Book Vs. Movie: 10 Things I Hate About You
The Taming of the Shrew & the 1999 Heath Ledger Film

10 Things I Hate About You (1999) is a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, reimagining the story in a high school setting. In both works, the plot revolves around two sisters—one desirable and another perceived as problematic. In The Taming of the Shrew, the younger, more attractive Bianca cannot marry until her older, strong-willed sister, Katherina, finds a husband. Similarly, in 10 Things I Hate About You, Bianca Stratford can only date if her rebellious, sharp-tongued sister, Kat, does too. The character of Petruchio in Shakespeare’s play, who is hired to "tame" Katherina and make her marriageable, is mirrored in Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger), who is paid to date Kat (Julia Stiles) so that Bianca can start dating.

Despite the initial financial motivation, Petruchio and Patrick develop genuine feelings for their partners. While The Taming of the Shrew ends with Katherina seemingly submitting to societal expectations, 10 Things I Hate About You gives Kat more agency. She remains independent but opens up to love, showing a more modern and feminist take on Shakespeare’s story.

 Between the play & the film--which did we prefer? Listen to find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The teen comedies of the late 1990s  
• The work of Heath Ledger
• The differences between the play and movie
• The cast includes Julia Stiles (Kat), Heath Ledger (Patrick Verona), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Cameron James), Larisa Oleynik (Bianca), Larry Miller (Walter Stratford), Andrew Keegan (Joey Donner), David Krumholtz (Michael Eckman), Daryl “Chill” Mitchell (Mr. Morgan), Susan May Pratt (Mandella), Alison Janey (Ms. Perky), David Leisure (Mr. Chapin), Gabriele Union (Chastity Church), Letters to Cleo, and Save Ferris. 

Clips Featured:

• “Hey there, Girlie!”
• 10 Things I Hate About You (1999 trailer)
• “You see that girl?”
• “Rock bar scene”
• “Kat dances”
• “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You”
• “The poem scene”
• “Bianca beat down scene.”
• Music: Letters to Cleo; I Want You to Want Me 

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Book Vs. Movie: The Asphalt Jungle
The W.R. Burnett Novel & the 1950 John Huston Film

W.R. Burnett’s 1949 novel The Asphalt Jungle is a compelling crime story that explores the minds, motivations, and downfalls of professional criminals. Set in a Midwestern city, it offers a multi-perspective narrative that vividly portrays the underworld. John Huston’s 1950 film adaptation remains faithful to the book while enhancing the story with striking cinematography and strong performances. However, it shifts the setting to an unnamed urban landscape and introduces Marilyn Monroe's expanded role as a corrupt lawyer's mistress. Between the novel & the film, which did we prefer? Listen to find out!

 In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• Author W.R Burnett and Film Noir of the 40s and 50s 
• The work of John Huston
• The differences between the book and movie
• The cast includes Sterling Hayden (Dix Handley,) Louis Calhern (Alonzo D. Emmerich,) James Whitmore (Gus Minissi,) Jean Hagen (Doll Conovan,) Sam Jaffe (Doc Erwin,) John McIntire (Hardy,) Marc Lawrence (Cobby,) Barry Kelley (Lt. Dietrich,) Anthony Caruso (Louis Ciavelli,) Marilyn Monroe (Angela Phinlay,) and Teresa Celli as Maria Ciavelli. 

Clips Featured:

• “The Job”
• “The Asphalt Jungle” (1950 trailer)
• “Sweet Kid”
• “Play Some Music”
• “A Double Cross”
• “Hoodlums”
• Music by Miklos Rozsa

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• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
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• Margo P’s Blog: coloniabook.com
• Margo P's YouTube Channel: @shesnachomama

Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: Mamma Mia
ABBA Gold Vs. Mamma Mia  
“Musicals in March!”

Mamma Mia! is a jukebox musical that features the songs of ABBA, the Swedish pop group composed of Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Agnetha Fältskog, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. The musical was created by British playwright Catherine Johnson, with music by Andersson and Ulvaeus, and premiered in London's West End in 1999. The show was a massive success, leading to multiple international productions, including a Broadway run from 2001 to 2015.

Set on a fictional Greek island, Mamma Mia! follows Sophie Sheridan, a young bride-to-be who secretly invites three men from her mother Donna's past to her wedding, hoping to discover which one is her father. Donna, a former singer with the girl group "Donna and the Dynamos," is unaware of Sophie's plan and is shocked when her past lovers—Sam, Harry, and Bill—arrive. The story unfolds with comedy, romance, and ABBA’s iconic hits, including Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, The Winner Takes It All, and Mamma Mia.

