Jennifer Aniston Watch

Many of Jen’s films, both past and rumored for the future, are based upon prior works of fiction. This presents a unique challenge, as many who have read a given book already have imagined the characters in their own way, and it is quite difficult for all involved with the film to satisfy such expectations. When done well, though, adaptations hold up brilliantly on their own. Here are a few that Jen either has been a part of, or may possibly do in the future:

The Object Of My Affection This film is based upon Stephen MacCauley’s 1987 novel about Nina Borowski, a feminist social worker whose closest friendship is with George, her gay roommate. Complications ensue when Nina becomes pregnant by her boyfriend, but wants to raise the child with George. Jen was an ideal choice for the role, as the combination of warmth and independence that is evident in Nina comes naturally to her, and she suits the bohemian look that is often brought up as one of Nina’s quirks. She and costar Paul Rudd also had the opportunity to show off some fancy footwork years before Dancing With The Stars made it commonplace. The script did not delve into Nina’s politics as much as the novel did, but through the perfect pairing of Jen and Paul in the leads, the film captured the heart of the story.

Derailed Many doubted Jen’s ability to convincingly play troubled beauty Lucinda Harris in this adaptation of James Siegel’s hit thriller (for more on thrillers, see Fiction Scribe’s interview with crime fiction author Elsa Neal). As Jen had made her name in comedy, she did not seem like an obvious choice for the dramatic role; furthermore, in the novel Lucinda is described as a dark brunette, and coming off of production for Rumor Has It, Jen did not quite look the part. However, Jen committed to the role, not only having her hair cut and dyed to match Lucinda’s, but diving right into the deep end with some harrowing scenes that would challenge an actress of any genre. She brought a deeper humanity to the role than the stereotype of the femme fatale would indicate, and in doing so she not only fulfilled but surpassed the original idea of the character.

Rumored adaptations

Wanted As I mentioned last week, it seems that Jen is signed to play framed Texas police officer Diane Wellman in an adaptation of Kim Wozencraft’s Wanted. This production has seen many delays, but I would like to remain hopeful that it will happen, as I am certain that Jen will shine in the part.

Grace and Grit Jen and her production partners are also rumored to be in talks with Ken Wilber’s Integral Institute about a film adaptation of his nonfiction work Grace and Grit, about his wife Treya’s struggle with breast cancer and her spiritual journey. It is unclear whether Jen will star in the film or work behind the scenes, but it does seem that either way, she will have an active voice in nurturing the concept. This book is a favorite of mine, and an adaptation will do wonders in expanding the audience for Wilber’s philosophy.

Adaptations, fiction, nonfiction, Jennifer Aniston, Object of My Affection, Derailed, Wanted, Grace and Grit, Ken Wilber, Kim Wozencraft, James Siegel, Stephen MacCauley