Book Vs Movie Podcast

Book Vs. Movie: Convoy
The CW McCall Novelty Song Vs. the Sam Peckinpah (!) Film

In the mid-1970s, a unique country song about truckers, CB radios, and the open road captured the imagination of America. It was called "Convoy," and it not only topped the charts but also inspired a Hollywood movie, solidifying its place in pop culture history. Initially a novelty tune, it evolved into a cultural phenomenon. The song was written and performed by C.W. McCall, the alter ego of ad man Bill Fries, in collaboration with musician Chip Davis, who later founded Mannheim Steamroller. "Convoy" rode the wave of the CB radio craze that swept through the U.S. during the 1970s. The song's immense success attracted Hollywood's attention, and soon, the story of "Rubber Duck" made its way to the big screen. The movie, directed by Sam Peckinpah, known for his gritty and violent Westerns such as The Wild Bunch and Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid, added a dramatic twist to the whimsical narrative. So, between the song and the film, which did the Margos prefer?

 Listen to find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• How the song was created as an advertisement
• The career of Sam Peckinpah 
• The Movie Cast: Kris Kristofferson (Rubber Duck,) Ali McGraw (Melissa,) Ernest Borgnine (“Cottonmouth,”) Burt Young (Love Machine,) Madge Sinclair (Widow Woman,) Franklyn Ajaye (Spider Mike,) Seymour Cassell (Governor Haskins,) Cassie Yates (Violet,) Billy Hughes (“Pack Rat,”) Jorge Russek (Tiny Alvarez,) and Patrice Martinez as Maria. 

Clips used:

• “Convoy Truckers Escape Speedtrap”
• “Old Home Bread Commercial 1973”
• CW McCall on Hee Haw in 1976
• Convoy (1978 trailer)
• “Rubber Duck meets Melissa”
• “Rubber Duck sneaks into NM.”
• “Bridge scene Convoy.”
• Music by CW McCall & Chip Davis

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
• You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
• Instagram: Book Versus Movie 
• [email protected] 
• Margo D’s Blog 
• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
• Margo D’s TikTok 
• Margo D’s YouTube: 
• Margo P’s Instagram 
• Margo P’s Blog  
• Margo P's YouTube Channel

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

Book Vs. Movie: The Wizard of Oz
(Replay in honor of Wicked!) 

The Margos celebrate the new Wicked movie starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande with a replay of our beloved episode devoted to L. Frank Baum and The Wizard of Oz. The book presents a vast, detailed Oz with darker undertones, while the movie streamlines the story, focusing on Dorothy’s emotional journey. Baum’s Dorothy is resourceful and independent, whereas Judy Garland’s portrayal adds warmth and vulnerability, emphasizing her longing for home.Between the technicolor 1939 classic and the original novel--which version did we prefer? Have a listen to find out!


Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
• You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
• Instagram: Book Versus Movie 
• [email protected] 
• Margo D’s Blog 
• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
• Margo D’s TikTok 
• Margo D’s YouTube: 
• Margo P’s Instagram 
• Margo P’s Blog  
• Margo P's YouTube Channel

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

Book Vs. Movie: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse
The Charlie Mackesy Children’s Book  Vs. the 2022 Apple+ Film

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy is a beautifully illustrated book that explores themes of kindness, resilience, and self-acceptance through the adventures of four unlikely friends. Each character offers unique insights: the curious Boy, the cake-loving Mole, the cautious Fox, and the wise Horse. Through gentle dialogue and expressive artwork, the story reflects on friendship, hope, and the journey to find peace within oneself. Often compared to "The Little Prince," this book has resonated with readers of all ages and was adapted into an award-winning animated film in 2022 that was created remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. So, which did the Margos prefer? Listen to find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The inspiring work of the author and how the book was created 
• How the film was created during the COVID-19 lockdown. 
• The Movie Cast: Jude Coward Nicoll (the Boy,) Tom Hollander (the Mole,) Idris Elba (the Fox) and Gabriel Byrne as the Horse.  

