Heartstopper is a beloved comic that has captured hearts around the globe and is now being adapted into a Netflix series.
Originally created as a webtoon by Alice Oseman, the comics have since been released as graphic novels, of which there are four in total, and they have also inspired two novellas: "Nick and Charlie," and "This Winter."
Heartstopper has sold over one million copies in English, with the first volume translated into 18 other languages and the other three also being released in multiple territories.
Given how popular Oseman's original work is, some fans may be wondering how the Netflix show compares to its source material.
How Does 'Heartstopper' Compare to Alice Oseman's Comics?
Heartstopper follows teens Nick Nelson (Kit Connor) and Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), who meet at their British secondary school when they are put in the same form class.
Charlie is openly gay and has struggled with bullying for years and Nick, who is in the year above him at school, becomes an unlikely friend when he asks the former to join the rugby team as a reserve player.
As they get to know each other and become close friends Charlie starts to develop a crush, while Nick begins to question his sexuality as he also develops feelings for Charlie.
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Netflix's adaptation for the comics tells the story in much the same way, and in fact adapts two Heartstopper volumes in eight episodes.
It is so close to its source material because Oseman herself wrote the scripts and has adapted her own story for television, and was heavily involved behind-the-scenes in aspects such as casting and costumes.
As such, Heartstopper is a rare feat in book-to-screen adaptation because it is an almost perfect replication of the original, in every way.
Whole scenes are filmed in ways that make them almost identical to Oseman's comics that when you compare the two it is entirely possible to see the original as acting as a storyboard for the Netflix show, and the script is largely the same as the original.
In terms of casting, everyone —from Locke to Connor, to Yasmin Finney as Elle, William Gao as Tao Xu, and Jenny Walser as Charlie's sister Tori— is perfect in their roles, and they fit the characters so well it's almost like they stepped out of the page themselves.
Of course, some aspects of the Netflix show are different but these are very minor, and Oseman addressed them herself when the cast were first announced.
In a tweet, she shared that characters like Charlie's younger brother Oliver would not be in the show because there were enough characters, while Charlie's friend Aled was not being included because he is a major character in Radio Silence and his inclusion in Heartstopper would detract from that.
— Alice Oseman Updates (@AliceOseman) April 26, 2021THANK YOU FOR THE AMAZING RESPONSE AAAAA we are so excited!!!!
I am here to answer some FAQs: pic.twitter.com/NIz4W338CZ
In the grand scheme of things Netflix's take on Heartstopper is very much a faithful adaptation of Oseman's work, even with a few characters missing from the original.
Fans who may have concerns about whether Netflix have done a good job of adapting the comics need not fear, it is as accurate and enjoyable an adaptation as it could be.
Heartstopper launches on Netflix on Friday, April 22.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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As a passionate enthusiast with a deep understanding of the topic, let's delve into the world of "Heartstopper," a beloved comic series that has successfully transitioned into a Netflix adaptation. My expertise in this area is backed by an extensive knowledge of both the original webtoon created by Alice Oseman and the subsequent graphic novels and novellas that have captivated audiences globally.
Firstly, Alice Oseman's "Heartstopper" originated as a webtoon, and its popularity led to the release of four graphic novels and two novellas, namely "Nick and Charlie" and "This Winter." The evidence of its widespread acclaim lies in its impressive sales, with over one million copies sold in English alone. Additionally, the translation of the first volume into 18 other languages underscores its global appeal.
The Netflix adaptation of "Heartstopper" retains the essence of Oseman's original work, with the transition from comic to screen being a testament to the creator's commitment to authenticity. Oseman herself wrote the scripts for the adaptation, actively participating in various aspects of production, including casting and costumes. This level of involvement is rare in book-to-screen adaptations, making "Heartstopper" a standout example of a faithful replication of its source material.
The series revolves around the lives of teens Nick Nelson and Charlie Spring, played by Kit Connor and Joe Locke, respectively. Their journey unfolds within the backdrop of a British secondary school, addressing themes of friendship, sexuality, and the challenges faced by an openly gay character in the form of Charlie.
What sets "Heartstopper" apart is its remarkable adherence to the original comics. The Netflix adaptation closely mirrors Oseman's storytelling, even adapting two volumes into eight episodes. The visual representation is so faithful that scenes appear almost identical to those depicted in the comics, making it seem as if the original served as a storyboard for the show.
Notably, the casting choices, including Kit Connor and Joe Locke, along with the portrayal of characters like Elle, Tao Xu, and Charlie's sister Tori by Yasmin Finney, William Gao, and Jenny Walser, respectively, receive acclaim for their perfect fit with the source material. Oseman's tweet addressing minor differences in the adaptation, such as the exclusion of certain characters, further demonstrates her transparency and commitment to maintaining the essence of the story.
In conclusion, "Heartstopper" on Netflix is a commendable adaptation that captures the hearts of both existing fans and newcomers. Despite minor deviations, the series remains a faithful and enjoyable representation of Alice Oseman's original work. For fans concerned about the adaptation's faithfulness, rest assured that Netflix has delivered an accurate and captivating portrayal of "Heartstopper," slated to launch on Friday, April 22.
