Have you read a riveting book and discovered it was later adapted into a movie? Although the popular sentiment that the book is better is a constant harbinger of moviegoers, some films successfully managed to transpose the imagination and enchantment of the source material, sometimes earning the honoree title on their own merits. 

Netflix has a collection of such cinematic work, with the adaptation reaching a score level of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes. Whether it is a historical drama with a compelling story or an enchanting film for younger audiences, these films honor their source material and stand tall in their cinematic world as masterpieces.

Explore the top five Netflix film adaptations of novels, which are magnificent examples of print and screen media's storytelling ability. 

All Quiet on the Western Front By Erich Maria Remarque

A vivid depiction of life in Germany during WWI, this book is profoundly influential and considered one of the greatest war books ever. The novel deals with the life story of Paul Bäumer and his age mates, who enthusiastically join the German army; later, they encounter harsh situations in the war.

His initial enthusiasm wavers when faced with the abominations in the trenches, making Paul miserable and afraid, which eventually robs him of his innocence. Amidst the vividly depicted horrors, Paul clings to a vow: to fight against hate, which is the fundamental reason for the brutal killing of young men, destroying lives, and turning young men who are left alive to fight for survival against each other. 

Society of the Snow By Pablo Vierci

The Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, carrying a group of young rugby players and all their families, fell off into the Andean mountains due to wrong calculations. The impact of the crash caused the plane's destruction, leaving the passengers stranded on a glacier, exposed to extreme cold, avalanches, and the scarcity of supplies for 72 days.

Pablo Vierci vividly narrates the terrifying tragedy of the survivors, who fought to survive against all odds in the face of an intense ordeal. The book depicts how their lives were engulfed with tragedy and how faith, friendship, and the human spirit will always prevail in the face of the most unthinkable distress. 

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Orion and the Dark By Emma Yarlett

In this children's book turned Netflix film, young Orion is terrified of the Dark. However, one evening, the Dark itself chooses to visit him, and he embarks on an unexpected journey. Written and illustrated by Emma Yarlett, this extraordinary story integrates captivating storytelling with imaginative artwork, made more impressive by die-cut pages that make you come closer to seeing the Dark.

It is a heartwarming journey that helps Orion confront and overcome his fears, offering a delightful blend of adventure and comfort for young readers and viewers alike. 

Moneyball By Michael Lewis

The story delves into baseball, exploring the quest for success through innovative strategies and insights. The book focuses on the Oakland A's, led by their visionary general manager Billy Beane, as they challenge traditional wisdom using data-driven approaches.

Michael Lewis introduces a compelling group of characters and investigates the different approaches baseball amateurs take. The novel provides a compelling narrative about competitive advantage, demonstrating that it is possible to use new knowledge and innovative thinking to overcome bigger competitors in the world of sports.  

The Irishman By Charles Brandt

This book delves into organized crime in America following World War II. The story is told through the perspective of WWII veteran Frank Sheeran, who worked with well-known people, including mob lord Russell Bufalino, after becoming a hitman in the criminal underworld.

This multi-decade tale revolves around the unaccounted-for disappearance of labor leader Jimmy Hoffa. Sheeran's link with organized crime and the illicit side of the business was cleverly mixed with mainstream politics. His career success emerges as one of the turning points, with the US government marking him as one of the top leaders of the criminal network. 

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