Book to Screen: One Day

Today’s article reviews One Day and its two screen adaptations. Based on the novel by David Nicholls, One Day chronicles the romance of two university friends over twenty years. After spending graduation night together, Emma and Dexter go their separate ways — but their lives remain intertwined.

The Book: A Quiet, Authentic Journey Through Time

David Nicholls’ novel is a heartfelt exploration of love, friendship, and the unpredictability of life. Each chapter is set on the same day — 15th July — over two decades, allowing the story to unfold in a way that feels both intimate and epic. Unlike many romance novels written in the first person, One Day uses a third-person perspective, offering insights not only into Emma and Dexter but also the wider circle of their lives.

Emma’s storyline, especially her struggles as a writer, felt incredibly relatable. Dexter’s flaws were more pronounced on the page, making him a deeply human and sometimes frustrating character. Nicholls’ writing avoids melodrama, instead focusing on authentic moments that resonate long after reading. The only downside is the lack of suspense, as readers are aware of the story’s outcome from early on. Still, the emotional depth makes it a rewarding read.

I also listened to the audiobook narrated by Anna Bentinck. Initially, I was uncertain about the casting, but her performance proved truly moving. She captures the tone of the novel perfectly, bringing subtlety and warmth to the characters, which enriched the experience even further. In fact, I’m planning to re-read the book soon with Annabel Scholey’s latest rendition of the audiobook to see how a fresh voice shapes the story.

The Film: A Rushed Adaptation That Misses the Nuance

The 2011 film adaptation, starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, promised a faithful retelling, particularly with Nicholls adapting his own novel. Unfortunately, the film feels rushed, condensing twenty years into just over two hours. The pacing resembles a highlight reel rather than a thoughtful journey.

Hathaway delivers a consistent and heartfelt performance, though her northern accent wavers, which is noticeable given Emma’s background. Jim Sturgess struggles to capture Dexter’s youthful charm and boyish arrogance, which lessens the believability of their early relationship. Jodie Whittaker, in a supporting role, adds much-needed energy and spark.

The film also struggles with portraying the passage of time — the characters don’t visibly age, making it difficult to track their growth. Overall, while a decent effort, the film feels constrained and would have benefited from more screen time or even a two-part format to do justice to the story’s emotional complexity.

The Netflix Series: The Definitive Adaptation

The 2024 Netflix series finally captures the essence of One Day. Ambika Mod and Leo Woodhall bring Emma and Dexter to life with incredible chemistry and depth. The show’s format — dedicating each episode to the same day every year — allows for a slow, immersive unfolding of the characters’ lives.

The series excels at portraying the highs and lows of love without veering into melodrama. It’s raw, real, and emotionally engaging, making viewers root for the characters even as they make mistakes. The portrayal of time’s passage is believable and nuanced, with the actors visibly growing and changing over the years.

This adaptation respects the novel’s rhythm and gives the story the space it needs to breathe, resulting in a moving and authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

One Day is a story best savoured slowly, and the Netflix series honours this beautifully. The novel offers rich insight and emotional depth, while the series translates this perfectly for the screen. The film, although earnest, falls short of capturing the nuance and pacing that make the story so special.

For those who love a love story that’s honest, bittersweet, and deeply human, I recommend starting with the Netflix series and then diving into the novel for a more immersive experience. The film is worth a watch but be prepared for a condensed version that may leave you wanting more.