The Case for More Film Adaptations

Whilst many may decry the number of adaptations out of Hollywood rather than original stories for the screen, the importance and value of adaptations from non-film stories in national cinemas outside of Hollywood is more compelling.

Screen Australia researcher and former MA student at the AFTRS centre for screen business, Matt Hancock, produced an important research paper late last year that is beginning to ring bells in the Australian film industry and even prompted a feature session at the Australian Writers Festival on the value of adaptations. 

Matt’s paper, entitled “Mitigating Risk; the case for more adaptations in Australian cinema” poses hard questions about why the rates of film adaptations in Australia are so low compared to other western countries and why reversing this trend may be the most important thing the Australian film industry can do to garner some sustainability.

The full paper is available below and makes for an fascinating read for any writer, producer or director looking to assemble a vibrant and viable slate of productions.