Where to start withThe Princess Bride
2 versions · originally a film, 1987
Themes: True Love, Good vs Evil, Revenge, Underdog Story, Satire.
Start with The Princess Bride (Rob Reiner, 1987) — the film. The Princess Bride exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a film in 1987; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The Princess Bride presents a satirical, meta-fictional fairy tale that expertly balances swashbuckling adventure with sharp, irreverent wit and romance.
✦ Most fans start here
The Princess Bride (1987)
The original movie
✦ Start hereThe Princess Bride
Rob Reiner · Film · 1987
The 1987 film version of The Princess Bride defines the story’s iconic visual identity, offering a pitch-perfect comedic tone and memorable performances that bring the fantasy elements to life.
1999 book
The Princess Bride
William Goldman · Book · 1999
The 1999 book version of The Princess Bride serves as the foundational text, providing readers with William Goldman’s distinct narrative voice and the intricate framing device that anchors the story.
Common questions
Is The Princess Bride movie based on the book?
Yes, the 1987 movie The Princess Bride is a film adaptation of the source material. Readers can experience the original story by reading the 1999 book version of The Princess Bride to see how the narrative translates between the two different media formats.
Should I read the book if I have seen The Princess Bride movie?
If you enjoyed the 1987 film, reading the 1999 book version of The Princess Bride provides a deeper look at the source material. Both versions of The Princess Bride allow fans to engage with the story through the distinct perspectives of cinema and literature.
What is the difference between The Princess Bride movie and the book?
The primary difference lies in the medium of delivery. The Princess Bride movie released in 1987 uses visual storytelling and performances, while the 1999 book version of The Princess Bride relies on text. Both share the same foundational source material and core narrative elements.
Is The Princess Bride book a sequel to the movie?
No, the 1999 book version of The Princess Bride is not a sequel. It serves as the literary source material for the 1987 film adaptation. Both The Princess Bride movie and the book cover the same central story rather than continuing the plot.