Da-da-da-daaaah, da-da-da-daaaah

(That is a famous passage from Beethoven’s 5th symphony, BTW.)

Yep. It’s here. It’s tonight. And I am supposed to get a lot of writing done today. (insert hysterical giggling)

Games to play while watching SPEAK movie: (9pm EST on Showtime (which I can’t afford) & Lifetime (aka “The Estrogen Channel”) check local listings for Midwest and West coast)

1. count how many times Melinda speaks.
2. watch for lines that came from the book.
3. figure out what famous teen movie the director paid homage to in one of the cafeteria scenes.
4. if you live in Ohio and were one of the extras, look for yourself on screen.
5. throw popcorn at the TV whenever IT shows up.
6. figure out what scenes were NOT in the book.
7. speculate on why the director chose the ending she did.

I know some of you are not going to like the movie as much as the book. That’s cool. When you post here to complain, give me REASONS why you didn’t like it as much. Same with those of you who really like the movie – let me know your favorite scenes!!! Which characters looked like you imagined? Which didn’t seem to fit at all? Which actors deserve Oscars for their performances? Did anybody really stink?

My Menu Suggestions…. food with ties to SPEAK:
Ho-Hos
Mashed potatoes
Powdered doughnuts
Pop-Tarts (thank you for reminding me!)
Very bad turkey soup
Pizza

If have read CATALYST in addition to SPEAK, award yourself five points and add these to your menu:
Jello salad
Cheetos

Did I forget anything? What are you eating at your party?

Here are a couple photos my daughter took while we were on the movie set.

If you really want to dissect the movie and you forgot/can’t tape or Tivo it, the DVD comes out at the end of September.

Roll tape!

204 Replies to “Da-da-da-daaaah, da-da-da-daaaah”

  1. There will be a DVD?!?!?! I love you Laurie! *goes into spazmatic crying fit*
    I can’t wait!!! Its tonight! Wee!

    Wow. Why do I get the feeling your in the same kind of mood?

  2. There will be a DVD?!?!?! I love you Laurie! *goes into spazmatic crying fit*
    I can’t wait!!! Its tonight! Wee!

    Wow. Why do I get the feeling your in the same kind of mood?

  3. There will be a DVD?!?!?! I love you Laurie! *goes into spazmatic crying fit*
    I can’t wait!!! Its tonight! Wee!

    Wow. Why do I get the feeling your in the same kind of mood?

  4. Seeing that picture of all the kids in the gym really makes me sick that school is tomorrow. And for another 40 weeks. At least after that it’ll be over. I really hate pep rallies.

  5. Seeing that picture of all the kids in the gym really makes me sick that school is tomorrow. And for another 40 weeks. At least after that it’ll be over. I really hate pep rallies.

  6. Seeing that picture of all the kids in the gym really makes me sick that school is tomorrow. And for another 40 weeks. At least after that it’ll be over. I really hate pep rallies.

  7. I can’t Wait to sit in front of the TV tonight!

    OMG! We have been camping at Herkimer Diamond Mines this weekend, but Dave had to come home to work and I HAD to come home to watch Speak!(For those of you in the Oswego area, Lifetime is channel 30 on TimeWarner) Laura (friend, neighbor who started ShopTalk at rivers end) and I are really pumped for this movie. I saw the article in the Post Standard with you on the front of the CNY section…. very cool! The resemblance to someone else in your family is uncanny! Say Hi to the BH and CWF and the rest of the gang! I’ll post my thoughts on the movie tomorrow along with everyone else. Enjoy the day… it looks wonderful 🙂

  8. I can’t Wait to sit in front of the TV tonight!

    OMG! We have been camping at Herkimer Diamond Mines this weekend, but Dave had to come home to work and I HAD to come home to watch Speak!(For those of you in the Oswego area, Lifetime is channel 30 on TimeWarner) Laura (friend, neighbor who started ShopTalk at rivers end) and I are really pumped for this movie. I saw the article in the Post Standard with you on the front of the CNY section…. very cool! The resemblance to someone else in your family is uncanny! Say Hi to the BH and CWF and the rest of the gang! I’ll post my thoughts on the movie tomorrow along with everyone else. Enjoy the day… it looks wonderful 🙂

  9. I can’t Wait to sit in front of the TV tonight!

    OMG! We have been camping at Herkimer Diamond Mines this weekend, but Dave had to come home to work and I HAD to come home to watch Speak!(For those of you in the Oswego area, Lifetime is channel 30 on TimeWarner) Laura (friend, neighbor who started ShopTalk at rivers end) and I are really pumped for this movie. I saw the article in the Post Standard with you on the front of the CNY section…. very cool! The resemblance to someone else in your family is uncanny! Say Hi to the BH and CWF and the rest of the gang! I’ll post my thoughts on the movie tomorrow along with everyone else. Enjoy the day… it looks wonderful 🙂

  10. movie;-)!

    OMG i’m so excited for speak:-)! can’t wait 2 watch it. only *looks at watch* 12 hours and 11 minutes to go:-)! ahhh! i’m gonna take your list and put it in my LJ & xanga ok? then i can get all my friends pumped up for speak too:-)! i saw the ad last night (i was watching another lifetime movie) and really liked it:-)! (does the time where melinda says “it happened” count as one of the times she speaks? oh wait never mind. no it doesn’t because that’s in her head. sorry.) i’m gonna try and have mashed potatoes and chee-tos (if we have them) and pop-tarts and ho-hos and i hope pizza:-). what are you having at your party? can’t wait to hear about it:-)! and i’ll leave you a comment either tonight (after the movie) or tomorrow (after school and homework:-(). break a leg tonight:-)! -ash 🙂
    p.s. i looked at the shots and knew that the one woman in the picture with kristen stewart was you all along:-)! so i thought you’d have a small part in the movie even before you said something:-)!

  11. movie;-)!

    OMG i’m so excited for speak:-)! can’t wait 2 watch it. only *looks at watch* 12 hours and 11 minutes to go:-)! ahhh! i’m gonna take your list and put it in my LJ & xanga ok? then i can get all my friends pumped up for speak too:-)! i saw the ad last night (i was watching another lifetime movie) and really liked it:-)! (does the time where melinda says “it happened” count as one of the times she speaks? oh wait never mind. no it doesn’t because that’s in her head. sorry.) i’m gonna try and have mashed potatoes and chee-tos (if we have them) and pop-tarts and ho-hos and i hope pizza:-). what are you having at your party? can’t wait to hear about it:-)! and i’ll leave you a comment either tonight (after the movie) or tomorrow (after school and homework:-(). break a leg tonight:-)! -ash 🙂
    p.s. i looked at the shots and knew that the one woman in the picture with kristen stewart was you all along:-)! so i thought you’d have a small part in the movie even before you said something:-)!

  12. movie;-)!

    OMG i’m so excited for speak:-)! can’t wait 2 watch it. only *looks at watch* 12 hours and 11 minutes to go:-)! ahhh! i’m gonna take your list and put it in my LJ & xanga ok? then i can get all my friends pumped up for speak too:-)! i saw the ad last night (i was watching another lifetime movie) and really liked it:-)! (does the time where melinda says “it happened” count as one of the times she speaks? oh wait never mind. no it doesn’t because that’s in her head. sorry.) i’m gonna try and have mashed potatoes and chee-tos (if we have them) and pop-tarts and ho-hos and i hope pizza:-). what are you having at your party? can’t wait to hear about it:-)! and i’ll leave you a comment either tonight (after the movie) or tomorrow (after school and homework:-(). break a leg tonight:-)! -ash 🙂
    p.s. i looked at the shots and knew that the one woman in the picture with kristen stewart was you all along:-)! so i thought you’d have a small part in the movie even before you said something:-)!

  13. I wish I could have a party. But, it’ll just be my mom and I. Though, all my friends that I converted to Speak Love will be watching tonight. I am so excited, for all the times I’ve read the book, I’ll make sure to give you a good review.

    -salutes-

  14. I wish I could have a party. But, it’ll just be my mom and I. Though, all my friends that I converted to Speak Love will be watching tonight. I am so excited, for all the times I’ve read the book, I’ll make sure to give you a good review.

    -salutes-

  15. I wish I could have a party. But, it’ll just be my mom and I. Though, all my friends that I converted to Speak Love will be watching tonight. I am so excited, for all the times I’ve read the book, I’ll make sure to give you a good review.

    -salutes-

  16. Time to TiVo it.

    Gah, I had a very, very, very bad feeling that things would be cut.

    If have read CATALYST in addition to SPEAK, award yourself five points and add these to your menu:
    Jello salad
    Cheetos

    Yay! Five more points! What now?!
    =)

  17. Time to TiVo it.

    Gah, I had a very, very, very bad feeling that things would be cut.

    If have read CATALYST in addition to SPEAK, award yourself five points and add these to your menu:
    Jello salad
    Cheetos

    Yay! Five more points! What now?!
    =)

  18. Time to TiVo it.

    Gah, I had a very, very, very bad feeling that things would be cut.

    If have read CATALYST in addition to SPEAK, award yourself five points and add these to your menu:
    Jello salad
    Cheetos

    Yay! Five more points! What now?!
    =)

  19. In honor of this movie, and for the livejournalers who use colorbars:


    Made by:

    Code?

