Between Page and Screen: Representing Animals in Life of Pi

Abstract

Aim: This paper examines the problematic representation of animals in Yann Martel’s novel Life of Pi and Ang Lee’s film adaptation. It seeks to analyze how inter-semiotic translation from text to film affects the agency, authenticity, and subjectivity of nonhuman characters while addressing broader questions of anthropocentrism and speciesism.

Methodology and Approaches: The study employs comparative textual and cinematic analysis to highlight the representational gaps between the novel and its adaptation.

Outcome: The analysis reveals that while Martel’s novel provides animals with discursive depth through descriptive language and philosophical reflection, Ang Lee’s adaptation relies heavily on CGI and cinematic spectacle to construct believable yet otherworldly portrayals. The film tends to foreground Pi’s emotional journey, often reducing the emphasis on animal suffering and ethical dilemmas present in the novel. Nonetheless, Lee’s cinematic techniques expand visual possibilities and promote a new form of animal co-existence on screen.

Conclusion and Suggestions: The study concludes that both novel and film, despite their medium-specific limitations, contribute significantly to promoting animal personhood and rights. Future adaptation practices should aim for a more balanced representation of human and nonhuman stakeholders by integrating ethical considerations with technological innovations.