'Hannibal' and 4 Other TV Series That Are Better Than Their Source Material

For many film and TV series fans, the idea that "the original source is always better" has practically become an axiom.

However, TV history knows of brilliant exceptions – projects that didn't merely adapt the original material, but rather, reimagined it, adding new layers of depth and dynamics.

1. 'Hannibal', 2013-2015

IMDb Score: 8.5/10

Thomas Harris' novels are essentially just well-crafted pulp thrillers and rather ponderous reads.

In contrast, Bryan Fuller's series Hannibal elevates its exploration of Lecter's psychology and his mind games with Will Graham beyond what is possible in the books.

Furthermore, the show gives Will Graham's character real depth, whereas in the books, he is presented as a straightforward detective with no complex inner life.

2. 'Shogun', 2024-...

IMDb Score: 8.6/10

If you've read the original Shogun, you'll be shocked by how inferior the book is compared to the series. The most unexpected hit of 2024 took an average historical novel and made it truly gripping.

The only thing James Clavell's novel conveys more vividly is the inner transformation of the protagonist, John Blackthorne – the series focuses on the events surrounding Blackthorne rather than what's going on inside his soul.

In other respects, though, the show is a benchmark for high-quality adaptation. The plot lines are cleverly simplified, yet nothing important is lost.

3. 'The Leftovers', 2014-2017

IMDb Score: 8.3/10

The uniqueness of The Leftovers stems from the collaboration between Tom Perrotta, author of the original novel, and Damon Lindelof, lead writer of Lost. Together, they created what is arguably the most underrated series in TV history.

In both the book and series, the world is changed forever after 2% of the population suddenly disappears.

However, the series was able to explore this concept much more deeply due to its format, paying attention to the subtlest psychological details.

4. 'Reacher', 2022-...

IMDb Score: 8.0/10

Lee Child's Jack Reacher books are the epitome of high-quality pulp fiction. They never aspire to be high literature, and that's their charm.

The series follows the same formula but has perfected it – the perfect casting of the charismatic, towering Alan Ritchson, the fast pace, and the uncluttered narrative make Reacher the perfect project for relaxation.

You can simply turn it on and relax, watching the protagonist break someone's legs to fit the villain into the trunk of a car.

5. 'Westworld', 2016-2022

IMDb Score: 8.4/10

The original 1973 movie is rightfully considered a sci-fi classic. However, setting aside any respect for the source material, the plot boils down to the story of an amusement park where androids rebel.

Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy's series, however, takes a completely different approach. Their Westworld shifts the focus from external to internal conflict, raising questions about cruelty to artificial life and the creator's ethical responsibility to their creation.

This reimagined world is far deeper and more intellectually rich than the original film.