The biggest differences between the ‘Silo’ book and the TV series

On November 15, 2024By Littum

This article contains spoilers for Silo Season 1.

Returning for a second season, Silo has captivated audiences with its unique take on a post-apocalyptic world, first brought to life in the gripping novels of Hugh Howey and now reimagined in the TV adaptation starring Rebecca Ferguson. Both versions explore the mysteries of an underground society, survival and the resilience of the human spirit in a confined, hidden world. While the TV series stays true to the core themes of Howey’s story, the transition from page to screen brings significant differences that add new layers to the narrative.

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This article delves into the most notable changes between the book series and the show, from character changes to plot adjustments, and provides insight into how each medium handles the essential elements of the story. Fans of the novels will recognize familiar moments. But some surprises await in the TV adaptation, which gives the story fresh depth for both returning and new audiences.

The syndrome

In it Silo TV adaptation, “The Syndrome” is introduced as a mysterious and feared disease affecting the underground society. The disease, which causes uncontrollable tremors and impaired motor skills, becomes personal when Paul (Chinaza Uche), the original choice for sheriff and eventual deputy, lives secretly with the condition.

Originally named Peter in the books (probably renamed to avoid having the same name as Juliette’s father), Paul’s condition adds depth to the character by having him withhold this information for fear of being kicked out. Many fans of the show have begun to assert their own theories about what the illness could be, with ideas ranging from a vitamin D deficiency to a genetic condition. By letting Paul live with the condition, the show gives a major show character a constant reminder of the silo’s fragility and an underlying sense of urgency, raising the stakes for his survival and adding layers to his complex relationship with the silo’s power structure.

Walker’s gender reassignment

Played by multiple Emmy nominees Harriet Walter in the Apple TV+ show, Walker was originally depicted in Hugh Howey’s Silo book series as an older man who works in Mechanics. The reason for this change is straightforward, yet impactful. IN an interview with Colliderthe creator of the show Graham Yost explained that he wanted Juliette to have a strong mother figure, someone who could offer emotional guidance and support in a world where mentors are rare, especially for a young woman navigating the many challenges of the silo.

Casting Walker as a woman not only deepened her relationship with Juliette, but also opened the door to bring in Walter, known for his critically acclaimed roles in Ted Lasso and Succession. Walter’s nuanced portrayal of Walker adds a warmth and resilience to the character, enhancing Juliette’s journey and bringing fresh emotional layers to the series. This decision also allowed the adaptation to incorporate Walter’s gravitas, gives Silo a compelling character dynamic that resonates with audiences in new ways.

Several intertwined stories

In it Silo TV adaptation, the lives and stories of the characters are more interwoven than in the original book series. For example, while Juliette’s boyfriend, George (Ferdinand Kingsley), is only briefly mentioned in the books, his presence in the show has a far-reaching impact on her journey. This expanded relationship with George gives Juliette personal stakes that make her pursuit of the truth more urgent and emotional, adding a dimension to her motivations. She is determined to find out what he knew and why he was killed. The adaptation uses George’s story to build suspense and draw viewers into Juliette’s world, showing how his disappearance fuels her determination to uncover the silo’s secrets.

In addition, the TV series strengthens the relationship between Juliette and Holston (David Oyelowo), the previous sheriff who was largely absent from the books. By establishing a bond between the two, the show creates a mentor-mentee dynamic that further enriches Juliette’s path as she steps into her new role. Holston’s early death and the connection he shared with Juliette add gravitas to her taking on the position, creating a continuity that feels both personal and shared. These interconnected stories help build a more cohesive narrative that emphasizes how individual choices ripple through the silo’s society and connect the characters’ destinies in complex ways.

Relics

The concept of forbidden relics does not play a significant role in the books. In fact, the characters often refer to reading children’s books that were available to them while in the silo. The adaptation introduces these forbidden objects—objects from the world of the past that hold memories and traces of life outside the silo—as a way to deepen the mystery of the silo’s origins. By banning relics, the authorities maintain control, stifle curiosity, and reinforce the isolation of the silo’s residents.

This addition adds an extra layer of tension as characters like Juliette risk punishment for holding or seeking out these relics, emphasizing the oppressive nature of their society. These objects represent knowledge and history denied to the residents. Characters who come into contact with relics develop a stronger sense of suspicion and rebellion, pushing them to question the silo’s official narrative. It’s also a fun “Easter Egg” for fans as they watch the characters try to make sense of a Pez dispenser.

Bernard’s villainy

In it Silo book series, Bernard (played by Tim Robbins in the show) is a much more obvious villain, marking him as a clear antagonist from the start. His ruthless nature is highlighted through his direct involvement in the murders of Mayor Jahns (played by Geraldine James) and Deputy Marnes (played by Will Patton), actions that demonstrate his willingness to eliminate anyone who challenges his authority. Bernard’s book persona exudes intimidation and cunning, reinforcing his role as villain and creating palpable tension for both characters and readers.

In the TV adaptation, however, Bernard’s motives and actions are more nuanced, giving him an ambiguous persona. While he remains a powerful figure, the show portrays him with moments of restraint, leaving his intentions open to interpretation until his true nature is finally revealed. The show clearly wanted to add more mystery to the story than the books, and used the IT manager and eventual mayor to do just that.

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