Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin recently opened up about his feelings on adaptation changes, expressing his strong dislike for adjustments made to his work. He believes that a faithful adaptation is most important, and changes should only be made with respect and care. Martin’s latest project, a short film based on his childhood friend Howard Waldrop’s short stories, “The Ugly Chickens,” is a faithful adaptation with only one change made to the material.
In an interview, Martin explained that he’s disheartened by the many changes made to his work without improving the original material. He believes that a faithful adaptation is crucial, stating, “Maybe I’m one of the few people in Hollywood who still thinks that when you adapt a work of art, a novel, a short story, you should do a faithful adaptation. [It] annoys me too much because they change things and I don’t think they generally improve them.”
Martin’s film, “The Ugly Chickens,” is a testament to his commitment to faithful adaptations. The only change made to the material was altering the lead character from a man to a woman, which was done to accommodate the casting of Supernatural’s Felicia Day as the protagonist. This change was likely made to strengthen the story’s themes and showcase its message.
Martin’s views on adaptation changes are particularly relevant in the context of HBO’s “House of the Dragon,” which he is also producing. The show has faced criticism for several changes made to the original novel, including a memorable scene that Martin initially described as “Blood and Cheese,” which he felt decreased the emotional impact of the event. Martin’s disapproval of the changes mirrors his opinions on the importance of faithful adaptations.
Ultimately, Martin’s commitment to faithful adaptations speaks to the importance of respecting the original creator’s vision. While adaptations can be successful with careful changes, unnecessary alterations can lead to fan disappointment and creator disheartenment.