The Natural (1984) Robert Redford, Glenn Close, Robert Duvall, & Kim Basinger

Book Vs Movie Podcast

Book Vs. Movie: The Natural
The 1952 Novel Vs. the 1984 Movie

"The Natural" by Bernard Malamud and its 1984 movie adaptation directed by Barry Levinson offers different experiences despite sharing the same storyline. The book delves deeper into the psychological aspects of the protagonist and explores themes of fate, ambition, and the corrupting influence of success. The film focuses more on the romantic and mythic elements of the narrative and simplifies certain plotlines and characters. However, it's visually stunning with a powerful score that enhances the story's emotional impact.

Which did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out.
In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• Author Bernard Malamud and the character of Roy Hobbs.
• The biggest differences between the book and the movie.
• The genre of “baseball movies.”
• The cast of the 1984 film includes Robert Redford (Roy Hobbs,) Robert Duvall (Max Mercy,) Glenn Close (Iris Gaines,) Kim Basinger (Memo Paris,) Wilford Brimley (Pop Fisher,) Barbara Hershey (Harriet Bird,) Robert Prosky (The Judge,) Richard Farnsworth (Red Blow,) Joe Don Baker (The Whammer,) Darren McGavin (Gus Sands,) Michael Madsen (Bump Bailey) and John Finnegan as Sam Simpson.

Clips used:

• “Batting practice with Wonderboy”
• The Natural (1984 trailer)
• “New Right Fielder”
• “Striking Out the Whammer”
• “The Lady in White”
• “Final homerun”
• Music by Randy Newman

Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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