Conflict resolution is what I do...

Rating: 10/10 (1 September 2003)

(Probably spoilers)
I watched the movie when it came out with some mates and we all thought it was great.
A year later I read the book, and at that point thought I should carry it around on my person for any essential quick references. Then I realised that would be the behaviour of a nerd, and besides, my pockets just weren't big enough.
I mean the book's a 10/10, and the movie is probably a 9/10.
A lot of fans of the book were up in arms at the movie being set in the US instead of England, but after watching John (& Joan) Cusack and Jack Black's performances, not many were left complaining.
So where did the extra 1/10 go then?
Well, firstly the soundtrack. Did they run out of money? This movie had the ability to be perfect, and the soundtrack is really good, don't get me wrong- I just think they had the opportunity to weave in some of the greatest songs of all time, and instead just put in some good ones. We Are the Champions by Queen was a really good touch though.
Secondly, how about the softening of Nick Hornsby's book and the characters? They left out Rob refusing to buy some guy's entire record collection from an annoyed ex-wife, though probably a time issue. But they changed the end. In the book, he doesn't propose to his girlfriend; he proposes to the girl writing the column who he doesn't know that well.
Apart from that, flawless as a movie, and very good as an adaption.