Clips used:

• “Isn’t it odd, we can only share our outsides…”
• The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse (2022 trailer)
• “One of our greatest freedoms..”
• “Everyone gets lost sometimes.”
• “Look to the dawn…”
• Music by Isobel Waller-Bridge

Follow us on the socials!

• Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
• You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
• Instagram: Book Versus Movie 
• [email protected] 
• Margo D’s Blog 
• Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
• Margo D’s TikTok 
• Margo D’s YouTube: 
• Margo P’s Instagram 
• Margo P’s Blog  
• Margo P's YouTube Channel

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

Book Vs. Movie: Travels with My Aunt
The 1969 Graham Greene Novel Vs. the 1972 Maggie Smith Film

The Margos pack their suitcases for Graham Greene’s Travels with My Aunt and its 1972 film adaptation. The story of Henry Pulling, a reserved Englishman, whose life changes when his eccentric Aunt Augusta leads him on an adventurous journey across Europe. Greene explores the novel's themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and unconventional relationships with his signature dark humor. Augusta’s vibrant, morally ambiguous character makes Henry question his life choices. The film, directed by George Cukor and starring Maggie Smith as Augusta, takes a lighter, comedic approach. Henry’s character becomes more of a comedic foil to Augusta, and the adaptation focuses less on Augusta’s complex past. While the movie brings energy and charm, fans of the book often feel it lacks Greene’s depth.

So, which did the Margos prefer? Listen to find out! In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The work of Graham Greene
• Maggie Smith!!!!! 
• The differences between the novel and the film. 
• The Movie Cast: Maggie Smith (Augusta Bertram,) Alec McGowen (Henry Pulling,) Louis Gosset Jr. (Zachary Wordsworth,) Robert Stephens (Ercole Visconti,) Cindy Williams (Tooley,) Robert Flemyng (Achille Dambreuse,) Corinne Marchand (Louise) and Valerie White as Mme. Dambreuse.  

Clips used:

• “Aunt August at the Funeral”
• Travels with My Aunt (original 1972 trailer)
• 1973 Academy Awards Best Costume Design
• “Aunt Augusta and Henry fly to Paris.”
• Travels with My Aunt soundtrack by Tony Hatch.

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] 
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (replay)
The 1964 Ian Fleming Novel Vs. the 1968 Classic Movie

Book vs. Movie: Chitty Chitty Bang BangThe Margos explore Ian Fleming's only children's story, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," published in October 1964, shortly after his death at 56. Written for his son Caspar, the story features characters inspired by Fleming's children and their friends, set against the backdrop of 1920s aero-engine racing carts. The tale follows Commander Caractacus Pott and his magical car, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," named for the sound it makes. The car embarks on various adventures in England and France, able to swim and fly while evading villains who kidnap children for robberies. Produced by Albert "Cubby" Broccoli, the film took liberties with the story and included music by the Sherman Brothers. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Song and became a stage musical in 2002.

So, which did we like more between the original story and the 1968 adaptation?

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: The Night of the Hunter
The 1953 Novel Vs. the 1955 Classic Movie

Davis Grubb’s 1953 novel *The Night of the Hunter* and its 1955 film adaptation by Charles Laughton offer haunting interpretations of a sinister preacher, Harry Powell, and two children fleeing him. The novel delves deeper into Powell's twisted morality and religious fanaticism. At the same time, the film, featuring Robert Mitchum, presents him as a symbolic figure of evil with striking visual elements, including his "LOVE" and "HATE" tattoos. The book maintains a grounded, psychological tone, while the movie employs a surreal, expressionist style to illustrate the battle between good and evil. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. 

