Literary Snacks

MACBETH (Michael Fassbender, 2015)

The stunning visuals and intense performances make this a great choice for helping students understand the play’s dark themes. It also sticks closely to Shakespeare’s original language, which helps with language analysis.

ROMEO & JULIET (Baz Luhrmann, 1996)

This modernised adaptation keeps Shakespeare’s dialogue but sets the story in a contemporary world. It’s perfect for showing your child how timeless themes like love and conflict can fit into any era.

JEKYLL (James Nesbitt, 2007)

Jekyll is a suspenseful novel exploring duality and identity, inspired by Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. It follows Dr. Tom Jackman, who struggles to control his monstrous alter ego, Hyde. Set in modern London, it blends psychological drama with action to examine morality and human nature.

AN INSPECTOR CALLS (BBC, 2015)

The striking visuals and faithful adaptation emphasise Priestley’s critique of social responsibility. It’s a great way to help students grasp the play’s dramatic tension and character interactions.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Patrick Stewart, 1999)

Patrick Stewart’s emotive performance brings Scrooge’s transformation to life. This version helps students visualise the novella’s key themes, like redemption and social responsibility.

How to Use These Adaptations
– Watch together after your child has read the text. Discuss key scenes and how they compare to the original.
– Encourage your child to analyse how the director’s choices emphasise themes or character relationships.
– Use scenes as inspiration for essay practice – what would they write about a particular performance?