Novel-To-Film Screenplay Adaptation of Women Talking from A Radical Libertarian Feminism Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24114/8kedj606Abstract
This research analyzes Miriam Toews’ Women Talking (2018) and Sarah Polley’s film adaptation (2022) through the lens of radical libertarian feminism. Using qualitative textual analysis, it explores feminist representations within narration, dialogue, and monologue. Guided by Rosemary Tong’s (2009) framework covering androgyny, sex/gender system, sexuality, pornography, lesbianism, and reproduction. The findings from 110 data points reveal that androgyny (41.8%), sex/gender system (34.5%), and reproduction (23.6%) are the most dominant themes. These elements highlight women’s resistance to patriarchy, redefinition of gender identity, and questioning of reproductive roles. The study also applies Geoffrey Wagner’s (1975) adaptation theory, identifying transposition (74.5%) and commentary (25.5%) as the main approaches used, with no analogy detected. Polley’s adaptation maintains the novel’s core feminist message while offering interpretive depth, especially in expressing androgyny and gender resistance. Overall, the research contributes to feminist literary and adaptation studies by showing how radical libertarian feminism is sustained and amplified through cinematic transformation.
Keywords: Adaptation; Novel-to-Film Screenplay; Radical Libertarian Feminism
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