i have not read the novel this film be base on and but i do recently watch the 1980 version . while the modern version have good production value and set and costume and etc . i have to say that i favor the 1980 version . both film be less than forthcoming with what be go on and but at least the 1980 version attempt to tell a complete story . ( spoiler follow . ) where be the alien . where be the mention that there be nuclear war in april 1998. where be the confrontation between haber and orr . have read a bit about the novel and have watch the interview with leguin and i know that the 1980 version be more faithful to the source material and and for that ( as well a good performance from the two male lead ) i have to recommend that version over a and e reader digest version .