“Adolescence Writer Redefines Lord of the Flies: ‘Boys Aren’t Inherently Evil'”

Jack Thorne, the co-creator of the new adaptation of William Golding’s classic novel, aims to change perceptions about male behavior through his adaptation of “Lord of the Flies.” Scheduled for release on February 8, this four-part series on BBC iPlayer explores the complexities of boyhood and morality.

Reimagining a Classic: Boys Aren’t Inherently Evil

Thorne noted, “I don’t think that’s the story,” referring to the common interpretation of male aggression. Instead, he emphasizes understanding boys and their behavior in society. The adaptation, filmed in Malaysia, juxtaposes themes of violence against a backdrop of tropical beauty.

Background of the Novel

Originally published in 1954, “Lord of the Flies” addresses the darkness within human nature. Golding, influenced by his experiences in World War II, counters the idyllic portrayal of boys in earlier literature like “The Coral Island.” Thorne’s adaptation seeks to navigate the themes of cruelty and compassion.

Narrative Elements

• Setting: A remote tropical island after a plane crash.
• Main Characters: Jack, Ralph, Nicky (Piggy).
• Themes: Cooperation versus survival, morality, and the potential for cruelty.

Filmmakers Thorne and director Marc Munden have crafted a narrative that emphasizes the boys’ struggle to form a cohesive culture amid chaos. Thorne painted Jack as a misunderstood character rather than a simple villain. He believes that “there is really only one savage boy on that island.”

Exploring Contemporary Issues

Thorne’s previous work, “Adolescence,” which dealt with themes of online violence and misogyny, provides context for his view. He states, “We weren’t saying boys are inherently evil.” Instead, he aims to portray the societal pressures that influence young boys’ actions.

Filmmaking Approach

The adaptation is notably dialogue-light, allowing for reflective scenes showcasing children’s raw experiences. Thorne believes this authenticity resonates with the realities of youth, emphasizing non-verbal communication among boys. The score, featuring classical pieces from composers like Hans Zimmer, enhances the emotional depth.

Addressing Controversies

Thorne has faced scrutiny following the announcement of “Lord of the Flies,” particularly regarding character portrayals and societal interpretations. Critics accused the series of oversimplifying the conflict between characters based on race. Thorne responded by insisting that the narrative is not about heroism or villainy, but rather the multifaceted nature of humanity.

Conclusion

As “Lord of the Flies” premieres, Thorne hopes to spark meaningful conversations about morality and identity in boys. The series represents a significant shift from traditional narratives, aiming to understand rather than label young males. This adaptation serves as both a tribute to Golding’s work and a contemporary exploration of the challenges faced by boys today.

All episodes of “Lord of the Flies” will be available on BBC iPlayer starting February 8, with weekly broadcasts on BBC One.