Now it's James' turn. In the coming months, three major motion pictures will be released based on the work of that invincibly difficult master of the English language. And there are other Henry James films in development.
Scholars are at work, too.
On the Henry James electronic bulletin board, some 250 scholars and aficionados eagerly exchange gossip and tidbits about the master. James, whose attempts at writing for the stage were a dismal failure, would no doubt be amused to learn that so many of his works are being brought to the screen with big stars and big budgets. There have been Henry James movies, even operas based on his work, but the current spate of adaptations is a new phenomenon. Certainly one reason for filmmakers' interest in Austen, James et al. is the dearth of movies for educated grownups. And most Austen and James novels take place in grand settings, majestic gardens and country houses.