My take, I always avoid watching the film if I read the book because the human minds are a mysterious thing. Often than not actors or storyline are cut to the imagination or the vision of the director is not quite there. The list can go on. The bottom line, what we imagine through reading does not always bring to life in film and can ruin your experience. 👌☺️
Discussion
I tend to agree with you, the exception being Andy Weir’s books and film adaptations. The Martian was close enough to the book and the creative liberties the movie took just made it better or funnier. I’m very hopeful for project hail Mary next year.
You are lucky then, I don't remember that I had the pleasure to enjoy creative liberties from book adaptations. 😁