Recently, I sat down and watched the movie adaptation for The Giver. While I had never watched it before, I have read the book twice. It is one of my favorites. I think the movie is good– but it isn’t as good as the book. There are some differences in the plot and its overall execution. I may be biased, though, since I always seem to prefer books over movies! Anyways, here are the important differences between the two versions of The Giver:

1. Age of Jonas

Jonas is a new coming Twelve, so he is about twelve years old. This is not expressed in the movie, since Jonas is depicted as sixteen. This alters some aspects of Jonas’s character and actions.

2. Character and Plot development

Compared to the book, the movie rushes plot and character development. Some characters feel not nearly as fleshed out as they do in the book: I was introduced to many characters and scenes very fast. However, this is expected for movie adaptations since they have less time compared to the book. But it does make enough of a difference to include it in this list.

3. Receiver of Memory Trait

Jonas’ special ability is identified by his light colored eyes, and is central to the plot development plus the specific abilities. However, in the movie, the characters with special abilities are identified instead by a birthmark on their wrist. This seemed weird to me: they changed a huge part of the plot for almost no reason. I don’t think it would be impossible to give the actors contacts.

4. Jonas’ and Fiona’s Relationship

This is also another weird change. Since the movie aged up the characters, there is a kissing scene between the two. This did not happen in the book, but there was some romantic connotation involving Jonas and Fiona. 

5. Stirrings

In the movie, stirrings are not addressed as directly as they are in the book. Also, Jonas is given an injection instead of a daily pill.

6. Ending (not spoiled)

The ending ended slightly differently from the book, including a major aspect not previously mentioned. I recommend you go watch the movie if you’re interested to see it!

The Giver by Lois Lowry is available for checkout from the Mission Viejo Library. It can also be downloaded for free from Libby.