    I’d like to know what you think =)

  20. In honor of this movie, and for the livejournalers who use colorbars:


    Made by:

    Code?

    I’d like to know what you think =)

  21. In honor of this movie, and for the livejournalers who use colorbars:


    Made by:

    Code?

    I’d like to know what you think =)

  22. Just thought of something – if you’ve read PROM, too, you get and extra six points and you get to add ravioli to the menu!

  23. Just thought of something – if you’ve read PROM, too, you get and extra six points and you get to add ravioli to the menu!

  24. Just thought of something – if you’ve read PROM, too, you get and extra six points and you get to add ravioli to the menu!

  25. I’ve been waiting all summer for this movie.

    I have a question, if I sent you my copy of Speak-would you autograph it? I know that you do signings when you go around tour at schools but I’m not in high school and it is probably unlikely that you would ever just show up at my college.

    Please let me know 🙂

  26. I’ve been waiting all summer for this movie.

    I have a question, if I sent you my copy of Speak-would you autograph it? I know that you do signings when you go around tour at schools but I’m not in high school and it is probably unlikely that you would ever just show up at my college.

    Please let me know 🙂

  27. I’ve been waiting all summer for this movie.

    I have a question, if I sent you my copy of Speak-would you autograph it? I know that you do signings when you go around tour at schools but I’m not in high school and it is probably unlikely that you would ever just show up at my college.

    Please let me know 🙂

  28. From one of Mer’s roomies!

    I am VERY amused by you friending me on the day of the SPEAK party! I can’t wait to see it, though I admit to being a bit disgruntled about not being able to read it first. >.< I'm definately a reader, not a movie watcher. Not sure if I can stomach Ho-hos and pizza at the same time, but we'll see! If I can't, you'll probably hear about it from Mer!

    May your jitters be at ease,
    Kristen

  29. From one of Mer’s roomies!

    I am VERY amused by you friending me on the day of the SPEAK party! I can’t wait to see it, though I admit to being a bit disgruntled about not being able to read it first. >.< I'm definately a reader, not a movie watcher. Not sure if I can stomach Ho-hos and pizza at the same time, but we'll see! If I can't, you'll probably hear about it from Mer!

    May your jitters be at ease,
    Kristen

  30. From one of Mer’s roomies!

    I am VERY amused by you friending me on the day of the SPEAK party! I can’t wait to see it, though I admit to being a bit disgruntled about not being able to read it first. >.< I'm definately a reader, not a movie watcher. Not sure if I can stomach Ho-hos and pizza at the same time, but we'll see! If I can't, you'll probably hear about it from Mer!

    May your jitters be at ease,
    Kristen

  31. Yo people. I cant wait for Speak to come on tonight!The book was great.A little creepy but AWSOME!!!!Im gonna take a bowl of popcorn up to my room,curl up on the bed with my dog(warm and snug)and watch Speak until my eyes fall out! Or until the movie ends.Which ever comes first! I hope everyone is as happy as me! Have FUN tonight!
    Beatle Lover

  32. Yo people. I cant wait for Speak to come on tonight!The book was great.A little creepy but AWSOME!!!!Im gonna take a bowl of popcorn up to my room,curl up on the bed with my dog(warm and snug)and watch Speak until my eyes fall out! Or until the movie ends.Which ever comes first! I hope everyone is as happy as me! Have FUN tonight!
    Beatle Lover

  33. Yo people. I cant wait for Speak to come on tonight!The book was great.A little creepy but AWSOME!!!!Im gonna take a bowl of popcorn up to my room,curl up on the bed with my dog(warm and snug)and watch Speak until my eyes fall out! Or until the movie ends.Which ever comes first! I hope everyone is as happy as me! Have FUN tonight!
    Beatle Lover

  34. ravioli, cheetos, pizza, mashed potatoes, powdered donuts, pop-tarts, ho hos…

    OMG I AM SOO GLAD ITS COMMING OUT ON DVD!!! cuz my town doesn’t have cable and i don’t have satalite. Maybe i’ll just get all the food anyways…

    in the pictures your daughter took, who is the guy on the bottom, far right?

    Didn’t melinda have applesauce too?? in the little cups at school??? I remember. _heartsong_

  35. ravioli, cheetos, pizza, mashed potatoes, powdered donuts, pop-tarts, ho hos…

    OMG I AM SOO GLAD ITS COMMING OUT ON DVD!!! cuz my town doesn’t have cable and i don’t have satalite. Maybe i’ll just get all the food anyways…

    in the pictures your daughter took, who is the guy on the bottom, far right?

    Didn’t melinda have applesauce too?? in the little cups at school??? I remember. _heartsong_

  36. ravioli, cheetos, pizza, mashed potatoes, powdered donuts, pop-tarts, ho hos…

    OMG I AM SOO GLAD ITS COMMING OUT ON DVD!!! cuz my town doesn’t have cable and i don’t have satalite. Maybe i’ll just get all the food anyways…

    in the pictures your daughter took, who is the guy on the bottom, far right?

    Didn’t melinda have applesauce too?? in the little cups at school??? I remember. _heartsong_

  37. THAATS HAWT.

    So glad it’s comming out on DVD. My town doesn’t have cable and I don’t have satelite.
    Didn’t Melinda have applesauce too?!?!
    I imagined the art room to have big wooden tables and a window to let lots of muggy air and light in and light bluish walls and a metal desk. and a old radio. Can’t wait to see what it looks likee

  38. THAATS HAWT.

    So glad it’s comming out on DVD. My town doesn’t have cable and I don’t have satelite.
    Didn’t Melinda have applesauce too?!?!
    I imagined the art room to have big wooden tables and a window to let lots of muggy air and light in and light bluish walls and a metal desk. and a old radio. Can’t wait to see what it looks likee

  39. THAATS HAWT.

    So glad it’s comming out on DVD. My town doesn’t have cable and I don’t have satelite.
    Didn’t Melinda have applesauce too?!?!
    I imagined the art room to have big wooden tables and a window to let lots of muggy air and light in and light bluish walls and a metal desk. and a old radio. Can’t wait to see what it looks likee

  40. I’ll be watching and taping tonight on Lifetime!

    As for a party it is just going to be my mom and I and I am going to be ordering from the town Cafe- bunch of foods that remind me of Speak.

    I cannot wait. Only about 4 hours. I hope the movie does the book justice!

  41. I’ll be watching and taping tonight on Lifetime!

    As for a party it is just going to be my mom and I and I am going to be ordering from the town Cafe- bunch of foods that remind me of Speak.

    I cannot wait. Only about 4 hours. I hope the movie does the book justice!

  42. I’ll be watching and taping tonight on Lifetime!

    As for a party it is just going to be my mom and I and I am going to be ordering from the town Cafe- bunch of foods that remind me of Speak.

    I cannot wait. Only about 4 hours. I hope the movie does the book justice!

  43. I don’t know if this fits here…but here are some thoughts: Laurie, you asked people to leave comments about what they liked/did not like about he movie. As i ponder this…and as I have yet to see the moive, i was thinking about parts of the book they may have cut from the movie…such as….Melinda trying on jeans at her mom’s store, Her cutting school and hanging out at the mall and hospital, Her flashback during biology class, and her suicide “attempt” with a paper clip. These are all parts I really am hoping they kept in the movie. I posted something simlar to this on the IMD, but no one ever comments. So, what does everyone else think?

  44. I don’t know if this fits here…but here are some thoughts: Laurie, you asked people to leave comments about what they liked/did not like about he movie. As i ponder this…and as I have yet to see the moive, i was thinking about parts of the book they may have cut from the movie…such as….Melinda trying on jeans at her mom’s store, Her cutting school and hanging out at the mall and hospital, Her flashback during biology class, and her suicide “attempt” with a paper clip. These are all parts I really am hoping they kept in the movie. I posted something simlar to this on the IMD, but no one ever comments. So, what does everyone else think?

  45. I don’t know if this fits here…but here are some thoughts: Laurie, you asked people to leave comments about what they liked/did not like about he movie. As i ponder this…and as I have yet to see the moive, i was thinking about parts of the book they may have cut from the movie…such as….Melinda trying on jeans at her mom’s store, Her cutting school and hanging out at the mall and hospital, Her flashback during biology class, and her suicide “attempt” with a paper clip. These are all parts I really am hoping they kept in the movie. I posted something simlar to this on the IMD, but no one ever comments. So, what does everyone else think?

  46. only 24 minutes until the movie starts here!! I’m so excited, I really hope that the movie lives up to the book. I wish I could have had a party but only 1 of my friends has read the book and she couldn’t come.

  47. only 24 minutes until the movie starts here!! I’m so excited, I really hope that the movie lives up to the book. I wish I could have had a party but only 1 of my friends has read the book and she couldn’t come.

  48. only 24 minutes until the movie starts here!! I’m so excited, I really hope that the movie lives up to the book. I wish I could have had a party but only 1 of my friends has read the book and she couldn’t come.