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The creepy origin story of the book.
• Charles Laughton’s excellent direction and why he never helmed a picture again. 
• The differences between the novel and the 1955 film. 
• The Movie Cast: Robert Mitchum (Harry Powell,) Shelley Winters (Willa Harper,) Lillian Gish (Rachel Cooper,) Billy Chapin (John Harper,) Sally Jane Bruce (Pearl Harper,) James Gleason (Uncle “Birdie” Steptoe,) Evelyn Varden (Icey Spoon,) Don Beddoe (Walt Spoon,) Peter Graves (Ben Harper,) Gloria Castillo (Ruby,) and Paul Bryar as Bart the Hangman. 

Clips used:

• “Harry Speaks to the Lord”
• The Night of the Hunter (1955 trailer)
• “John Promises His Dad”
• “Love and Hate”
• “He Ain’t My Dad” 
• “Leaning”
• The Night of the Hunter soundtrack by Walter Schumann

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] 
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: The Fly
The 1957 Short Story Vs. the 1986 Movie

The Margos feature The Fly this month with special guest Patrick Bromley, who hosts the excellent F This Movie podcast. The 1957 short story and the 1986 film share the core premise of a scientist merging with a fly during a teleportation experiment, but they have different approaches. George Langelaan's story focuses on the emotional and ethical fallout, depicting science as perilous when unchecked. David Cronenberg's adaptation emphasizes the grotesque consequences of scientific overreach, blending body horror with a profound sense of loss.
Langelaan's story explores guilt, tragedy, and the limits of science, while Cronenberg's film focuses on the horror of losing one's humanity physically and mentally. Both versions are haunting, but Cronenberg's film expands the original premise into a deeply personal horror, highlighting the darker sides of human ambition. The link for Wixson and Bromley’s book In Search of Darkness from AM Ink. 

Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. 

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The origin story of Langelaan’s short story which appeared in Playboy magazine in 1957.
• YouTube link for Edward E. French reading The Fly
• The career of David Cronenberg
• The differences between the short story and the 1986 film. 
• The Movie Cast: Jeff Goldblum (Seth Brundle,) Geena Davis (Ronnie Quaife,) John Getz (Stathis Borans,) Joy Boushel (Tawny,) Leslie Carlson (Dr. Brent Cheevers,) George Chuvalo (Marky) and David Cronenberg as the gynecologist. 

Clips used:

• “Be Afraid. Be very afraid.”
• The Fly (1986 trailer)
• “Cheeseburger scene”
• “Plasma Pool.”
• “Seth kidnaps Ronnie.” 
• The Fly soundtrack by Howard Shore

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] 
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: Dolores Claiborne
1992 Novel Vs. the 1995 Movie

The Margos delve back to the Stephen King well (pun intended!) with Dolores Claiborne, a gripping narrative of survival, domestic abuse, and hidden truths. Originally penned in 1992 and later brought to life on the silver screen in 1995, this story has held audiences spellbound in its literary and cinematic forms. Yet, as with many adaptations, the movie takes its path, offering a fresh perspective on the tale. The differences between the two versions in narrative style, character focus, and themes create distinct and compelling experiences for readers and viewers. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. 
In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The settings for Stephen King's stories
• The differences between the novel and the film. 
• The Movie Cast: Kathy Bates (Dolores Claiborne,) Jennifer Jason Leigh (Serena St. George,) Ellen Muth (Young Selena,) Judy Parfitt (Vera Donovan,) Christopher Plummer (Detective John Mackey,) David Strathairn (Joe St. George,) Eric Bogosian (Peter,) John C. Reily (Constable Frank Stamshaw,) Bob Gunten (Mr. Pease,) Roy Cooper (Magistrate,) and Wayne Robson as Sammy Marchant. 

