When Heartstopper first hit our screens, fans of Alice Oseman’s beloved graphic novel series were excited yet cautiously curious about how the adaptation would compare to the books. The charming and heartfelt nature of the books made them a favorite among readers, so it was no small feat to bring this story to life on screen. But for the most part, Heartstopper delivers a near-perfect adaptation, staying true to the essence of the books, with some minor adjustments that don’t detract from the overall spirit of the story.
The series shines with its high fidelity to the source material, which is a rare feat in the world of book-to-screen adaptations. For the most part, the events that happen in the show align closely with what readers experience in the graphic novels, and many of the characters feel as if they’ve stepped right off the pages. It’s easy to say that the show captured the Heartstopper magic in a way that truly honors the original work.
That said, no adaptation is ever completely identical to its source material, and in the case of Heartstopper’s third season, there are some slight changes. A few scenes were altered in terms of their focus and the order of events, but these changes were made with careful consideration and respect for the narrative. These adjustments, though noticeable to fans who know the books well, don’t disrupt the flow of the story in any major way. If anything, they help streamline the pacing of the show without taking away from the emotional depth that made the graphic novels so special.
In fact, it’s almost as if the show was inspired by the books, rather than the other way around. The characters in the series are so well-cast and well-written that they feel like the living, breathing versions of their comic counterparts. Joe Locke (Charlie) and Kit Connor (Nick) bring such natural chemistry and authenticity to their roles that it sometimes seems as though the characters were created specifically for them. Their performances capture the depth and vulnerability of their characters with such precision that you can’t help but feel like you’re watching the story come to life in a way that feels true to the heart of the original work.
The direction of the show deserves a special mention here. The way the visuals and tone reflect the warmth, hope, and quiet intensity of the books is impeccable. The subtle use of color, the softness in the framing of intimate moments, and the gentle pacing all come together in a way that makes the adaptation feel like an extension of the graphic novels. The show’s director, Euros Lyn, has done an outstanding job of creating a world that is both familiar to fans of the books and accessible to newcomers. The decision to keep things grounded in real emotions while maintaining the lighthearted moments is a testament to how carefully this adaptation was handled.
What makes the adaptation even more impressive is how closely it mirrors the emotional journey of the characters. The series doesn’t rush the relationship between Charlie and Nick, just as the books take their time exploring the evolution of their connection. The growth of their bond—both romantic and personal—is portrayed with the same gentle pacing, which feels natural and genuine. And the friendships, which play such a central role in both the books and the show, remain at the heart of the series. The dynamics between Charlie and his friends, like Tao and Elle, are also depicted with the same warmth and understanding that Oseman captured so well in her novels.
When it comes to adaptations, it’s rare to see one that feels so seamlessly connected to its source material, but Heartstopper truly gets it right. With more than 90% of the show being faithful to the books, it’s clear that the show creators took great care to stay true to Alice Oseman’s original vision. Whether it’s the accurate depiction of Nick’s journey toward self-discovery or the honest portrayal of Charlie’s struggles with mental health, the show successfully conveys the emotional core of the books in a way that resonates with viewers, old fans, and newcomers alike.
Overall, Heartstopper offers a fantastic adaptation of Alice Oseman’s graphic novels, with characters who feel like they’ve been lifted directly from the pages. The changes made in the third season, though minor, don’t diminish the show’s overall appeal and only serve to enhance its pacing. With its excellent direction, heartfelt performances, and faithfulness to the source material, Heartstopper proves itself to be one of the best adaptations of recent times, and a show that does justice to the beloved story and characters.
