When it comes to source material deviations in a CBM there's really only two ways that can turn out;
AWESOME! or
HORRIBLE. I have compiled here a list of Top 5 CBM source material deviations. This list should show that changing the content from the comics isn't always a bad thing.
#1)
THE SECRECY OF HELLBOY The Source: In the original comic books Hellboy tends to just walk around and do whatever he wants. There aren't many (if any) instances of people freaking out at the sight of this large red man with horns. The tone (though the stories are very dark) is a light hearted almost whimsical approach to Hellboy's existence in the eyes of the public.
The Film Deviation: In the movie we find Hellboy is a BIG secret. The B.P.R.D. keep him locked away unless needed to dispense of the occasional supernatural pest. The only time the outside world gets a look at him is through the blurry (Bigfoot like) pictures that pop up from time to time in a trashy tabloid.
Why It Works: First off, this just makes more sense. It sheds a layer of weird off of the final product that always felt wrong to me in the comics. It also adds a neat feel to HB's adventures as he is transported from place to place in a big blue garbage truck, it gives off this "poor man's James Bond" vibe that just works with our beloved cigar smoking , beer drinking hero. Lastly it enabled for a great story arc to take place in the sequel where after HB is revealed to the world the reception he receives is that of a strange hatred from the people he's been protecting (which is really how people would respond).
#2)
EBEN AND STELLA'S RELATIONSHIP The Source: In the 30 Days of Night Graphic Novel, Eben and Stella are a happily married couple who are deep in the throws of love. They sit together watching the sun set as the story (and the literal 30 Days of Night) begins.
The Film Deviation: In the film Eben and Stella have been separated for sometime (for reasons never really revealed). The tension of their failed marriage permeates the entire story even as the sit and watch the sunrise as Eben bursts into flames.
Why It Works: The heavy tension of Eben and Stella's relationship allows for a very human emotional reaction that was not present in the books. Seeing Eben step up his game to save the lives of those around him reminds Stella of why she loved him in the first place. Due to their re-connection during the second act of the film, Eben's choice and death become much more powerful on the screen.
#3)
V FOR VENDETTA'S SETTING The Source: The original story is set in the 1990s and was created as a response to British Thatcherism in the early '80s and was set as a conflict between a fascist state and anarchism
The Film Deviation: The film is set sometime between 2028 and 2038. The film's story has been changed by the Wachowskis to fit a more modern political context. In short it was looking ahead instead of looking back.
Why It Works: While Alan Moore would argue that these changes stole the heart of his work, I personally believe they added a lot of depth to an already great story. It left the audience with an awe and wonder of whether or not such control could ever happen in our own future and whether or not a terrorist could actually be a hero in the correct political climate. Telling the story from the past (or even the present) takes those questions away from the audience... and I believe that would be a disservice.
#4)
JOKER'S ORIGIN The Source: The comic book formula for Joker is fairly simple. Gangster + Batman + Acid bath= Crazy Clown Prince of Crime.
The Film Deviation: The film version... Not so much. The origin from the film's Joker is, well, we don't know! It's multiple choice. It could be A, B, or C. My money however is on D: None of the above. All we really know is that acid played no part in his creation and there are scars making that smile instead of plastic surgery gone a rye.
Why It Works: Some would say it works because it grounds the Joker in reality. I, however believe that it worked so well because it gave him (what most CBM characters are missing) a hint of mystery. What is scarier than a nut-ball anarchist clown with a twitchy trigger finger? A nut-ball anarchist clown with a twitchy trigger finger that you know nothing about. The Dark Knight was a great film (in part) because it wasn't bogged down with another boring origin story.
#5)
300's POLITICAL CLIMATE AND BETRAYAL The Source: The original material focused almost exclusively on the Spartan's and their battle against the Persians.
The Film Deviation: The movie added an extra layer of political tension and intrigue within the counsel that occurred during the Spartan's Battle.
Why It Works: Simply put, it gave a solid backbone to the battle that we all loved watching. Without the political elements beefed up the story would have felt flat and uninterested. Due to the heavy focus on the trials that Lena Heady's character was dealing with at home, the film felt interesting and intelligent instead of just being an overpowering action film.
Whether you like source material changes or they make you grown in pain, I hope you enjoyed the list. What are your favorite source material deviations? Leave them below.
Until next time, Woodinator
COMING SOON: TOP 5 WORST SOURCE MATERIAL DEVIATIONS!