7 Major Differences Between Netflix’s Caught Series and Harlan Coben’s Original Novel

This article contains spoilers for Caught. The Netflix series adaptation of Caught, based on Harlan Coben’s acclaimed novel, features notable alterations that set it apart. Centered around Ema Garay, portrayed by Soledad Villamil, the storyline revolves around a journalist who mistakenly brands Leo Mercer as a pedophile. Like many of Coben’s adaptations, Caught has garnered mixed reactions from viewers and critics alike. Despite a somewhat lukewarm reception, the show captivates with its intriguing narrative and impressive performances.

While the adaptation diverges from the source material in several key areas, crucial aspects of the story remain intact. Adapting a novel for television often necessitates omissions and alterations. Regardless, Caught keeps audiences engaged with its twists and turns that contribute to a thrilling viewing experience.

7 The Netflix Series Is Set In A Different Location

The Setting Was Changed From New Jersey To San Carlos de Bariloche

A significant deviation between the book and its television adaptation lies in the setting. The original novel unfolds in New Jersey and references well-known landmarks such as Ringwood Park, which contribute to pivotal plot points, including the discovery of Martina’s body. In contrast, the Netflix series relocates the action to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, marking it as the first Coben adaptation filmed in Latin America. This trend of changing settings is a common theme among Coben’s works, often relocating narratives to various regions in Europe.

6 The Netflix Series Doesn’t Include Some Characters Who Were In The Book

Ema’s Boss, Bruno’s Grandpa, And Marcos’ Friends Were Left Out

Diving into a lengthy novel presents challenges in the adaptation process, often resulting in the exclusion of characters. The Netflix version of Caught omits several key figures from the book, including Ema’s boss and various friends of Marcos, which alters the overall landscape of the story. Conversely, the adaptation introduces new characters, such as Fran Briguel, who plays a role in Martina’s narrative. This adjustment reflects the broader creative liberties taken to enhance the plot’s progression.

5 The TV Show Makes Some Significant Changes To The Plot

The Biggest Difference Is Marcos’ Story

One of the most striking differences between the novel and the Netflix adaptation lies in the plot development. While the series aims to stay faithful to core themes, it makes notable adjustments regarding character motivations. For instance, in the show, Marcos reunites with Martina and takes revenge on Leo Mercer regarding a land dispute. This reimagining foregrounds a personal vendetta that wasn’t as pronounced in the original storyline.

In contrast, the book portrays Marcos’ backstory as more complex, involving a tragic accident during his college years that leads to his downfall and subsequent resentment towards his former friends, not just Mercer. Despite these changes, both versions culminate in a tragic conclusion, with Marcos choosing to end his life.

4 The Series Leaves Out Parts Of Ema’s Story

In The Book, Garay Is Fired From Her Network

Ema Garay’s character in the series is portrayed largely through her professional encounters and the fallout from her accusations against Mercer. In the novel, however, her trajectory is dramatically altered following the court’s dismissal of the case, resulting in Ema being terminated from her network. While the show skims over these career consequences, the source material delves deeper into the fallout of her actions and the significant impact on her life.

Additionally, Marcos’ antagonism towards Garay is more extensively developed in the book, featuring unfounded rumors about her professional integrity that further complicate her situation.

3 The TV Show Changed Martina’s Story

The Adaptation Depicts Martina In A Different Light

Martina’s character, while maintaining some narrative parallels in both adaptations, witnesses substantial reimagining in the series. In the original novel, she is a disciplined lacrosse player. The Netflix series, on the other hand, chooses to position her with more complex elements, including a passion for the violin and involvement in producing explicit content online. This alteration serves to provide a rationale for the tragic events that ensue.

This recontextualization gives her a more nuanced role, illustrating her indirect involvement in framing Mercer, which ultimately leads to her untimely death.

2 The Way Martina Dies Is Changed In The Series

In The Book, She Dies From Alcohol Poisoning

Another stark contrast between the two versions lies in the circumstances surrounding Martina’s demise. In the series, she is tragically murdered by Armando, who discovers her role in Mercer’s public downfall. Conversely, the novel portrays her death as an accident resulting from alcohol poisoning at a party, leading to her body being discreetly hidden.

Despite the differing narratives, both adaptations highlight the protective instincts of those surrounding Martina, emphasizing their desperate measures to shield their loved ones from the repercussions of her death.

1 Harlan Coben’s Novel Has A Different Ending

The Novel Offers A Little More Insight Into Mercer’s Story

As is evident in other adaptations of Harlan Coben’s works, Caught concludes with modifications to the ending. Both the series and the novel suggest that Mercer survives, relocating to begin anew. However, the show is ambiguous regarding the relationship dynamics between Mercer and Camila’s father, failing to delve deeper into the implications of their interaction. In contrast, the book provides a resolution between Mercer and Garay, with an apology that highlights themes of forgiveness and redemption.

Ultimately, Camila’s father assists Mercer in faking his death after he reevaluates his beliefs about Mercer’s innocence. The novel portrays a more direct connection between Mercer and Garay, providing closure often absent from the television adaptation.

For more information on the differences between the Caught series and its novel counterpart, you can read further details here.