Talk's Cheap, Action's Expensive - The Films of Robert L. Lippert

by Mark Thomas McGee

Jules Verne's most famous novel was originally conceived as a play-and had its greatest 19th century success as a stage hit the author himself adapted. Running for thousands of performances in many different countries, including the United States, here is the original playscript, translated directly from the French by the producers of the original Broadway presentation, not published since 1874. Like filmmakers after him, Verne understood the need to make changes for the stage, and in collaboration with Adolphe d'Ennery created a distinct variation, a play with many different characters and episodes than are in the novel. Included in this volume is an introduction about how the play was created and staged, together with the first translation of Verne's essay, "The Meridians and the Calendar," explaining how Phileas Fogg accomplished his feat.

314 pages, Hardcover

Published February 28, 2014

Reviews

[Shawn Deal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here is an incredible version of the classic novel set into play form. Very accessible and fun to perform. This would make a great play to do at either the high school, college or community theatre level. As fantastic and fun as either the book or classic movie.

[Steve Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jules Verne, of course, wrote in French and the compilers of this volume have gone to amazingly great lengths to obtain and present original 19th century English translated material. They also supplied a duo of enlightening essays outlining the metamorphosis of the yarn be it on printed page, on stage or on screen. An abundance of rare engravings, postcards, caricatures, photos, advertisements, programs, posters and even stereograms round out the supplemental material.

In Americanized theatrical form, Around the World in 80 Days is a fine read as both an introduction to the famed exploits of Phileas Fogg and as a fresh look at an old favorite. It would even make a good first taste of Verne period.

A genuine treat.

[Nathan]

Enjoyable classic worth reading.