  49. FEVER

    Laurie, my son (11 yrs old) and I are racing to see who can finish this book first. Actually, I just did! He’s in bed!!! He’s been reading it for an AR test for his reading class in 6th grade here in Gainesville, Florida. I just wanted to thank you for writing a book that interested not only him, but his 45 yr old mom. Couldn’t put the book down, and the further I got ahead of him, the more he wanted to read it. I don’t know if it was because I kept telling him “you’re not gonna believe what happens next” or if it’s because he’s got “Jeff Gordon Syndrome” (likes to win the race). Anyway, congratulations on a great book. I had never had much interest in the yellow fever epidemic, but you have enlightened me, even to the last pages after the story had ended. THANKS! Rachael Santarsiero

  50. FEVER

    Laurie, my son (11 yrs old) and I are racing to see who can finish this book first. Actually, I just did! He’s in bed!!! He’s been reading it for an AR test for his reading class in 6th grade here in Gainesville, Florida. I just wanted to thank you for writing a book that interested not only him, but his 45 yr old mom. Couldn’t put the book down, and the further I got ahead of him, the more he wanted to read it. I don’t know if it was because I kept telling him “you’re not gonna believe what happens next” or if it’s because he’s got “Jeff Gordon Syndrome” (likes to win the race). Anyway, congratulations on a great book. I had never had much interest in the yellow fever epidemic, but you have enlightened me, even to the last pages after the story had ended. THANKS! Rachael Santarsiero

  51. FEVER

    Laurie, my son (11 yrs old) and I are racing to see who can finish this book first. Actually, I just did! He’s in bed!!! He’s been reading it for an AR test for his reading class in 6th grade here in Gainesville, Florida. I just wanted to thank you for writing a book that interested not only him, but his 45 yr old mom. Couldn’t put the book down, and the further I got ahead of him, the more he wanted to read it. I don’t know if it was because I kept telling him “you’re not gonna believe what happens next” or if it’s because he’s got “Jeff Gordon Syndrome” (likes to win the race). Anyway, congratulations on a great book. I had never had much interest in the yellow fever epidemic, but you have enlightened me, even to the last pages after the story had ended. THANKS! Rachael Santarsiero

  52. hahaha…its me again, the one who rambled in your last post on and on about what a great person you are.

    I most definitely am very excited for the movie….

    question:
    how did you feel when speak got banned in some libraries?

    -jrmint618@yahoo.com
    ps- i fought to keep it in my middle school library-and won!

  53. hahaha…its me again, the one who rambled in your last post on and on about what a great person you are.

    I most definitely am very excited for the movie….

    question:
    how did you feel when speak got banned in some libraries?

    -jrmint618@yahoo.com
    ps- i fought to keep it in my middle school library-and won!

  54. hahaha…its me again, the one who rambled in your last post on and on about what a great person you are.

    I most definitely am very excited for the movie….

    question:
    how did you feel when speak got banned in some libraries?

    -jrmint618@yahoo.com
    ps- i fought to keep it in my middle school library-and won!

  55. As I am watching it I am liking it so far, but I am hoping to see all of these scenes. I found them extremely important and I remember when I was going through a period of not speaking I did a lot fo those same things.

  56. As I am watching it I am liking it so far, but I am hoping to see all of these scenes. I found them extremely important and I remember when I was going through a period of not speaking I did a lot fo those same things.

  57. As I am watching it I am liking it so far, but I am hoping to see all of these scenes. I found them extremely important and I remember when I was going through a period of not speaking I did a lot fo those same things.

  58. When I read a book, I tend to imagine what it’d be like if it were going on in person, or as it would in a movie (such as if I’d seen the movie already, and then read the book… as I’m reading the book I’d be thinking about the scenes that went with the part I’d be currently reading)… and as I’m watching the movie right now, it’s like I’m reading the book again. Of course, there are the parts that were cut out and a few that are a bit different, but it’s still good.

  59. When I read a book, I tend to imagine what it’d be like if it were going on in person, or as it would in a movie (such as if I’d seen the movie already, and then read the book… as I’m reading the book I’d be thinking about the scenes that went with the part I’d be currently reading)… and as I’m watching the movie right now, it’s like I’m reading the book again. Of course, there are the parts that were cut out and a few that are a bit different, but it’s still good.

  60. When I read a book, I tend to imagine what it’d be like if it were going on in person, or as it would in a movie (such as if I’d seen the movie already, and then read the book… as I’m reading the book I’d be thinking about the scenes that went with the part I’d be currently reading)… and as I’m watching the movie right now, it’s like I’m reading the book again. Of course, there are the parts that were cut out and a few that are a bit different, but it’s still good.

  61. I got this book the day after my assault, my fifteenth birthday. Melinda reminds me so much of myself it scares me sometimes. But something that doesn’t scare me?
    I know that I’ll be able to do what she did at the end of the book someday.
    Soon.

  62. I got this book the day after my assault, my fifteenth birthday. Melinda reminds me so much of myself it scares me sometimes. But something that doesn’t scare me?
    I know that I’ll be able to do what she did at the end of the book someday.
    Soon.

  63. I got this book the day after my assault, my fifteenth birthday. Melinda reminds me so much of myself it scares me sometimes. But something that doesn’t scare me?
    I know that I’ll be able to do what she did at the end of the book someday.
    Soon.

  64. I honestly didn’t think the movie would be this good, usually the books are so much better than the movie, but this movie was really good. I honestly didn’t picture Andy Evans like that though, I didn’t picture him to be that good looking, I guess because he was supossed to be the bad guy I imagined him to be not so nice looking as well, even though I know that guys like him can appear to be normal.

    I missed the fact the movie didn’t show the scene where David set up the video camera in Mr. Neck’s class.

    But lines that came directly from the book I automatically recognized despite the fact that I haven’t read the book in a while. Like in the beginning the part where Melina says she has 7 notebooks, a new skirt, and a stomach ache, I immediately recognized it from the book.

    The movie was really good.

  65. I honestly didn’t think the movie would be this good, usually the books are so much better than the movie, but this movie was really good. I honestly didn’t picture Andy Evans like that though, I didn’t picture him to be that good looking, I guess because he was supossed to be the bad guy I imagined him to be not so nice looking as well, even though I know that guys like him can appear to be normal.

    I missed the fact the movie didn’t show the scene where David set up the video camera in Mr. Neck’s class.

    But lines that came directly from the book I automatically recognized despite the fact that I haven’t read the book in a while. Like in the beginning the part where Melina says she has 7 notebooks, a new skirt, and a stomach ache, I immediately recognized it from the book.

    The movie was really good.

  66. I honestly didn’t think the movie would be this good, usually the books are so much better than the movie, but this movie was really good. I honestly didn’t picture Andy Evans like that though, I didn’t picture him to be that good looking, I guess because he was supossed to be the bad guy I imagined him to be not so nice looking as well, even though I know that guys like him can appear to be normal.

    I missed the fact the movie didn’t show the scene where David set up the video camera in Mr. Neck’s class.

    But lines that came directly from the book I automatically recognized despite the fact that I haven’t read the book in a while. Like in the beginning the part where Melina says she has 7 notebooks, a new skirt, and a stomach ache, I immediately recognized it from the book.

    The movie was really good.

  67. The Long-Awaited Movie

    Wow. Just finished watching the movie, and I have to say at first I was very apprehensive that it was going to follow the path a lot of book-to-film movies take. But I was very impressed. Melinda fit exactly as I imagined her, and so did David Petrakis. And Steve Zahn was incredible as well, he really took his role very far. Though I admit I was at first a bit harsh on things that were left out *cough* The list on the bathroom wall *cough*, I think the movie took its own course and turned out wonderfully. Definitely, definitely happy with it, and I can’t wait to buy the DVD. I don’t think I could pick just one scene that was my favorite, I liked too many! The ending with her mom I’m not so sure about-still deciding on that. And Kristen Stewart deserves that Oscar, she really captured the role, I thought. Bravo!!!

  68. The Long-Awaited Movie

    Wow. Just finished watching the movie, and I have to say at first I was very apprehensive that it was going to follow the path a lot of book-to-film movies take. But I was very impressed. Melinda fit exactly as I imagined her, and so did David Petrakis. And Steve Zahn was incredible as well, he really took his role very far. Though I admit I was at first a bit harsh on things that were left out *cough* The list on the bathroom wall *cough*, I think the movie took its own course and turned out wonderfully. Definitely, definitely happy with it, and I can’t wait to buy the DVD. I don’t think I could pick just one scene that was my favorite, I liked too many! The ending with her mom I’m not so sure about-still deciding on that. And Kristen Stewart deserves that Oscar, she really captured the role, I thought. Bravo!!!

  69. The Long-Awaited Movie

    Wow. Just finished watching the movie, and I have to say at first I was very apprehensive that it was going to follow the path a lot of book-to-film movies take. But I was very impressed. Melinda fit exactly as I imagined her, and so did David Petrakis. And Steve Zahn was incredible as well, he really took his role very far. Though I admit I was at first a bit harsh on things that were left out *cough* The list on the bathroom wall *cough*, I think the movie took its own course and turned out wonderfully. Definitely, definitely happy with it, and I can’t wait to buy the DVD. I don’t think I could pick just one scene that was my favorite, I liked too many! The ending with her mom I’m not so sure about-still deciding on that. And Kristen Stewart deserves that Oscar, she really captured the role, I thought. Bravo!!!

  70. I loved the movie!! I went to h-h with meredith and I saw her xanga that said it was gonna be on tonight. I was like, I gotta watch it. I loved the book, and the movie was awesome. Keep writing great books, I love reading them.

    Kirsten

  71. I loved the movie!! I went to h-h with meredith and I saw her xanga that said it was gonna be on tonight. I was like, I gotta watch it. I loved the book, and the movie was awesome. Keep writing great books, I love reading them.

    Kirsten

  72. I loved the movie!! I went to h-h with meredith and I saw her xanga that said it was gonna be on tonight. I was like, I gotta watch it. I loved the book, and the movie was awesome. Keep writing great books, I love reading them.

    Kirsten

  73. I thought it was wonderful!

    Congratulations! I thought it was very well done. You must be so proud. Alyipp

  74. I thought it was wonderful!

    Congratulations! I thought it was very well done. You must be so proud. Alyipp

  75. I thought it was wonderful!

    Congratulations! I thought it was very well done. You must be so proud. Alyipp

  76. Overall, I loved the movie. But there was something lacking that I did miss. The whole part of the storyline in the book with the ex-friend in art class and the bathroom wall writing. I LOVED that in the book, and it was kinda sad to see it not in the movie.

    In other news. I took one of your bits of advice and played a game while watching. I counted the times Melinda spoke. I got a total of 68. I made a whole post about it on my journal, quoting each of the 68 “lines” and the way I determined what constitituted 1 tally of her speaking. If you’re interested you can read it: here.

  77. Overall, I loved the movie. But there was something lacking that I did miss. The whole part of the storyline in the book with the ex-friend in art class and the bathroom wall writing. I LOVED that in the book, and it was kinda sad to see it not in the movie.

    In other news. I took one of your bits of advice and played a game while watching. I counted the times Melinda spoke. I got a total of 68. I made a whole post about it on my journal, quoting each of the 68 “lines” and the way I determined what constitituted 1 tally of her speaking. If you’re interested you can read it: here.

  78. Overall, I loved the movie. But there was something lacking that I did miss. The whole part of the storyline in the book with the ex-friend in art class and the bathroom wall writing. I LOVED that in the book, and it was kinda sad to see it not in the movie.

    In other news. I took one of your bits of advice and played a game while watching. I counted the times Melinda spoke. I got a total of 68. I made a whole post about it on my journal, quoting each of the 68 “lines” and the way I determined what constitituted 1 tally of her speaking. If you’re interested you can read it: here.

  79. I LOVED IT

    After waiting two years for it to come out, especially after being in three days of shooting, I was surprised at how much the movie still moved me. My parents and I watched it and we cheered when we saw me right behind Melinda in the “Photo Shot” scene (boy with glasses). The actors were very good in their roles, but I have got to give special recognition to a few of them. Steve Zahn finally proved that he could do a movie without going over the top, Kristen was just amazing, the boy who played David, Michael I think, reminded me of the kids in school who were always looking to their futures and liking a person but not thinking that person was noticing them. Laurie, I did see you as the MASHED POTATO COOK and I giggled. A great accomplishment and my hat is off to you.
    fiyero_freak

  80. I LOVED IT

    After waiting two years for it to come out, especially after being in three days of shooting, I was surprised at how much the movie still moved me. My parents and I watched it and we cheered when we saw me right behind Melinda in the “Photo Shot” scene (boy with glasses). The actors were very good in their roles, but I have got to give special recognition to a few of them. Steve Zahn finally proved that he could do a movie without going over the top, Kristen was just amazing, the boy who played David, Michael I think, reminded me of the kids in school who were always looking to their futures and liking a person but not thinking that person was noticing them. Laurie, I did see you as the MASHED POTATO COOK and I giggled. A great accomplishment and my hat is off to you.
    fiyero_freak

  81. I LOVED IT

    After waiting two years for it to come out, especially after being in three days of shooting, I was surprised at how much the movie still moved me. My parents and I watched it and we cheered when we saw me right behind Melinda in the “Photo Shot” scene (boy with glasses). The actors were very good in their roles, but I have got to give special recognition to a few of them. Steve Zahn finally proved that he could do a movie without going over the top, Kristen was just amazing, the boy who played David, Michael I think, reminded me of the kids in school who were always looking to their futures and liking a person but not thinking that person was noticing them. Laurie, I did see you as the MASHED POTATO COOK and I giggled. A great accomplishment and my hat is off to you.
    fiyero_freak

  82. YAY FOR SPEAK!! we spread the word around IUP to as many people as we talked to to make them watch it. We had a movie viewing in our room with a friend. he loved it and is now looking into your books. there are many people that are jealous that i know you, and have hung out at your house. so yea, congrats! and much love. chelle

  83. YAY FOR SPEAK!! we spread the word around IUP to as many people as we talked to to make them watch it. We had a movie viewing in our room with a friend. he loved it and is now looking into your books. there are many people that are jealous that i know you, and have hung out at your house. so yea, congrats! and much love. chelle

  84. YAY FOR SPEAK!! we spread the word around IUP to as many people as we talked to to make them watch it. We had a movie viewing in our room with a friend. he loved it and is now looking into your books. there are many people that are jealous that i know you, and have hung out at your house. so yea, congrats! and much love. chelle

  85. me again… I just got done watching the movie… wow!!! It was seriously amazing!! I haven’t read the book for a while but I still managed to remember quite a bit and I was happy so much from the book was put in, especially direct lines taken from the movie. I thought the girl that played Melinda was awesome, it was just like I imagined her when I read the book. I can’t wait until the DVD comes out, I’ll definetely be buying it.

  86. me again… I just got done watching the movie… wow!!! It was seriously amazing!! I haven’t read the book for a while but I still managed to remember quite a bit and I was happy so much from the book was put in, especially direct lines taken from the movie. I thought the girl that played Melinda was awesome, it was just like I imagined her when I read the book. I can’t wait until the DVD comes out, I’ll definetely be buying it.

  87. me again… I just got done watching the movie… wow!!! It was seriously amazing!! I haven’t read the book for a while but I still managed to remember quite a bit and I was happy so much from the book was put in, especially direct lines taken from the movie. I thought the girl that played Melinda was awesome, it was just like I imagined her when I read the book. I can’t wait until the DVD comes out, I’ll definetely be buying it.

  88. I thought the movie was really good. I’ve read the book so I was looking for some particular scenes but overall I think it really captured her growth during her freshman year in high school. I’m still debating about the ending as I thought that her art teacher would be more of a mentor than her parents but I can understand why putting the mom at the end would help resolve issues within her family.

    The flashbacks she had were very powerful. It reminded me of how I felt while reading the book.

    Overall, great movie! 🙂 My Women’s Center will discuss having a screening of the movie when it comes out on DVD for our annual Take Back the Night events.

  89. I thought the movie was really good. I’ve read the book so I was looking for some particular scenes but overall I think it really captured her growth during her freshman year in high school. I’m still debating about the ending as I thought that her art teacher would be more of a mentor than her parents but I can understand why putting the mom at the end would help resolve issues within her family.

    The flashbacks she had were very powerful. It reminded me of how I felt while reading the book.

    Overall, great movie! 🙂 My Women’s Center will discuss having a screening of the movie when it comes out on DVD for our annual Take Back the Night events.

  90. I thought the movie was really good. I’ve read the book so I was looking for some particular scenes but overall I think it really captured her growth during her freshman year in high school. I’m still debating about the ending as I thought that her art teacher would be more of a mentor than her parents but I can understand why putting the mom at the end would help resolve issues within her family.

    The flashbacks she had were very powerful. It reminded me of how I felt while reading the book.

    Overall, great movie! 🙂 My Women’s Center will discuss having a screening of the movie when it comes out on DVD for our annual Take Back the Night events.

  91. I am teary-eyed right now. And that’s saying a lot, seeing as the only other movie that’s brought me close to a full-out bawl is the “Baby Mine” scene from Disney’s Dumbo. (stop laughing)

    I personally liked the ending. It held a lot of meaning… As for missing scenes, I don’t feel disappointed, because overall, the atmosphere and depth of the book, IMO, was genuinely captured, and that’s all that matters to me. Not many movie adaptations of books can pull that off. In fact, very few.

    Kudos to the movie crew, Kristen Stewart’s as well as everyone else’s amazing acting, and of course you and your dazzling cameo as the lunch lady!

    Now excuse me while I go grab some tissues.

  92. I am teary-eyed right now. And that’s saying a lot, seeing as the only other movie that’s brought me close to a full-out bawl is the “Baby Mine” scene from Disney’s Dumbo. (stop laughing)

    I personally liked the ending. It held a lot of meaning… As for missing scenes, I don’t feel disappointed, because overall, the atmosphere and depth of the book, IMO, was genuinely captured, and that’s all that matters to me. Not many movie adaptations of books can pull that off. In fact, very few.

    Kudos to the movie crew, Kristen Stewart’s as well as everyone else’s amazing acting, and of course you and your dazzling cameo as the lunch lady!

    Now excuse me while I go grab some tissues.

  93. I am teary-eyed right now. And that’s saying a lot, seeing as the only other movie that’s brought me close to a full-out bawl is the “Baby Mine” scene from Disney’s Dumbo. (stop laughing)

    I personally liked the ending. It held a lot of meaning… As for missing scenes, I don’t feel disappointed, because overall, the atmosphere and depth of the book, IMO, was genuinely captured, and that’s all that matters to me. Not many movie adaptations of books can pull that off. In fact, very few.

    Kudos to the movie crew, Kristen Stewart’s as well as everyone else’s amazing acting, and of course you and your dazzling cameo as the lunch lady!

    Now excuse me while I go grab some tissues.

  94. Um, hi! I’m kind of a new reader to your LJ, but I read Speak almost immediately after it came out and loved it. There’s something about Melinda that (no pun intended) speaks to me.

    You wanted impressions of the film…

    Well, first, it’s a film, not a movie. A movie implies entertainment, and Speak was…more than that. It was a story of…of Melinda’s struggle, and it had you rooting for her the whole way through, just like the book did. In that respect, the film was 100% true to the novel, in spirit if nothing else.

    But there were lots of lines right out of the book! I kept the book next to me during commercial breaks just to flip through it, and there was a lot that transferred over, particularly when it came to Mr. Freeman. I was kind of upset that he leaves, but…I don’t know. It didn’t feel wrong, but it wasn’t…bad, you know?

    The ending was nice. I mean, I kind of wish we had been privy to that conversation in the novel, and in a sense we were in the film. I love how Melinda’s parents try so hard, and it’s a lot more…touching in the film. In the novel, you see her parents at their worst and best, but you still get this sense that she does love them. I think the film played that up a little more, especially at Christmas. Something…just the way she watched her parents, it made me think.

    I loved the actors. The cast was solid. Whoever did casting should get a big pat on the back; he/she did a great job. Mr. Freeman’s portrayal was…more subdued than I was expecting, but it didn’t hurt the story. Kristen Stewart definetly deserves recognition for her role, though. She spoke without speaking, and that is beyond talent. Heather was exactly as whingy as she was meant to be, and “Rachelle” was…Well, she was that girl from Remember The Titans, but I still liked her brief appearances nonetheless. Her freaking out about Melinda’s name drop? Loved it.

    The one scene I wanted to see, though, was where Ivy and Melinda see all the people who agreed that Andy is a creep. (By the way, Andy’s actor used to play this guy on a Disney Channel show about five years ago. He was perfect, for sure. Wasn’t his sister in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie?) I felt like…that was the moment that Ivy and Melinda “made up” and I really liked that image of Ivy with Colorific gel markers all splayed in her hair.

    But the closet-attack scene? That went exactly as I’d imagined it.

    Overall, I didn’t mind the changes, actually. I liked the film as much as the book. I guess you kind of have to see the film as a sort of accompaniment to the novel. I think it works best that way; you take part and parcel of both and you have one of the most amazing stories in YA fiction.

    I realize this is a long and rambly reply, but as an aspiring writer myself, I tried to tell you what I would want to know.

    — Aarthi, 16, from Texas.

    PS – At the risk of sounding nosy / fangirlish, when you were writing Melinda and David, were they…In their future, do they date? Are they still strong friends, at least? Because the film hinted at something I sensed in the novel. I feel like…maybe, when she reached her “happy” place (and she seemed happy in Catalyst) she would have dated him?

  95. Um, hi! I’m kind of a new reader to your LJ, but I read Speak almost immediately after it came out and loved it. There’s something about Melinda that (no pun intended) speaks to me.

    You wanted impressions of the film…

    Well, first, it’s a film, not a movie. A movie implies entertainment, and Speak was…more than that. It was a story of…of Melinda’s struggle, and it had you rooting for her the whole way through, just like the book did. In that respect, the film was 100% true to the novel, in spirit if nothing else.

    But there were lots of lines right out of the book! I kept the book next to me during commercial breaks just to flip through it, and there was a lot that transferred over, particularly when it came to Mr. Freeman. I was kind of upset that he leaves, but…I don’t know. It didn’t feel wrong, but it wasn’t…bad, you know?

    The ending was nice. I mean, I kind of wish we had been privy to that conversation in the novel, and in a sense we were in the film. I love how Melinda’s parents try so hard, and it’s a lot more…touching in the film. In the novel, you see her parents at their worst and best, but you still get this sense that she does love them. I think the film played that up a little more, especially at Christmas. Something…just the way she watched her parents, it made me think.

    I loved the actors. The cast was solid. Whoever did casting should get a big pat on the back; he/she did a great job. Mr. Freeman’s portrayal was…more subdued than I was expecting, but it didn’t hurt the story. Kristen Stewart definetly deserves recognition for her role, though. She spoke without speaking, and that is beyond talent. Heather was exactly as whingy as she was meant to be, and “Rachelle” was…Well, she was that girl from Remember The Titans, but I still liked her brief appearances nonetheless. Her freaking out about Melinda’s name drop? Loved it.

    The one scene I wanted to see, though, was where Ivy and Melinda see all the people who agreed that Andy is a creep. (By the way, Andy’s actor used to play this guy on a Disney Channel show about five years ago. He was perfect, for sure. Wasn’t his sister in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie?) I felt like…that was the moment that Ivy and Melinda “made up” and I really liked that image of Ivy with Colorific gel markers all splayed in her hair.

    But the closet-attack scene? That went exactly as I’d imagined it.

    Overall, I didn’t mind the changes, actually. I liked the film as much as the book. I guess you kind of have to see the film as a sort of accompaniment to the novel. I think it works best that way; you take part and parcel of both and you have one of the most amazing stories in YA fiction.

    I realize this is a long and rambly reply, but as an aspiring writer myself, I tried to tell you what I would want to know.

    — Aarthi, 16, from Texas.

    PS – At the risk of sounding nosy / fangirlish, when you were writing Melinda and David, were they…In their future, do they date? Are they still strong friends, at least? Because the film hinted at something I sensed in the novel. I feel like…maybe, when she reached her “happy” place (and she seemed happy in Catalyst) she would have dated him?

  96. Um, hi! I’m kind of a new reader to your LJ, but I read Speak almost immediately after it came out and loved it. There’s something about Melinda that (no pun intended) speaks to me.

    You wanted impressions of the film…

    Well, first, it’s a film, not a movie. A movie implies entertainment, and Speak was…more than that. It was a story of…of Melinda’s struggle, and it had you rooting for her the whole way through, just like the book did. In that respect, the film was 100% true to the novel, in spirit if nothing else.

    But there were lots of lines right out of the book! I kept the book next to me during commercial breaks just to flip through it, and there was a lot that transferred over, particularly when it came to Mr. Freeman. I was kind of upset that he leaves, but…I don’t know. It didn’t feel wrong, but it wasn’t…bad, you know?

    The ending was nice. I mean, I kind of wish we had been privy to that conversation in the novel, and in a sense we were in the film. I love how Melinda’s parents try so hard, and it’s a lot more…touching in the film. In the novel, you see her parents at their worst and best, but you still get this sense that she does love them. I think the film played that up a little more, especially at Christmas. Something…just the way she watched her parents, it made me think.

    I loved the actors. The cast was solid. Whoever did casting should get a big pat on the back; he/she did a great job. Mr. Freeman’s portrayal was…more subdued than I was expecting, but it didn’t hurt the story. Kristen Stewart definetly deserves recognition for her role, though. She spoke without speaking, and that is beyond talent. Heather was exactly as whingy as she was meant to be, and “Rachelle” was…Well, she was that girl from Remember The Titans, but I still liked her brief appearances nonetheless. Her freaking out about Melinda’s name drop? Loved it.

    The one scene I wanted to see, though, was where Ivy and Melinda see all the people who agreed that Andy is a creep. (By the way, Andy’s actor used to play this guy on a Disney Channel show about five years ago. He was perfect, for sure. Wasn’t his sister in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie?) I felt like…that was the moment that Ivy and Melinda “made up” and I really liked that image of Ivy with Colorific gel markers all splayed in her hair.

    But the closet-attack scene? That went exactly as I’d imagined it.

    Overall, I didn’t mind the changes, actually. I liked the film as much as the book. I guess you kind of have to see the film as a sort of accompaniment to the novel. I think it works best that way; you take part and parcel of both and you have one of the most amazing stories in YA fiction.

    I realize this is a long and rambly reply, but as an aspiring writer myself, I tried to tell you what I would want to know.

    — Aarthi, 16, from Texas.

    PS – At the risk of sounding nosy / fangirlish, when you were writing Melinda and David, were they…In their future, do they date? Are they still strong friends, at least? Because the film hinted at something I sensed in the novel. I feel like…maybe, when she reached her “happy” place (and she seemed happy in Catalyst) she would have dated him?

  97. Wonderful

    I thought the movie was perfect. There was nothing left out that made me dislike the film. I am still recovering from the “High” of seing…just a stunning movie. It is for sure in my top 10. I think i’m going to go watch it again.

  98. Wonderful

    I thought the movie was perfect. There was nothing left out that made me dislike the film. I am still recovering from the “High” of seing…just a stunning movie. It is for sure in my top 10. I think i’m going to go watch it again.

  99. Wonderful

    I thought the movie was perfect. There was nothing left out that made me dislike the film. I am still recovering from the “High” of seing…just a stunning movie. It is for sure in my top 10. I think i’m going to go watch it again.

  100. Bravo! Bravo!

    My eyes are going to still be puffy tomorrow morning! Since I am usually disappointed in a movie based on a book I have read (ie Harry Potter), I decided that I would watch this with an opened mind and not prejudge. Well, I am pleasantly surprised! The relationship between Melinda and Mr. Freeman was very moving. The last scene of them together broke my heart. Melinda had been reborn and he was the first to see that happen. Melinda showing him her secret room with all the work she did on the walls, showing her struggle with the emotions she held inside. Wow! How many times in my life I didn’t speak up and make myself heard. I truly believe the director and producers did your work justice. They took a powerful book and transfered that powerful message to screen. Of course, Kristin was wonderful and believable. Talk about wearing your emotions on your face! Congratulations, Laurie! I hope you are as happy and pleased as your loyal fans are! ( That includes me!) This movie, as did the book, left a lasting impression. Kudos! 🙂

  101. Bravo! Bravo!

    My eyes are going to still be puffy tomorrow morning! Since I am usually disappointed in a movie based on a book I have read (ie Harry Potter), I decided that I would watch this with an opened mind and not prejudge. Well, I am pleasantly surprised! The relationship between Melinda and Mr. Freeman was very moving. The last scene of them together broke my heart. Melinda had been reborn and he was the first to see that happen. Melinda showing him her secret room with all the work she did on the walls, showing her struggle with the emotions she held inside. Wow! How many times in my life I didn’t speak up and make myself heard. I truly believe the director and producers did your work justice. They took a powerful book and transfered that powerful message to screen. Of course, Kristin was wonderful and believable. Talk about wearing your emotions on your face! Congratulations, Laurie! I hope you are as happy and pleased as your loyal fans are! ( That includes me!) This movie, as did the book, left a lasting impression. Kudos! 🙂

  102. Bravo! Bravo!

    My eyes are going to still be puffy tomorrow morning! Since I am usually disappointed in a movie based on a book I have read (ie Harry Potter), I decided that I would watch this with an opened mind and not prejudge. Well, I am pleasantly surprised! The relationship between Melinda and Mr. Freeman was very moving. The last scene of them together broke my heart. Melinda had been reborn and he was the first to see that happen. Melinda showing him her secret room with all the work she did on the walls, showing her struggle with the emotions she held inside. Wow! How many times in my life I didn’t speak up and make myself heard. I truly believe the director and producers did your work justice. They took a powerful book and transfered that powerful message to screen. Of course, Kristin was wonderful and believable. Talk about wearing your emotions on your face! Congratulations, Laurie! I hope you are as happy and pleased as your loyal fans are! ( That includes me!) This movie, as did the book, left a lasting impression. Kudos! 🙂

  103. *dries eyes* Whoa man… Just. Whoa. I loved the actress who played Melinda and… okay I’m too emotional to analyze now. But it was beautiful. Like I said the other day, your book is beautiful. I need to meditate on the changes… and see what I think.

    *hug* yay!

  104. *dries eyes* Whoa man… Just. Whoa. I loved the actress who played Melinda and… okay I’m too emotional to analyze now. But it was beautiful. Like I said the other day, your book is beautiful. I need to meditate on the changes… and see what I think.

    *hug* yay!

  105. *dries eyes* Whoa man… Just. Whoa. I loved the actress who played Melinda and… okay I’m too emotional to analyze now. But it was beautiful. Like I said the other day, your book is beautiful. I need to meditate on the changes… and see what I think.

    *hug* yay!

  106. I saw the movie (and recorded it) with my mom. She didn’t read the book but I told her about Speak, so she watched it with me. I loved it and noticed what wasn’t in the movie from the book and what changed. I also noticed Melinda’s lips weren’t as bad as I thought they would be. I liked the scene where Melinda showed Mr. Freeman her little hiding place of comfort. Even though that wasn’t in the book, I thought it brought in a lot of meaning. I saw you, too!

    I’d tell more but it would be kinda out of the subject.

  107. I saw the movie (and recorded it) with my mom. She didn’t read the book but I told her about Speak, so she watched it with me. I loved it and noticed what wasn’t in the movie from the book and what changed. I also noticed Melinda’s lips weren’t as bad as I thought they would be. I liked the scene where Melinda showed Mr. Freeman her little hiding place of comfort. Even though that wasn’t in the book, I thought it brought in a lot of meaning. I saw you, too!

    I’d tell more but it would be kinda out of the subject.

  108. I saw the movie (and recorded it) with my mom. She didn’t read the book but I told her about Speak, so she watched it with me. I loved it and noticed what wasn’t in the movie from the book and what changed. I also noticed Melinda’s lips weren’t as bad as I thought they would be. I liked the scene where Melinda showed Mr. Freeman her little hiding place of comfort. Even though that wasn’t in the book, I thought it brought in a lot of meaning. I saw you, too!

    I’d tell more but it would be kinda out of the subject.

  109. hair net

    Nice hair net, Laurie!

    I loved, LOVED the movie version!!! It’s 11:15 and I have to teach 8th graders in the morning but I must comment now.

    These are the times I cried:
    1) the rape scene (duh)
    2) when Mel wrote “I was raped”
    3) when Mel went into her closet and screamed
    4) the last 5 minutes (especially when she showed Mr. Freeman her closet and her work and he cried a bit)

    These are the times I laughed:
    — – – – – – –

    So, the book is better. We all knew it would be. They did a great job with the plot and characters. There are a lot of unique writing techniques and such that you just couldn’t possibly “do” on screen.

    The scene that I missed most was “ESPANOL” (unless that occurred while I was upstairs calming my 5-year-old who was having a nightmare).

    Other thoughts/comments: The girl who played Melinda ROCKED!! Mr. Freeman was too good looking. I wish Heather would have had “five grand of orthodontia” (great line). I’m not so sure how I feel about Melinda’s parents–very different from the novel. Hairwoman’s hair needed to be orange! The disecting the frog scene lacked the symbolic power it had in written form. I missed David’s battle with Neck. The brief bit we saw was good but I wanted more. David was so cool, brave, kinda cute! I missed M.I.S.S. What about the “horny horny Hornets?” Did I miss that too? And cheerleader bashing–that was fun in the book!

    I taped it. I’ll watch it again tomorrow or sometime this week…

    I can’t wait to read others’ thoughts!

    ~ Kelly (teacher in Michigan)

  110. hair net

    Nice hair net, Laurie!

    I loved, LOVED the movie version!!! It’s 11:15 and I have to teach 8th graders in the morning but I must comment now.

    These are the times I cried:
    1) the rape scene (duh)
    2) when Mel wrote “I was raped”
    3) when Mel went into her closet and screamed
    4) the last 5 minutes (especially when she showed Mr. Freeman her closet and her work and he cried a bit)

    These are the times I laughed:
    — – – – – – –

    So, the book is better. We all knew it would be. They did a great job with the plot and characters. There are a lot of unique writing techniques and such that you just couldn’t possibly “do” on screen.

    The scene that I missed most was “ESPANOL” (unless that occurred while I was upstairs calming my 5-year-old who was having a nightmare).

    Other thoughts/comments: The girl who played Melinda ROCKED!! Mr. Freeman was too good looking. I wish Heather would have had “five grand of orthodontia” (great line). I’m not so sure how I feel about Melinda’s parents–very different from the novel. Hairwoman’s hair needed to be orange! The disecting the frog scene lacked the symbolic power it had in written form. I missed David’s battle with Neck. The brief bit we saw was good but I wanted more. David was so cool, brave, kinda cute! I missed M.I.S.S. What about the “horny horny Hornets?” Did I miss that too? And cheerleader bashing–that was fun in the book!

    I taped it. I’ll watch it again tomorrow or sometime this week…

    I can’t wait to read others’ thoughts!

    ~ Kelly (teacher in Michigan)

  111. hair net

    Nice hair net, Laurie!

    I loved, LOVED the movie version!!! It’s 11:15 and I have to teach 8th graders in the morning but I must comment now.

    These are the times I cried:
    1) the rape scene (duh)
    2) when Mel wrote “I was raped”
    3) when Mel went into her closet and screamed
    4) the last 5 minutes (especially when she showed Mr. Freeman her closet and her work and he cried a bit)

    These are the times I laughed:
    — – – – – – –

    So, the book is better. We all knew it would be. They did a great job with the plot and characters. There are a lot of unique writing techniques and such that you just couldn’t possibly “do” on screen.

    The scene that I missed most was “ESPANOL” (unless that occurred while I was upstairs calming my 5-year-old who was having a nightmare).

    Other thoughts/comments: The girl who played Melinda ROCKED!! Mr. Freeman was too good looking. I wish Heather would have had “five grand of orthodontia” (great line). I’m not so sure how I feel about Melinda’s parents–very different from the novel. Hairwoman’s hair needed to be orange! The disecting the frog scene lacked the symbolic power it had in written form. I missed David’s battle with Neck. The brief bit we saw was good but I wanted more. David was so cool, brave, kinda cute! I missed M.I.S.S. What about the “horny horny Hornets?” Did I miss that too? And cheerleader bashing–that was fun in the book!

    I taped it. I’ll watch it again tomorrow or sometime this week…

    I can’t wait to read others’ thoughts!

    ~ Kelly (teacher in Michigan)

  112. Oh! But one thing I know is that I really liked the musical score… I thought it was extremely sensitive to Melinda’s character, and appropriately followed her through the course of her emotions in the film. It really was beautiful you know. And the actor who played Andy nailed it. The confusion, the momentary lapses into anger… this director was so very sensitive. I am so deeply happy for this film and for you.

