Currently, there are four distinct adaptations of Mary Norton’s classic children’s novel, The Borrowers, that have been released as full-length movies. These films offer diverse interpretations of the beloved story about tiny people living secretly in the walls of human homes.
A Journey Through Borrower Cinema: The Definitive List
Understanding the variations and unique contributions of each film is key to appreciating the enduring appeal of The Borrowers. Let’s delve into each adaptation individually.
1. The Borrowers (1973): A Charming TV Movie
While technically a TV movie, the 1973 adaptation of The Borrowers, produced by Hallmark Hall of Fame, deserves recognition. This film stars Eddie Albert and Tammy Grimes and provides a fairly faithful representation of the novel. Its relatively simple production values, however, place it more in the category of a family-friendly television event rather than a cinematic blockbuster. It’s a gentle introduction to the world of the Clocks.
2. The Borrowers (1992): A BBC Delight
This is perhaps the closest adaptation to the source material, produced by the BBC. Starring Ian Holm as Pod Clock and Penelope Wilton as Homily Clock, this version boasts strong performances and a meticulous attention to detail. It adheres closely to the original story, focusing on the Clock family’s struggle to survive and their interactions with the human “bean” Arrietty. Its British sensibilities and charm have made it a enduring favorite among fans of the book. Critically acclaimed for its faithful adaptation and production values, it represents a high watermark for Borrower adaptations.
3. The Borrowers (1997): A Star-Studded Adventure
This is likely the most widely recognized cinematic adaptation, boasting a cast featuring John Goodman, Jim Broadbent, Celia Imrie, and Hugh Laurie. While taking considerable liberties with the plot, this version is known for its energetic action sequences and comedic tone. It reimagines the Clocks as a more adventurous family battling a greedy lawyer who wants to demolish their home. Despite straying from the source material, it remains a popular and entertaining family film. The use of special effects to create the scale differences is particularly noteworthy.
4. Arrietty (2010): A Ghibli Masterpiece
This animated masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, titled Karigurashi no Arrietty in Japan and released as Arrietty internationally, offers a visually stunning and emotionally resonant interpretation of The Borrowers. Set in modern-day Japan, the film follows the budding friendship between Arrietty, a young Borrower, and Sho, a human boy with a heart condition. Ghibli’s signature animation style and a focus on themes of environmentalism and empathy make this adaptation a unique and profound experience. This film is considered by many to be the most artistically accomplished of the adaptations. The music, character design, and overall atmosphere are widely praised.
FAQs: Deepening Your Borrower Knowledge
Let’s address some common questions about The Borrowers movies to enhance your understanding of these adaptations.
H3: What makes The Borrowers story so enduring?
The story’s appeal lies in its themes of resourcefulness, family, and the challenges faced by the small and vulnerable. It also taps into our fascination with secret worlds and the hidden lives of those around us. The notion of a society existing alongside our own, unseen and unheard, is inherently captivating. The themes are universal and resonate with audiences of all ages.
H3: Which Borrowers movie is the most faithful adaptation?
Many consider the 1992 BBC adaptation to be the most faithful to Mary Norton’s original novel. It captures the nuances of the characters and the storyline with remarkable accuracy. Its adherence to the source material makes it a favorite among purists.
H3: Is there a sequel to any of The Borrowers movies?
While there haven’t been direct cinematic sequels, Mary Norton wrote several sequels to her original Borrowers novel, exploring further adventures of the Clock family. However, none of these have been adapted into their own feature-length films specifically, though the 1992 BBC miniseries covered some additional material from those books.
H3: Why did the 1997 film take so many liberties with the original story?
The 1997 film aimed for a broader audience and sought to inject more action and comedy into the narrative. This meant simplifying the plot and creating a more overtly adversarial relationship between the Borrowers and the humans. This decision was primarily driven by commercial considerations.
H3: How does Arrietty differ from the other adaptations?
Arrietty is unique in its setting (modern-day Japan), its animation style (Studio Ghibli), and its focus on the emotional connection between Arrietty and Sho. It emphasizes themes of environmental awareness and the importance of empathy and understanding. The film prioritizes atmosphere and emotional resonance over strict adherence to the plot.
H3: Where can I watch The Borrowers movies?
Availability varies depending on your region and streaming services. Popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ sometimes carry different versions. Check local listings and streaming options for the most up-to-date information. Libraries often hold DVD copies as well.
H3: Who are some of the most memorable Borrower characters?
Pod Clock, the resourceful and skilled father, Homily Clock, the anxious and caring mother, and Arrietty, the curious and adventurous daughter, are all iconic characters. Supporting characters like Spiller (often depicted as a wild Borrower) and the human boy who discovers them are also memorable. Each adaptation puts its own spin on these well-loved characters.
H3: What is the significance of the name “Clock” in the story?
The Clock family name, along with other Borrower names like “Hendreary” (heard-near-by) and “Overmantel,” reflects their reliance on human society for survival. These names are derived from objects and words associated with human life. The names themselves are a subtle commentary on their existence.
H3: Are there any common themes across all Borrowers adaptations?
Yes, several themes recur across all adaptations, including: the importance of family, the struggle for survival, the tension between the small and the large, and the potential for friendship between different worlds. These themes are central to the story’s enduring appeal.
H3: How do the special effects differ across the various films?
The 1973 TV movie relied on relatively simple techniques. The 1992 BBC adaptation used practical effects and forced perspective to create the illusion of scale. The 1997 film employed more sophisticated visual effects, including CGI, to blend the Borrowers seamlessly into the human world. Arrietty, as an animated film, showcases the artistry and detail of Studio Ghibli’s animation style. Each film reflects the technological capabilities of its time.
H3: Why is Mary Norton’s book considered a classic?
The Borrowers is considered a classic due to its imaginative world-building, its relatable characters, and its exploration of universal themes. It’s a timeless story that continues to resonate with readers and viewers of all ages. Its blend of fantasy and realism is particularly effective.
H3: Beyond movies, where else can I find Borrowers content?
Besides the movies and the original novels, you can find Borrowers content in the form of: audiobooks, stage adaptations, and fan fiction. The story’s enduring popularity has led to a variety of creative interpretations. Consider exploring these avenues to deepen your appreciation for The Borrowers universe.
By exploring these adaptations and understanding their nuances, you can fully appreciate the magic and enduring appeal of The Borrowers.