Abstract: This dissertation introduces adaptation studies to the readers, and focuses on the language and essence difference between film and novel. Also it does specific analysis on “The Great Gatsby” (2013) on the base of those differences and its own characteristics, and pays more attention on its “loss” part when the film is compared to the original. Moreover, the author hopes that readers of this dissertation – especially those who have already read “The Great Gatsby” will be better equipped to recognize the singular achievements of this production. It is hoped they will experience a quite different and wonderful journey in the cinema, mindful of the ideas and context introduced to them here.

Key words: film adaptation; novel adaptation; The Great Gatsby; loss

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction1

  1.1. A brief introduction to Adaptation Studies 

  1.2. A very brief introduction of The Great Gatsby – the novel and its latest rendition in film

2. Potential losses in adapting novels to films...2

   2.1. Superficial losses

   2.2. The more ‘Impossible’ elements, when translating this novel to the screen

       2.2.1. Films’ limitations when compared to novels

       2.2.2. Inevitable language difference between the novel and the film

   2.3. Theme losses  

3. Shining points in the film that no novel could be able to emulate7

4. Conclusion.8

Bibliography.1

Acknowledgements..11