Wanderer, I think this is a just a list compiled by various Obernetters in regards to what they each consider to be a good adaptation. So there's no objective measure of 'successful', it all boils down to personal taste. I also don't agree with some of the titles on the list, but since it's not trying to be a definitive guide... *shrug*
Could I recommend Fight Club for the book list? Aside from the main twist at the ending, it left a large portion of the book intact and kept the bleak, nihilistic feeling. And it's a film that stands alone, it doesn't rely on knowledge of the book to be enjoyed because it's actually interesting cinema. The author's Chuck Palanuik if you're interested.
Ooh and also Annie Proulx's Brokeback Mountain? The way it's been translated to the screen is really consistent (and wonderful, but that's personal opinion).
I'd like to suggest About A Boy by Nick Hornby. It's great to see Hugh Grant play a character that isn't a bubmly British oaf, the music from Badly Drawn Boy is great and it's a very good and watchable film over all [img]http://s2.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif" alt=":)" border="0"/>
