Tim Powers "On Stranger Tides"

[Karlo]

Some very interesting news for fans of Tim Powers today; "On Stranger Tides" is going to be made into the next Pirates of the Caribbean movie. This is one of the best Pirate books I've ever read, so I'm quite excited.

I found the notice here: http://thewertzone.blogspot.com/2009/09/...

What do you think of the chances of getting the story transfered well to the silver screen?

[Sarah]

I was wondering how it would feel to have your book optioned but then basically torn up for spare parts. I'm guessing they'll take the plot but bend it around the already existing characters.

That said, as I remember, it was a good plot, which will hopefully make this movie better than both silly sequels to the first one, which was decent.

[Roger]

Sarah Pi wrote: "I was wondering how it would feel to have your book optioned but then basically torn up for spare parts..."

Years ago at a book signing for either that book or "The Stress of Her Regard" (can't remember now, it's been 20 years), my friends and I were able to ask Mr. Powers that question.

His view was that he was paid well for someone to option his story. What that someone wanted to do with it after that wasn't his concern.

[Sarah]

If I had written On Stranger Tides (good romp) and then The Stress of Her Regard (great romp) I would probably be willing to let On Stranger Tides go.

It's probably a healthier attitude toward adaptation than, say, Alan Moore's, in any case.

[Janny]

Karlo wrote: "Some very interesting news for fans of Tim Powers today; "On Stranger Tides" is going to be made into the next Pirates of the Caribbean movie. This is one of the best Pirate books I've ever read, s..."

This is delightful news - not so much for the book, that will be shredded by script and committee, but the fact that Tim was paid/acknowledged for his inspiration. Too many times, stuff like this is just swiped...I know of another writer, recently and totally RIPPED OFF by a major MAJOR producer - found whole scenes and lines of his dialogue lifted, IN THE ADVANCE TRAILER! He's got to chase his pain with lawyers. This happens far, FAR too much. Some film studios even have a "fund" set aside for such cases, in compete expectation the ripped off originator will sue - and banking they won't, and the show goes on.

It is so very refreshing to see Tim given his due.