Must Watch, Must Read - Lucy Garvie

Favourite Book : The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini (2003)

This story follows the character Amir and is mainly set within Kabul, Afghanistan. I love novels that have a historical context, and the author’s descriptive writing makes the book come to life. It begins by recalling his comfortable life in Kabul as a young boy and focuses upon the relationship with his Father, Baba and his servant but also his best friend, Hassan. The story follows the deterioration of Amir and Hassan’s friendship due to the inability of Amir to save him in an act of cowardice. The novel closes with Amir seeking redemption through rescuing Hassan’s son, Sohrab. Although this novel portrays the brutality of human relationships, I find this novel thought provoking and universal.

Favourite Film : Romeo and Juliet  by Baz Luhrmann

This film is based upon the classic love story, and I’m a big fan of a good romantic movie. The lead role is played by Leonardo di Caprio, which makes the decision easier too! However, it is the distinctive style of Baz Luhrmann that makes this film my all time favourite. His use of cinematic production to capture the theatrical aspects of what was originally written to be performed upon the stage sets this film apart from the rest. I think it’s a style that you either love or hate, but I’ve enjoyed his other films such as his adaptations of both Moulin Rouge and more recently, Great Gatsby. For me, it’s no wonder why Baz Luhrmann has been called upon to reproduce these classic stories.