.
The Leftovers - Justin Theroux as Kevin Garvey in his police officer uniform
The Leftovers has elevated itself to be one of the most unique and interesting series ever produced, going beyond the boundaries set by its source material. The deeper exploration of social and philosophical themes in the TV adaptation has captivated audiences and solidified its position as a standout television series.
The Handmaid's Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale (2017 – Present)
Marget Atwood’s 1985 novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, was a classic of feminist literature that explores a dystopian version of the United States called Gilead, where women have been stripped of their agency. The television series began as a faithful adaptation but expanded on the world of Gilead, giving viewers insight into the social and political structure of the show’s universe.
The Handmaid's Tale
Led by Elizabeth Moss in a powerful performance as June Osborne, The Handmaid’s Tale rises above its source material to become an expert example of worldbuilding and a shockingly relevant cautionary tale. The TV adaptation's exploration of the wider implications of Gilead has transformed the story into a thought-provoking and impactful narrative, surpassing the original novel in its depth and relevance.
Serena holding her baby in The Handmaid's Tale.
