Apt Pupil (1998) is a well-structured film with great performance. The shots and the music are unforgettable. However, compared to the extraordinary novella, Apt Puil (1998) is just so-so. According to the novella, Todd is born from evil and makes his own decisions instead of simply following Dussander's guidance. But in this film, it seemed that Todd's odd behavior is a result of Dussander's guidance. Personally, I think Stephen King draws an analogy between Todd and Dussander. Hence I'd like to say that the ending of the film is confusing. Todd is supposed to commit a crime and then be brought to justice just like Dussander.
There is a lot of psychological description in the novella. It is a pity that none of it has ever been shown in the film. The adaptation is a good attempt, but I think it loses the essence of the original novella. If I didn't read the novella, I would think it was a stunning movie. Those who have read the novella may not be satisfied with this film, though for those who haven't read the novella yet, Apt Pupil (1998) is still a film worth watching.
There is a lot of psychological description in the novella. It is a pity that none of it has ever been shown in the film. The adaptation is a good attempt, but I think it loses the essence of the original novella. If I didn't read the novella, I would think it was a stunning movie. Those who have read the novella may not be satisfied with this film, though for those who haven't read the novella yet, Apt Pupil (1998) is still a film worth watching.