Compared with the original novel, the film version adapts the story more tenderly, and Buck also shows more tenderness and loyalty. Although he was sold to Alaska, he still left traces of civilization (giving harmonica to the elderly). In the team, I have always been thinking about the dog and uniting everyone with warmth. It is more in line with the image of a loyal dog and a good dog in everyone's mind.
In the original work, the “rule of big sticks and fangs” in the wilderness environment and the cruel reality of the strong eating of the weak are reflected everywhere. Buck also appeared more animalistic. After being arrested and abused, he has been aroused to some animalism (tempered, irritable, and forced to hit the trap box. In the team, it is not warmth and unity, but witty provocation. Moreover, in the original book, the dog that fails the duel will be Eaten by other huskies.
"This is the situation here. There is no justice at all. Once you get down, you are dead."
"This further shows the degradation or extinction of its moral nature. In the arduous struggle for survival, the moral nature is a useless thing or an obstacle."
Therefore, the original book emphasizes the sinister law of the jungle and Buck's process of gradually abandoning civilization and restoring animality. The film focuses more on the emotional story between it and the old man, including adding details of its interaction with the old man in the plot (the first two encounters, taking a boat out for adventure), making the film more tender and suitable for all ages. Although not as profound as the original, it is still a successful adaptation.
However, the plot of the white man chasing the old man is a bit weak (the old man was killed by the native Indians). Although it is understandable that this was modified to avoid the suspicion of racial discrimination in the original, the plot is still a bit far-fetched logically.
In general, it is worth seeing. By the way, I recommend the original novel (Nouvelle, not long).
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