Where to start
The Soloist
2 versions · originally a film, 2009
Themes: Homelessness, Mental Illness, Redemption, Friendship, Social Inequality.
The Soloist chronicles the profound, redemptive bond between a struggling investigative journalist and a brilliant, homeless Juilliard-trained musician in Los Angeles.
✦ Most fans start here
The Soloist (2009)
The original movie
✦ Start hereThe Soloist
Joe Wright · Film · 2009
The 2009 film The Soloist brings the visual landscape of Los Angeles to the forefront, offering a cinematic exploration of the unlikely friendship between Lopez and Ayers through powerful performances.
2010 book
The Soloist
Steve Lopez · Book · 2010
The 2010 book The Soloist provides the original, comprehensive account of Steve Lopez’s discovery of Nathaniel Ayers, offering a deeper, more intimate look at their evolving relationship and personal histories.
Common questions
Should I read the book or watch The Soloist movie first?
You can consume either version first as they cover the same story. The Soloist movie was released in 2009, while the book was published in 2010. Choosing one does not spoil the narrative experience of the other, as both provide different perspectives on the source material.
Is The Soloist movie based on the book?
The Soloist movie released in 2009 precedes the publication of the book titled The Soloist in 2010. Both works are based on the same true story, but they were produced independently of one another as distinct adaptations of the original events.
How long is The Soloist movie?
The Soloist movie released in 2009 has a total runtime of 117 minutes. This duration covers the full narrative arc of the film, providing a complete viewing experience that remains consistent with the story detailed in the 2010 book version of The Soloist.
Was The Soloist book released before the movie?
No, The Soloist movie was released in 2009, one year prior to the publication of The Soloist book in 2010. Both titles are adaptations of the same story, but the film version reached audiences before the book version was officially released.