Netflix's Bodies: A Comparison Between the TV Show and the Original Graphic Novel

Article Overview

The Netflix adaptation of the graphic novel Bodies introduces several alterations, such as the addition of fresh characters and mechanics. This makes it challenging to draw comparisons to the original source material.

In the Netflix series, the recurring body originates from a time-traveling scientist, whereas in the graphic novel, it is possessed by a supernatural entity known as Frank.

Netflix's adaptation of the graphic novel "Bodies" delves into a broader range of time periods compared to the original comic. This expansion of the story allows for a deeper exploration of the main villain's manipulation of events across different eras.

Time Travel & Mannix Are Additions To Bodies' Plot

- Netflix's Adaptation of Bodies: A Radical Departure from the Original Source Material

Many Events That Elias Is Responsible For Are Not Included In The Graphic Novel

The Netflix adaptation of Bodies and the graphic novel with the same title share similar storylines, but the TV series incorporates new elements that significantly impact the narrative of Bodies. In the Netflix version, Elias Mannix, portrayed by Stephen Graham, assumes the role of a puppet master who orchestrates the appearance of the enigmatic body and, more significantly, is responsible for the explosion that transforms London into a dystopian city. Surprisingly, Elias Mannix does not exist in the original Bodies, which results in the omission of several events for which Mannix is directly accountable, including one of the show’s pivotal plot mechanics.

Along with Elias Mannix's addition to the plot of Bodies, the Netflix adaptation also introduces the concept of the Throat and time travel. While a significant portion of Bodies' narrative revolves around the presence of the same deceased body across different time periods, it is surprising to note that time travel is not as prominently featured in the original comic as it is in the television show. Instead of incorporating a time travel device or Mannix's time loop, the sole link between the four time periods in the original story of Bodies is the recurring body.

The Body Has A Completely Different Origin

The Identity Of The Graphic Novel's Body Is A Supernatural Being Named Frank

Netflix’s Bodies diverges from its source material by altering the origin of the central body. Instead of being a time-traveling scientist named Gabriel Defoe, as in the show, the body in the Bodies graphic novel belongs to a supernatural being known as "Frank." Frank exists at various points in history and is killed by different versions of himself. While one version of Frank seemingly disappears, his corpse remains. This cyclical nature is meant to bring about changes in individuals and the world, which aligns with the experiences of the main detectives in Bodies. The change in the body's origin in Netflix's adaptation is likely aimed at making it easier for the audience to comprehend, but it is a significant departure from the graphic novel.

Netflix's Bodies Involves More Time Periods

The Graphic Novel Didn't Travel Back To Before 1890

While both Netflix’s Bodies and the original graphic novel primarily focus on four main time periods, Netflix goes beyond the comics by covering even more. In the original Bodies novel, these time periods include 1890 featuring Hillinghead, 1941 with Whiteman, 2014 featuring Hasan, and 2050 with Maplewood. Netflix largely follows this structure, exploring the years 1890, 1941, 2023, and 2053, with the last two being potentially adjusted to better suit the contemporary setting. However, Netflix’s Bodies doesn't confine itself to just these four time periods.

While the Netflix adaptation of Bodies predominantly adheres to the four major time periods depicted in the comics, it also encompasses additional years. In episode 7 of Bodies, the narrative delves back to a time prior to 1890, unraveling the sequence of events that led to Mannix assuming the persona of Sir Julian Harker, ultimately culminating in the devastating nuclear explosion of 2023. Given that Mannix's involvement in Bodies is exclusive to the Netflix version, it is logical that they would need to expand on various time frames to fully elucidate the intricacies of his temporal loop. Nevertheless, this expansion deviates from the predetermined time periods outlined in the original storyline.

How D.I. Whiteman Compares To The Comics

The Morally Gray D.I. Whiteman Doesn't Get A Redemption Arc In The Comics

The redemption arc of D.I. Charles Whiteman in Netflix's Bodies is not only satisfying but also a significant departure from the original story. In both the show and the book version, Whiteman is a corrupt Jewish detective who changes his name to Charles Whiteman from Karl Weissman. In the Netflix series, Whiteman starts off by carrying out missions for a secret organization, often breaking the law in the process. However, his trajectory changes when he saves a young girl named Esther, leading him to join the fight against the villainous Elias Mannix.

In Si Spencer's Bodies, Charles Whiteman is portrayed as an even more despicable character. The book version of Whiteman is a sadistic torturer and a cold-blooded murderer who even kills his own niece. Unlike his Netflix counterpart, the book's Whiteman lacks a moral compass and shows no remorse for his actions, even taking pleasure in them. Although both versions of Whiteman meet their demise and are arrested, the book version never performs a single act of redemption, unlike Jacob Fortune-Lloyd's portrayal in the Netflix adaptation.

Has Netflix Improved On The Bodies Graphic Novel?

Netflix Makes The Body's Origins Easier To Understand, But Changes Its Motivations

Although Bodies on Netflix underwent significant changes, determining whether it presented the story in a more compelling manner than the graphic novel is not straightforward. Due to the substantial disparities between the two versions, it is challenging to ascertain whether Netflix truly enhanced the original narrative. While incorporating characters like Mannix, Defoe, and the concept of time travel into Bodies brought about substantial differences, it made the show's explanation of the corpse more accessible for a general audience. Additionally, Mannix's storyline provided a more tangible purpose for the body, enabling the four detectives from different time periods to unite in their efforts to bring down Mannix. However, Mannix's plot diminishes the significance bestowed upon the body in the original book.

The conclusion of the Bodies graphic novel is just as satisfying as Netflix's adaptation, despite their differing goals. While the novel focuses on personal growth for the detectives, Netflix's version aims to save the world from a common threat. Whiteman's character may hinder the original story for some readers, as his storyline is not as fulfilling. However, Si Spencer ensures that everyone receives their due in the end. Ultimately, both versions of Bodies have similar plot points but distinct objectives. Determining which is better is subjective. However, with Netflix's adaptation hinting at a potential continuation, it remains to be seen if a second season can surpass the graphic novel's narrative.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the Netflix adaptation of Bodies. On the one hand, I appreciate the fresh take on the original graphic novel, with the addition of new characters and time travel elements. On the other hand, I feel that some of the changes made to the plot and characters have detracted from the original story.

Overall, I think the Netflix adaptation is a solid effort, but it does not quite live up to the original graphic novel. I would recommend watching the show if you are a fan of the graphic novel, but I would also recommend reading the graphic novel if you want to experience the full story.