We are comparing the band catalog to this interpretation. Which version did we prefer?
 Listen to find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The history of the band and their domination of the 1970s 
• The road from the stage version to the film
• The cast includes Meryl Streep (Donna Sheridan,) Pierce Brosnan (Sam Carmichael,) Colin Firth (Harry Bright,) Stellan Skarsgard (Bill Anderson,) Julie Walters (Rosie Mulligan,) Dominic Cooper (Sky Rymand,) Amanda Seyfried (Sophie Sheridan,) Christine Baranski (Tanya Chesham-Leigh,) and Rachel McDowall as Lisa. 

Clips Featured:

• “Dancing Queen”
• ABBA at the 1974 Eruovision Contest
• ABBA “Waterloo” 1975
• Frida “There’s Something Going On”
• Mamma Mia 2018 movie trailer
• “Does Your Mother Know” (Mamma Mia)
• “Mamma Mia”//Mamma Mia
• Mamma Mia Sophie’s Wedding
• “Super Trouper” Mamma Mia

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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie:
Billy Elliot
The 2000 Film Vs the 2014 Musical Live
“Musicals in March!”

The Margos continue “Musicals in March” with the film & stage show of Billy Elliot. Both tell the inspiring story of a working-class boy in 1980s northern England who discovers a passion for ballet during the UK miners' strike, but they differ in tone and presentation.
The film, directed by Stephen Daldry and written by Lee Hall (based on his play Dancer), is a gritty drama starring Jamie Bell, featuring a rock and pop soundtrack. It focuses on Billy’s journey and his family's struggles, earning critical acclaim and multiple BAFTA and Oscar nominations.

In contrast, the musical expands the story with more extensive dance sequences and fantasy elements, highlighting the miners’ plight. It includes music by Elton John and offers more character development and stylized theatrical moments. The musical has won numerous Olivier and Tony Awards.

Which version did we prefer? Listen to find out!
In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The history behind the original story 
• The road from the film world to stage
• The cast includes: Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot young,) Adam Cooper (Billy Elliot grown,) Julie Walters (Sandra Wilkinson,) Gary Lewis (Jackie Elliot,) Jamie Draven (Tony Elliot,) Jean Heywood (Grandma,) Stuart Wells (Michael Caffrey young,) Merryn Owen (Michael Caffrey grown,) Nicola Blackwell (Debbie Wilkinson,) Colin Mclachlan (Tom Wilkinson,) Mike Elliot (George Watson,) and Billy Fane as Mr. Braithwaite. 

Clips Featured:

• “Billy performs for his dad (movie)”
• Billy Elliot (2000 trailer)
• "Like electricity (movie)"
• "Billy says goodbye (movie)"
• "Billy as a grownup (movie)"
• Billy Eliot the Musical (2014) trailer
• "Solidarity (musical)"
• "Like electricity (musical)" 
• Jamie Bell wins the BAFTA 
• Music by Stephen Warbeck and Elton John. 

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
• Margo D’s TikTok 
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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie:
Gypsy
The 1957 Memoir Vs. the 1962 Movie
“Musicals in March!”

The Margos celebrate another “Musicals in March” episode with Gypsy. Gypsy Rose Lee’s 1957 memoir tells her real-life story of growing up in vaudeville and burlesque under the domineering influence of her mother, Rose Hovick. It paints a detailed picture of her childhood alongside her more naturally talented younger sister, June (later June Havoc), and how Gypsy (born Louise Hovick) eventually became the most famous burlesque performer of her time. The book is witty and self-deprecating and offers an unvarnished yet entertaining look at her complex relationship with her mother. 

The movie Gypsy is based on the successful 1959 Broadway musical by Jule Styne, Stephen Sondheim, and Arthur Laurents, rather than directly on the memoir. It follows the same structure as the stage show, focusing on Rose Hovick’s relentless push to make her daughters stars, culminating in Gypsy’s rise to fame. However, because it was a Hollywood film, it softened some of the grittier aspects of Gypsy’s story. 
So, which version did we prefer? Have a listen to find out!

