5 English movies that were modern retellings of classic literature

Filmmaker’s have always drawn inspiration from the classic literature. While some only take parts of it, some believe in taking the entire script and reinventing it with a modern twist. Here’s a look at movies that are the modern retelling of classic literature.

'10 Things I Hate About You' is a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's play 'The Taming of the Shrew,' The movie retells the basic plot of the classic, focusing on the relationship between Kat Stratford and Patrick Verona, who are modern-day versions of Katherine and Petruchio. Both of the stories revolve around taming a strong willed woman, with the male lead trying to win her love and change her behaviour.

The movie 'Clueless' is a modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel 'Emma.' They both share many similarities, including but not limited to the characters' storyline. Both 'Emma' and 'Clueless' are based on a young woman who plays matchmaker for her friends and acquaintances. Cher, the main lead of 'Clueless,' mirrors 'Emma' in her social status and the ability to matchmake. Clueless adapts the story of Emma with a modern twist and without the horse carriages and balls. Both the main protagonists also deal with their views on love and relationships.

'Bridget Jones’s Diary' is loosely related to Jane Austen’s 'Pride and Prejudice.' Helen Fielding, the author of Bridget Jones’s Diary, has also admitted to stealing some of the plot from the classic. Both stories revolve around a woman’s journey towards love and self-discovery, all the while juggling societal responsibilities. Bridget Jones is seen as the modern-day Elizabeth Bennet, while Mark Darcy is portraying Mr. Darcy, in this modern day retelling

'West Side Story' is highly influenced by Shakespeare’s 'Romeo and Juliet.' They share the same plot lines, themes and characters. The main plot of the movie is of two lovers who cannot be together as their families have generations long feud between them. This is similar to the plot of Romeo and Juliet. The feud between Jets and Sharks, two rival gangs, is similar to the Montagues and Capulets in Romeo and Juliet. The conclusion is also similar because both the lovers end up dying.

The movie, which was released in 2000, is a loose comedic retelling of Homer’s 'The Odyssey.' The main lead of the movie, Everett McGill and his difficult journey back home. It is similar to Odysseus's own long risky journey. Both Odysseus and Everett McGill are both on a self healing journey and returning to their families after a long period of time. They both also encounter a lot of monsters to supernatural creatures on their way back.