Clips used:

• “Delores meets Vera Donavan”
• Frances Sternhagen's audiobook reading of Dolores Claiborne
• Dolores Claiborne (1995 trailer)
• “Selena arrives at Little Tall Island”
• “Vera instructs Dolores about her options.”
• “Joe and Dolores fight during the eclipse. Bye, Joe!” 
• Delores Claiborne soundtrack by Danny Elfman

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] 
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing. Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: The Day the Earth Stood Still
The 1940 Short Story Vs. the 1951 Adaptation

The Day the Earth Stood Still is a classic sci-fi story. The iconic 1951 film was based on Harry Bates’ short story "Farewell to the Master." Both versions share a similar premise—an alien visitor and his robot arrive on Earth, but they diverge significantly in tone and message. In Bates' 1940 story, Klaatu and his robot Gnut arrive on Earth, but Klaatu is quickly killed. The focus then shifts to Gnut, who, in a twist ending, is revealed to be the true master, not Klaatu. This philosophical narrative explores the limits of human perception, the ambiguity of power, and intelligence beyond human understanding. 

The film adapts the story into a Cold War parable. Klaatu, more of a Christ-like figure, comes with a warning: Earth must abandon violence and nuclear weapons or face destruction by an interplanetary alliance. His robot, Gort, serves as an enforcer of this message, not the master. The film delivers a clear moral about peace and diplomacy, reflecting the political fears of its time. 

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

• The settings for both stories
• The differences between the original short story and the 1951 adaptation. 
• The Movie Cast: Michael Rennie (Klaatu,) Patricia Neal (Helen Benson,) Hugh Marlowe (Tom Stevens,) Sam Jaffe (Professor Barnhardt,) Billy Gray (Bobby Benson,) Frances Bavier (Mrs. Barley) and Lock Martin as Gort. 

Clips used:

• “Klaatu’s speech” 
• The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951 trailer)
• “Gort arrives on Earth”
• “Kalatu Barada Nikto”
• Bernard Herrmann's soundtrack for The Day the Earth Stood Still 

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] 
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine 

Book Vs. Movie: All Quiet On the Western Front
The 1928 German Classic Novel Vs. the 2024 Netflix Adaptation

The Margos conclude "Banned Books Month" with Erich Maria Remarque’s 1928 novel "All Quiet on the Western Front," a profound anti-war masterpiece that captures the emotional and psychological devastation of World War I from the perspective of young German soldiers. The 2022 film adaptation, directed by Edward Berger, reimagines the story for modern audiences, using intense visuals and dramatic storytelling to convey the horrors of war.

While the novel and the film share a common anti-war message, they approach it differently. When the Nazis came to power in Germany, they viewed Remarque’s novel as an insult to the German military and the nation. Adolf Hitler and the Nazi leadership condemned the book for promoting defeatism and portraying German soldiers as victims rather than heroic figures.

It didn’t align with the Nazi ideology of military pride and national superiority. The English translation of the book faced censorship in specific areas like Boston, where it was banned for obscenity, and customs officials in Chicago also seized some copies due to concerns about content. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out. In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The life story of author Remarque
• Why is this work still controversial?
• The differences between the original book and the 2022 adaptation. 
• The Movie Cast: Felix Kammerer (Paul Baumer,) Albrecht Schuch (“Kat,”) Aaron Hilmer (Ludwig,) Moritz Klaus (Franz,) Adrian Grunewald (Ludwig Behm,) Edin Hasanovic (Tjaden Stackfleet,) Daniel Bruhl (Matthias Erzberger,) Thibault de Montalembert (General Ferdinand Foch,) Devid Striesow (General Friedrichs,) Andreas Dohler (Lt. Hoppe,) and Sebastian Hulk as Major Von Brixdorf. 

Clips used:

• “The boys are ready for war.” 
• All Quiet on the Western Front (2022 Netflix trailer)
• “Finding dead soldiers who were gassed.”
• “The general eat in luxury.”
• “Paul brings Kat to the hospital.”
• Music by Volker Bertelmann 

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”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected] 
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo 
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com 
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of Filmed in Brooklyn here! 
Margo P. Twitter @ShesNachoMama
Margo P’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/shesnachomama/
Margo P’s Blog  https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ 
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine