'Leave The World Behind': Netflix's Adaptation of Rumaan Alam's Novel Hits Theaters and Streaming

Directed by Sam Esmail, the film introduces significant changes from the book, receiving mixed reviews for its suspenseful narrative and performances.

Netflix's adaptation of Rumaan Alam's novel 'Leave The World Behind' releases in theaters on Nov. 22 and hits the streaming platform on Dec. 8.
The movie, directed by Sam Esmail, stars Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke as a couple whose vacation is interrupted by a mysterious global crisis.
Significant changes from the book include the character of Ruth, who is re-imagined as George's daughter instead of his wife, and the nature of the terror, which is more defined in the film.
The film has received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its suspense and performances, while others criticize it for its vague narrative and lack of character nuance.
Despite the changes, author Alam maintains that the adaptation is faithful to the book's intentions.