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The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981): Film vs Book
Film · 1981 · Directed by Bob Rafelson · Starring Jack Nicholson, Jessica Lange
About the film
A new, more open screen version of the story of a drifter, a diner and a dangerous attraction.
How close is it to the book?
Close to the bookThe film follows the book's story more frankly than the earlier version, and its slower pace gives the leads room to show the pull between them.
Read or watch first?
The book is lean and fast, with a voice that does not apologise.
What the book gives you
The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain
A tight, lean thriller you can read in one sitting, full of passion and suspense.
Who will like it: Readers who like fast, dark, noir stories with a sharp twist.