  113. Oh! But one thing I know is that I really liked the musical score… I thought it was extremely sensitive to Melinda’s character, and appropriately followed her through the course of her emotions in the film. It really was beautiful you know. And the actor who played Andy nailed it. The confusion, the momentary lapses into anger… this director was so very sensitive. I am so deeply happy for this film and for you.

  114. Oh! But one thing I know is that I really liked the musical score… I thought it was extremely sensitive to Melinda’s character, and appropriately followed her through the course of her emotions in the film. It really was beautiful you know. And the actor who played Andy nailed it. The confusion, the momentary lapses into anger… this director was so very sensitive. I am so deeply happy for this film and for you.

  115. Speak movie

    Well, it definitely wasn’t the book but it was better than most book-to-movie movies. My biggest complaint is that there were no lists of “lies they tell you in high school,” I think this would have made the movie a bit humorous like the book. I also didn’t like that there wasn’t more emphasis on the mascot issue. Oh well, I suppose you can’t always have your cake and eat it too. Overall though, I say the two stars the movie got weren’t enough.

  116. Speak movie

    Well, it definitely wasn’t the book but it was better than most book-to-movie movies. My biggest complaint is that there were no lists of “lies they tell you in high school,” I think this would have made the movie a bit humorous like the book. I also didn’t like that there wasn’t more emphasis on the mascot issue. Oh well, I suppose you can’t always have your cake and eat it too. Overall though, I say the two stars the movie got weren’t enough.

  117. Speak movie

    Well, it definitely wasn’t the book but it was better than most book-to-movie movies. My biggest complaint is that there were no lists of “lies they tell you in high school,” I think this would have made the movie a bit humorous like the book. I also didn’t like that there wasn’t more emphasis on the mascot issue. Oh well, I suppose you can’t always have your cake and eat it too. Overall though, I say the two stars the movie got weren’t enough.

  118. Speak

    I just finished watching the movie,and it was GREAT!!!I’m so glad they didn’t make the movie different from the book,like they do in some movies, because I loved the book, and I thought the movie was just as great!!

  119. Speak

    I just finished watching the movie,and it was GREAT!!!I’m so glad they didn’t make the movie different from the book,like they do in some movies, because I loved the book, and I thought the movie was just as great!!

  120. Speak

    I just finished watching the movie,and it was GREAT!!!I’m so glad they didn’t make the movie different from the book,like they do in some movies, because I loved the book, and I thought the movie was just as great!!

  121. It was perfect. It had the spirit of the book (as mentioned before), yet it stood on its own. I had a similar experience and all her emotion was portrayed perfectly in the book and in the movie. I felt like I was reading and watching what I had been thinking. I was so excited to watch this, that I’ve gotten many of my friends to watch it as well. They are also going to be reading the book of course. Anyway, thank you for this. All of this. You’re brilliant and deserve everything you get. Keep them coming, and we’ll keep reading!

    –thankful fan.

  122. It was perfect. It had the spirit of the book (as mentioned before), yet it stood on its own. I had a similar experience and all her emotion was portrayed perfectly in the book and in the movie. I felt like I was reading and watching what I had been thinking. I was so excited to watch this, that I’ve gotten many of my friends to watch it as well. They are also going to be reading the book of course. Anyway, thank you for this. All of this. You’re brilliant and deserve everything you get. Keep them coming, and we’ll keep reading!

    –thankful fan.

  123. It was perfect. It had the spirit of the book (as mentioned before), yet it stood on its own. I had a similar experience and all her emotion was portrayed perfectly in the book and in the movie. I felt like I was reading and watching what I had been thinking. I was so excited to watch this, that I’ve gotten many of my friends to watch it as well. They are also going to be reading the book of course. Anyway, thank you for this. All of this. You’re brilliant and deserve everything you get. Keep them coming, and we’ll keep reading!

    –thankful fan.

  124. pretending to be a movie critic, or something

    Hi. I’m Kelly. I’m going to pretend like I know you and leave a bunch of random comments about the Speak movie. ::waves absentmindedly::

    The actress playing Melinda was wonderful.

    The actress playing Heather was likewise perfect.

    Mr. Neck was a bit… over the top. Partly because they jumped much too quickly to the “America should have closed her borders after 1900” scene.

    One addition that I liked very much was the scene where Andy pushes Rachel against the wall and claps his hand over her mouth; it’s startling but not so violent that Rachel (being Rachel) would necessarily dump him, and it lays some good groundwork.

    I would be interested to hear the author’s own thoughts on the decision to end with Melinda talking to her mom rather than Mr. Freeman.

    Question: did you envision Melinda’s art to be so good technically? I had the impression from the book that her artwork was very moving and heartfelt but not necessarily technically brilliant.

    My general objection to the movie was that so much of Speak is internal that it was very difficult for a movie to capture the full arc. They made it seem like her ultimate nadir was getting a D in Social Studies, which… no. It sort of… so much of the book depended on Melinda’s voice, which is (necessarily) largely absent from the movie. The movie seemed much more scattershot than the book, and I guess that’s because the external events *are* scattershot – they needed to be tied together by her inner monologue and the ongoing sense of where she was at emotionally, and that got captured pretty imperfectly in the film.

    Was this a Lifetime movie or a Showtime movie – or has Showtime bought out Lifetime? It seemed remarkably good for a Lifetime movie, but I don’t know what standard Showtime movies usually meet.

  125. pretending to be a movie critic, or something

    Hi. I’m Kelly. I’m going to pretend like I know you and leave a bunch of random comments about the Speak movie. ::waves absentmindedly::

    The actress playing Melinda was wonderful.

    The actress playing Heather was likewise perfect.

    Mr. Neck was a bit… over the top. Partly because they jumped much too quickly to the “America should have closed her borders after 1900” scene.

    One addition that I liked very much was the scene where Andy pushes Rachel against the wall and claps his hand over her mouth; it’s startling but not so violent that Rachel (being Rachel) would necessarily dump him, and it lays some good groundwork.

    I would be interested to hear the author’s own thoughts on the decision to end with Melinda talking to her mom rather than Mr. Freeman.

    Question: did you envision Melinda’s art to be so good technically? I had the impression from the book that her artwork was very moving and heartfelt but not necessarily technically brilliant.

    My general objection to the movie was that so much of Speak is internal that it was very difficult for a movie to capture the full arc. They made it seem like her ultimate nadir was getting a D in Social Studies, which… no. It sort of… so much of the book depended on Melinda’s voice, which is (necessarily) largely absent from the movie. The movie seemed much more scattershot than the book, and I guess that’s because the external events *are* scattershot – they needed to be tied together by her inner monologue and the ongoing sense of where she was at emotionally, and that got captured pretty imperfectly in the film.

    Was this a Lifetime movie or a Showtime movie – or has Showtime bought out Lifetime? It seemed remarkably good for a Lifetime movie, but I don’t know what standard Showtime movies usually meet.

  126. pretending to be a movie critic, or something

    Hi. I’m Kelly. I’m going to pretend like I know you and leave a bunch of random comments about the Speak movie. ::waves absentmindedly::

    The actress playing Melinda was wonderful.

    The actress playing Heather was likewise perfect.

    Mr. Neck was a bit… over the top. Partly because they jumped much too quickly to the “America should have closed her borders after 1900” scene.

    One addition that I liked very much was the scene where Andy pushes Rachel against the wall and claps his hand over her mouth; it’s startling but not so violent that Rachel (being Rachel) would necessarily dump him, and it lays some good groundwork.

    I would be interested to hear the author’s own thoughts on the decision to end with Melinda talking to her mom rather than Mr. Freeman.

    Question: did you envision Melinda’s art to be so good technically? I had the impression from the book that her artwork was very moving and heartfelt but not necessarily technically brilliant.

    My general objection to the movie was that so much of Speak is internal that it was very difficult for a movie to capture the full arc. They made it seem like her ultimate nadir was getting a D in Social Studies, which… no. It sort of… so much of the book depended on Melinda’s voice, which is (necessarily) largely absent from the movie. The movie seemed much more scattershot than the book, and I guess that’s because the external events *are* scattershot – they needed to be tied together by her inner monologue and the ongoing sense of where she was at emotionally, and that got captured pretty imperfectly in the film.

    Was this a Lifetime movie or a Showtime movie – or has Showtime bought out Lifetime? It seemed remarkably good for a Lifetime movie, but I don’t know what standard Showtime movies usually meet.

  127. i watched the movie. i was very pleased, yet i wasn’t too happy about some of the scenes that were taken out.

    for one: i LOVED the basketball scene. they should’ve put that in there. it showed that melinda really didn’t suck at everything except art and that she could do more. but she didn’t

    also: they took out the spanish class scene! i loved that. it was very funny, i’d say.

    overall i really enjoyed it. i was a little dissapointed but not too much.

  128. i watched the movie. i was very pleased, yet i wasn’t too happy about some of the scenes that were taken out.

    for one: i LOVED the basketball scene. they should’ve put that in there. it showed that melinda really didn’t suck at everything except art and that she could do more. but she didn’t

    also: they took out the spanish class scene! i loved that. it was very funny, i’d say.

    overall i really enjoyed it. i was a little dissapointed but not too much.

