🎙 Douglas Vigliotti compares David Benioff’s novel "The 25th Hour" with its film adaptation directed by Spike Lee for another edition of “Novel vs Movie”. He explores the story of Monty Brogan, a drug dealer facing his last day of freedom, and discusses themes of regret, nostalgia, relationships, and the consequences of choices. Vigliotti highlights differences between the book’s pre-9/11 setting and the film’s post-9/11 New York, praising both versions but favoring one for a broader perspective and emotional depth. In any case, he highly recommends both the novel and the film.

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🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #167: City of Thieves | David Benioff!

🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #230 | Is ’No Country for Old Men’ a Better Novel or Movie? Cormac McCarthy’s Masterpiece vs. The Coen Brothers Oscar-Winning Adaptation!

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction & Episode Overview (00:09) - Host introduces the "Novel vs. Movie" theme, outlines the episode's focus on "25th Hour," and mentions the newsletter.
• About David Benioff & His Works (01:24) - Background on author David Benioff, his novels, and his role in "Game of Thrones."
• Movie Adaptation & Cast (02:26) - Discussion of the film adaptation, its cast, and standout performances, especially Tony Siragusa.
• Spike Lee’s Filmography & New York Crime Novels (03:27) - Mentions Spike Lee’s notable films and other New York City crime novels.
• Plot Summary & Main Character (04:31) - Overview of "25th Hour" plot, focusing on Monty Brogan’s last day before prison.
• Themes & Book vs. Movie Differences (05:43) - Explores themes of regret, nostalgia, and the major difference: the film’s post-9/11 setting.
• Iconic Mirror Scene & Cinematic Achievements (07:00) - Highlights the film’s famous mirror monologue and its cinematic impact.
• Character Focus & Tonal Comparison (08:04) - Compares the novel’s interiority with the film’s broader character focus and discusses the tone.
• Endings & Personal Preference (09:19) - Contrasts the book’s open ending with the film’s directness; host shares preference for the film.
• Favorite Book Quote & Closing Thoughts (10:24) - Shares a favorite quote from the novel, offers final thoughts, and encourages reading and watching both versions.
• Outro & Listener Engagement (11:25) - Thanks listeners, promotes the host’s new book, and provides ways to connect and sign up for the newsletter.