Adapting Peris: A Change in Character for Netflix’s Uglies
Netflix’s adaptation of “Uglies” brings significant changes to the character of Peris, originally portrayed in the novel as Tally Youngblood’s best friend. In the book, Peris promises to maintain his friendship with Tally even after undergoing the transformative surgery that turns him into a Pretty. However, both the novel and the film show that Peris does not keep this promise, as he changes after becoming Pretty. The film, however, takes a different approach, transforming Peris into one of the enhanced Specials, deviating from the original storyline.
Director McG’s Insight on Peris’ Transformation
In a discussion with Deadline, director McG explains the rationale behind making Peris a Special working for the antagonistic Dr. Cable, played by Laverne Cox. This change provides Peris with a more dynamic arc, something McG believes suits a film adaptation better than a novel. He shares how this alteration in Peris’ character aligns with Tally’s own journey and affects her development throughout the story.
“Peris fizzles out as a character in the books. He lacks Tally’s drive and doesn’t have someone like Shay pushing him,” McG comments. “In movies, we need bigger story arcs. Making him a Special and having him betray Tally in a more active way seemed like a more compelling choice for us.”
What This Change Means for Peris
A New Role as a Special
In the original “Uglies” novel, Peris becomes less significant after Tally leaves for the Smoke. By transforming him into a Special, Peris gains prominence and poses a more tangible threat. While Dr. Cable is menacing due to her manipulations, Peris’ enhanced abilities make him a direct and physical adversary, exemplified by his violent act against David’s father, Az, portrayed by Jay DeVon Johnson.
A Departure from the Book’s Version
Uglies Changed A Major Character & It Hurt Me As A Book Fan
Peris’ transformation into a Special marks a significant departure from his character in the novel, where he serves as a cautionary example of the negative effects of becoming Pretty. In the book, he represents the average citizen, not someone Dr. Cable would typically choose to become a Special. His fall into the fog at the end of “Uglies” further distances him from the original narrative, as his potential survival would prevent him from remaining a standard Pretty in any sequel adaptation.
Our Take on the Peris Changes
The Changes Didn’t Work Well
The decision to make Peris a Special and have him confront Tally’s love interest, David (played by Keith Powers), brings to mind other young adult adaptations, such as “The Giver,” where a protagonist’s friend is forced to turn against them. This trope can be seen as overused and unnecessary, especially when it deviates from the source material. “Uglies” might have been more effective by focusing more on Tally and David’s relationship, and less on Peris and his confrontation with David.
Source: Deadline
Uglies (2024)
- Sci-Fi
- Thriller
In a futuristic society where everyone undergoes compulsory cosmetic surgery at 16 to become "pretty," Tally eagerly awaits her transformation. However, when her friend goes missing, she embarks on a journey that challenges her beliefs about beauty, conformity, and rebellion, ultimately questioning the foundations of their world.