  129. i watched the movie. i was very pleased, yet i wasn’t too happy about some of the scenes that were taken out.

    for one: i LOVED the basketball scene. they should’ve put that in there. it showed that melinda really didn’t suck at everything except art and that she could do more. but she didn’t

    also: they took out the spanish class scene! i loved that. it was very funny, i’d say.

    overall i really enjoyed it. i was a little dissapointed but not too much.

  130. I thought the film version was superb. And Mr. Freeman was just as I imagined he’d be, Steve Zahn really did a fantastic job as him; I was very impressed. If he doesn’t get a nod for an Oscar, then the next best thing would be a nod for a Golden Globe, or a nod for Kristen Stewart because she was the epitome of Melinda, in my opinion.

    And I know you probably won’t get around to reading this comment, but I thought I’d say it anyway: Thank you for writing Speak. As someone who went through (but not to the extent) what Melinda did, your book really touched home with me, and I thank you for writing something that really emphasized the truth of a situation like that. Also, having Melinda get into art was brilliant, because like her, it’s how I speak. So again, thank you. 🙂

  131. I thought the film version was superb. And Mr. Freeman was just as I imagined he’d be, Steve Zahn really did a fantastic job as him; I was very impressed. If he doesn’t get a nod for an Oscar, then the next best thing would be a nod for a Golden Globe, or a nod for Kristen Stewart because she was the epitome of Melinda, in my opinion.

    And I know you probably won’t get around to reading this comment, but I thought I’d say it anyway: Thank you for writing Speak. As someone who went through (but not to the extent) what Melinda did, your book really touched home with me, and I thank you for writing something that really emphasized the truth of a situation like that. Also, having Melinda get into art was brilliant, because like her, it’s how I speak. So again, thank you. 🙂

  132. I thought the film version was superb. And Mr. Freeman was just as I imagined he’d be, Steve Zahn really did a fantastic job as him; I was very impressed. If he doesn’t get a nod for an Oscar, then the next best thing would be a nod for a Golden Globe, or a nod for Kristen Stewart because she was the epitome of Melinda, in my opinion.

    And I know you probably won’t get around to reading this comment, but I thought I’d say it anyway: Thank you for writing Speak. As someone who went through (but not to the extent) what Melinda did, your book really touched home with me, and I thank you for writing something that really emphasized the truth of a situation like that. Also, having Melinda get into art was brilliant, because like her, it’s how I speak. So again, thank you. 🙂

  133. Speak: the movie

    Laurie,
    Congratulations on the film. I watched it and enjoyed it very much. The cast was wonderful.
    I am sending you loads and loads of smiles and hugs and bouquets of all that is good.
    I haven’t seen you for ages but I hope you are well and that the words are flowing freely.

    Much love.

    Hope Anita Smith

  134. Speak: the movie

    Laurie,
    Congratulations on the film. I watched it and enjoyed it very much. The cast was wonderful.
    I am sending you loads and loads of smiles and hugs and bouquets of all that is good.
    I haven’t seen you for ages but I hope you are well and that the words are flowing freely.

    Much love.

    Hope Anita Smith

  135. Speak: the movie

    Laurie,
    Congratulations on the film. I watched it and enjoyed it very much. The cast was wonderful.
    I am sending you loads and loads of smiles and hugs and bouquets of all that is good.
    I haven’t seen you for ages but I hope you are well and that the words are flowing freely.

    Much love.

    Hope Anita Smith

  136. Beautiful

    Just finished watching the movie but still wiping eyes. And I’m relieved. I felt that the movie took the best of your book and tenderly spun it in order to meet the real world of limited budgets and time constraints.

    Loved the voice over of Melinda, thought it was a brilliant way to capture the poignancy of YOUR voice. I appreciate that the movie avoided the flavor of “Hollywood.” It was truly a movie that tried to hold on to the essence of your book. The spare soundtrack, the art (oh my God! the trees, the trees!), the acting. Beautiful.

    It must feel wonderful to have inspired an entire theatrical performance with your words. An important movie for all: teens, parents, and even those “ITS” out there. We felt Melinda’s pain and triumph in your book. So glad that we are able to glean it from the screen, too.

    Congratulations!

  137. Beautiful

    Just finished watching the movie but still wiping eyes. And I’m relieved. I felt that the movie took the best of your book and tenderly spun it in order to meet the real world of limited budgets and time constraints.

    Loved the voice over of Melinda, thought it was a brilliant way to capture the poignancy of YOUR voice. I appreciate that the movie avoided the flavor of “Hollywood.” It was truly a movie that tried to hold on to the essence of your book. The spare soundtrack, the art (oh my God! the trees, the trees!), the acting. Beautiful.

    It must feel wonderful to have inspired an entire theatrical performance with your words. An important movie for all: teens, parents, and even those “ITS” out there. We felt Melinda’s pain and triumph in your book. So glad that we are able to glean it from the screen, too.

    Congratulations!

  138. Beautiful

    Just finished watching the movie but still wiping eyes. And I’m relieved. I felt that the movie took the best of your book and tenderly spun it in order to meet the real world of limited budgets and time constraints.

    Loved the voice over of Melinda, thought it was a brilliant way to capture the poignancy of YOUR voice. I appreciate that the movie avoided the flavor of “Hollywood.” It was truly a movie that tried to hold on to the essence of your book. The spare soundtrack, the art (oh my God! the trees, the trees!), the acting. Beautiful.

    It must feel wonderful to have inspired an entire theatrical performance with your words. An important movie for all: teens, parents, and even those “ITS” out there. We felt Melinda’s pain and triumph in your book. So glad that we are able to glean it from the screen, too.

    Congratulations!

  139. ???

    Was the movie on in Ontario? I couldn’t find it on any channels and I really wanted to see it? Will I be able to find the dvd of speak in Canada?

  140. ???

    Was the movie on in Ontario? I couldn’t find it on any channels and I really wanted to see it? Will I be able to find the dvd of speak in Canada?

  141. ???

    Was the movie on in Ontario? I couldn’t find it on any channels and I really wanted to see it? Will I be able to find the dvd of speak in Canada?

  142. LOVE LOVE LOVED THE MOVIE!

    i absolutly adored the movie! i read the book last year and thought it was amazing and touched me on so many levels both as a victim and a reader. i was a bit worried that it might be too “Hollywood” and not capture the art of the book, as hollywood sometimes feels the need to spell things out as if we as an audiance aren’t smart enough to figure it out. i was pleasently surprised though. i,too love the scene in which she shows mr.freeman the room. i also like the end where she remembers traveling the same road and she hangs her head out the window like she did before..like she was waking up from a long terrible dream. i also like when she is in there during lunch for the first time and he gives her a piece of paper and tells her to close her eyes and picture the tree. the other scene i like is when she finishes the “turkey” and he is analyzing it(i personally think the palm tree underneath represents the life that still lurks beneath all the pain and deadness she feels is overpowering her at that moment). he hits the nail on the head and she looks at him with the realization that when she immerses herself completely in her art her true self comes out and is visible and that seems to scare her. anyways i just wanted to say i loved and appreciated the movie and the book.~LIZZ

  143. LOVE LOVE LOVED THE MOVIE!

    i absolutly adored the movie! i read the book last year and thought it was amazing and touched me on so many levels both as a victim and a reader. i was a bit worried that it might be too “Hollywood” and not capture the art of the book, as hollywood sometimes feels the need to spell things out as if we as an audiance aren’t smart enough to figure it out. i was pleasently surprised though. i,too love the scene in which she shows mr.freeman the room. i also like the end where she remembers traveling the same road and she hangs her head out the window like she did before..like she was waking up from a long terrible dream. i also like when she is in there during lunch for the first time and he gives her a piece of paper and tells her to close her eyes and picture the tree. the other scene i like is when she finishes the “turkey” and he is analyzing it(i personally think the palm tree underneath represents the life that still lurks beneath all the pain and deadness she feels is overpowering her at that moment). he hits the nail on the head and she looks at him with the realization that when she immerses herself completely in her art her true self comes out and is visible and that seems to scare her. anyways i just wanted to say i loved and appreciated the movie and the book.~LIZZ

  144. LOVE LOVE LOVED THE MOVIE!

    i absolutly adored the movie! i read the book last year and thought it was amazing and touched me on so many levels both as a victim and a reader. i was a bit worried that it might be too “Hollywood” and not capture the art of the book, as hollywood sometimes feels the need to spell things out as if we as an audiance aren’t smart enough to figure it out. i was pleasently surprised though. i,too love the scene in which she shows mr.freeman the room. i also like the end where she remembers traveling the same road and she hangs her head out the window like she did before..like she was waking up from a long terrible dream. i also like when she is in there during lunch for the first time and he gives her a piece of paper and tells her to close her eyes and picture the tree. the other scene i like is when she finishes the “turkey” and he is analyzing it(i personally think the palm tree underneath represents the life that still lurks beneath all the pain and deadness she feels is overpowering her at that moment). he hits the nail on the head and she looks at him with the realization that when she immerses herself completely in her art her true self comes out and is visible and that seems to scare her. anyways i just wanted to say i loved and appreciated the movie and the book.~LIZZ

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.