The movie is very true to the book, which provides the deep thought provoking themes and thrilling adventure. Ang Lee brings artistic genius, adding choreography and effects to faithfully put on screen the images of an intense survival encounter with the forces of nature, including human nature. Even though I read the book, I don't have an answer to the question - did the zebra have four legs or two? Perhaps if I watch it again, with answering that question as my purpose; but even if I still don't find the answer, I'll enjoy seeing (on screen) the story (I read) which I want to be true.