Which came first, the movie or the book

Okay, as both an avid book reader and a movie watcher I have gone both ways with this issue in my life. The important thing to remember in the of books to movie issue, is that although they are similar they need to be viewed as different stories all together (with the exception of BBC's 5 hour pride and prejudice - which is of course perfection and almost exactly the same as the book. This is the only notable exception to the rule that I can offer at this moment).

Some examples:

Both equally great:

Bridget Jones Diary and Bridget Jones Edge of Reason (which of course are fashioned after some of Jane Austin's greatest works. Hey, if you are to steal a plot, steal from the best). The books are fabulous, laugh out loud creations that are only similar to the movies which are equally entertaining (lots and lots of changes in the 2nd book).

Also to note - I would put in her most of Jane Austin's books and movie. Although many times when they convert her books into movies (of course not including the exception above) they often don't do her writing justice but still, inexplicable seem to capture the characters extremely well. And who are you kidding, if you are a Jane Austin addict, you just can't get enough of her no matter how you roll.

Movie Better:

Time Travelers Wife - the book was good, great idea but a little scattered (I am surprised it did as well on the best sellers list as most people can't follow scattered). The movie was an improvement. Hollywood often does a good job of simplifying things.

First wives club - book and movie quite different, both good, but the movie was much better. Though, with a cast like that - is this even a fair comparison?

Julie and Julia - the book is good, entertaining, but it doesn't have the same adorable sweetness that the movie has. Which again, could be because of a fabulous cast and that winning Hollywood sparkle.

Sex and the City - not even a debate. The book is simply a tool to make a fabulous tv series, then 2 movies. Cannot wait to see what they do with the girls this summer.

Book Better:

There are almost too many of these examples to note - but the most important one to name is of course the infallible Harry Potter series. I will be the first to admit - I adore both the books and the movies. But honestly, although the movies are absolutely fabulous they can never contend with the books. Anyone who thinks they can are simply food.

I have also noted in my somewhat skewed world, that I seem to have a bias toward the movie if I have seen it before I read the book. I have kept this bias in check whilst writing this post.

This to come:

Eat Pray Love - you simply CANNOT top this book and if you know me, I detest non-fiction. I simply don't see the point outside of an academic setting. But, this book went above and beyond. It was inspiring. Can Ms. Roberts do it justice in her upcoming film? Will the screen writers capture the essence of the book? I am dying to find out.