Animal Farm (1954): Film vs Book

About the film

An animated fable of farm animals who take over their farm and try to build a fair society.

How close is it to the book?

The film follows the outline of the fable but makes notable changes to its message. The book is sharper and more political.

Read or watch first?

Watch it as a piece of animation history, read the book for its famously plain, bitter prose.

What the book gives you

Animal Farm by George Orwell

A short, clever fable that is quick to read and rich to discuss. You get a memorable story and a fresh view on how societies and leaders work.

Who will like it: Readers who like short, sharp stories with big ideas, ideal for book clubs and classrooms.