Looking for Alaska is a direct adaptation of John Green’s novel of the same name. It follows the story of Miles “Pudge” Halter, a scrawny introvert seeking his “Great Perhaps”. He does so as he ventures into the world of Culver Creek Academy, a boarding school in Alabama based off Indiana Springs, the school John Green attended.
Along the way, he meets the eccentric gang of pranksters. Namely, Chip “The Colonel” Martin, Takumi “The Fox” Hirohito, and the free-spirited and charismatic Alaska Young, which becomes the subject of Pudge’s affection throughout the series. In a rousing series of pranks against the privileged Weekday Warriors, we see Pudge thrown into this exciting life outside of following rules and living his youth to the fullest, even when at times it becomes too much.
A few creative liberties that help elevate the story
Looking for Alaska is a faithful adaptation to John Green’s novel, but has also taken some creative liberties to add more emotional depth to its story. The biggest addition being Mr. Hyde’s backstory being explored as opposed to just being their Religions teacher as shown in the novel. For me, this not only elevates his role as a minor character but also helps tie into the series’ themes of love and finding the meaning of life.Another thing I really liked about the Looking for Alaska series is while the story is told primarily from Pudge’s perspective, we also get to have legroom to see the different lives of our supporting characters, which not only help make their bonds to each other more meaningful but we, the audience, can also empathize with them, flaws and all.
Stellar performances that lift the characters from the pages
The cast has done a superb job portraying their respective characters. Charlie Plummer and Denny Love, who play Pudge and the Colonel respectively, are spot on with their performances, from Pudge’s introspective demeanor to the Colonel’s heart of gold charisma and witty humor.
But the stand-out here is definitely Kristine Foresth’s Alaska Young. Froseth perfectly embodies the youthful spunk and brokenness of Alaska, enigmatic as she is wondrous. Filled with energy that both fulfills her and shields herself from her sadness, or her Labyrinth as she calls it. Her character dynamic with the rest of the cast really brings out the best of their performances.
Is it worth the watch?
All in all, Looking for Alaska is more than just a well-done adaptation of John Green’s book, it’s an excellent series about youth and the electrifying freedom of it—the pretentious aura that didn’t come off as such for them just as we were when we’re at that age, filled with quirks and always eager to do more and be more. It’s lively in its portrayal of being at school with its famous cafeteria food, basketball games, and the jokes that come along with it. It’s funny, sincere, and heartbreaking. Fans of the book will certainly enjoy watching this adaptation, and average viewers will enjoy what it has to offer all the same.
