"Movie or Monograph?" Review

"The book was so much better!..."

In her article, Natalie Davis discusses the problems facing historical movie makers and, particularly, the role of historians as consultants in such films. She notes how Hollywood tampers with historical facts in exchange for a more well-rounded film that builds drama and plot. Davis' ultimate argument seems to be if you are going to do something, do it right. In most cases, far more individuals will see the film than read its corresponding literature. But then again, historical accuracy is often eschewed in place of Hollywood drama that will guarantee to sell. One need look no further than Pearl Harbor. Davis' remedy--at least in her situation--was to just write a corresponding novel to go along with the film on Martin Guerre. This is certainly a noteworthy attempt at righting a wrong, but probably futile since films almost always seem to perform better than literature.