'Heartstopper': List of Every Difference Between Netflix and Graphic Novel Version
Netflix's biggest new show 'Heartstopper' is famously based on a bestselling series of graphic novels, but how does the show differ from the original?
Alice Oseman's comics have already become quite popular, and that popularity will undoubtedly only increase when the Netflix series is watched by millions of fans around the world. It seems that fans of the original graphic novels are not disappointed with the adaptation of the LGBTQ+ coming-of-age romcom, praising the creators of the series for a pretty accurate retelling. However, the two projects are still slightly different from each over.
First of all, the series is much more dramatic than the original – all the problems in the comics were solved in a few pages, whereas in the series the conflicts lasted much longer. For example, Nick's (Kit Connor) journey to self-acceptance took him almost two episodes, whereas in the comics it was resolved quickly.
And, of course, how can you even adapt a novel for the screen without adding new characters? In our case, the new characters are Imogen (Rhea Norwood), romantically interested in Nick, which adds dramatic tension to the plot, and Isaac (Toby Donovan), Charlie's (Joe Locke) close friend. Imogen and Isaac didn't appear in original graphic novels by Alice Oseman.
Another significant change is the target audience of the series – while the graphic novels were aimed at a YA audience (ages 14-18), the Netflix property is aimed at younger teens, ages 11 to 13. This resulted in some minor changes to the content, including removal of swearing and partial nudity.
The differences between the original and the adaptation are quite insignificant, and fans seem to like the hell out of both.