1. Characterization:
* Stuart: In the book, Stuart is more of a typical mouse, concerned with his size and societal limitations. He is also portrayed as less mischievous and more thoughtful. The movie, however, presents a more humanized Stuart, with a playful, energetic, and mischievous personality.
* Snowbell: The cat in the movie is more antagonistic and comedic, constantly plotting against Stuart. In the book, Snowbell is initially less hostile and becomes more accepting of Stuart over time.
2. Plot:
* Stuart's Arrival: The movie uses a more comedic and fantastical approach to Stuart's arrival, depicting him as a mail-order baby sent from a distant land. The book's explanation is more grounded, with Stuart being found in a shoebox.
* The Adventures: The movie condenses and simplifies many of the book's adventures, opting for more visual and action-packed scenes. For example, the book has Stuart going on a solo adventure to find the missing cat, while the movie includes a more elaborate rescue mission involving the entire family.
* The Ending: The movie has a more definitive ending, with Stuart fully accepted by the family. The book leaves the ending open-ended, with Stuart still struggling to fit in and overcome his limitations.
3. Tone and Style:
* Humor: The movie leans heavily on slapstick humor and physical comedy, while the book relies more on witty dialogue and understated humor.
* Overall Tone: The book has a more whimsical and realistic tone, reflecting the perspective of a young mouse navigating the human world. The movie adopts a more lighthearted and fantastical tone, targeting a wider audience.
In Summary:
The movie "Stuart Little" takes liberties with the source material, adapting it for a broader audience and emphasizing visual spectacle and comedic elements. While capturing the core spirit of the book, it simplifies the story, alters characterizations, and creates a more fantastical and action-packed experience.