Mar 11 2008
Jodi Picoult: My Sister’s Keeper
Aaron Crocco has an interesting post regarding Jodi Picoult, the author of My Sister’s Keeper, and the producer who is making the book into a film. Apparently, the producer wants a different ending for the film than what Picoult wrote in the book.
Understandably, Picoult doesn’t agree with the decision and is taking an aggressive stance against the producer’s decision. Check out Aaron’s blog for full details and how you can help Picoult.
Though I understand Picoult dissatisfaction, I can’t help but sympathize with the producer. If the signed contract indicates that he has final script approval, then he is exercising his right to do what he thinks is best for the movie. For creative and box office reasons, movies rarely stick to the book.
Obviously, I’m not privy to the contract Picoult signed, but if my book is ever made into a movie I’d make sure that I have some creative control. That said, I realize that most producers would shy away from working with me.
I wish Picoult luck. If you want to be part of her movement, click over to Aaron’s blog for details.
I think that Jodi Picoult has certainly “paid her dues” in the industry–she’s a multi-bestselling author, after all.
What does paying dues have to do with the fact that the contract *may* say that the producer has creative control? Writing is a business. Making movies is a business. One shouldn’t sign a contract and then try to change the rules in the middle of the game.