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• A look at the career of Gypsy Rose Lee 
• The different Broadway productions over the years
• The cast includes Rosalind Russell (Rose Hovick,) Natalie Wood (Louise Hovick/Gypsy Rose Lee,) Karl Malden (Herbie Sommers,) Paul Wallace (Tulsa,) Ann Jillian (Dainty June,) Morgan Brittany (Baby June,) Parley Bear (Mr. Kringelein,) Harry Shannon (Grandpa,) Betty Bruce (Tessie Tura,) Faith Dane (Mazeppa,) Roxanne Arlen (Electra,) and Jean Willes as Betty Cratchitt. 

Clips Featured:

• “Natalie Wood as Gypsy”
• Ethel Merman on the Perry Como show in 1960
• Gypsy (1962 trailer)
• “Dainty June & Her Boys”
• “Everything is Coming Up Roses” (Rosalind Russell)
• “Little Lamb” 
• “Let Me Entertain You”
• Music by Jule Styne & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie:
Wicked
The 2004 Musical Vs. the 2024 Movie
"Musicals in March"

The "Wicked" movie is based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West; the book (for the play) was written by Winnie Holzman, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The show had its initial tryout in San Francisco in 2003 before moving to Broadway, where it has enjoyed a successful two-decade run despite receiving mixed reviews.

This success is primarily attributed to its loyal fan base.  Part One concludes with the iconic song "Defying Gravity," setting the stage for Part Two, which explores the consequences of Elphaba’s rebellion. The film utilizes CGI and elaborate sets to vividly portray the magical world of Oz in ways that the stage cannot replicate. 

So, which version did we prefer? Have a listen to find out!

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• A brief look at the 1995 novel  
• The path to Broadway to the Jon M. Chu film
• The cast includes Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba,) Ariana Grande (Glinda,) Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero,) Ethan Slater (Boq Woodsman,) Bowen Yang (Pfanne,) Peter Dinklage (Dr. Dillamond,) Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible,) Jeff Goldblum (Wizard of Oz,) Marissa Bode (Nessarose,) Bronwyn James (Shenshen) and Andy Nyman as Governor Thropp.

Clips Featured:

• “Glinda makes a ball gown”
• "Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda at the 2004 Tony Awards"
• "Indina Menzel as Elphaba at the 2004 Tony Awards"
• Wicked (Part 1 2024 trailer)
• “What is this feeling?”
• “Defying gravity”
• Music by John Powell and Stephen Schwartz

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie:
The Piano Lesson
The 1987 August Wilson Play Vs. the 2024

Netflix AdaptationAugust Wilson's *The Piano Lesson*, first staged in 1987 and winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1990, centers on siblings Berniece and Boy Willie as they clash over a family heirloom—the intricately carved piano symbolizing their ancestors' struggles. Set in 1936 Pittsburgh, the play explores themes of heritage, trauma, and the tension between honoring the past and moving forward. The 2024 film adaptation, directed by Malcolm Washington and produced by Denzel Washington, stars John David Washington as Boy Willie, Danielle Deadwyler as Berniece, and Samuel L. Jackson as Doaker. This version promises a fresh retelling with a broader setting and enhanced visuals, including supernatural elements like Sutter's ghost. 

So, which version did we prefer? Have a listen to find out in this ep; the Margos discuss:

• August Wilson’s life and work. 
• The multiple changes between the play and the 2024 film
• The cast includes Samuel L. Jackson (Doaker,) John David Washington (Boy Willie,) Danielle Deadwyler (Berniece,) Ray Fisher (Lymon,) Corey Hawkins (Avery,) Michael Potts (Winning Boy,) Skylar Aleece Smith (Maretha,) Stephen James (Boy Charles,) Erykah Badu (Lucille,) and Malik J. Lai as Wili Boy

Clips Featured:

• “Oh Lord, Berta”
• The Paino Player (2024 trailer)
• “Berneice and Avery”
• “Berneice and Boy Willie”
• “1995 Oh Lord, Berta scene.”
• “Berneice and Lymon”
• The end scene
• Soundtrack for The Piano Lesson (2024)

Follow us on the socials!

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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: The Hate U Give
The 2017 Book by Angie Thomas & the 2018 Film

The Hate U Give, written by Angie Thomas and adapted into a 2018 film directed by George Tillman Jr., presents a powerful narrative about race, identity, and activism. While the book and the movie follow the same core story—Starr Carter witnessing the police shooting of her childhood friend Khalil and navigating the aftermath—they differ in several ways. The Margos take a look at both in this episode. Which did we prefer—the book or the movie? 

Click on the link below to find out!

