Movie or Book - Which Do You Do First?

Have you noticed all the movies now days that originated from books.  I guess there have always been some - but there seems to be an over-abundance of them lately.  I'm not totally complaining - just a little!!!

As a teacher, I find that the books to movies movement takes away some of the imagination that is built when students create that movie in their mind - the imagery that is created from reading a book.  I know that there are others that would argue the reverse - that the movies aid students in creating that image, but to me it is not the same.  Although, I know for some students, this is needed.  For some it is a crutch.  

You see, this is where some of my friends and I differ.  I often rush to read the books before the movie.  Enjoying the comparison as I watch.  Others will watch the movie, and get more enjoyment in reading the book afterward.  I guess there is no real "right way" to do it - just a point-of-view!!!


As I said, this is not a real complaint.  I do enjoy watching many of these movies myself.  I have gone to see The Hunger Games (loved it!!), all of the Harry Potter and Twilight movies that have been out.  I watched The Help, many Nicolas Sparks movies, The Lorax, and so many others.  And, I will probably keep going to see them.  I am after all looking forward to the second part of Breaking Dawn, also The Hobbit, and the new Nicolas Sparks film coming out.


I honestly decided to write this post just to get a discussion going.  I want to hear what others have to say, which way they prefer - movie first, or book first.  Offer me your 2-cents.