Exceeds the Book on so many levels

Rating: 9/10 (9 October 2006)

I don't even know if you could call the original source a novel. It was pretty much the author venting about her days at Vogue and thinly disguising it. There was no character development, it was way too long, and Miranda Priestley was just a cardboard cut-out of evil.
The movie is a totally different animal. And that is a good thing. It brings perspective to other characters in the novel, Nigel (Stanley Tucci), Emily (forgot the name of the actress) and especially Miranda (the one, the only, MERYL STREEP). The screenplay cuts out many plot lines from the book and mainly focuses on Andy's relationship with Miranda and the fashion world with occasional glimpses to life she's slowly leaving behind.
Anne Hathaway makes the most of a rather thankless character who we just as use as a guide into the fabulous world of "Runway" rather than look at her as a real person. Which, believe it or not, is a step up from the book which portrays Andy as a complaining brat. The supporting cast is spectacular, the movie is beautifully shot, the clothes and jewelery are incredible, and the soundtrack is great. There are many fantastic one-liners that you won't get in the over 300 page book.
The montages and wardrobe are worth the price of admission alone. Do yourself a favor and just watch the movie instead of reading the book. It is MUCH more rewarding.