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• Author Angie Thomas and the book’s unusual path to adaptation. 
• The true-life murders that inspired the story
• The cast includes Amandla Sternberg (Starr Carter), Regina Hall (Lisa Carter), Russell Hornsby (Maverick Carter), Algee Smith (Khalil Harris), Lamar Johnson (Seven Carter), Issa Rae (April), KJ Apa (Chris Bryant), Common (Carlos), Anthony Mackie (King), Sabrina Carpenter (Hailey Grant), and Drew Starkey as Brian McIntosh Jr.

Clips Featured:

• “Starr Codeswitching at School”
• The Hate U Give  trailer
• “Opening scene with instructions on how to act in case of police interference.”
• “THUG Opening scene”
• “Chris and Starr”
• “Sabrina (Hailey) gets wailed upon and deserves it’
• “Seven Point Scene”
• “Sekani gun scene.”
• Music by Dustin O’Halloran 
• The closing song by Arlissa, “We Won’t Move.” 

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
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• Margo P’s Blog: coloniabook.com
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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: The Warriors
Special Interview With Screenwriter & Author Rob Ryder
Plus, a Replay of our 2020 ep!

The Margos revisit a special episode dedicated to the cult classic film *The Warriors*, based on Sol Yurick's book. Directed by Walter Hill and released in 1979, the movie was a hit but faced backlash due to real-life gang violence, leading studios to halt its promotion. It became a staple of 1980s television and is now considered a modern classic for its comic book sensibility in depicting urban decay. Yurick wrote the original story in 1965, inspired by his experiences with teenagers while working for New York City's welfare department after college. 

This episode includes an interview with screenwriter and author Rob Ryder, who contributed to the film and wrote *Purple Fury: Rumbling With the Warriors*. So, which did we prefer—the book or the movie? Click on the link below to find out!

In this ep the Margos discuss:

• The life story of Sol Yurick
• New York City in the 1960s and 1970s
• Trivia about the shooting of the film
• The cast which includes: Michael Beck (Swan,) James Remar (Ajax,) Dorsey Wright (Cleon,) Brian Tyler (Snow,) David Harris (Cochise,) Tom McKitterick (Cowboy,) Marcelino Sanchez (Rembrandt,) Terry Michos (Vermin,) Deborah Van Valkenburgh (Mercy,) Roger Hill (Cyrus,) David Patrick Kelly (Luther,) Lynne Thigpen (D.J.,) and Mercedes Ruehl (policewoman.)

Clips Featured:

• The Warriors  trailer
• “Warriors, come out to play!” (David Patrick Kelly)
• Luther “Can you dig it?” (Roger Hill)
• The D.J. warns The Warriors (Lynne Thigpen)
• Outro music: Composer Barry DeVorzon

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• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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• Margo D’s TikTok 
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• Margo P’s Blog: coloniabook.com
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Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: Girls Just Want to Have Fun
The Cyndi Lauper Hit Vs. the Sarah Jessica Parker Movie

The 1985 film *Girls Just Want to Have Fun* is a beloved teen dance comedy inspired by Cyndi Lauper’s iconic song. The story follows Janey Glenn (Sarah Jessica Parker), a dance-loving teen who moves to Chicago with her strict military father. Encouraged by her quirky friend Lynne (Helen Hunt), Janey auditions for the TV show *Dance TV* and teams up with working-class Jeff Malene (Lee Montgomery) to pursue their dance dreams, facing rivals and romance. The film also features Shannen Doherty as Jeff’s sister and Jonathan Silverman as his goofy best friend. 
So which did the Margos prefer? The original song by Robert Hazard or the 1985 film? Listen to find out!

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The careers of Cyndi Lauper and Robert Hazard in the early 1980s
• How the film was adapted from the song
• The Movie Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker (Janey Glenn,) Helen Hunt (Lynn Stone,) Lee Montgomery (Jeff Malene,) Jonathan Silverman (Drew Boreman,) and Shannon Doherty as Maggie Malene. 

Margo’s upcoming book on Saturday Night Fever (pre-order!) 
Clips used:

• “Girls” remake song and early scene
• Girls Just Want to Have Fun (1985 trailer)
• Roger Ebert’s 1985 review of Girls Just Want to Have Fun
• Audition scene
• “Dance TV”
• “Party invasion scene”
• Music by Deborah Galli with Tami 

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
• Margo D’s TikTok 
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• Margo P’s Blog: coloniabook.com
• Margo P's YouTube Channel: @shesnachomama

Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine