Would Blithedale bomb or not?

Does Blithedale lend itself as film fodder today? The plot seems like it would work well in a movie version of Hawthorne's story. A peaceful and resplendent countryside in Mass. would be an outstanding setting for the scenes involving community living. Any number of small towns along the Eastern seaboard would serve for the town scenes. Salem might be a good choice.

Since the book has a first person point of view, relaying the narrator's thoughts must be a real challenge for a mvoie director. Two aspects of Coverdale's personality would need to be evident to the audience. First of all, his jealousy of Hollingsworth is an important motivating factor for much of his behavior. C. is always complaining that H. is getting all girls. A director could usea voice over to relay this sentiment, or he utilize the actor's facial gestures and body language to portray his inner emotions. Also, music and camera angles might be another way to get across the envy that C feels toward H.

Revealing C's voyeuristic nature could prove a bit easier. Those scenes would have to be shot in such a way that the audience is totally aware of the defect in C's personality which allows him to engage in such aberrant behavior. Again, background music would add greatly to the feeling of menace here. The audience could recognize the flaws in C's character and judge him accordingly.

Taking artistic license, how about casting the roles with actors from a few decades ago!
Joan Crawford could play a mean Zenobia. Her haughty stares could level a stronger man than Coverdale, played by Don Ameche, a suave yet shallow gentleman. Hollingsworth would stand strong and powerful with Yul Brenner in the role. His sometimes dismissive manner would enhance the role. A dimuitive and submissive Betty Davis would bring Priscilla to life. Although Ms. Davis is a strong woman, her great acting ability would would convince the audience otherwise. Line up for popcorn!