Brie Larson's 'Lessons in Chemistry' on Apple TV+: Book vs TV show | Spoilers
Lessons in Chemistry," Brie Larson steps into the shoes of Elizabeth Zott, a fictional chemist and TV host. This series, based on Bonnie Garmus' 2022 bestseller, delves into the life of a brilliant female chemist in the 1950s and '60s, as she confronts discrimination, battles personal and professional hardships, finds love, endures loss, and ultimately emerges as a TV sensation.
While the show remains faithful to the book's tone and themes, several notable changes distinguish the television adaptation. Let's explore the most significant alterations, up to the third episode of this eight-part miniseries.
Amplifying Workplace Sexism
The series begins by succinctly depicting the pervasive sexism at the Hastings Institute, where Elizabeth and her love interest, Calvin (played by Lewis Pullman), toil. To emphasize this hostile work environment, the show heightens the toxicity at a faster pace than the book. In the book, Elizabeth faces discrimination, contends with a sexist boss, and is fired for her pregnancy, but she retains her position as a full-fledged chemist. In contrast, the series relegates her to a lab tech and later a secretary, amplifying the gender inequality. Moreover, the show introduces a «Miss Hastings» pageant where female employees are displayed for the male gaze, a stark and unsubtle departure from the book.
The series also showcases Elizabeth's direct collaboration with Calvin, as they jointly strive to secure an essential grant, only to have their efforts ridiculed. In both the book and the show, Elizabeth's groundbreaking work is pilfered by her boss, Dr. Donatti (portrayed by Derek Cecil).
Changes to the Beloved Canine Companion: Six Thirty
While both the book and the show feature Six Thirty, the
