Deviating from the book

Rating: 5/10 (30 March 2009)

The original book of "The Beach" was an original work which when written in the late 90's was set in a slightly fictional world aimed at contrasting the filthy vibrancy of Bangkok with the peace and unspoilt tranquillity of the Islands of Thailand Surat Thani Province. What a shame the latter no longer exists having been overrun by commercialism and high-cost tourism!
Casting is very competent, most notably Carlile as "Mickey Mouse" who combines quirky with disturbed in exactly the right proportions. Less able, however is Di Caprio himself - his novice truly shows, and it is fortunate that his performances have improved steadily since the making of this film.
What a shame the film goes all "Hollywood" on us in introducing an intimate relationship between Richard (Di Caprio) and Francoise. Although an integral part of the film, nothing of this sort happened in the book, and the original story was a lot richer for it.
However, the book was ruined by arguably the most pitiful ending Garland has ever penned. Indeed, the most implausible and ridiculous ending of any book I think I've ever read. So I was VERY relieved to see that the film introduced a completely new ending, which I bet left the author wishing he'd had the vision to end the book in that way too!