The Great Gatsby Film Versions

The Great Gatsby has been adapted to film 4 times, in 1926, 1949, 1974, and 2000. The 1924 version was a silent movie adaptation of a stage play, with a lighthearted tone and a running time of about 86 minutes. Reviews of the film suggest it was the most faithful adaptation of the novel, but the only surviving footage from the film is a small trailer held by the national archives. The 1946 version is a lost film as well, as no prints of the film are known to exist. It is known that the cast of this movie underwent several shifts after some actors were dropped and others left in protest.(Above: The 1946 film's advertisement poster)

The 1974 version is the most popular version, and the one we are currently watching. It was Paramount's third attempt at filming Gatsby, after the above 2 movies. The film starred Robert Redford as Gatsby, Sam Waterson as Nick, Mia Farrow as Daisy, and Lois Chiles as Jordan. The film was directed by Jack Clayton and produced by David Merrick. Originally, Robert Evans held the screenrights so that his wife could play Daisy, but he gave them up when she left him for Steve McQueen. The original writer was Truman Capote, who was replaced by Francis Coppala. (Right: Marquee for the 1974 Version)

The 2000 version was a made for TV movie. The production was a collaboration between America's A&E and Britain's Granada Productions. It starred Toby Stephens, Mira Sorvino, Paul Rudd, and Martin Donovan as Gatsby, Daisy, Nick, and Tom. The film's script is based on a teleplay by John McLaughlin. The film saw limited release and is now virtually unknown. (Right: The 2000 version's ad)