Beowulf…
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First, there was Beowulf, the single major surviving work of Anglo-Saxon heroic poetry. It was much beloved of J.R.R. Tolkien, who lectured on the text and even translated it himself at one point. There were a couple of different adaptations of the book, throughout the years. Then, in 2005, came the live action Beowulf and Grendel which seems to have strayed from the text somewhat. It was filmed on location in Iceland, so at least the scenery looks right.
Beowulf and Grendel (2005) Trailer
Now there is a star-studded, animated version called Beowulf (due in November 2007). Judging by the trailer, it doesn’t seem to follow the story quite as I remember it either. Also, is it just me, or is the animation just close enough to live action to be a bit creepy? (Warning: there is a bit of animated nudity in the trailer.)
Beowulf (2007) Trailer
Well, there you are. Two vastly different adaptations of the same epic poem (one of which is coming soon to a theater near you.) Personally, I’m curious to see what the next adaptation will be like, whenever that happens. It seems that people are still interested in this story, and will likely remain so…”until the dragon comes.” (Tolkien)


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